Soule Park Course
Ojai, CA, USA
Soule Park, nestled in the Ojai Valley, exists as a community linchpin as much as a golf course. Designed by Billy Bell Sr. in the 1920s, the course exhibits the hallmarks of early California golf architecture, with gently rolling terrain and strategic bunkering that rewards thoughtful play over raw power. Broad fairways belie the subtle challenges awaiting on and around the greens, demanding a deft touch. While Soule Park hasn't hosted major championships, its charm lies in its accessibility and unpretentious atmosphere. It serves as the de facto home course for many local Ojai residents. Soule Park's character extends beyond the course itself. Stories abound of impromptu matches, and generations of Ojai golfers have honed their skills on these greens. The clubhouse, though modest, is often filled with laughter and lively discussions, fostering a sense of belonging unique to this corner of the Ojai Valley. And like all good clubs, there's a culinary staple: their tri-tip sandwich. It's the perfect way to wrap up a round, and a testament to Soule Park's enduring appeal as a place where golf and community intertwine.
Ranked by CV ratings from golfers who've played this course. Positions are shown worldwide, by country, and by state; the Public column compares courses anyone can play.
Best in World
Unranked
Best in USA
Public: #276
Best in CA
Public: #27
Golfers say this William Bell design, renovated by Gil Hanse, offers exceptional value at under $50 to walk, with many calling it the best deal in the greater Los Angeles area. Reviewers praise the layout's variety and strategic options, noting that interesting green complexes and multiple ways to play each hole make it enjoyable for golfers of all skill levels, though some find it slightly easy for scratch players. Most highlight the course's walkability, fair but engaging design, and greens that exceed expectations for the price point, with conditions especially pristine during USGA sectional qualifiers held on site. The pace typically runs around four hours, and while the food receives strong marks, some note service can be slow due to unpredictable local traffic at the restaurant.
8.0
56 players
Can be far from LA, but an absolute gem of a William Bell design that was renovated by Gil Hanse. Under $50 walking is maybe the best deal in SoCal golf. The layout is also tremendous. Many different ways to play each hole and can be equally enjoyable to a scratch player and a bogey golfer. Lots of variety in the holes and great green complexes. Super walkable too. There’s a reason USGA holds its sectional qualifiers here. If you can play it around one of those the conditions are guaranteed to be pristine.
Another great Hanse example within driving distance of LA. Such a fun track and probably the best value at under $50 to walk most days. Ton of interesting shots and scoreable. Very fair. Love this place.
If you’re near LA and have a day to spare, play it. The value is off the charts ($53, holiday rate). Layout is terrific seeing that it’s the brainchild of William Bell/Gill Hanse.
Definition of an hidden gem. A must-play if you’re down for an easy day trip from LA. Easily the best bang for buck in the greater LA area; ~$50 or less (depending on day and time). Never a bad time at this course. Pace of play around 4hrs. Great course design/layout. Love the back to back par 5s on the front. Greens are way better than an average course in the same price range. Overall highly recommend.
A gift of a golf course. Maaaaybe a little on the easy side for top players, but who cares. Let them make low scores. The food is VEWRY good, but can ofter take quite a while as it's hard to forecast how many of the locals will be stopping in (there are not many other good food options in Ojai.)
Public courses closest to Soule Park.
Most visitors arrive through Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), roughly ninety minutes south, though Santa Barbara's smaller municipal airport offers a quieter gateway just forty minutes down the coast for those seeking a more intimate arrival. The drive north from Los Angeles traces the Ventura Freeway before peeling inland at Ventura, where Highway 33 begins its gentle climb into the Ojai Valley - a passage marked by the gradual appearance of citrus groves and the distinctive pink moment light that has drawn artists here for generations. Soule Park Golf Club reveals itself on the valley floor, framed by the Topatopa Mountains, a municipal treasure that feels anything but ordinary once you've made the turn off Ojai Avenue into its eucalyptus-shaded entrance.
FAQ
Ratings, design, and course details pulled from Course Vaults.
Soule Park has a Course Vaults score of 8.0 out of 10 based on 27 explicit golfer ratings.
Soule Park was designed by William Francis Bell, Bob E. Baldock, and Gil Hanse.
Yes. Soule Park is listed as welcoming public or guest play on Course Vaults.
Par at Soule Park is 72.
Soule Park plays 6,806 yards from the back tees on Course Vaults.
The slope rating at Soule Park is 128.
