
Northwood Golf Club
Golf amidst ancient redwoods! Northwood Golf Club offers a magical 9-hole experience designed by Alister MacKenzie in the Russian River Valley.

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Magical fog, fewer crowds

Northwood Golf Club
Best Time
Magical fog, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Golf amidst ancient redwoods! Northwood Golf Club offers a magical 9-hole experience designed by Alister MacKenzie in the Russian River Valley.
"It was an unreal experience playing amongst the redwoods. Definitely a hidden gem!"

🎯 Book Ahead!
This 9-hole gem is popular! Secure your tee time early, especially for weekend play .
🌲 Embrace the Redwoods
The towering trees are the star. Enjoy the unique atmosphere and stunning views .

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Redwood Forest Fairway
Throughout the course
Golfing amidst ancient redwoods creates an unforgettable, almost surreal atmosphere. The towering trees are a constant, breathtaking backdrop.

Alister MacKenzie Design
Entire 9-hole course
Experience the strategic genius of a legendary golf course architect. Each hole offers a unique challenge and aesthetic.

Russian River Valley Setting
Monte Rio, CA
Located in the picturesque Russian River Valley, the natural beauty extends beyond the trees to the surrounding landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Redwoods
Timing is Key
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Ahead!
This 9-hole gem is popular! Secure your tee time early, especially for weekend play.
🌲 Embrace the Redwoods
The towering trees are the star. Enjoy the unique atmosphere and stunning views.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Rounds
Bring your furry friend along for the golf adventure! Your dog will love it.
🍔 Post-Game Bites
The on-site restaurant serves great food, including a highly recommended cheeseburger.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Ahead!
This 9-hole gem is popular! Secure your tee time early, especially for weekend play.
🌲 Embrace the Redwoods
The towering trees are the star. Enjoy the unique atmosphere and stunning views.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Rounds
Bring your furry friend along for the golf adventure! Your dog will love it.
🍔 Post-Game Bites
The on-site restaurant serves great food, including a highly recommended cheeseburger.
🚗 Worth the Drive
Even from San Francisco, the drive is highly recommended for this unique experience.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors rave about Northwood Golf Club's breathtaking setting amidst towering redwoods, calling it a 'magical' and 'unreal' experience. The Alister MacKenzie-designed 9-hole course is praised for its beauty and suitability for all skill levels, complemented by friendly staff and good value. Some note the greens can be challenging, but the overall consensus is overwhelmingly positive.
"Beautiful place to play golf! Nestled in a Redwood forest - the scenery and smells were great. Friendly crew in the clubhouse and efficient starter. We were surprised how busy it was on a Wednesday, but we moved along at a good pace. Reasonably priced and a good restaurant on the grounda."
Michael Ritland
"Wow, golf amongst the Redwood forest. Great view, fresh pine smells and very scenic 9 hole course."
Richard Leber
"Simply Amazing. Super nice people. Breathtaking scenery. Course suited for all skill levels. Grab a cheeseburger at the restaurant when you’re done."
Tom O'Hair
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Northwood Golf Club is located in Monte Rio, CA, about an hour's drive north of San Francisco. The scenic drive through the Russian River Valley is part of the experience. Many visitors find it well worth the trip.
Yes, the club is accessible by car. Parking is available on-site. The drive itself is often highlighted as beautiful, winding through Northern California's scenic landscapes.
Using a GPS or navigation app is recommended. The roads leading to Monte Rio can be winding, but the destination is clearly marked. Many visitors share their journey on social media, offering visual cues.
Public transport options are limited for reaching Northwood Golf Club directly. Driving is the most common and convenient method for visitors.
The drive from San Francisco typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions and your exact starting point.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Northwood Golf Club is known for being reasonably priced, especially considering its unique setting and Alister MacKenzie design. Specific green fees can vary, so it's best to check their official website or call ahead for the most current pricing.
Yes, booking a tee time is highly recommended, especially for weekend play. It's described as a 'hidden gem' and can get busy. Booking in advance ensures you get your preferred slot.
The club typically opens in the morning and operates throughout the day. Hours can vary seasonally, so it's advisable to check their official website or contact them directly for current operating hours and tee time availability.
While walking is generally permitted, booking a tee time is the standard procedure to guarantee your play. Some visitors have mentioned playing solo and enjoying a good pace.
It's worth checking their website or inquiring directly about any potential discounts, package deals, or loyalty programs. Being a 9-hole course, it's already considered a good value.
🎫 ⛳ Onsite Experience
Northwood Golf Club features a 9-hole layout designed by the renowned Alister MacKenzie. Each hole is celebrated for its unique character and integration with the natural redwood environment.
