Half Moon Golf Course
Experience world-class golf with breathtaking Pacific Ocean views on two championship courses at Half Moon Bay.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better rates
Half Moon Golf Course
Best Time
Fewer crowds, better rates
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience world-class golf with breathtaking Pacific Ocean views on two championship courses at Half Moon Bay.
"The 18th hole on the Old Course is often called the most scenic finishing hole in golf."
📸 Capture the Views
Don't forget your camera! The coastal scenery is spectacular, especially on the Ocean Course.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on challenging terrain. Good golf shoes are a must.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The 18th Hole on the Old Course
Old Course
Often called the most scenic finishing hole, with the Pacific Ocean and Ritz-Carlton as a breathtaking backdrop.
Coastal Cliffs of the Ocean Course
Ocean Course
Experience challenging fairways and oceanfront holes perched atop towering cliffs overlooking the Pacific.
Signature Par 3 17th Hole
Ocean Course
Part of the best final three-hole stretch in the Bay Area, offering stunning ocean vistas.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tee Times in Advance
Understand Caddie Policies
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the Views
Don't forget your camera! The coastal scenery is spectacular, especially on the Ocean Course.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on challenging terrain. Good golf shoes are a must.
💰 Check for Stay & Play Deals
Bundling your golf with a stay at the Ritz-Carlton can offer great value.
💨 Be Prepared for Wind
Coastal courses can be windy, affecting your shots. Factor this into your club selection.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the Views
Don't forget your camera! The coastal scenery is spectacular, especially on the Ocean Course.
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be doing a lot of walking on challenging terrain. Good golf shoes are a must.
💰 Check for Stay & Play Deals
Bundling your golf with a stay at the Ritz-Carlton can offer great value.
💨 Be Prepared for Wind
Coastal courses can be windy, affecting your shots. Factor this into your club selection.
🎯 Stay in the Fairway
The rough can be challenging to escape from. Accuracy is key.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Half Moon Bay Golf Links is widely praised for its stunning coastal scenery and challenging, well-maintained courses, particularly the Ocean Course and the iconic 18th hole of the Old Course. While many enjoy the experience, some visitors find the cost, especially when including mandatory caddies, to be quite high compared to other options.
"Played this course for the first time in many visits to the island and found it very playable. It is an inland course with no ocean or mountain holes like White Witch (closed for summer) or Cinnamon Run (ocean hole & mountain holes). The course e is a standard resort course wide open, if you loose a ball shame on you. Condition is good both greens and fairways. The draw back in playing this course is the cost $185 including caddie compared to Cinnamon Run $140 with caddie and you get close to the same conditions with ocean and mountain views.
Glad I played it and might again if the price is competitive."
Tommy Clak
"Amazing Staff. Joan and Vince were wonderful. Their knowledge of the greens is elite. It's a challenging course. The best shot I hit into a green was this Par 3. I was within about 8 feet."
Eric Mazetis
"Not worth the price. Beware of the racket of being forced to use a caddie! However, the caddie (Cecil) was very knowledgeable of the course. The layout and design were challenging. Make sure you stay in the fairway as the rough was difficult to get out of."
Cory Spence
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Half Moon Bay Golf Links is located just about 30 miles south of San Francisco, making it an accessible day trip or weekend getaway from the city. 
Driving is the most convenient way to reach the golf links. Public transportation options are limited and can be time-consuming. If flying in, it's about a 25-minute drive from San Francisco International Airport (SFO).
Yes, ample parking is available for golfers and visitors at both the Ocean Course and the Old Course facilities.
Absolutely! Even if you're not a guest, you can stroll along the coastal walk, enjoy the views of the golf course, and grab a drink on their patio.
The charming town of Half Moon Bay itself offers beaches, local shops, and restaurants. The coastal walk at the Ritz-Carlton is also a popular non-golfing activity.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Green fees can vary significantly depending on the course, time of day, and season. Prices can range from $130 to over $185, often including a caddie. It's best to check their official website or call for current rates.
Yes, booking tee times in advance is highly recommended, especially for the popular Ocean Course and during peak seasons. Weekday mornings often offer better availability.
The courses typically open early in the morning and close around sunset. Specific hours can vary seasonally, so it's advisable to confirm with the pro shop.
Yes, Half Moon Bay Golf Links features two championship 18-hole courses: The Ocean Course and The Old Course.
Club rentals are typically available at the pro shop. It's a good idea to inquire about availability and pricing when booking your tee time.
🎫 ⛳ Onsite Experience
The Ocean Course is known for its dramatic cliffside holes and stunning ocean views, while the Old Course offers a more traditional parkland feel with its own iconic finishing hole. Both are challenging and scenic.
