10 Best Golf Courses in Santa Barbara and Montecito, CA

Golf is a huge part of the lifestyle in both Montecito and Santa Barbara, which are known for their beautiful scenery, upscale amenities, and desirable real estate. With a mix of private country clubs, historic courses, and scenic public layouts, golfers of all skill levels can find great opportunities to play.

Whether you're a local, thinking about buying a home, or just visiting, exploring the best golf courses in the area highlights the strong connection between the sport and the communities. Below are some of the top golf courses in Montecito and Santa Barbara.

The Montecito Country Club is one of the most prestigious golf destinations in the region. The course offers panoramic ocean and mountain views and a layout that provides both challenge and playability. Membership also includes access to fine dining, tennis courts, and a full fitness center, making it a hub for residents who value an all-around lifestyle experience.

Birnam Wood Golf Club is a private, member-owned community featuring a Robert Trent Jones-designed 18-hole course. It is designed to encourage walking and offers an enjoyable yet technical challenge. The club emphasizes a close-knit community, making it attractive to those seeking both recreational and social benefits alongside golf.

The Valley Club is a historic course designed by Alister MacKenzie, one of the most respected golf course architects in history. This exclusive, private club has a traditional design that appeals to purists who enjoy classic golf layouts. It remains one of the most coveted memberships in the region.

Located just a short drive from Montecito, Sandpiper Golf Club combines oceanfront scenery with a championship-level design. With holes that border the Pacific, it attracts serious golfers as well as those who want a unique coastal experience. The public accessibility of this course makes it a favorite for both locals and visitors.

Glen Annie Golf Club, positioned in the nearby Goleta area, offers a combination of rolling terrain and panoramic views. Its layout is designed to test golfers while remaining approachable for a range of skill levels. The course is complemented by an event-friendly clubhouse, making it a strong choice for both golf and social gatherings.

Rancho San Marcos provides a change of pace with its inland location in the Santa Ynez Valley. The course winds through oak-studded hills and open terrain, offering a serene, natural setting. It is a destination course for Montecito residents seeking variety beyond the immediate coastal area.

Known locally as “Muni,” the Santa Barbara Golf Club is a well-maintained public course just minutes from Montecito. With affordable access and a central location, it appeals to a wide range of golfers. It provides consistent playing conditions and a community atmosphere.

La Cumbre Country Club in nearby Santa Barbara offers a classic private golf experience. Its course is challenging, with tree-lined fairways and well-protected greens. Membership also provides access to additional amenities, making it a well-rounded choice for individuals and families.

Located in Solvang, about 45 minutes from Montecito, the Alisal River Course is known for its scenic riverside setting. The course is walkable, player-friendly, and offers a balance of challenge and accessibility. It is a strong option for those looking to expand their golf experiences beyond the immediate area.

Also in Solvang, the Alisal Ranch Course is reserved for resort guests and members, adding an exclusive element. With a reputation for its quiet setting and well-kept layout, it complements the River Course and provides variety for golfers making a day trip from Montecito.

Golf is a huge part of the lifestyle in both Montecito and Santa Barbara, which are known for their beautiful scenery, upscale amenities, and desirable real estate. With a mix of private country clubs, historic courses, and scenic public layouts, golfers of all skill levels can find great opportunities to play.

The golf courses in Montecito and Santa Barbara are not just recreational venues — they are closely tied to the area’s lifestyle and real estate market. Many homes in these communities are located within or adjacent to golf club properties, adding value and appeal. Buyers who are interested in Montecito and Santa Barbara real estate often consider proximity to a course as part of their decision-making process. The combination of ocean views, mountain landscapes, and well-designed courses adds to the distinct quality of life in the area. The options range from exclusive private clubs to accessible public courses, ensuring every golfer has a place to play.

Born and raised in Santa Barbara, Kendrick Guehr has more than ten years of experience in real estate. He has established himself as a top-performing agent, widely respected for his dedication and results. Kendrick is recognized for representing his clients with professionalism, integrity, discretion, and around-the-clock availability, while delivering a high level of personalized service. His in-depth understanding of the Montecito and Santa Barbara real estate markets gives his clients a strong advantage. Over the course of his career, Kendrick has earned numerous distinctions, including being named Keller-Williams Realty’s “Rookie of the Year” and receiving the “Agent of the Year” award for closing the highest-value luxury transaction in Santa Barbara and Montecito.

If you're looking to buy or sell a home or have any questions about the Montecito, CA real estate market, contact Kendrick Guehr today.