Indian Valley Golf Club

Tucked into the woodlands and wetlands of Indian Valley, the course pairs scenic Northern California landscapes with a genuine test of golf across notable elevation changes. With tree-lined fairways, small and fast greens, and water in play on several holes, it offers an enjoyable and memorable round for players of all skill levels and remains a longtime San Francisco Bay Area favorite.

Course History

Indian Valley Golf Club was designed by Robert Nyberg and built in 1958, carved into the wooded hills of Indian Valley on the western edge of Novato. For decades it has served as one of Marin County's accessible public golfing options, drawing local golfers and visitors alike to the North Bay.

The layout was renovated and redesigned in 2004 under the direction of Kevin Ramsey, refreshing the routing and course features while preserving the natural, tree-framed character that has defined the club since its opening.

The Design & Architecture

Set on genuinely hilly terrain, the course is defined by significant elevation changes, elevated shots, and the occasional blind or downhill approach. Tree-lined fairways offer generous landing areas in places while tightening around numerous doglegs, and the greens are small, sloping, and fast. Streams and ponds bring water into play on many holes, and the hillside setting can invite gusty wind, adding to the challenge of a par-72 layout that plays to 6,374 yards.

Playing the Course

With a course rating of 69.0 and a slope of 123, Indian Valley rewards accurate iron play and thoughtful course management over raw distance. Multiple sets of tees let golfers of every ability find a comfortable challenge, and despite the hilly ground the course remains very walkable. Approaches into the small, quick greens demand precision, while the elevation changes and water hazards keep every round engaging.

Know Before You Go

• Public, 18-hole course open to all players; located at 3035 Novato Blvd, Novato, CA 94947.

• Expect real elevation changes and some blind or elevated shots, though the course is still considered walkable.

• A practice driving range is available on site to warm up before your round.

• Tee times can be booked online in advance; call the pro shop at (707) 558-0330 for details.