Piedmont, California, might be a small city nestled in the East Bay hills, but it’s surrounded by some of the best golf courses in the region. While Piedmont itself doesn’t boast many golf courses, its proximity to Oakland, Berkeley, and other neighboring cities gives golfers a wealth of options to explore. Whether you’re a casual golfer seeking a relaxing round or a more competitive player looking for a challenge, Piedmont has something for you. In this blog, we’ll uncover the best golf courses in Piedmont and nearby areas that offer unique layouts, scenic views, and plenty of golfing opportunities.
Jump to:
TLDR – Quick Guide
Here’s a snapshot of the best golf courses in Piedmont and nearby areas:
- Oakland Hills Country Club: A prestigious, private course with a rich history.
- Sequoyah Country Club (Nearby): A scenic and challenging public course.
- Lake Chabot Golf Course (Nearby): Affordable, well-maintained, and set in nature.
- Tilden Park Golf Course (Nearby): Scenic views and a challenging layout for all levels.
Detailed Breakdown
1. Oakland Hills Country Club
A short drive from Piedmont, Oakland Hills Country Club is one of the Bay Area’s most prestigious private golf courses. Known for its role in hosting major golf events, including the U.S. Open, Oakland Hills offers an 18-hole, par-71 course that’s both scenic and challenging. The course is beautifully designed with mature trees, challenging bunkers, and tight fairways, making it a must-play for serious golfers. While access is limited to members and their guests, the exclusive atmosphere and top-tier facilities make it a memorable experience for anyone lucky enough to play here.
- Why Play Here? Rich history, impeccable course conditions, and a challenging design.
- Pro Tip: If you’re lucky enough to be invited, take advantage of the excellent practice facilities before your round.
2. Sequoyah Country Club (Nearby)
Located in the hills of Oakland, just a short drive from Piedmont, Sequoyah Country Club offers one of the best public courses in the area. This 18-hole, par-71 course features a unique layout with sweeping views of the East Bay. The course is renowned for its elevation changes, narrow fairways, and fast greens. While it’s a public course, Sequoyah is often described as a hidden gem—challenging enough for experienced golfers but still accessible to beginners.
- Why Play Here? Stunning views, challenging layout, and a welcoming atmosphere for golfers of all levels.
- Pro Tip: Pay attention to the wind conditions—higher elevations can lead to unpredictable gusts.
3. Lake Chabot Golf Course (Nearby)
For a more affordable and casual golfing experience, Lake Chabot Golf Course in nearby Castro Valley is a great option. This public course is set in a beautiful park, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding hills and lake. The 18-hole, par-72 layout is known for being forgiving yet challenging enough to keep players engaged. The well-maintained greens and fairways, combined with the peaceful environment, make this an ideal spot for a relaxing round.
- Why Play Here? Affordable, scenic, and ideal for golfers who enjoy a more relaxed pace.
- Pro Tip: Weekday mornings are the best time to play, as the course tends to be less crowded.
4. Tilden Park Golf Course (Nearby)
Located in Berkeley, just a short drive from Piedmont, Tilden Park Golf Course is another scenic and challenging course for golfers looking to test their skills. This 18-hole, par-71 course is set in the hills of Tilden Park, offering stunning views of the Bay Area. The layout features tricky elevation changes, narrow fairways, and fast greens, making it an exciting challenge for players of all skill levels.
- Why Play Here? Beautiful scenery and a challenging layout with elevation changes.
- Pro Tip: Be prepared for slower play on weekends, as this course is a popular spot for locals.
Key Takeaways
While Piedmont itself doesn’t have many golf courses, its proximity to Oakland, Berkeley, and the greater East Bay gives you access to some of the best courses in the region. Here’s a recap of the best golf courses in Piedmont and nearby:
- Oakland Hills Country Club for a prestigious, private golfing experience.
- Sequoyah Country Club for a scenic, challenging public course.
- Lake Chabot Golf Course for a relaxing, affordable round with stunning views.
- Tilden Park Golf Course for a scenic challenge in nearby Berkeley.
These courses provide an exciting mix of private, public, and affordable options to make sure you never run out of great places to golf near Piedmont.
FAQs
What is the best golf course near Piedmont for beginners?
Sequoyah Country Club is ideal for beginners due to its forgiving layout, beautiful views, and challenging yet accessible design.
Which is the most prestigious golf course near Piedmont?
Oakland Hills Country Club is the most prestigious nearby course, offering a rich history, stunning conditions, and a challenging layout.
Are there any affordable golf courses near Piedmont?
Yes, Lake Chabot Golf Course offers a great affordable option with beautiful views and a relaxing pace of play.
What makes Tilden Park Golf Course special?
Tilden Park Golf Course is unique for its scenic beauty and challenging design, with elevation changes that make it a fun test for all levels.
Can non-members play at Oakland Hills Country Club?
Typically, access to Oakland Hills Country Club is limited to members and their guests, so it’s not open to the general public.