Northwood Golf Club
1 / 10

Northwood Golf Club

4.8
·435 reviews·Monte Rio, United States

Golf amidst ancient redwoods! Northwood Golf Club offers a magical 9-hole experience designed by Alister MacKenzie in the Russian River Valley.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Magical fog, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Northwood Golf Club

Northwood Golf Club

Best Time

Spring & Fall mornings

Magical fog, fewer crowds

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Golf amidst ancient redwoods! Northwood Golf Club offers a magical 9-hole experience designed by Alister MacKenzie in the Russian River Valley.

4.8
(435 reviews)

"It was an unreal experience playing amongst the redwoods. Definitely a hidden gem!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Book Ahead!

This 9-hole gem is popular! Secure your tee time early, especially for weekend play .

🌲 Embrace the Redwoods

The towering trees are the star. Enjoy the unique atmosphere and stunning views .

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Redwood Forest Fairway

Redwood Forest Fairway

Throughout the course

Golfing amidst ancient redwoods creates an unforgettable, almost surreal atmosphere. The towering trees are a constant, breathtaking backdrop.

Alister MacKenzie Design

Alister MacKenzie Design

Entire 9-hole course

Experience the strategic genius of a legendary golf course architect. Each hole offers a unique challenge and aesthetic.

Russian River Valley Setting

Russian River Valley Setting

Monte Rio, CA

Located in the picturesque Russian River Valley, the natural beauty extends beyond the trees to the surrounding landscape.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Redwoods

Northwood Golf Club offers a unique golfing experience nestled among towering redwoods. Prepare for stunning scenery and a challenging 9-hole course. Book tee times in advance, especially on weekends, as it's a popular spot for both locals and visitors seeking a 'hidden gem'.Instagram

Timing is Key

While beautiful year-round, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons for fewer crowds and pleasant weather. Mornings can be foggy, adding to the magical atmosphere, but it usually burns off by midday.Reddit Check the weather and be prepared for varying conditions.

Best Times

When
Spring & Fall mornings
Why
Magical fog, fewer crowds
Crowd
Low
When
Weekday afternoons
Why
Good pace, pleasant weather
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Paradise found at Northwood Golf Club. 🏌️‍♂️⛳️ Experience golfing bliss in the heart of nature! #golf #golfcourse #golfclub #explore #explorepage #hospitality
northwood_golfclub
2.6K likes • 30.5K views

🎯 Book Ahead!

This 9-hole gem is popular! Secure your tee time early, especially for weekend play.Instagram

🌲 Embrace the Redwoods

The towering trees are the star. Enjoy the unique atmosphere and stunning views.Instagram

One of Northern California’s best kept secrets! Northwood Golf Club. Words can’t describe this place. Have you played here? 🌲🌲🌲 #golf #golftrip #cheapgolf #golfusa #golfcalifornia #california #golfers #golflife
coursesyouneedtoplay
6.7K likes • 307.3K views
The Alister MacKenzie designed Northwood Golf Club, located in Monte Rio, CA. Set among the Redwoods of the Northern California Russian River Valley, this is what we imagine golf is like in Elysium. Absolutely stunning. ⛳️🙏💯 —————— 📸: @klby #Beautifulgolfcourses #golf #pga365 #mustplay #destination #destinationgolf #golfphotography #golfresort #golftravel #golftrip #travel #photography #nature #b...
beautifulgolfcourses
5.7K likes • 104.8K views

🐶 Dog-Friendly Rounds

Bring your furry friend along for the golf adventure! Your dog will love it.Instagram

🍔 Post-Game Bites

The on-site restaurant serves great food, including a highly recommended cheeseburger.Reddit

Heaven on Earth at Northwood Golf Club ⛳️ Located in the Russian River, is one of the most unique golf courses you will ever play. This 9-hole gem is not far from the Bohemian Grove, a super elite men’s club. They wanted to play golf while they were vacationing at the club so they hired architect, Dr. Alister MacKenzie, to build Northwoods. Dr. MacKenzie is know on for designing Augusta Nationa...
mouthpartynj
72 likes • 2.4K views

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Book Ahead!

This 9-hole gem is popular! Secure your tee time early, especially for weekend play.Instagram

🌲 Embrace the Redwoods

The towering trees are the star. Enjoy the unique atmosphere and stunning views.Instagram

🐶 Dog-Friendly Rounds

Bring your furry friend along for the golf adventure! Your dog will love it.Instagram

🍔 Post-Game Bites

The on-site restaurant serves great food, including a highly recommended cheeseburger.Reddit

🚗 Worth the Drive

Even from San Francisco, the drive is highly recommended for this unique experience.Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.8
(435 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about Northwood Golf Club's breathtaking setting amidst towering redwoods, calling it a 'magical' and 'unreal' experience. The Alister MacKenzie-designed 9-hole course is praised for its beauty and suitability for all skill levels, complemented by friendly staff and good value. Some note the greens can be challenging, but the overall consensus is overwhelmingly positive.

