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Exploring the Scenic Coronado Golf Course in San Diego
Overlooking the Pacific Ocean with postcard views, the Coronado Golf Course is one of San Diego's hidden gems. As part of the Naval Base Coronado, this 18-hole course offers incredible value and a world-class golf experience unlike any other in Southern California.
A Unique History
The Coronado Golf Course has a fascinating history. First opened in 1967 after the North Island Naval Air Station donated the land to the Navy, it has remained exclusive to active duty military, reservists, retirees, and their guests for over 50 years. This exclusivity is part of what makes it such an under-the-radar destination.
Winding through the grounds, you'll find native vegetation, wildlife, and views of the San Diego-Coronado Bay Bridge with each hole. The challenging layout and ever-present ocean breeze demand strategic course management and solid ball striking to score well.
World-Class Course at an Unbeatable Price
As a military course, the green fees at Coronado are astoundingly affordable. Rates are structured based on your military status, making it the best value for your money compared to other championship courses in the San Diego area. Civilians can access Coronado for a small $15 surcharge when playing with an authorized patron.
Coronado offers all the amenities of a high-end facility for a fraction of the price. The course features a full-length driving range, chipping and putting areas, local caddies for hire, club and shoe rentals, and more. You'd be hard-pressed to find oceanfront golf of this caliber at such low costs anywhere else in California.
Striking Ocean Vistas Meet Strategic Golf
The views steal the show at Coronado. Eight holes run along the San Diego coastline, providing striking vistas with every shot. The par-72 routing measures 7,041 yards from the back tees and caters to a variety of skill levels. While positioned along the ocean, most holes play inland across tall grass, sandy bunkers, and velvety greens.
No two holes feel the same thanks to the unique terrain. The course routing takes you up and over steep ravines before returning back down to sea level. Golfers must account for the ocean breeze and adjust both their strategy and shot shaping accordingly. Coronado will test every club in your bag.
A Must-Play San Diego Golf Destination
Boasting incredible scenery, ideal weather year-round, and shockingly affordable rates, the Coronado Golf Course is a must for your San Diego golf itinerary. It's routinely ranked as one of the best military golf courses in the United States.
As a civilian, playing Coronado does require some advanced planning and an authorized guest pass. But for the quality of golf and overall experience, it's more than worth going the extra mile. Coronado enjoys less tourist traffic compared to resort-style facilities nearby, making it an ideal spot for both vacationers and locals alike.
Planning a Round at Coronado
Ready to book your Coronado tee time? Here's a quick guide to save money and make the most of your round:
Know Your Authorization Status
As an exclusive military course, confirm your authorization status before arrival. Check the course website for details on eligible players and documentation needed to verify eligibility.
Various guest pass options exist for non-authorized visitors when playing or staying with someone who has access. Fees differ based on the particular pass. Sort this out ahead of time to avoid issues when you arrive.
Check Opening Availability
Like most military facilities, tee sheet access prioritizes certain groups before opening to the General Public at certain times. Retirees can book further out than civilians, for example. Call the pro shop directly to ask about current openings before making travel plans.
As a public player, you'll likely need to call same-day or utilize the electronic waitlist on very busy weekends. Just know that as a non-authorized guest, you may need to be flexible with timing.
Prepare for On-Site Arrival
All players register with the pro shop upon arrival before heading to their first tee time. Having your authorization documents, applicable guest pass, and ID ready when you arrive streamlines this process significantly.
Questions about etiquette or facility policies? Ask the pro shop team when you check-in, they are happy to help first-timers understand protocol for military golf.
An Exceptional Value in San Diego
For scenic and strategic golf, Coronado Golf Course is a must-play when visiting America's Finest City. Military history buffs will also enjoy exploring this exclusive island gem.
With ocean views stretching for miles, unique tactical challenges, and unbeatable rates, Coronado delivers an exceptional value that few other courses can match. Whether hitting balls on the range or battling the wind down a ravine-lined fairway, a memorable day awaits at one of San Diego's best-kept secrets.
FAQs
How can I make a tee time at Coronado as a civilian guest?
Civilian golfers need either an authorized military sponsor or guest pass to play Coronado. Contact the pro shop directly to ask about guest pass options and tee time availability before booking travel. As a public player, you may need to book same-day or use the electronic waitlist on busy weekends.
What type of skill level is the Coronado course best suited for?
With its hilly terrain, narrow fairways, and ocean breeze, Coronado provides a rigorous test of shot-making for low and high handicappers alike. Players should have experience managing wind and trajectory for best results. More novice golfers may struggle with the challenging layout.
How much does it cost to play Coronado Golf Course?
As a military facility, fees are structured based on your eligible player category. Authorized golfers pay the lowest rates. Civilians play a surcharge when sponsored by a patron. Guest passes provide discounted fees too. Check online for the latest prices.
What type of attire and equipment is allowed at the course?
Proper golf attire is required at all times, including collared shirts and soft spike shoes for men. Denim and tank tops are prohibited. Club and shoe rentals are available on-site if needed. Other facility policies prohibit coolers and personal speakers.
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