Emerald Hills Golf Course

Emerald Hills Golf Course is a 9-hole, par-3 public course tucked into the wooded hills above Redwood City, California, on the San Francisco Peninsula. Built in 1933, this short but demanding layout has earned a reputation as one of the most challenging par-3 courses in Northern California, with holes playing sharply uphill and downhill through the surrounding terrain. Approachable enough for beginners yet tricky enough to test a seasoned player's short game, it offers a quick, scenic round in a tranquil Peninsula setting.

Quick Facts

Course History

Emerald Hills Golf Course dates back to 1933, making it one of the longer-standing golf facilities on the San Francisco Peninsula. It was laid out by architect Ellis Van Gorder, who routed the holes to follow the natural contours of the hillside community of Emerald Hills just west of downtown Redwood City.

For decades the course has remained a public, walk-on-friendly facility popular with local golfers. Thanks to its all-par-3 design, it is frequently cited as one of the toughest nine-hole courses in Northern California while also being a favorite spot for chasing a hole-in-one.

The Design & Architecture

Ellis Van Gorder's design makes the most of a compact, hilly parcel. Every hole is a par 3, with tee-shot distances ranging from roughly 100 to 172 yards, and most shots play steeply uphill or downhill. That constant elevation change puts a premium on accurate club selection and distance control rather than raw length, giving the course its reputation as a tough but fair test of short-iron play.

Playing the Course

At about 1,156 yards from the longest tees and a par of 27, a round moves quickly and is easily walked. The signature stretch includes Hole 6, a downhill par 3 of roughly 120 yards to a bowl-shaped green that invites aggressive tee shots at an ace. Putting greens and a practice cage are on hand to warm up beforehand, and the wooded hillside setting keeps the atmosphere relaxed throughout the round.

Know Before You Go

• This is a public course open to walk-on play; reserving a tee time online in advance is recommended during busy periods.

• It is an all par-3 layout, so leave the driver behind and bring your short irons and wedges.

• Expect significant elevation changes on most holes, which makes club selection the key to scoring.

• Practice facilities include putting greens and a practice cage for warming up before your round.