Best Public Golf Courses in Santa Barbara, California

What makes a public course "best" in Santa Barbara? 5 non-member courses qualify (averaging 4.6★); the top 5 below average 4.6★.

Last updated:

Ranked courses

  1. 1

    Santa Barbara Golf Course

    3500 McCaw Ave, Santa Barbara, CA 93105
    ★ 4.4 (254 reviews)
  2. 2

    La Cumbre Country Club

    4015 Via Laguna, Santa Barbara, CA 93110
    ★ 4.7 (121 reviews)
  3. 3

    Montecito Country Club

    920 Summit Rd, Santa Barbara, CA 93108
    ★ 4.7 (106 reviews)
  4. 4

    Birnam Wood Golf Club

    1941 E Valley Rd, Santa Barbara, CA 93108
    ★ 4.6 (89 reviews)
  5. 5

    Rancho San Marcos Golf Course

    4600 CA-154, Santa Barbara, CA 93105
    ★ 4.6 (74 reviews)

Frequently Asked Questions

How many public golf courses are in Santa Barbara, California?▾
FairwayRadar lists every public, municipal, semi-private, and resort course open to non-member play in Santa Barbara, California. Counts update daily as we verify access policies.
What's the best public golf course in Santa Barbara?▾
Our top-ranked public course in Santa Barbara is the highest-rated by Google reviews. See the ranked list above for current standings — rankings shift as new reviews come in.
Are tee times required at public courses in Santa Barbara?▾
Most public courses in Santa Barbara accept tee times 1–14 days in advance. Walk-ons are typically allowed on weekdays but rarely on weekend mornings. Click any course for its booking link and phone number.
What do public golf courses cost in Santa Barbara?▾
Green fees in Santa Barbara vary by course and time of day. The ranked list above shows weekday and weekend rate ranges where available. Twilight rates (typically after 2pm) run 30–50% below morning prices.