Presidio Golf Course is a historic golf course located in San Francisco, California. The course was established in 1895 and has been a popular destination for golfers ever since. The course is situated in the heart of the Presidio, a national park that was once a military base.
Presidio Golf Course is known for its challenging layout and stunning views. The course features 18 holes that wind through the park’s rolling hills and forests. Golfers can enjoy panoramic views of the Golden Gate Bridge, San Francisco Bay, and the city skyline. The course has been recognized as one of the top public golf courses in the United States.
Presidio Golf Course is open to the public and offers a variety of amenities. In addition to the golf course, there is a driving range, putting green, and a pro shop. The course also has a restaurant and bar that serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a beginner, Presidio Golf Course offers a unique and unforgettable golfing experience.
History
The Presidio Golf Course is a historic destination located in San Francisco, California. The course has a rich history, which is divided into two main eras: the Early Years and the Presidio Trust Era.
Early Years
The Presidio Golf Course was first established in 1895, making it one of the oldest golf courses in the United States. The course was designed by Robert Johnstone, a Scottish golf professional who had been brought to San Francisco to help develop the sport in the region.
Over the years, the course underwent several changes, including a redesign by renowned golf course architect A.W. Tillinghast in 1921. During this era, the course was a private club, catering to the wealthy residents of San Francisco.
Presidio Trust Era
In 1994, the Presidio Golf Course was acquired by the Presidio Trust, a federal agency responsible for the management of the Presidio, a former military base turned national park. The Trust undertook a major renovation of the course, with the goal of making it more accessible to the public while preserving its historic character.
The renovation was led by renowned golf course architect Tom Doak, who worked to restore the course to its original design while incorporating modern features. The course reopened in 1996 and has since become a popular destination for golfers of all skill levels.
Today, the Presidio Golf Course is known for its stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and San Francisco Bay, as well as its challenging yet enjoyable layout. It continues to be an important part of San Francisco’s golfing history and a beloved destination for locals and visitors alike.
Course Details
Layout and Design
Presidio Golf Course is located in San Francisco, California. It was designed by renowned golf course architect Robert Wood Johnstone in 1895. The course is a par-72, 18-hole course that spans over 6,500 yards. It is situated in the heart of the Presidio National Park and offers stunning views of the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco Bay. The course is known for its challenging layout, which includes narrow fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and undulating greens. The front nine holes are relatively flat, while the back nine are more hilly and offer more challenging shots.
Features and Amenities
Presidio Golf Course offers a range of features and amenities to make your golfing experience enjoyable. The course has a driving range, putting green, and chipping area, where you can practice your swing and improve your game. The clubhouse features a pro shop, where you can purchase golf equipment and apparel, as well as a restaurant and bar, where you can relax and enjoy a meal or a drink after your round. The course also offers golf lessons for players of all skill levels. The lessons are taught by experienced golf professionals who can help you improve your swing, your short game, and your overall strategy.
Challenges and Highlights
Presidio Golf Course is known for its challenging layout and stunning scenery. Some of the course’s highlights include the 7th hole, which offers a panoramic view of the Golden Gate Bridge, and the 15th hole, which requires a precise shot over a ravine to reach the green. However, the course’s narrow fairways and strategically placed bunkers can make it difficult for even experienced golfers to score well. The undulating greens also require precision and skill to navigate. Overall, Presidio Golf Course offers a challenging and enjoyable golfing experience in a beautiful setting.
Tournaments and Events
PGA Tour History
Presidio Golf Course has a rich history of hosting PGA Tour events. The course has been a regular stop on the PGA Tour since the 1940s, and many of the game’s greatest players have competed here. In 1964, Jack Nicklaus won his first professional tournament at Presidio. Other champions include Arnold Palmer, Ben Hogan, and Tiger Woods. The course has also hosted several USGA championships, including the U.S. Amateur Public Links Championship in 1966 and the U.S. Women’s Amateur Public Links Championship in 1981.
Presidents Cup 2026
In 2026, Presidio Golf Course will host the Presidents Cup, a biennial team competition between the United States and an international team. The event will bring some of the world’s best golfers to San Francisco and showcase the beauty and challenge of Presidio Golf Course. The course has undergone significant renovations in preparation for the event, including the construction of a new clubhouse and improvements to the practice facilities. The organizers of the Presidents Cup have praised the course’s natural beauty and strategic design, and they expect the event to be a memorable one for players and fans alike. In addition to the Presidents Cup, Presidio Golf Course hosts several other tournaments and events throughout the year, including charity events, corporate outings, and member tournaments. The course’s stunning views, challenging layout, and rich history make it a popular destination for golfers of all levels.
Membership and Fees
Membership Options
Presidio Golf Course offers a variety of membership options to suit the needs of golfers of all levels. There are three types of memberships available: Regular, Senior, and Junior. Regular membership is open to all golfers aged 18 and above. Senior membership is available for golfers aged 60 and above. Junior membership is available for golfers aged 17 and below.
Green Fees
Presidio Golf Course offers competitive green fees for both members and non-members. The green fees for members are lower than those for non-members. The course also offers twilight rates for those who wish to play in the late afternoon. The twilight rates are available for both members and non-members.
Rentals
Presidio Golf Course offers rental equipment for those who do not have their own. The rental equipment includes golf clubs, golf carts, and pull carts. The rental fees are reasonable and the equipment is well-maintained. Overall, Presidio Golf Course offers a variety of membership options, competitive green fees, and well-maintained rental equipment. Whether you are a seasoned golfer or a beginner, Presidio Golf Course has something to offer for everyone.
Sustainability and Conservation
The Presidio Golf Course is committed to sustainability and conservation, with a focus on preserving the natural environment and reducing its carbon footprint. The course has implemented several initiatives to achieve these goals.
Presidio Trust Sustainability Program
The Presidio Golf Course is part of the Presidio Trust Sustainability Program, which aims to reduce the environmental impact of the Presidio and promote sustainable practices. The program includes initiatives such as:
- Energy-efficient lighting and appliances
- Water conservation measures, including low-flow toilets and faucets
- Waste reduction and recycling programs
Wildlife and Habitat Conservation
The Presidio Golf Course is home to a variety of native plant and animal species, including red-tailed hawks, coyotes, and California poppies. The course works to protect these species and their habitats through several initiatives:
- Integrated Pest Management (IPM) program to reduce the use of pesticides and herbicides
- Native plant restoration projects to promote biodiversity
- Wildlife corridors to allow animals to move freely between habitats
The Presidio Golf Course is proud to be a leader in sustainability and conservation, and will continue to implement new initiatives to reduce its environmental impact and promote the preservation of the natural environment.
