You work hard for those vacation days—spend them golfing along Highway 1! If the idea of a relaxing golf getaway has you practicing your swing, it’s time to book a budget friendly excursion along our unique slice of California coastline. That’s right—hitting the links along Highway 1 doesn’t have to hurt your wallet. In fact, planning the perfect golf getaway is about as easy as setting your work email on “vacation mode.” From secluded seaside fairways to world class greens, we’ll teach you how to tee off along Highway 1 for less.
Where to Stay along Highway 1
We know you’d rather be golfing. But first, let’s find a place for you to rest your head between games. After all, adequate shut-eye makes for robust performance on the course, right? Luckily, Highway 1 offers affordable hotels and vacation rentals to choose from. Whether you’re traveling with your family, best buds or solo, there’s a home-away-from-home that meets your needs. Looking for a family-friendly gathering space with barbecue and all the creature comforts from home? Or perhaps you’re more partial to a cozy room for two nestled along a white sand beach. Either way, we’re here to welcome you in style. While some West Coast golf destinations can be expensive and unapproachable, Highway 1 blends unwavering hospitality with surprising value. When you add in the area’s astounding natural beauty and legendary links, you’re well on your way to golf vacation bliss. Find well-priced lodging offerings all along the coast, many of which boast close proximity to (of course) golf courses, the beach, boutique shopping and casual dining destinations. Don’t forget the golden rule: Booking in advance can help you secure early-bird discounts. Book now and be happy you did.
Play Golf on the Best Courses Along Highway 1
Sea Pines Golf Resort
Ready for a world class golf experience that begins with oceanfront gameplay and ends with a rejuvenating massage? At Sea Pines Golf Resort in Los Osos, enjoy one of the finest courses in all of California combined with luxury lodging accommodations. Nestled along the entrance to Montaña de Oro State Park, this exciting 9 hole, 62-par executive course is backdropped by one of Highway 1’s most breathtaking stretches of coastline. Test your skills while enjoying panoramic vistas of iconic Morro Rock, Morro Bay Estuary and coastal dunes. For players looking to refine their swing, Sea Pines Golf Resort offers a comprehensive list of amenities including a well-equipped driving range, meticulously maintained putting green, dedicated chipping area and professional golf lessons. Disc golf and foot golf enthusiasts will be delighted to discover that Sea Pines Golf Resort offers these additional games, a fun-filled way to enjoy the sunshine, to be sure. When hunger strikes, head to The Clubhouse Bar and Grill, a welcoming eatery open for breakfast, lunch and dinner. Tip: Enjoy discounts on appetizers, beer and house wine during happy hour, served 3-6 p.m. Monday through Thursday. While you need not check in to the resort to enjoy the course, you may want to keep your eyes peeled for special room offers, weekday rates and off-season deals.
Avila Beach Golf Course
Rekindle your passion for the game at Avila Beach Golf Course, known for elevated greens set along the sparkling San Luis Bay. A stone’s throw from Avila Beach’s iconic white sand beach, this picturesque course boasts a unique blend of beauty and cunning. With its impressive 18 holes, this par 72 course spans a remarkable distance of 6,364 yards, featuring kikuyu grass fairways and pristine bentgrass greens. Also enjoy a well-stocked pro shop and access to private lessons sure to kick your game up a notch. Navigate through gently undulating terrain flanked by majestic oak trees, a lovely place to command a golf cart with friends. Conclude your game with a well-deserved meal at Mulligan’s, Avila Beach Golf Course’s popular full service bar and restaurant. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself captivated time and time again by your surroundings: From first swing to last bite, Avila Beach Golf Resort maintains its picture perfect reputation.
Cypress Ridge Golf Course
The earthy scent of Cypress trees add an extra layer of magic to your game at Cypress Ridge Golf Club in Arroyo Grande. A local favorite, this extraordinary 18-hole par 72 course offers a one-two punch of challenge and serenity well known by residents and visiting golfers alike. With pristine fairways and impeccably manicured rye grass greens, the course gracefully meanders through a scenic Cypress grove and blends seamlessly into the surrounding natural splendor. Spanning an impressive length of 6,800 yards, this course demands your utmost skill. Do you have what it takes? Try your hand at navigating the various back tees, strategically placed dogleg holes and fast, true greens. What was once considered a hidden gem has now emerged as one of the most beloved golf courses along Highway 1. Play for yourself to see why.
Blacklake Golf Course
Customize your golf game at Blacklake Golf Course in Nipomo, home to a smart three-course, 27-hole layout. Yes, you can actually tailor the game to your individual preferences and skill level, with 9, 18, or 23 holes all in one convenient location. Think of this as “choose your own adventure” style play: The “Canyons Course” spans 9 holes, boasting gentle variations in terrain, elevated tee boxes and stunning fairway views. For seasoned golfers seeking a thrill, the championship “Oaks” course winds its way through a coastal oak forest, presenting a more challenging game. Designed with beginners in mind, the “Lakes” course features forgiving fairways, providing ample opportunity for new golfers to learn the ropes and build confidence. Alongside a driving range, chipping greens, and instruction clinics, the onsite Blacklake Bar and Grille rounds out the awesome onsite amenities. Beware: exploring every corner of this multi-tiered adventure might require more than a single day’s visit!
Monarch Dunes Golf Club
Monarch Dunes Golf Club is a peaceful playground set against Highway 1’s breezy coastal highlands. Perched atop the picturesque Nipomo Mesa, this exceptional golf resort boasts two award-winning courses meticulously designed in the revered Scottish links style. Prepare to be mesmerized by breathtaking vistas of windswept dunes, stately Eucalyptus groves and glistening waves. The championship course, which offers up 18 exhilarating holes and a par of 71, has earned accolades from esteemed publications like GOLF Magazine, Golf Inc. Magazine, Fairways + Greens Magazine, and Golf Digest. Cool, right? Plus, the course’s five scenic lakes, expansive driving range and the inviting onsite Butterfly Grille bistro, all add to the overall allure. Monarch Dunes’ second offering, a distinctive 12-hole par 3 course aptly named “The Challenge,” lives up to its reputation, providing a top notch diversion.
Activities to Enjoy Off the Course
The fun doesn’t end on the greens! Take time to explore Highway 1’s uncrowned beaches, never far from local golf offerings. Whether you enjoy basking in the sun, swimming, surfing or simply strolling along the sandy shores and historic piers, you’ll find plenty of ways to enjoy the outdoors. The best part? No wallet required! Immerse yourself in the charm of Highway 1’s coastal communities, where boutique shops, art galleries and casual, family friendly dining options beckon. Don’t forget to visit the region’s historic sites, such as lighthouses and Mission era landmarks, all affordable ways to glimpse into Highway 1’s past. Speaking of affordable, viewing San Simeon’s famous elephant seal population is always free and open to the public. With so much to do, you’ll have no trouble enjoying any additional time off the green.
More budget friendly Highway 1 golfing tips
Now you’re probably ready to get out there and take a swing. Before you head out on Highway 1, here’s a few handy tips to help you stick to your budget during that long-awaited golf getaway. First, consider booking tee times during off-peak hours or on weekdays, as they often offer lower rates compared to prime times. Take advantage of special packages or promotions offered by Highway 1 golf courses, which may include discounted rates for multiple rounds or bundled services (check websites for more information). Additionally, consider renting golf equipment instead of bringing your own to avoid extra baggage fees. By implementing these money-saving strategies, you can fully enjoy the Highway 1 golf experience without breaking the bank. See you on the green!
