Olympic Club Golf Course

The Vibe & Terrain

Nestled in the picturesque hills of San Francisco, the Olympic Club Golf Course offers a breathtaking blend of parkland and links-style terrain. With its undulating fairways and strategically placed bunkers, this course presents a challenging layout that both tests the skills of seasoned golfers and enchants newcomers. The atmosphere is anything but ordinary, with a rich history that echoes through its immaculate grounds. Expect a golf experience that combines both competitive spirit and the serene beauty of California's coastal landscape.

Local "Insider" Tips

• Greens at Olympic Club tend to break towards the Pacific Ocean, so keep that in mind when lining up your putts.
• Watch out for the afternoon winds, which can transform a gentle breeze into a formidable challenge, especially on the back nine.
• Be prepared for elevation changes; the course’s hills can add distance to your shots, so consider clubbing up when necessary.

Caddie's Bag Check (Weather & Gear)

Located along the coastline, the weather at the Olympic Club can be quite unpredictable. Expect cool, foggy mornings that give way to clearer afternoons. With temperatures averaging in the mid-60s, the course can feel chilly, particularly when the wind picks up. Since the wind kicks up on the back nine, a sturdy windbreaker is non-negotiable here. Not only will it keep you warm, but it will also shield you from sudden gusts that can disrupt your swing.

Course Heritage & Design

Designed by Sam Whiting / Willie Watson (1924), Robert Trent Jones Sr. (renovation) and established in 1924 as a Private facility.

The Lake Course is a narrow, tree-lined test built on the western edge of San Francisco near the Pacific coast. Famous for its fog, tight driving corridors through towering Monterey cypress and eucalyptus trees, and treacherous greens that slope toward the ocean. Known as a giant-killer where favorites rarely win.

Tournament History

• 1955 U.S. Open
• 1966 U.S. Open
• 1987 U.S. Open
• 1998 U.S. Open
• 2012 U.S. Open
• 2032 Ryder Cup (scheduled)

Signature Holes

Hole 18 (Par 4, 347 yards) — “The Upset Maker”: A short but treacherous finishing hole that plays steeply uphill through a narrow chute of trees to a tiny, sloping green. Despite its brevity, it has produced some of the most shocking finishes in U.S. Open history.

Hole 3 (Par 3, 223 yards) — “The Lake”: A long par 3 played from an elevated tee to a green fronted by a small lake, with dense trees surrounding the putting surface. The hole is particularly treacherous when the marine layer moves in.

Hole 16 (Par 5, 609 yards) — “The Gauntlet”: A long par 5 winding through towering trees, requiring three precisely placed shots to navigate the narrow corridor and reach the well-guarded green.

Local Weather Intelligence

San Francisco's famous marine layer brings cool, foggy conditions especially during summer. Temperatures rarely exceed 70°F, and afternoon winds can drop temperatures dramatically. Layers are essential.

Best months to play: September through November (Indian summer), April through May

Wind pattern: Strong onshore Pacific winds, 10-25 mph, especially through the Golden Gate gap in the afternoons. The marine layer creates swirling wind conditions among the trees.

Did You Know?

The Olympic Club is famous as a 'graveyard of favorites' where pre-tournament favorites consistently falter. Jack Fleck upset Ben Hogan in 1955, Billy Casper overtook Arnold Palmer in 1966, and Scott Simpson defeated Tom Watson in 1987. Webb Simpson won in 2012.

💰 Estimated Cost & Value

The Olympic Club Golf Course offers a premium golfing experience reflected in its green fees, typically ranging from $$$ to $$$$. This places it in the category of a bucket list course, with fees often exceeding $200. For those seeking the best value golf in CA, this course is a worthy investment, especially considering its rich history and challenging layout.

⛳ Difficulty & Signature Features

The Olympic Club Golf Course is known for its difficulty, featuring a challenging slope rating that tests even the most skilled players. The course layout includes tight fairways and several water hazards, making it a strategic challenge. For golfers looking to assess their abilities, the scorecard provides a comprehensive overview of the course's demanding nature.

🤔 Is It Worth Playing?

Play here if you like a PGA-level challenge with stunning views and a storied history. However, skip it if you prefer a more forgiving course, as beginners may find the Olympic Club punishing and intimidating.