When asking yourself about something to do near me in San Diego with a group of friends or family, consider
Mission Trails Golf Course
Why Mission Trails Golf Course is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Mission Trails Golf Course, located just 10 miles from downtown San Diego near San Diego State University and Cowles Mountain, offers a memorable golfing experience blending natural beauty with a challenging layout. Designed by William F. Bell and established in 1964, the 18-hole, par 71 course stretches about 6,000 yards with Bermuda grass greens and fairways that are playable year-round. What makes Mission Trails special is its unique dual scenery: the front nine holes traverse a scenic valley, while the back nine meander alongside the shores of Lake Murray, providing golfers with varied terrain and picturesque views. The course welcomes all skill levels and offers amenities including a lighted driving range with grass hitting stalls, pitching and chipping areas, putting greens, golf club rentals, and instruction from a teaching pro. Additional conveniences include golf cart rentals and credit card payments accepted onsite. This historic course also has a notable legacy, having hosted a young Tiger Woods in 1990 during the Optimist Junior World Championship. Mission Trails Golf Course combines natural beauty, historical importance, and a challenging layout, making it a great meeting spot for golf enthusiasts to enjoy a round while soaking in the diverse scenery.
Here's what people think of Mission Trails Golf Course
As of recent, Mission Trails Golf Course holds a 3.8-star rating based on 444 reviews.
Reviews for Mission Trails Golf Course present a mixed picture, resulting in an overall rating around 3.8 out of 5. Many reviewers appreciate the course's unique scenic beauty, particularly highlighting the views of Lake Murray and the distinct valley setting along the front nine. Positive comments often mention the challenging yet enjoyable layout and the reasonable pricing for a public course. Users also value the amenities such as the driving range, instructional support, and the relaxed, walking-friendly atmosphere. On the negative side, recurring criticisms include the slow pace of play, with reported rounds taking significantly longer than expected, and maintenance concerns, particularly with fairway conditions where some golfers complained of uncut grass and difficulty finding balls. Some reviews describe the course as having rough fairways likened to a "cow pasture," detracting from the overall experience and impacting play quality. Despite these criticisms, the course remains a popular local option due to its location, affordability, and scenic diversity. The reviews suggest that while Mission Trails Golf Course may not meet the standards of premium courses, it offers a worthwhile and memorable golfing outing, especially for those seeking a varied landscape and historical ambiance in a public golf venue.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Luke Cumper
Course is in pretty poor condition in many places where rough and even fairway gives way to dirt patches at times, for the price to pay course should be in nicer condition. It is also shown as a course that takes youth on course but they don't allow anyone to use it if they've made a tee time which was not communicated clearly anywhere on the website when booking a tee time. However, the course does have some fun holes and good views.
Brenda LeClair
Poorly maintained. Every hole that had a trash can was over flowing. Some of the ball cleaners were out of water. No windshield on carts. There were giant holes in the cart path.
Julian Cruz
This course charges full price during green aeration. Cannot believe I paid $55 to walk this course. They did not communicate that the course was under maintenance, and I had to figure it out myself on the first green. Everywhere I’ve played in San Diego has discounted green fees when greens have been sanded/stamped. Practically had to beg the two guys in the pro shop for a free bucket of range balls (that expired same day lol). Save your money and go elsewhere. There are plenty of cheaper, well maintained tracks in the area. Edit: It appears someone from the pro shop replied to my review. I am aware that courses require maintenance. The issue is charging customers full price during aeration. Mission Trails utilizes a “dynamic” pricing system, so they easily could lower the price during periods of course maintenance.
Henry Mayer
The pro shop staff was helpful and friendly. The price was right, and we played fast. Also, I recommend the tuna sandwich at the turn.
Sheri Meibeyer
This was a nice public course at a good price. We enjoyed our round today and the pace of play was a little slow but not bad. No yardage markers but we used the 18 Birdie app to give us distances. Fairways were average but greens were nice. We will definitely come back.
