The Ranch at Laguna Beach features a gorgeous nine-hole golf course where mountains and nature surround you. This golf course is set up where you forget you’re at the beach, while enjoying the benefits of the amazing weather.
I’ve played golf at The Ranch three times and loved how peaceful it is! Pacing can be a bit slow, but you’re here to enjoy golf and relax. This is definitely not the place to be if you’re on a tight schedule. You’ll see a mixture of guests who are there to play golf, dine, and stay at the resort. I haven’t had issues here and the price is fair. If you’re looking for a comparable option, check out The Links at Terranea.
Accessing The Ranch at Laguna Beach
Driving to Laguna Beach is quite an adventure, regardless of the direction you’re coming from. Give yourself plenty of time because the Pacific Coast Highway and Laguna Canyon Road can easily get backed up anytime. Once you’re close to arriving, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy the view of the Pacific Ocean. You have to be cautious about turning into the road that leads to The Ranch. It’s a sharp and unexpected turn, regardless of whether you’re northbound or southbound.
The Ranch at Laguna Beach provides complimentary valet-only parking, but remember to tip the staff. It took me years to realize that valet parking isn’t all that bad. Remember to check in at the clubhouse and check out some “The Ranch at Laguna Beach” golf merchandise.
Remember to check out their porch cafe! It is fully loaded with amazing food and drink options. The food is made fresh, and I highly recommend their breakfast sandwich. If you need to kick off your golf experience with mimosa, they got you. If you prefer coffee, they also got you.
The Golf Experience
You have the option to walk the golf course or rent a cart. There are push cart rentals, or you can bring your own. The fairways are fairly narrow, so bring some extra balls.
Golfers must be mindful that golf balls need to gain enough air to clear the rivers, specifically on holes #1, #5 (blue/white), #6, #8, and #9. It might be worth bringing a golf ball retriever if you end up hitting your Pro V1 into the river.
The Ranch at Laguna Beach’s scorecard is fair; you have a healthy mix for driver opportunities.
Pro Tips for The Ranch at Laguna Beach
- There is a practice net on the back side of the parking lot. There is no putting practice area.
- Booking tee time is an easy process and does not require membership.
- Aim away from the obstructions.
- During the summer, bring sunscreen and remember to re-apply.
- The restrooms are fairly clean and well maintained.
Don’t know what to bring? Check out my blog post about Golf Bag Essentials and Gift Guide for Golfers!
Once you finish playing the nine holes, enjoy the tenth hole at Harvest, The Ranch’s signature restaurant. They have great menu options to share and to enjoy on your own. If you’re craving land, sea, or vegetables, they have it all. Their duck wings are delicious. However, they have specific menus between brunch, lunch, and dinner, so some items might not be available at other times.
PS! We were here on New Year’s Day, and I hit my first birdie of 2024 on the eighth hole!