Yes, both courses are considered challenging, with strategic bunkering, undulating greens, and the ever-present coastal elements. The rough can also be difficult to play from.
A collared shirt and golf shorts or slacks are generally required. Denim and athletic wear are usually not permitted. Check with the pro shop for specific guidelines.
While not always mandatory, caddies are often recommended and can significantly enhance the experience, especially for first-time visitors. Some reviews mention being 'forced' to use one, so clarify policies when booking.
Tipping is customary for caddies. While specific amounts can vary, a common range is $20-$50 per player, depending on the service and the complexity of the course.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are dining facilities available at the golf course, often offering scenic views. The Ritz-Carlton also provides upscale dining experiences.
Beverage carts typically operate on the courses, offering refreshments during your round. Some courses may also have halfway houses.
Expect typical golf course fare, including sandwiches, salads, and snacks, alongside more substantial meals at the clubhouse restaurants. The Ritz-Carlton offers a wider gourmet selection.
Yes, the patio at the Ritz-Carlton offers a cozy spot to enjoy a drink with views of the coast and golf course.
Reservations are recommended for dining at the Ritz-Carlton, especially during busy periods. You can usually book online or by calling the hotel directly.
📸 📸 Photography
The 18th hole on the Old Course and the cliffside holes on the Ocean Course, particularly the 17th, offer iconic photo opportunities. The coastal walk at the Ritz-Carlton also provides stunning backdrops.
Drone usage may be restricted due to proximity to the Ritz-Carlton and potential interference with play. It's best to check with course management before flying a drone.
Yes, photography is generally allowed for personal use, especially to capture the beautiful scenery. However, be mindful of other golfers and avoid disrupting play.
The 'golden hour' just after sunrise or before sunset offers the most dramatic lighting for landscape and golf course photography.
Many visitors highlight the dramatic ocean views from the cliffside holes and the picturesque finishing holes as must-capture moments.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Even if not playing golf, visiting the resort area provides access to the ocean vistas and a chance to experience the upscale atmosphere. Consider visiting the resort's public areas or enjoying a meal with a view. If your family enjoys golf, the Old Course's 18th hole is a particularly picturesque spot that even non-golfers might appreciate for its scenic beauty.
💰 Budget Travelers
Look for 'Stay and Play' packages that bundle accommodation with golf, as these can sometimes provide better overall value than booking separately. If budget is a primary concern, you might prioritize playing just one of the courses, perhaps the Old Course for its iconic 18th hole, or focus on enjoying the scenic coastal walk at the Ritz-Carlton without the green fees.
Researching deals and promotions directly on the golf course or hotel websites is crucial for finding the best prices.🏌️ Avid Golfers
+1 The Old Course provides its own unique charm, culminating in one of the most photographed finishing holes in golf. Consider booking tee times well in advance, especially if you're aiming for prime slots. Exploring the option of playing both courses to experience the full breadth of Half Moon Bay's golfing prowess is highly recommended.
+1 Be prepared for the coastal conditions, including wind, and factor in the potential cost and benefit of a caddie to enhance your strategic play on these demanding layouts. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Two Championship Courses
+1The Old Course, while also offering spectacular views, presents a slightly different character. Its 18th hole, in particular, is frequently cited as one of the most scenic finishing holes in golf, providing a memorable conclusion to your round with the iconic Ritz-Carlton hotel as a backdrop.
+1 Both courses are meticulously maintained, offering immaculate greens and fairways, making them a pleasure to play for golfers of all skill levels, though they demand strategic play. When choosing between the two, consider your preference for dramatic coastal holes versus a more classic parkland layout with iconic finishing holes. Many visitors recommend playing both if time and budget allow to fully appreciate the diversity of the Half Moon Bay Golf Links experience.
+1The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay Experience
+1 The resort provides a world-class lodging experience, often bundled with golf packages that can offer significant value. Beyond accommodation, the resort features a beautiful coastal walk that offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and the golf courses. This is a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, photography, or simply to enjoy the serene environment.
The resort's dining options are also exceptional, providing a range of culinary experiences from casual to fine dining, often with ocean views. For those looking to combine a top-tier golf trip with a luxurious stay, the 'Stay and Play' deals at The Ritz-Carlton are highly recommended. These packages can elevate your visit from a great golf day to an unforgettable resort experience.
Navigating Caddies and Costs
The cost associated with a caddie, often included in the green fee or as an additional charge, is a significant factor for many golfers. Prices can range from $140 to $185 or more, depending on the course and whether the caddie is included.
It's advisable to clarify the caddie policy and associated costs when booking your tee time. If you're on a tighter budget or prefer to navigate the course independently, inquire about options for playing without a caddie, though be prepared for a potentially more challenging round.
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