How to reach Mission Trails Golf Course
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Website: None
Why Mission Trails Golf Course may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Mission Trails Golf Course with your friends? This golf course, nestled between Cowles Mountain and Lake Murray in San Diego, offers a unique setting that combines natural beauty with a laid-back, communal atmosphere. Rallying here allows you to share quality time in an environment that is both scenic and accessible to players of varied skill levels. With its walkable layout and year-round playability, Mission Trails provides a perfect backdrop for a casual, fun outing with friends or family that is not overly intimidating or expensive. The course’s affordability makes it inclusive, inviting groups to enjoy a full day of golf, practice, and camaraderie without breaking the bank. Plus, the variety of challenges across its 18 holes gives everyone a chance to shine or improve, making it an engaging choice for a meetup where golf enthusiasts and novices alike can connect through the game. The mixture of open valley views on the front nine and lakeside serenity on the back nine encourages social play, bonding not just over golf but also over the shared experience of fresh air, beautiful nature, and relaxation.
What activities can you enjoy together at Mission Trails Golf Course? Of course, the main attraction is playing golf on their 18-hole, par 71 course spanning just over 6,000 yards. The front nine offers an open layout that is forgiving enough for beginners, while the back nine gets a bit tighter and more tactical, especially near the shores of Lake Murray, appealing to more experienced golfers. Beyond the course itself, the facility hosts several key amenities including a driving range, pitching and chipping areas, and a putting green—perfect for teeing off or brushing up skills with friends before heading out. If your group includes beginners or those wanting to improve, professional instruction is available to turn a casual round into a fun learning session. Beyond golf, the clubhouse provides a casual restaurant and bar, ideal for refueling after a round or just hanging out. Cart rentals make it easy to navigate the course together, adding a social dimension as you ride side by side between holes, sharing tips or joking around as a group.
Why is Mission Trails Golf Course ideal for a group meetup or family gathering? The course’s modest slope rating and friendly layout encourage relaxed, social rounds rather than high-pressure competitive ones, helping to keep the mood light and enjoyable. The natural setting—with views of mountains and a large lake—adds to the peaceful ambiance that enhances group bonding. Accessibility is a highlight: the course welcomes walkers and allows rental carts and clubs, ensuring everyone in the group can participate regardless of their physical condition or equipment status. Credit cards are accepted, simplifying group payments and reservations. Because it’s a municipal course, pricing tends to be very reasonable, making it affordable for groups who want a quality outing without a hefty cost. The club’s open policy toward walking and casual play also suits families who might appreciate a slower pace to better enjoy the scenery and social interaction. Additionally, the practice facilities and lessons can keep every age or skill level engaged, nourishing a shared interest and conversation in golf.
What do visitors say about the experience at Mission Trails Golf Course? Reviews are mixed, reflecting differing expectations but overall painting a picture of a good-value, friendly venue. Many praise the condition of the greens and the friendly staff who enhance the group experience. The course is appreciated as challenging enough to engage more serious golfers while still accessible. Some players highlight the improvements done over time, noting that the course maintenance and fairway conditions have gotten better. However, others mention slower-than-ideal pace of play and occasional issues with fairway upkeep, especially in certain seasons when grass can grow tall, making ball searches more frequent. Despite these challenges, the consensus is that for the price and setting, Mission Trails offers a balanced golf course option with good amenities that satisfy casual golfers looking for a relaxed day out. The social spirit and natural beauty help offset minor frustrations, making it a fun general meeting place.
How can you make the most of your group visit to Mission Trails Golf Course? A good plan would be to organize a tee time during a less crowded period to avoid slow play and have more uninterrupted fun. Consider arriving early to use the practice range and putting green, warming up the group both physically and socially. Renting carts can keep the group together and make transitions between holes more efficient and engaging. Post-round, gather at the clubhouse restaurant to share stories, enjoy a meal or drinks, and celebrate achievements or share laughs from the day. It’s also a great spot to plan future meetups or golf outings. Taking advantage of the teaching pro for a mini group lesson can be a special activity to boost everyone’s skills and inject an element of friendly competition or learning. Lastly, exploring the area around Lake Murray before or after golf rounds offers a refreshing complement to the day’s main activity.
In essence, Mission Trails Golf Course provides a welcoming, visually appealing, and affordable setting perfect for rallying friends or family for a memorable day together. Its combination of scenic variety, accessible golf conditions, and communal amenities create an environment where quality time and shared enjoyment naturally thrive. Whether you are seasoned players or casual golfers, this course’s blend of challenges and social spaces ensures a successful and enjoyable group outing.