A Course for Everyone: Torrey Pines
Renowned for its stunning views and difficult layout, Torrey Pines is one of the United States' most accessible Championship venues.
Stretching along the stunning cliffs of La Jolla, California, Torrey Pines Golf Course stands as one of the world’s most iconic public golf destinations. Renowned for its dramatic ocean vistas and demanding layout, the South Course has served as the stage for some of the most unforgettable moments in professional golf history.
Fast Facts
Location: La Jolla, California
Accessibility: Public
Year Opened: 1957
Architect: William Francis Bell
Par: 72
Yardage: 7,802
Professional Tournaments Hosted: U.S. Open (2008, 2021), Farmers Insurance Open (1968 - Present)
A Rich History on the Cliffs
Torrey Pines has been synonymous with golf excellence since its opening in 1957. Originally designed by William F. Bell, the South Course underwent a major renovation in 2001 under the guidance of renowned architect Rees Jones. This transformation elevated the course to new heights, solidifying its reputation as one of the most challenging tests in golf.
Since 1968, Torrey Pines has been the proud host of the PGA TOUR’s Farmers Insurance Open, one of the longest-running events on the TOUR calendar. Each year, the tournament attracts the world’s best players and passionate fans to La Jolla. During the event, players compete on both the North and South Courses over the first two rounds before the field is cut, with the final rounds played exclusively on the South Course, adding to its storied legacy.
"Expect Anything Different?"
Following the Rees Jones renovation a few years earlier, the 2008 U.S. Open marked Torrey Pines’ debut as a Major Championship venue, bringing the world’s golf spotlight to Southern California.
Tiger Woods entered the tournament as the heavy favorite. At the time, he had won five of his previous 13 Major Championship starts and was coming off a runner-up finish at The Masters just weeks prior. His dominance at Torrey Pines was unparalleled, having captured six titles at the Farmers Insurance Open in 11 starts, with no finish worse than a tie for 10th.
On the opposite end of the spectrum, 45-year-old Rocco Mediate, ranked 158th in the Official World Golf Rankings, had not won on the PGA TOUR in more than six years. By the end of the week, however, Mediate would find himself forever etched in golf history.
As the championship unfolded, Woods’ physical struggles became impossible to ignore. Just two months removed from knee surgery, he visibly winced in pain throughout his rounds, raising questions about whether he could overcome the physical toll.
Trailing Mediate by one stroke on the 72nd hole, Woods faced a daunting 12-foot birdie putt on the iconic par-5 18th. What followed became one of golf’s most legendary moments. With the eyes of the world upon him, Woods drained the clutch putt, eliciting thunderous roars from the crowd. NBC’s Dan Hicks captured the drama with a call that will live forever: “Expect anything different?”
The tie set up an 18-hole Monday playoff (the last of its kind before the USGA adopted a two-hole aggregate playoff format in 2018). Ultimately, Tiger prevailed, securing his 14th Major Championship and delivering one of the most iconic performances in golf history.
What separates Torrey Pines from other Championship golf courses is its accessibility.
A True Public Treasure
Both the North and South courses at Torrey Pines are operated by the City of San Diego, and combined, the two courses host well more than 150,000 public rounds of golf every year.
Booking Tee Times
There are several ways to secure a tee time at Torrey Pines:
- Advanced Reservations: Tee times can be booked up to 90 days in advance for both the South and North Courses through the official Torrey Pines website or by calling the pro shop. This is the best option for travelers and non-residents to ensure their spot.
- Same-Day Walk-Up Times: For those who are flexible, Torrey Pines offers a limited number of same-day walk-up tee times. Be prepared to arrive early—lines can start forming before sunrise, especially during peak seasons.
- Stay-and-Play Packages: Booking a room at one of the nearby resort hotels often includes guaranteed access to tee times at Torrey Pines. This is a great option for out-of-town visitors who want a stress-free experience.
San Diego residents enjoy significantly discounted rates, playing testament to Torrey Pines' role as a municipal course - prioritizing access for the local community while still welcoming golfers from all over the globe.
Play Torrey Pines in GOLF+!
Grab your clubs, invite your friends, and tee it up at Torrey Pines South Course today. Relive the iconic moments of golf’s past, and create some unforgettable memories of your own within GOLF+.