Fly with Us!
For many pilots, the best part of flying is the destination. If you're looking for a way to combine your love of aviation with a round of golf, the San Francisco Bay Area is one of the best places in the world to be based. Starting from Palo Alto Airport (KPAO), you can reach some of Northern California’s most scenic and challenging courses in under an hour of flight time.
Here are some of the best golfing day trips within 100nm of KPAO, plus one "long-range" bucket-list destination.
Right in the Backyard: Palo Alto (KPAO)
- Baylands Golf Links: You don’t even need to pre-flight the plane for this one. Located immediately adjacent to the airport, Baylands offers a challenging links-style layout with views of the bay. It’s the perfect spot for a quick round before or after your flight.
North Bay Destinations
- Petaluma (O69) - Rooster Run Golf Club: A beautiful flight over the Golden Gate or through the San Pablo Bay brings you to Petaluma. Rooster Run is known for its excellent conditions and the famous island green on the 6th hole.
- Napa County (KAPC) - Napa Golf Course: Located right at Kennedy Park, this course offers a relaxed atmosphere in the heart of wine country. It’s a great way to spend a morning in Napa before heading back to the Peninsula.
East Bay and the Delta
- Livermore (KLVK) - Las Positas Golf Course: A short 15-minute hop over the hills. Las Positas features both an 18-hole Signature Course and a 9-hole Links Course. It's incredibly accessible from the Livermore airport terminal.
- Rio Vista (O88) - The Golf Club at Rio Vista: Located in the heart of the Delta, this course is known for its windy conditions and fast greens, providing a great test for both your flying and your putting.
Sacramento and the Foothills
- Sacramento Executive (KSAC) - Bing Maloney Golf: A classic Sacramento destination. Bing Maloney offers a traditional parkland layout with mature trees and is located just across the street from the airport.
- Auburn Municipal (KAUN) - Ridge Golf Course & Events Center: Tucked away in the foothills of the Sierras, The Ridge offers dramatic elevation changes and stunning views. The flight into Auburn is a treat in itself.
The Coast and Monterey Bay
- Half Moon Bay (KHAF) - Half Moon Bay Golf Links: For pure coastal drama, nothing beats Half Moon Bay. With two world-class courses (The Old Course and The Ocean Course) perched on the bluffs, this is a "bucket list" destination for any golfer.
- Salinas (KSNS) - Salinas Fairways: A well-maintained municipal course that offers great value and a friendly atmosphere, just a short distance from the SNS terminal.
- Monterey (KMRY) - Del Monte Golf and Monterey Pines: Monterey is a golfer's paradise. Del Monte is the oldest course in continuous operation west of the Mississippi. Monterey Pines, located right next to the airport, is a fantastic and affordable alternative with a fun, challenging layout.
The Ultimate Expedition: Shelter Cove (0Q5)
- Shelter Cove Golf Links: If you're looking to go beyond the 100nm mark (it's about 175nm north of KPAO), head to the Lost Coast. This 9-hole links course literally surrounds the runway. You land, park your plane, and start golfing. It is one of the most unique aviation and golfing experiences in California.
A Quick Tip for Flying Golfers
When planning your trip, always call the course ahead of time to confirm transportation options. Many of these courses are within walking distance or a short Uber/Lyft ride from the FBO. Also, remember to account for the weight of your golf clubs in your weight and balance calculations!
Happy flying and low scoring!