"Beautiful place to play golf! Nestled in a Redwood forest - the scenery and smells were great. Friendly crew in the clubhouse and efficient starter. We were surprised how busy it was on a Wednesday, but we moved along at a good pace. Reasonably priced and a good restaurant on the grounda."

Michael Ritland

"Wow, golf amongst the Redwood forest. Great view, fresh pine smells and very scenic 9 hole course."

Richard Leber

"Simply Amazing. Super nice people. Breathtaking scenery. Course suited for all skill levels. Grab a cheeseburger at the restaurant when you’re done."

Tom O'Hair

What People Like

Stunning redwood scenery
Unique Alister MacKenzie design
Friendly and hospitable staff

What People Dislike

Challenging greens and pin positions

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Northwood Golf Club is located in Monte Rio, CA, about an hour's drive north of San Francisco.Instagram The scenic drive through the Russian River Valley is part of the experience. Many visitors find it well worth the trip.Instagram

Yes, the club is accessible by car. Parking is available on-site. The drive itself is often highlighted as beautiful, winding through Northern California's scenic landscapes.Instagram

Using a GPS or navigation app is recommended. The roads leading to Monte Rio can be winding, but the destination is clearly marked. Many visitors share their journey on social media, offering visual cues.Instagram

Public transport options are limited for reaching Northwood Golf Club directly. Driving is the most common and convenient method for visitors.Instagram

The drive from San Francisco typically takes around 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on traffic conditions and your exact starting point.Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Northwood Golf Club is known for being reasonably priced, especially considering its unique setting and Alister MacKenzie design.Instagram Specific green fees can vary, so it's best to check their official website or call ahead for the most current pricing.

Yes, booking a tee time is highly recommended, especially for weekend play. It's described as a 'hidden gem' and can get busy.Instagram Booking in advance ensures you get your preferred slot.

The club typically opens in the morning and operates throughout the day. Hours can vary seasonally, so it's advisable to check their official website or contact them directly for current operating hours and tee time availability.

While walking is generally permitted, booking a tee time is the standard procedure to guarantee your play. Some visitors have mentioned playing solo and enjoying a good pace.Instagram

It's worth checking their website or inquiring directly about any potential discounts, package deals, or loyalty programs. Being a 9-hole course, it's already considered a good value.Instagram

🎫 ⛳ Onsite Experience

Northwood Golf Club features a 9-hole layout designed by the renowned Alister MacKenzie.Instagram Each hole is celebrated for its unique character and integration with the natural redwood environment.Instagram

Yes, the course is described as suited for all skill levels.Reddit While challenging, the 9-hole format and beautiful setting make it enjoyable for both experienced golfers and those new to the game.

Reviews mention that the course is generally in good shape, though the greens can be tough, and pin positions might add to the challenge.Instagram

Yes, dogs are welcome at Northwood Golf Club, making it a great spot for golfers who want to bring their furry companions along for the experience.Instagram

Expect a magical, serene atmosphere surrounded by towering redwoods and the scent of pine. It's often described as a 'hidden gem' and a unique golfing paradise.Instagram+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a restaurant on the grounds that offers food and drinks. It's a popular spot for golfers to grab a bite after their round.Reddit

The cheeseburger at the restaurant is frequently recommended by visitors as a must-try after your game.Reddit

Yes, you can get drinks at the clubhouse restaurant, perfect for rehydrating after a round of golf amidst the redwoods.

The Russian River Valley offers various local eateries and wineries. However, many visitors find the on-site restaurant convenient and satisfying.Reddit

Typically, golf course restaurants are open to the public, but it's always a good idea to confirm their hours and accessibility if you're not playing a round.

📸 📸 Photography

Everywhere! The towering redwoods, the winding fairways, and the natural light filtering through the canopy offer endless photo opportunities.Instagram+1 The entire course is incredibly photogenic.

Absolutely. The unique setting among the redwoods makes it a highly 'Instagrammable' location, often featured for its stunning natural beauty.Instagram+2

Mornings can offer a magical, foggy ambiance, while midday provides clear light that highlights the vibrant greens and towering trees.Reddit Golden hour in the late afternoon can also be spectacular.