Yes, the course is described as suited for all skill levels. While challenging, the 9-hole format and beautiful setting make it enjoyable for both experienced golfers and those new to the game.
Reviews mention that the course is generally in good shape, though the greens can be tough, and pin positions might add to the challenge.
Yes, dogs are welcome at Northwood Golf Club, making it a great spot for golfers who want to bring their furry companions along for the experience.
Expect a magical, serene atmosphere surrounded by towering redwoods and the scent of pine. It's often described as a 'hidden gem' and a unique golfing paradise.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there is a restaurant on the grounds that offers food and drinks. It's a popular spot for golfers to grab a bite after their round.
The cheeseburger at the restaurant is frequently recommended by visitors as a must-try after your game.
Yes, you can get drinks at the clubhouse restaurant, perfect for rehydrating after a round of golf amidst the redwoods.
The Russian River Valley offers various local eateries and wineries. However, many visitors find the on-site restaurant convenient and satisfying.
Typically, golf course restaurants are open to the public, but it's always a good idea to confirm their hours and accessibility if you're not playing a round.
📸 📸 Photography
Everywhere! The towering redwoods, the winding fairways, and the natural light filtering through the canopy offer endless photo opportunities. The entire course is incredibly photogenic.
Absolutely. The unique setting among the redwoods makes it a highly 'Instagrammable' location, often featured for its stunning natural beauty.
Mornings can offer a magical, foggy ambiance, while midday provides clear light that highlights the vibrant greens and towering trees. Golden hour in the late afternoon can also be spectacular.
Yes, you can capture the essence of the 9-hole course. Each hole presents a different perspective and photographic potential, showcasing the MacKenzie design within the redwood forest.
Generally, personal photography for social media or memories is welcome. However, it's always wise to be mindful of other golfers and respect any specific club policies if you plan on extensive professional shoots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the course is challenging, it's also described as suitable for all skill levels, meaning beginners and children can still enjoy the experience. The magical atmosphere of the redwoods can make even a short round an unforgettable adventure for the whole family. Just be prepared for the occasional errant shot bouncing off a tree!
💰 Budget Travelers
Combine your visit with a scenic drive through the Russian River Valley, which is free and offers beautiful views. Packing your own snacks and drinks can further reduce costs, though the on-site restaurant is noted for its good value and delicious food, particularly the cheeseburger. It's a destination that delivers significant value for the experience it provides.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Consider visiting during the morning fog for an ethereal, moody atmosphere, or during the late afternoon for warm, golden light. The unique Alister MacKenzie design elements also provide interesting compositional elements. It's a place where nature and golf architecture combine to create truly breathtaking visuals, perfect for your Instagram feed or a personal portfolio.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Alister MacKenzie Legacy
At Northwood, MacKenzie's touch is evident in the thoughtful routing of the 9-hole course, which winds through the majestic redwood forest. Each hole is designed to be memorable and engaging, offering unique vistas and strategic options. The course was originally built in 1928, and its restoration by a passionate team and family has preserved its historical integrity while ensuring it remains playable and enjoyable for modern golfers.
Playing Northwood offers a chance to walk in the footsteps of golfing history and appreciate a master's work in an unparalleled natural setting. The course's relatively short length is deceptive; its strategic bunkering, undulating greens, and the ever-present redwood trees demand thoughtful play and reward good shot-making.
Golfing Among Giants: The Redwood Experience
The experience of golfing here is unlike any other. The air is fresh with the scent of pine and damp earth, and the dappled sunlight filtering through the dense canopy creates a magical, almost ethereal atmosphere. Visitors often describe it as 'heaven on earth' or 'golfing bliss'. The sheer scale of the trees makes golfers feel small, adding to the profound sense of place.
This natural setting also influences the play. Balls can bounce off the massive trunks, and the shade can affect visibility and ball flight. However, most golfers embrace these quirks as part of the charm. The course is a true 'hidden gem' that offers not just a round of golf, but an immersive experience in one of California's most beautiful natural landscapes.
Restoration and Community Spirit
This dedication is often reflected in the warm and hospitable atmosphere at the club. Visitors frequently praise the friendly crew in the clubhouse and the efficient starter, contributing to a welcoming experience for all. The community spirit surrounding Northwood is palpable, with many golfers returning year after year to enjoy its magic.
The story of Northwood is one of passion for golf, respect for history, and a deep appreciation for nature. It's a place where the legacy of a golf legend meets the enduring beauty of the redwood forest, all nurtured by a community that cherishes its existence.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit