The Ocean Course at Half Moon Bay

With Pacific views from nearly every hole, The Ocean Course boasts some of the best links golf in the Bay Area.

The Ocean Course is aptly named and features some of the best final four finishing holes in golf.

Ranked in the 2023 Top 12 California oceanside courses by Links Magazine

Opening in 1997, this unique course was designed by renowned golf architect Arthur Hills in traditional “Links style” design. You’ll find firm, wide open fairways bordered by wispy native grasses and seasonal wildflowers. The changes in elevation adds drama, as does the prevailing on-shore winds, coastal fog and jaw-dropping sunsets. Many large bunker complexes are shared by opposing holes and the undulating greens provide plenty of short-game challenges. As is traditional in Links golf, you’ll leave the clubhouse on the first hole and not return until hole 18. While views of the Pacific can be found on nearly every hole, it is the final three holes that truly set the course apart. From an elevated perch, the 16th hole kicks off the oceanside homestretch with magnificent views in all directions. This challenging par-four leads to the blufftop 17th, which some compare to Pebble Beach’s famous 7th. Take a moment to enjoy the surroundings before hitting to an elegantly placed green just steps from one of the Bay Area’s most beautiful beaches. Finally, after teeing off over Cañada Verde Creek canyon, you’ll finish on the oceanside 18th hole to the base of the incomparable Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay. Time it right and you’ll hear the sound of traditional Scottish bagpipes lead you to the clubhouse as the sun sets.

Via Half Moon Bay GL