Irvine's Best Golf Courses

What's the best golf course you have ever played?

What stood out for you?

Was it the stunning views, the challenging design, the picturesque fairways, or perhaps the post-round sundowner at the clubhouse?

Whatever it was, the experience of playing on a truly great course can stay with you for many many years.

If you're looking to relive that perfect golf game or find your new "best golf course", then sunny Irvine, California has just what you're looking for.

Below you'll find information on the absolute best golf courses in Irvine, California that will have you dusting off your golf bag and counting down the seconds to your next visit.

And remember, many of Orange County's golf courses are situated within larger communities - all great places to live if you're an avid golfer!

Strawberry Farms Golf Club

Winding its way through Sand Canyon in the Turtle Rock area of Irvine, Strawberry Farms Golf Club is a testament to the vast natural beauty of Southern California.

Developed by former California Angel, Doug DeCinces, this par 71, 6,700-yard course is a joy to traverse thanks to its wooded ravine, rugged hills, and views over the Sand Canyon Reservoir.

Strawberry Farms Golf Club is also one of the best locations for weddings and events in California. The dedicated Ceremony Lawn, Big Red Barn, and Terrace Veranda, in addition to the beautiful rural setting, make this a perfect spot for your indoor or outdoor celebrations.

Shady Canyon

Looking for the ultimate golfing experience in Irvine, California?

Shady Canyon is one of the best private golf courses in Orange County. In fact, Shady Canyon Golf Club was recently placed in the top 30 courses in California by Golf Digest magazine.

And it's not hard to see why. Take one look at this masterpiece from renowned designer Tom Fazio, and you'll instantly be drawn to its natural rugged features, dynamic elevation changes, and scenic stands of sycamores that line the tranquil creek beds.

All of this stretches over 300 beautiful acres, with 5 separate tees for varying skill levels, maxing out at a total of 7,012 yards for those seeking the ultimate challenge. Membership to this exclusive club is by invitation only - so if you get your chance, take it!

Shady Canyon Golf Membership

Membership at Shady Canyon doesn't just mean access to one of the best golf courses in the country, it also means you get to enjoy some of the finest clubhouse amenities as well. From banquet dinners to a 6,700 square foot spa and fitness center, as well as a full calendar of events for the whole family, including campouts, concerts, and holiday celebrations.

Shady Canyon isn't just a golf club, it's a haven for residents of Irvine's hills to find fun and friendship.

Learn more about the Shady Canyons area and about homes currently for sale around Shady Canyon.

Rancho San Joaquin

The Rancho San Joaquin Golf Course is a local gem only one turn off the highly central Culver Drive in the heart of Irvine, California.

Bordered by the Irvine Business Complex and University Town Center, you might expect a relatively compact, executive-length course. Instead, you get a sparkling 6,431 yards of quality golfing, complete with a driving range, and large water features.

Rancho San Joaquin is a public course that charges daily fees.

Rancho San Joaquin also has the distinction of being Irvine's oldest golf course, and some of that heritage is preserved at the nearby Irvine Historical Museum, directly adjacent to the Rancho San Joaquin clubhouse.

The clubhouse itself is also something special, boasting a pro shop and banquet facilities.

Quick facts:

• Par 73
• Founded in 1964
• Won “Orange County’s Best Place to Play” in OC Magazine, 2011
• Architects: William F. Bell & Ted Robinson, Sr.
• Website: https://www.ranchosanjoaquin.com

Oak Creek Golf Club

Centrally located, this tightly knit course lies nestled between rows of beautiful trees, with an abundance of bunkers, winding paths, and two beautiful lakes.

On top of that, you also get the benefit of the club's driving range, putting green, and professional instructors.

Oak Creek Golf Club is easily accessible from the nearby Quail Hill and Turtle Rock areas, as well as the nearby Highway 5 and 405 interchange, home to the stunning Irvine Spectrum Center.

And the course itself has something for everyone, from challenging traps and precariously placed greens, to long straight fairways with forgiving elevation.

Oak Creek Golf Course:

• Par 71
• Length: 6,834 yards

Oak Creek Golf Course also has the distinction of being another of Tom Fazio's masterfully designed courses within the Irvine, California area.

Golfing In Irvine & Orange County, California

Best Golf Courses in Irvine, California

• Shady Canyon Golf Club

• Strawberry Farms Golf Club

• Rancho San Joaquin Golf Course

• Oak Creek Golf Club

As you can see, for a relatively small and mostly urban area, Irvine is not lacking for world-class golfing options.

But, let's not forget, Orange County as a whole is home to many more great options. Some honorable mentions just outside of Irvine include Tustin Ranch and Pelican Hill.

And, if you're in the area, you might also be interested in visiting the PGA Tour Superstore at Alton Marketplace.

Happy golfing!