Robert Trent Jones Jr.

Robert Trent Jones Jr., born July 24, 1939, in Montclair, New Jersey, is a torchbearer of his father’s golf architecture legacy with a distinct voice of his own. Raised on the fairways alongside his father, he honed his skills working on legendary projects like Spyglass Hill before striking out independently in the early ’70s with his firm in Palo Alto, California.

His portfolio boasts over 270 courses worldwide, with an emphasis on environmental harmony and strategic variety. From California’s rugged coastlines at The Links at Spanish Bay to dramatic inland layouts like Chambers Bay, he prioritizes “listening to the land” — crafting courses that feel both natural and engaging. His work blends adventure with fairness, offering nuanced shot options that challenge a range of skill levels.

Jones Jr. leads with subtlety rather than overt heroics, preferring courses that reward thoughtful play and respect the inherent character of the terrain. He’s also a thoughtful writer and poet, often sharing insights on the nuances of course design and how players can better understand a course’s strategic elements.

Now based in Woodside, California, Jones Jr. continues to evolve his family’s storied tradition while steering golf architecture into new territory with a modern but respectful approach.