Penmar Golf Course
Penmar Golf Course is a public nine-hole executive layout in Venice, California, combining accessibility with engaging short-course play. Perfect for quick rounds, it offers well-kept greens, strategic challenges, and a welcoming atmosphere near the coast.
Course Overview
Penmar Golf Course in Venice, California, offers a refreshing blend of accessibility and engaging play across its compact nine-hole layout. This public executive course invites golfers of all skill levels to enjoy a brisk round in a setting that balances urban proximity with pockets of lush greenery and gentle terrain. The course’s design favors walkability, making it an ideal stop for those seeking a quick yet satisfying golfing experience without the commitment of a full 18 holes.
At just under 2,200 yards, Penmar challenges players with short but strategically positioned greens guarded by modest bunkers and subtle elevation changes. The course rewards precise shot-making, especially on approach shots where the speedy, well-maintained greens demand focus and touch. The surroundings create a calm atmosphere, where the occasional ocean breeze drifts in, subtly influencing club selection and shot trajectory.
Golfers will appreciate the friendly pace of play, often finishing nine holes in around two hours, which suits busy schedules and newcomers alike. The course atmosphere leans toward relaxed, punctuated by a casual and open vibe that welcomes both solo players and groups. This is reflected not only in the course setup but in the social energy found around the clubhouse and on the course itself.
Penmar’s clubhouse enhances the experience with an inviting restaurant offering solid casual fare, though recent guest feedback points to opportunities for improved service and attentiveness. The course hosts various community events, lending it a distinctive local flavor and making it a gathering spot beyond just golf.
Visitors are encouraged to wear comfortable walking shoes, as the course’s compact size and flat contours make it an excellent walking venue. Whether you’re sneaking in a quick round or looking for a relaxed afternoon on the greens, Penmar Golf Course delivers a well-maintained, approachable option in the heart of Venice’s coastal neighborhood.
Course Highlights
This executive course features short holes that demand precise distance control, with greens framed by well-placed bunkers and subtle elevation changes. Its proximity to the coast brings occasional ocean breezes that add a dynamic element to shot planning. The course's social, laid-back vibe makes it popular among locals and visitors seeking a quick, friendly round.
Frequently Asked Questions
Guest Reviews
Cole Rutherford
This is a fun muni with great vibes an energy. I played as a single and got paired up with a fun group mostly younger crowd. It’s a walking course and I understand it can be slow sometimes but we finished our round in about 2 hours which was great. I’d recommend for anyone trying to sneak in a quick, fun 9.
Caitlyn Austin
Ate at the restaurant on a Saturday afternoon. They should definitely work on their service. The servers we had contact with seemed very inconvenienced by us in general. We sat down at a table outside as its seat yourself and the busser came over and told us we had to get up for him to clean the table. There were some water cups and glasses left so we tried to move them and he told us no and to stand up, so we got up and he wouldn’t let us sit back down until he had taken the glasses back and then returned and wiped down the table. He was very rude about it, flinging his rag all over the place, and didn’t communicate with us very well about what he was doing - just saying “no”. Then once we sat down we had to flag down a waiter as no one had come to take our order after 15 mins. The food took about 45 mins to come out. Everytime we needed something we had to flag someone down, no one was stopping by at any point. The food (chilaquiles pictured) wasn’t bad but we were very let down by the experience and won’t come back.
Robert Oishi
A great little find! Played there for the 1st time, and what a pleasant surprise. A nice 9 hole executive course in Venice. Not overly long, but interesting enough. The greens are in nice shape and roll nicely. Very relaxed atmosphere, but play seems to move along nicely. I will be back!
bernadette spear
Great 9 hole course, surprisingly excellent food and the best staff. There's a bunch of events for the community they throw regularly also. This place was an oasis during lockdown for me and continues to be an excellent asset to the neighborhood.
Ben
Good golf course, great friends ;) golfed here for a charity event and I gave them no money!!
Sandra Paul
A great 9 hole course with an amazing cafe on-site.
David Bonilla
to crawl
Emanuele Visentini
CRG
This is a gem of a public course. The restaurant is fantastic and the staff is great.
Jacob Hoffmann
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Course Details
Access & Location
1233 Rose Ave, Venice, CA 90291, USA
Clubhouse with casual restaurant and pro shop
Walking is encouraged due to compact layout and flat terrain; comfortable shoes advised.
Open to the public; no reservation required but tee times recommended during peak hours.
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