Golf is a sport that both the skilled and the novice can enjoy, as so much is about having a way to relax, unwind, socialize and relieve stress – all while enjoying nature in a beautiful environment. Which is why golf courses cover some of the most exquisite landscapes in the world, and Marin is no exception. With eight courses within our county lines, there are plenty of places to sneak away for a round of golf and a break from our busy schedules.   

Much like our cities, Marin County golf courses are varied and all have a unique character. McInnis Park Golf Center in San Rafael is perfect for beginners and those looking to work on their short game. Tucked away in San Rafael and abutting a marsh on San Pablo Bay, it’s not uncommon to encounter pelicans, geese and red-tail hawks along the course. In Mill Valley, the Mill Valley Golf Course is a local institution, having been in place since 1919. Unlike the marsh setting of McGinnis, this course is characterized by majestic redwoods, which make for a more difficult game. However, Mill Valley provides a gorgeous backdrop and you’ll be rewarded with scenic views from atop the second and fourth tees, as well as a view of Mt. Tam from the fourth green. Out in West Marin along Sir Francis Drake Blvd., San Geronimo Golf Course is a local favorite. The ridge location offers two faces to the course: the front nine is a sprawling terrain made up of straight, flat holes, while the back nine is hilly and wooded. Accolades for this course include acknowledgement as “Best Places to Play” by Golf Digest, “#1 Golf Course in Marin County” by both the Pacific Sun and the San Francisco Chronicle and “Best Golf Course in the North Bay” by the North Bay Bohemian. 

Other courses in Marin include Peacock Gap Golf and Country Club, Indian Valley Golf Club, StoneTree Golf Club and the private clubs Marin Country Club and Meadow Club.

For young golfers looking to get started in the sport – or hone their skills – there are plenty of youth programs and activities throughout Marin. For kids aged 5-17, there’s the Mill Valley Junior Golf Club, with many benefits including discounted green fees, an introductory golf education and etiquette course, tournaments and free clinics. During the summer months there are several camp programs for kids starting as young as pre-K. If the whole family wants to get involved, San Geronimo has year-round family events like Sunday Family Supper. And for those who just want to play around, you can always visit the family fun center at McGinnis, an elaborate 18-hole miniature golf course, complete with water hazards, gardens and artist designed obstacles, all of which blend naturally into the hillside.

Posted by:  Frank Howard Allen Realtors