Stanford University Golf Course

Opened in 1930 as the final design of celebrated architect George C. Thomas Jr., the 18-hole layout blends demanding strategic golf with the serene natural beauty of the campus and sweeping views toward the Santa Cruz Mountains. Access is reserved for the Stanford community, including students, faculty, staff, alumni, course members, and their guests, giving it a private yet welcoming atmosphere.

Course History

The origins of the Stanford University Golf Course trace to the 1920s, when Stanford students lobbied for a course of their own. In February 1929, the university's Board of Trustees agreed to provide the land and finance construction, and George C. Thomas Jr. and William P. "Billy" Bell were engaged to design and build it. Bell famously recognized the potential to incorporate San Francisquito Creek into the routing, and the course opened in 1930 as the last design of Thomas's remarkable career.

Since then the course has become one of only a handful of true collegiate courses in the country and a proving ground for future champions. World Golf Hall of Famers Tom Watson and Mickey Wright honed their games here, as did Tiger Woods during his time at Stanford. The course has also hosted numerous important events, including NCAA Championships, U.S. Open qualifying, and USGA Junior Amateur qualifying.

The Design & Architecture

Routed across rolling terrain in the foothills above campus, the Thomas and Bell design is defined by narrow, tree-lined fairways, small and well-protected greens, and strategically placed bunkering that rewards precise, thoughtful play over raw power. The natural contours and the presence of San Francisquito Creek add both beauty and challenge, and the par-4 fifth hole has long been reputed to be one of the toughest holes in the western United States.

Playing the Course

Playing to a par of 70 over 6,727 yards with a course rating of 72.2 and a slope of 137, Stanford plays firmer and more demanding than its yardage suggests. Accuracy off the tee is at a premium on the tight, tree-framed corridors, and the small greens place a real emphasis on approach play and short-game touch. A full complement of practice facilities, including a driving range, putting greens, and short-game areas, helps players prepare for the test.

Know Before You Go

• Access is restricted to Stanford students, faculty, staff, alumni, course members, and their guests.

• The course is located at 91 Links Rd, Stanford, CA 94305; call (650) 724-0944 for tee times and eligibility.

• Bring your best driving accuracy, as narrow fairways and small greens make this a shotmaker's course.

• Arrive early to take advantage of the driving range and short-game practice areas before your round.