San Diego Winter Golf Trip: Premium Golf Without the Desert Vibe

Why San Diego Works for Winter Golf

San Diego has the best winter weather in the continental US. Daytime highs in the mid-60s to low 70s, ocean breezes, and almost no rain. It's comfortable golf year-round, but winter is especially pleasant without the summer crowds.

The courses in North County—Carlsbad, Encinitas, and surrounding areas—offer a different experience than desert golf. You get coastal views, kikuyu grass fairways, and a more traditional Southern California golf vibe. Torrey Pines alone makes San Diego worth considering for serious golfers.

The downside is cost. San Diego is more expensive than Scottsdale, Vegas, or Palm Springs. Green fees run higher, lodging costs more, and food and drinks add up quickly. But if your group values premium golf and coastal scenery, the extra cost is justified.

The logistics are straightforward. San Diego International Airport is well-connected, and North County is about 30 to 45 minutes north. Courses are accessible, though not quite as densely packed as Palm Springs.

Cost Expectations

Here's what a 3-night, 4-round trip realistically costs:

Green fees are the biggest expense. Torrey Pines South runs $250 to $300 for non-residents. Premium courses like Aviara and Grand Golf Club are similarly priced. You can find more affordable options like Encinitas Ranch or Crossings at Carlsbad for $100 to $150, but even daily-fee courses cost more here than in other winter destinations.

Lodging in Carlsbad or Encinitas ranges from $150 to $300 per night depending on the property. Rental houses work well for larger groups and can bring the per-person cost down.

Flights to San Diego are reasonable from most major cities, though West Coast travelers have more direct options.

Where to Stay (Carlsbad / North County)

North County San Diego is the best base for a golf trip. It's central to most courses and offers a more relaxed atmosphere than downtown San Diego.

Carlsbad
Home to several excellent courses and close to others. Good lodging options, beach access, and a laid-back vibe. Staying in Carlsbad puts you within 20 minutes of most North County courses.

Encinitas
Slightly more residential and quieter. Close to courses like Encinitas Ranch and The Lomas Club. Good for groups that want a more local feel.

Del Mar / Rancho Santa Fe
Upscale areas with higher-end accommodations. Convenient to Torrey Pines and Grand Golf Club. Expect premium pricing.

Must-Play Courses (Torrey, La Costa, etc.)

Torrey Pines (South Course)
The must-play course in San Diego. Host of the Farmers Insurance Open and the 2008 U.S. Open. Dramatic clifftop holes with ocean views. Expensive but worth it for the experience. The North Course is also excellent and slightly more affordable.

The Grand Golf Club
A Jack Nicklaus Signature design in Rancho Santa Fe. Excellent conditions, challenging layout, and stunning views. One of the best courses in Southern California.

Aviara Golf Club
Arnold Palmer design in Carlsbad. Impeccably maintained, playable, and scenic. Former LPGA Tour stop. Premium pricing but consistently rated among the best in the area.

Omni La Costa (Champions and Legends)
Two resort courses in Carlsbad. Champions is the more famous, having hosted PGA Tour events. Both are solid and offer good value compared to Torrey or Aviara.

Encinitas Ranch Golf Course
A hidden gem with great views and reasonable rates. Well-maintained and challenging without being punishing. Good option for a second or third round.

Crossings at Carlsbad
Another solid daily-fee option. Good conditions and a fair test of golf without premium pricing.

Sample 3–4 Day Itinerary

Day 1 (Friday): Fly in, pick up rental car, play an afternoon round at Crossings at Carlsbad. Check into lodging in Carlsbad or Encinitas, casual dinner.

Day 2 (Saturday): Morning round at Torrey Pines South. Afternoon round at Encinitas Ranch or rest. Evening in downtown Carlsbad.

Day 3 (Sunday): Morning round at The Grand or Aviara. Afternoon at the beach or pool. Dinner and drinks.

Day 4 (Monday): Morning round at Omni La Costa Champions or head to the airport.

This itinerary balances premium courses with more affordable options and gives you time to enjoy the coastal setting. If your group wants to maximize golf, you can easily add twilight rounds or play 36 holes on one of the days.

Flights & Transportation

San Diego International Airport is centrally located and offers direct flights from most major US cities. From the airport, North County is about 30 to 45 minutes north depending on traffic.

Rent a car. You'll need it to get between courses and your lodging. Traffic can be heavy during rush hour, so plan accordingly.

Who This Trip Is Best For

San Diego is ideal for groups that prioritize premium golf and are willing to pay for it. If you want to play iconic courses like Torrey Pines and experience coastal golf in perfect weather, this is the destination.

It's also good for groups that want a more refined, low-key trip. San Diego doesn't have the party atmosphere of Vegas or the golf-only intensity of Palm Springs. It's a balanced destination with great courses, good restaurants, and beach access.

That said, if budget is a primary concern, Palm Springs or Scottsdale offer better value. San Diego delivers a premium experience at a premium price.