Torrey Pines (North Course)

Built at the same time as its more famous sister, the South Course, the North Course at Torrey Pines has seen more than its fair share of notable moments while serving as the secondary venue for the PGA Tour’s annual stop. And while it’s always fun when the pros roll through, the North Course is incredibly popular with public play, having hosted a whopping 94,000 rounds in 2024.

The opening nine on the North Course occupies the northernmost point of the property and only features a couple of cliffside holes, but the remaining holes make for some interesting golf. A majority of the front side plays north and south as the land slopes from east to west, creating a series of holes that feature natural camber and great shot values. Once you turn to the back nine, you’re treated to a dramatic reveal of the ocean as you crest the hill on No. 10, and then Nos. 11-17 all play along the canyon. The par-3 15th is undoubtedly the most photographed hole on the property, as the dramatic downhill drop makes it appear as though you’re hitting off the edge of the earth.

While it’s not as well-known as the two-time U.S. Open host South Course, the North Course arguably uses its land in a more dynamic way. The front nine holes that work their way along the hillside are all highly enjoyable, and there is plenty of thrill to be found on the back nine. Tom Weiskopf’s renovation of the course in 2016 enlarged the green complexes and made them more intriguing, and many large trees were taken out that opened up more expansive views of the Pacific Ocean.

As far as municipal golf courses go, you can’t ask for much more than the North Course at Torrey Pines. The course operates on a model that features significantly reduced prices for San Diego locals, allowing them to walk the North for $50 on weekdays and $66 on weekends.

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