Trip to Tee

Cliffs & Canyons: A San Diego Golf Trip with Torrey Pines

Torrey Pines North and South, Balboa Park and Sycuan Oak Glen.

San Diego's year-round weather makes it a golf destination any time. Torrey Pines hosted the U.S. Open, Balboa Park is a historic muni, and Sycuan Oak Glen adds a quality inland course.

Torrey Pines is a municipal course owned by the city, with cliffs above the Pacific. The South Course hosted the 2008 and 2021 U.S. Opens.

San Diego residents get discounted rates, so non-resident rounds cost much more.

Region
West Coast
Courses
4
Total driving
26 miles
Duration
3 days
Estimated green fees
~$600
Difficulty
Championship

Courses in this guide

  1. Balboa Park Golf Course — San Diego, California
  2. Singing Hills Golf Club at Sycuan (Oak Glen) — San Diego, California
  3. Torrey Pines Golf Course (North) — La Jolla, California
  4. Torrey Pines Golf Course (South) — La Jolla, California

Suggested itineraries

  1. Day 1: Balboa Park and Sycuan

    Play Balboa Park in the morning and Sycuan Oak Glen in the afternoon.

  2. Day 2: Torrey Pines North

    Play the North Course.

  3. Day 3: Torrey Pines South

    Play the South Course early and enjoy La Jolla.

Where to stay

  • The Lodge at Torrey Pines: On-course.
  • Estancia La Jolla Hotel: Boutique.
  • Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines: Close.
  • Sycuan Casino Resort: Near Sycuan.

Where to eat

  • A.R. Valentien: Lodge restaurant.
  • The Grill at Torrey Pines: Clubhouse.
  • George's at the Cove: La Jolla.
  • The Marine Room: Ocean views.

Getting around

A car is required. Total mileage is about 26 miles. Traffic on I-5 can be heavy.

Best time to visit

Year-round. Spring and fall are best; summer has marine layer mornings.

Budget tips

  • Torrey Pines South is the splurge; North is cheaper.
  • Balboa Park is the best value.
  • Twilight rates are available.
  • Stay inland.

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