Footgolf has rapidly become one of the most popular alternative sports in California. Combining the precision of golf with the athletic kicking of soccer, it offers a unique way to enjoy the outdoors. Whether you are a seasoned soccer player or someone looking for a new weekend activity, California provides some of the best landscapes and facilities for this growing sport.
This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about playing footgolf in the Golden State. We will cover where to find the best courses, how to join local clubs, and what to expect when you enter your first tournament. By the end of this article, you will have a clear path to starting your footgolf journey.
Understanding the Basics of Footgolf
Before heading to the course, it is helpful to understand the fundamental rules of the game. Footgolf is played on a traditional golf course but uses a regulation size 5 soccer ball instead of golf balls and clubs. The objective is simple: kick the ball into a specialized 21-inch diameter cup in as few shots as possible.
The scoring system is identical to golf. Each hole has a “par,” which represents the number of kicks an expert player is expected to need. You will encounter hazards such as bunkers, trees, and water, which add a layer of strategy to every kick. Because the ball is much larger and lighter than a golf ball, wind and terrain slope play a significant role in your performance.
The Equipment You Need
One of the best things about footgolf is its accessibility. You do not need expensive sets of clubs or specialized bags. To get started, you only need a few basic items:
- A Size 5 Soccer Ball: Most courses allow you to bring your own, though many offer rentals for a small fee.
- Turf Shoes or Indoor Soccer Shoes: This is a critical rule. Standard soccer cleats with plastic or metal spikes are strictly prohibited on golf courses because they damage the greens.
- Golf Attire: While the sport involves a soccer ball, the dress code usually follows traditional golf etiquette. This often includes a collared shirt and shorts or slacks.
- High Socks: Many competitive players wear knee-high argyle socks, which has become a signature look in the footgolf community.
Top Footgolf Courses in California
California is home to a wide variety of courses, ranging from coastal links to inland parkland styles. The state has embraced the sport, with many traditional golf facilities adding 18-hole footgolf layouts alongside their regular greens.
Southern California Favorites
Southern California is a major hub for the sport due to its year-round sunshine. In the Los Angeles area, courses like Woodley Lakes in Van Nuys offer flat, accessible terrain that is perfect for beginners. If you are looking for more of a challenge, Lake Forest Golf and Practice Center in Orange County provides a technical layout that requires precision over power.
Further south in San Diego, Mission Bay Golf Course offers night play under the lights, making it a popular spot for after-work rounds. The coastal breeze in these regions adds an extra layer of difficulty, forcing players to account for the wind when lining up long kicks.
Northern California Gems
In Northern California, the scenery changes to lush forests and rolling hills. Haggin Oaks in Sacramento is widely considered one of the premier footgolf destinations in the country. It has hosted national championships and features a beautifully maintained course that caters to all skill levels.
For those near the Bay Area, Golden Gate Park Golf Course in San Francisco provides a historic setting with stunning views. The cooler, damper air in the north can make the ball travel differently than in the desert heat of the south, so local players often adapt their style based on the humidity.
How to Join a Footgolf Club
If you find yourself playing regularly, joining a club is the best way to improve your game and meet other enthusiasts. Clubs offer a sense of community and provide opportunities for organized play that you cannot get by playing solo.
Benefits of Club Membership
Most local clubs in California are affiliated with the American FootGolf League (AFGL). Membership usually offers several advantages:
- Discounted Green Fees: Many clubs negotiate special rates for their members at local courses.
- Official Rankings: By playing in club-sanctioned events, you can earn points toward a state or national ranking.
- Technical Workshops: Experienced players often host clinics to teach beginners about kicking techniques and course management.
- Social Events: Clubs frequently host mixers and casual “scramble” tournaments that focus on fun rather than competition.
Finding a Local Chapter
To find a club, start by asking the pro shop at your nearest footgolf course. Most courses that host footgolf have a resident club or can point you toward the regional organizer. Social media groups are also an excellent resource for finding local meetups in cities like San Jose, Riverside, and Fresno.
Participating in Tournaments
Once you have mastered the basics and perhaps joined a club, you might want to test your skills in a competitive environment. California hosts a variety of tournaments throughout the year, ranging from casual local opens to professional-level qualifiers.
Types of Tournaments
Most tournaments are divided into flights based on age and gender. Common categories include Junior, Men’s, Women’s, and Senior (usually 45+). There are two main formats for competitive play:
- Stroke Play: The most common format where every kick is counted over 18 or 36 holes. The lowest total score wins.
- Match Play: Two players compete hole-by-hole. The player who wins the most holes takes the match.
How to Register
Registration for major tournaments is typically handled through the AFGL website or the specific course hosting the event. For local club tournaments, you can often sign up on the day of the event, though pre-registration is encouraged to help organizers manage the pairings. Be prepared to pay an entry fee, which usually covers your green fees, a cart (if applicable), and sometimes a meal or commemorative shirt.
Etiquette and Best Practices
Because footgolfers share the course with traditional golfers, maintaining good etiquette is essential for the sport’s continued growth. Following these simple rules ensures that everyone on the course has an enjoyable experience.
Respecting the Green
Never kick your ball from a traditional golf putting green. Most footgolf holes are located in the “fairway” or “rough” areas near the golf green. If your ball lands on a golf green, you must pick it up and place it at the nearest point of relief without penalty. Additionally, always avoid walking across the line of a golfer’s putt.
Pace of Play
Footgolf generally moves faster than traditional golf, but it is important to be mindful of those around you. If your group is moving slowly and there is an empty hole ahead of you, it is polite to let faster groups play through. Conversely, if you are stuck behind a slow golf group, be patient and wait for them to finish the hole before you begin your approach.
Tips for Your First Round
To make the most of your first outing, keep these practical tips in mind:
Focus on Accuracy: Beginners often try to kick the ball as hard as possible. However, staying in the fairway is much more important than distance. A ball in the tall grass or a bunker is much harder to control.
Learn to “Put”: Kicking the ball into the 21-inch cup requires a different touch than a long-distance drive. Use the inside of your foot for better control on short shots.
Check the Weather: California weather can be unpredictable. Wear sunscreen and bring plenty of water, especially if you are playing in the inland valleys where temperatures can soar in the afternoon.
Conclusion
Footgolf is a fantastic way to experience California’s beautiful golf courses in a relaxed, social, and active way. Whether you are looking to compete at a high level or just want a fun activity to share with friends and family, the infrastructure for footgolf in California is world-class. By visiting local courses, joining a club, and following the basic etiquette of the game, you can become part of a vibrant and welcoming sporting community. Grab a soccer ball and head to the nearest course to see why so many people are falling in love with this unique sport.