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Course Report
Alister MacKenzie worked on the club’s bunkering and select greens just before beginning his legendary work at Cypress Point, making Cal Club one of the few U.S. courses with direct MacKenzie heritage.
About
The California Golf Club of San Francisco, affectionately known as Cal Club, is a prestigious private golf club founded in 1918 and relocated in 1926. Featuring design input from Willie Locke, A.V. Macan, Alister MacKenzie, and a 2007–08 restoration by Kyle Phillips, the par-72 course boasts firm fescue surfaces, strategic bunkering, and Golden Age architecture on rolling Peninsula terrain.
Caddie Tip
Avoid being long on the par-3 7th, as shots over the green make up-and-down nearly impossible. On par 5s, favor the left side off the tee for better angles. Greens are firm and fast; play approach shots short and allow them to release. Pay attention to subtle breaks on the putting surfaces, especially above the hole.
The Main Challenge
The course's greatest challenge is its firm, running fescue surfaces and bold bunkering, which demand precise drives and sharp iron play. Greens are undulating and quick, with subtle breaks that test lag putting and placement. Several long par 4s and tough par 3s, especially when wind is up, quickly penalize missed shots and tentative strategies.
The Good
Golfers are enamored with the fast and firm fescue turf that creates classic running options, the bold bunkering, and the overall strategic test provided by distinctively designed holes. The restoration brought back Golden Age features that both reward creativity and challenge precision—earning praise from architecture aficionados and skilled players alike.
The Not So Good
Some visitors mention that the strict guest policies and high exclusivity limit access, and that windy conditions can inflate scores. A few wish for slightly more scenic bay views throughout the routing, along with more diverse rough heights to accentuate fairway corridors, but these are minor for most.
Signature Hole:
#
7
The par-3 7th hole is widely recognized for its elevated tee, sweeping views over the Bay, and a challenging green set on a diagonal across a natural rise, heavily bunkered. The shot demands precise distance control and nerve, as misses short or left leave difficult recoveries. The dramatic setting and penal hazards make it a course highlight.
Clubhouse
The stately clubhouse includes a fine dining restaurant, grill room, classic locker room facilities, pro shop, and comfortable lounges. Terrace areas offer panoramic course views. Additional amenities include full-service bag storage, attentive staff, and elegant private event spaces, underscoring a traditional, prestigious club culture.
Practice Facilities
Cal Club offers a comprehensive practice range with several target greens, an extensive short game area including sand and chipping zones, and a large putting green that mirrors the speed and conditioning of the course itself. Ample space and minimal crowding ensure members can warm up thoroughly and work on all aspects of their game.
Dress Code:
Prestigious
No dress code enforced. All attire is permitted.
Collared shirts not required. Clean, athletic or golf-appropriate casual wear is acceptable.
Collared shirts required. No denim, gym wear, or overly casual clothing.
Collared shirts must be tucked in; no cargo or athletic shorts. No hats indoors.
Elite club standards; jackets required indoors, no changing shoes in the parking lot, and specific attire rules based on the area of the facility.
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