California, USA
Maderas Golf Club
Course Highlight
Designed by Hall of Famer Johnny Miller, this desert canyon gem north of San Diego features dramatic elevation changes woven through rocky outcrops, cascading waterfalls, and 40 acres of wildflowers, with the signature uphill par-5 14th surrounded by a natural amphitheater demanding precise approach shots.
About the Course
Ranked among Golf Digest's Top 100 Public Courses in the U.S. for four consecutive years and 56th in California, Maderas Golf Club is one of only two San Diego County courses to earn national top-tier recognition, establishing itself as one of Southern California's most celebrated public venues. Co-designed by legendary professional golfer Johnny Miller and master architect Robert Muir Graves, the course appeared on Golf Digest's prestigious list shortly after opening and earned Zagat's top golf course honors in San Diego County for seven straight years. The layout weaves through rocky cliffs and deep canyons, where meandering creeks, three sparkling lakes, and five waterfalls create a dramatic strategic challenge. The signature 14th hole—a strategic par-5 embraced by a vast natural amphitheater—demands a precise three-shot approach to navigate the barranca protecting the elevated green. The short par-4 9th launches from an elevated tee with lakes guarding the entire left side, swallowing the fairway at 250 yards and testing the courage of every aggressive drive. Multi-tiered greens combined with severe elevation changes mean nearly every shot faces an uphill or downhill lie, earning Maderas its reputation as the 'Canyon of Golf Paradise.'