Yes, you can capture the essence of the 9-hole course. Each hole presents a different perspective and photographic potential, showcasing the MacKenzie design within the redwood forest.Instagram

Generally, personal photography for social media or memories is welcome. However, it's always wise to be mindful of other golfers and respect any specific club policies if you plan on extensive professional shoots.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Northwood Golf Club offers a unique family outing, especially for those with golf-loving kids. The dog-friendly policy means your furry family members can join the fun too!Instagram The 9-hole format is less time-consuming, making it manageable for younger attention spans. The stunning redwood scenery provides a natural playground, and the on-site restaurant offers kid-friendly options like their famous cheeseburger.Reddit

While the course is challenging, it's also described as suitable for all skill levels, meaning beginners and children can still enjoy the experience. The magical atmosphere of the redwoods can make even a short round an unforgettable adventure for the whole family. Just be prepared for the occasional errant shot bouncing off a tree!

💰 Budget Travelers

Northwood Golf Club is often highlighted as a reasonably priced gem, especially considering its unique setting and Alister MacKenzie pedigree.Instagram As a 9-hole course, it offers a more affordable and time-efficient golfing experience compared to full 18-hole courses. This makes it an excellent option for travelers looking to experience high-quality golf without breaking the bank.

Combine your visit with a scenic drive through the Russian River Valley, which is free and offers beautiful views. Packing your own snacks and drinks can further reduce costs, though the on-site restaurant is noted for its good value and delicious food, particularly the cheeseburger.Reddit It's a destination that delivers significant value for the experience it provides.

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

For photographers, Northwood Golf Club is a dream destination. The towering redwoods create dramatic lighting and scale, offering endless opportunities for stunning shots.Instagram+1 Capture the interplay of light and shadow on the fairways, the textures of the ancient bark, and the overall serene beauty of the forest setting. The 9-hole layout means you can focus on capturing the essence of each hole without feeling rushed.

Consider visiting during the morning fog for an ethereal, moody atmosphere, or during the late afternoon for warm, golden light. The unique Alister MacKenzie design elements also provide interesting compositional elements. It's a place where nature and golf architecture combine to create truly breathtaking visuals, perfect for your Instagram feed or a personal portfolio.Instagram

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Alister MacKenzie Legacy

Northwood Golf Club is a testament to the design brilliance of Dr. Alister MacKenzie, a legendary golf course architect. He is renowned for his innovative and strategic course designs, famously including Augusta National Golf Club and Cypress Point Club. MacKenzie's philosophy emphasized integrating the course seamlessly with the natural landscape, creating challenges that tested a golfer's skill and decision-making rather than brute force.

At Northwood, MacKenzie's touch is evident in the thoughtful routing of the 9-hole course, which winds through the majestic redwood forest. Each hole is designed to be memorable and engaging, offering unique vistas and strategic options. The course was originally built in 1928, and its restoration by a passionate team and family has preserved its historical integrity while ensuring it remains playable and enjoyable for modern golfers.Instagram+1

Playing Northwood offers a chance to walk in the footsteps of golfing history and appreciate a master's work in an unparalleled natural setting. The course's relatively short length is deceptive; its strategic bunkering, undulating greens, and the ever-present redwood trees demand thoughtful play and reward good shot-making.

Golfing Among Giants: The Redwood Experience

The most striking feature of Northwood Golf Club is its location. The course is carved directly into a redwood forest, creating an environment that is both awe-inspiring and unique in the golfing world. Towering redwoods, some hundreds of years old, surround the fairways, providing a dramatic backdrop and a sense of playing in a natural cathedral.Instagram+1

The experience of golfing here is unlike any other. The air is fresh with the scent of pine and damp earth, and the dappled sunlight filtering through the dense canopy creates a magical, almost ethereal atmosphere. Visitors often describe it as 'heaven on earth' or 'golfing bliss'.Instagram+1 The sheer scale of the trees makes golfers feel small, adding to the profound sense of place.

This natural setting also influences the play. Balls can bounce off the massive trunks, and the shade can affect visibility and ball flight. However, most golfers embrace these quirks as part of the charm. The course is a true 'hidden gem' Instagram that offers not just a round of golf, but an immersive experience in one of California's most beautiful natural landscapes.

Restoration and Community Spirit

Northwood Golf Club has a rich history, but its current vibrancy is a testament to dedicated restoration efforts. The course, originally designed by Alister MacKenzie, has undergone significant work to preserve and enhance its unique character. A passionate team and family have been instrumental in this revival, ensuring that the course remains a special place for golfers.Instagram

This dedication is often reflected in the warm and hospitable atmosphere at the club. Visitors frequently praise the friendly crew in the clubhouse and the efficient starter, contributing to a welcoming experience for all.Reddit The community spirit surrounding Northwood is palpable, with many golfers returning year after year to enjoy its magic.

The story of Northwood is one of passion for golf, respect for history, and a deep appreciation for nature. It's a place where the legacy of a golf legend meets the enduring beauty of the redwood forest, all nurtured by a community that cherishes its existence.

You may also like

1 of 2