Rancho San Marcos Golf Course

Golf Course Review Rancho San Marcos Golf Course Santa Barbara California

Reviewed by: GDR23, Thousand Oaks

Had the entire day to play today so decided to cruise up to RSM for 36 holes today with my buddy RGM2525. Based on the wind conditions in Moorpark and surrounding valley areas RSM was a good call in that regard. I played earlier here in the Spring and always enjoy the peace and quiet vibe and layout at RSM.

We teed off at 8:25am for our first round riding the black tees. Our POP passing one group was 3 hours for our first nine. Our second 18 holes we also came in around 3 hours passing 2 more groups.

RSM has a huge range with Titleist range balls and a very nice chipping/sand practice area and huge putting green that like the greens on the course were in great shape.

The greens here are in beautiful shape rolling pure with little to no ball-marks. Quick putting wise yet holding irons with spin like darts. Many big undulating greens here that were a pleasure to putt on and play. Rated 8/10.

Fairways were firmer this time of year vs in the spring. Would say 25% lush, 75% brown and firm. Tons of roll if you have a low trajectory ball with your driver. Rated 6.5/10. Thought the fairways were tight but still playable.

Was only in two green-side bunkers for 36 holes on Number #2 and number #18 which contained just enough sand. My playing partner found his fair share which were firmer and maybe needed some more sand.

Tees are un-level like last reviewer stated. You could always usually find a level stance after hunting but most boxes need to be leveled some. Thought the tee boxes though were lush and looked good as far as lushness was concerned. Tee rating 6.5/10

The poorest part of the course was some of the chipping areas around the green. Many were hard-pan, muddy, thin or sometimes bare depending on where you landed. Rated 5/10.

Staff was great, great challenging layout from the back tees and the greens were great.

I also must add that I can see many players falling into the category of not wanting to play the black tees at almost 7000 yds and not wanting to play the whites at 6278 yds. A blue tee box(6500-6800) option is very needed out here.

Would highly recommend this layout and conditioning of the greens which are great. Had a great time. Thanks RSM!