Nestled along the San Mateo County coast just 25 minutes from San Francisco, the Old Course at Half Moon Bay Golf Links is a venerable American parkland classic opened in 1973. Designed by Arnold Palmer and Francis Duane, this 7,001-yard layout weaves through cypress-lined corridors and residential neighborhoods for its opening 16 holes—a traditional test of shot-making featuring water hazards, doglegs, and tree-lined fairways that reward precision over power. But this course is defined by its unforgettable finale. The back nine crescendos with what many call "Palmer Corner"—holes 17 and 18—where the course finally reveals the Pacific Ocean in breathtaking fashion. The par-3 17th plays toward the coast with an ocean-view green surrounded by bunkers, while the legendary 18th hole is a 405-yard par four perched directly atop a coastal bluff, playing downhill from the tee across a barranca to an elevated green with the Ritz-Carlton terrace providing an gallery of spectators. This finishing hole has been ranked among the finest closing holes in American golf and ranks among California's most scenic and memorable golf experiences. The Old Course plays to a 74.4 rating with a 132 slope from the back tees and offers five tees to accommodate various skill levels, making it accessible yet genuinely challenging.
Parkland design through cypress trees and residential areas, finishing with iconic oceanfront holes 17-18.
Links-style design by Arthur Hills with ocean views from nearly every hole and dramatic coastal finish.
The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay is a Forbes Five-Star oceanfront resort on the property featuring 261 rooms, luxury guest houses with ocean views of the 18th hole, championship spa facilities, multiple restaurants including fine dining and casual options, tennis courts, and comprehensive golf amenities. The resort offers stay-and-play packages combining accommodation with tee times.