Best Golf Around Carlsbad: Play, Views & Memories with Family, Friends, and Groups
If you’re planning a stay in Carlsbad—or just passing through—golf lovers will find no shortage of spectacular courses within easy reach. Whether you’re traveling with family, meeting up with friends, or organizing a corporate or social outing, here are top picks from Carlsbad down to La Jolla and out toward Rancho Bernardo—and reasons why staying at our Carlsbad rental puts you right in the sweet spot.
1. Aviara Golf Club (Carlsbad)
Designed by Arnold Palmer, Aviara is San Diego’s only Palmer-designed course.
Layout: Par 72, around 7,000 yards, with water features, rolling hills, and strategically placed bunkers.
Why it’s special: The lush fairways, native wildflowers, and challenging design make it unforgettable for serious golfers and weekend players alike.
Great for groups: Aviara hosts golf outings and group events, making it ideal for friends or business retreats.
Convenience: Just minutes from our Carlsbad rental, you’ll love how easy it is to play without a long commute.
2. Omni La Costa Resort & Spa – North & South Courses
The legendary La Costa resort has two championship courses that have hosted professional events.
Course character: Resort-style layouts with rolling terrain, water hazards, and beautifully maintained greens.
Why play here: With both North and South courses available, it offers variety for multi-day golf.
Groups & events: Known for hosting tournaments, corporate groups, and social outings.
Nearby convenience: Located right in Carlsbad, just a short drive from your stay.
3. The Crossings at Carlsbad
This public course integrates natural terrain with ocean breezes and scenic hills.
Scenery: Rolling fairways, canyons, and panoramic views of the Pacific.
Why it stands out: More approachable for intermediate players and affordable compared to resort courses.
Great for groups: Flexible tee times make it easy for families or casual outings.
Accessibility: Only a few minutes from our Carlsbad vacation rental.
4. Rancho Carlsbad Golf Course
A fun, par-3 short course perfect for a quick round or bringing the kids.
Best for: Families, juniors, and casual players who want a low-pressure game.
Convenience: Easy to fit into a half day of activities.
Fun factor: Great option if your group has mixed experience levels.
5. Encinitas Ranch Golf Course
Just north of Carlsbad, Encinitas Ranch is known for dramatic elevation changes and sweeping ocean views.
Scenic & challenging: Coastal breezes and panoramic Pacific views from elevated tees.
Appeal: Four sets of tees make it friendly for beginners while still exciting for seasoned golfers.
Perfect for groups: A flexible option to fit different skill levels.
6. Torrey Pines Golf Course (La Jolla)
One of the most famous municipal courses in the world, perched on La Jolla’s sea cliffs.
Prestige: Host of the PGA Tour’s Farmers Insurance Open and the 2021 U.S. Open.
Scenery: Oceanfront holes with jaw-dropping views of the Pacific.
Why it’s a must: A bucket-list course for golfers worldwide.
Tip: Book tee times well in advance as demand is high.
7. Rancho Bernardo Inn Golf Course
Heading inland, this course offers a lush, classic design with top-tier amenities.
Course highlights: Rolling fairways, water hazards, and renovated greens.
Groups & meetings: Over 80,000 sq. ft. of indoor and outdoor meeting space makes it ideal for corporate retreats.
After play: Excellent dining and spa services create a true “resort golf” experience.
8. Maderas Golf Club (Poway)
A little farther inland, Maderas consistently ranks among San Diego’s best.
Design: Dramatic elevation changes and risk-reward holes challenge all players.
Scenery: Nestled in rolling hills with sweeping views.
Groups & outings: Known for premium service and accommodating tournaments or large groups.
Why Stay at Our Carlsbad Rental?
Location, Location, Location – Being in Carlsbad puts you within minutes of Aviara, La Costa, and The Crossings, while still making day trips to La Jolla and Rancho Bernardo easy.
Perfect for Groups & Families – Whether it’s a guys’ golf weekend, a family getaway, or a corporate retreat, our rental offers space and comfort for everyone.
Relax After Golf – After a day of tee shots and putts, return to a cozy home where you can enjoy a meal, sip a drink, and recap the day with family and friends.
Something for Non-Golfers – While you’re on the course, others in your group can enjoy Carlsbad Village, the beach (just one block away), or local attractions.
Suggested Golf Itineraries
The Carlsbad Tour – Play Aviara one day, La Costa the next, and The Crossings on a relaxed day.
The Coastal Day – Encinitas Ranch in the morning with sweeping ocean views, then lunch overlooking the sea.
The Bucket-List Day – Head to La Jolla and take on Torrey Pines, one of golf’s most iconic experiences.
The Inland Escape – Drive out to Rancho Bernardo or Maderas for rolling landscapes and resort-style amenities.
Family-Friendly Day – Play Rancho Carlsbad with the kids or beginners, then spend the afternoon at the beach.
Final Thoughts
Carlsbad is the ultimate base for exploring San Diego’s golf scene. From world-class resorts to family-friendly short courses, every round offers something unique—whether it’s coastal ocean views, championship layouts, or casual afternoons with friends.
Check our availability and book your stay today at our Carlsbad vacation rental today and be minutes away from San Diego’s best golf courses.
