Torrey Pines - South Course

San Diego, California

Perched on the cliffs above the Pacific Ocean, Torrey Pines South is one of America's most famous municipal courses and host of the Farmers Insurance Open. Tiger Woods' legendary 2008 U.S. Open victory here cemented its place in golf history.

History & Heritage

Torrey Pines South was designed by William F. Bell in 1957 as a San Diego municipal facility on dramatic coastal bluffs in La Jolla. Rees Jones renovated the layout in 2001, stretching it to nearly 7,700 yards for U.S. Open standards. The 2008 U.S. Open saw Tiger Woods defeat Rocco Mediate in a Monday playoff on a broken left leg for his 14th major. Jon Rahm won the 2021 U.S. Open here. The South Course also hosts the annual Farmers Insurance Open.

Signature Holes

Hole 3 Par 3 · 201 yards

One of the most scenic par 3s in American golf, playing from an elevated tee with the Pacific Ocean as backdrop.

Hole 4 Par 4 · 490 yards

A brutally long par 4 along the cliff edge that ranks among the most difficult holes on the PGA Tour.

Hole 7 Par 4 · 462 yards

A dogleg right with a ravine crossing the fairway and an uphill approach to a well-defended green.

Hole 12 Par 4 · 504 yards

A massive par 4 over 500 yards from the tips, running along the canyon with a downhill approach to a bunker-guarded green.

What to Expect

Torrey Pines South stretches to nearly 7,700 yards along Pacific Ocean bluffs and through native Torrey pine canyons. Morning marine fog can make the course play longer, while afternoon winds add challenge. As a municipal course, it offers remarkable value for a two-time U.S. Open venue with excellent conditioning.

Playing Tips

Play from appropriate tees — the back tees are for championship-caliber players. Morning tee times offer cooler, calmer conditions and smoother poa annua greens. San Diego residents receive significantly discounted green fees.

Highlights

✓ U.S. Open and PGA Tour venue
✓ Pacific Ocean cliffside setting
✓ Tiger Woods' 2008 U.S. Open on one leg

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to play Torrey Pines South?

San Diego residents pay approximately $55-$80, while non-residents pay $150-$230 depending on the day.

Is it hard to get a tee time?

Tee times are competitive, especially on weekends. Book as early as possible online.

Should I play the North or South Course?

The South is the championship layout and more famous but harder and more expensive. The North shares the same stunning clifftop setting at a lower price.

What is the best time of year to play?

San Diego enjoys mild temperatures year-round. Summer mornings are ideal before afternoon wind arrives.

More Courses in San Diego

Maderas Golf Club public

$100–$180

Aviara Golf Club resort

$150–$275

Steele Canyon Golf Club public

$50–$100

Coronado Municipal Golf Course public

$30–$55

Torrey Pines North Course public

$80–$175

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