The Peninsula Golf & Country Club

The Peninsula Golf & Country Club is a prestigious private club in San Mateo, California, celebrated as the only Donald Ross-designed golf course on the West Coast. Set against a backdrop of the San Francisco Bay and the coastal hills, the 18-hole, par-71 layout is renowned for its meticulously maintained fairways, classic strategic design, and timeless character. Combined with a stately clubhouse and full slate of member amenities, the club offers a quintessential country club experience rooted in more than a century of tradition.

Quick Facts

Course History

The club was established on December 7, 1911, originally as The Beresford Country Club, with an inaugural course designed by Thomas Bendelow. In 1920 the club engaged the legendary architect Donald Ross, whose complete 1922 redesign re-routed the holes, reshaped the greens, and added distinctive bunkering. The organization adopted its current name, The Peninsula Golf & Country Club, in 1945.

Over the following decades the club preserved its Ross pedigree while modernizing conditioning and drainage. Restoration specialist Ron Forse, a noted authority on Donald Ross courses, guided renovation work to protect the layout's classic strategic values for future generations of members.

The Design & Architecture

As the only Donald Ross design on the West Coast, the course is a rare showcase of the architect's hallmarks: subtly contoured greens, thoughtful bunker placement, and a routing that rewards precision and course management over raw power. Playing to a par of 71 across roughly 6,579 yards, the layout emphasizes strategy and shot-shaping, framed by mature trees and views toward the bay and coastal hills.

Playing the Course

Golfers of all skill levels will find an engaging and memorable round on the immaculately maintained fairways and greens. The Ross greens demand a deft touch on approach and around the putting surfaces, while the parkland setting and scenic Peninsula backdrop make for an enjoyable walk. Well-groomed conditions and a classic, walkable routing round out the experience.

Know Before You Go

• This is a private, members-only club; access is generally limited to members and their guests.

• Located at 701 Madera Dr, San Mateo, CA 94403, on the San Francisco Peninsula.

• Contact the club at (650) 638-2200 or visit thepgcc.org for membership and event inquiries.

• Beyond golf, members enjoy a full-service clubhouse with dining, social spaces, and event venues.