TPC Harding Park

TPC Harding Park is one of the most remarkable stories in American golf—a city-owned public course that has risen from parking lot to prestigious PGA Tour venue. Opened in 1925 by legendary architects Willie Watson and Sam Whiting, this 163-acre gem hugs the shores of Lake Merced in San Francisco's southwest corner, framed by towering Monterey Cypress trees that make fairways feel beautifully narrow and challenging. The course nearly disappeared from the golf landscape entirely, but a $16 million public restoration in 2002-03 returned it to championship caliber, allowing it to host the 2020 PGA Championship, Presidents Cup, and WGC Match Play events.

Playing Harding Park is an unforgettable experience that combines strategic difficulty with breathtaking natural beauty. The course measures 7,169 yards from the championship tees and plays to a par-72, with undulating greens and bunkers demanding precision from every player. The final five holes, adjacent to Lake Merced, showcase some of the most spectacular views in California golf. The signature 18th is a stunning dogleg-left par-4 that demands a brave approach shot into a multi-tiered green with the lake as your backdrop.

What makes Harding Park exceptional for a group golf trip is its accessibility and value. As the only city-owned course managed by the PGA Tour, it remains public and affordable—a rarity for a major championship venue. Your group can book the 18-hole Harding layout, play a quick 9 holes on the quirky Fleming Course nestled in the middle of the property, or combine both. The modern clubhouse features a full restaurant and event spaces, making it perfect for post-round celebrations and corporate dinners with unbeatable views of Lake Merced.