Crystal Springs Golf Course

Crystal Springs Golf Course is a scenic 18-hole public course in Burlingame, California, laid out along the wooded hillsides above the Crystal Springs Reservoir on the San Francisco Peninsula. Set against a backdrop of the Santa Cruz Mountains and the protected reservoir watershed, the course offers rolling fairways, mature trees and sweeping views that make it a favorite for both Bay Area locals and visiting golfers. With its natural, walkable layout, welcoming clubhouse and practice facilities, Crystal Springs delivers an enjoyable round for players of every skill level.

Quick Facts

Course History

Crystal Springs Golf Course dates back to 1924, when it was built on the hillsides overlooking the Crystal Springs Reservoir, a body of water originally established in 1888 as part of San Francisco's water supply system. The course was the work of William Herbert Fowler, a celebrated British golf course architect known for routing courses that follow the natural lay of the land.

Fowler's original design has endured remarkably well, remaining largely intact for decades with only modest modifications and re-routings over the years. Today it operates as a public course managed under professional golf management, welcoming players from across the Bay Area.

The Design & Architecture

True to Fowler's philosophy, Crystal Springs works with the terrain rather than against it, using the region's rolling hillsides, mature trees and natural contours to shape the round. Well-placed bunkers guard the greens, and the land slopes gently downward toward the reservoir, providing both strategic challenge and a striking scenic backdrop. Rye grass tees, fairways and greens give the course consistent playing surfaces throughout the year.

Playing the Course

Measuring 6,628 yards to a par of 72 with a course rating of 71.8 and a slope of 130, Crystal Springs offers a fair but honest test from the back tees, while multiple tee options make it approachable for higher-handicap players. The elevated, wooded setting means shifting winds and uneven lies, rewarding thoughtful shot placement over pure length. With its reservoir views and quiet, natural surroundings, a round here feels a world away from the nearby urban Peninsula.

Know Before You Go

• This is a public course open to all golfers; tee times can be booked in advance and are recommended, especially on weekends.

• The course sits within the protected Crystal Springs Reservoir watershed, so respect the natural surroundings and stay on designated cart paths and playing areas.

• Practice facilities including a driving range and a clubhouse are available on site.

• The elevated, wooded setting can bring cooler temperatures, fog and breezes off the reservoir, so bring a layer even on warm Peninsula days.