Gilroy Golf Course is a unique and historic public golf facility located in Gilroy, California, at the southern tip of Santa Clara County. Built in 1923 by local farmers and businessmen, it has earned the distinctive moniker of the “Best 11-Hole Golf Course in the U.S.”. The course has remained largely unchanged from its original classic design, preserving the character and charm of golf’s golden age

Unique Course Layout

What makes Gilroy truly one-of-a-kind is its 11-hole routing. The course can be played as either a quick 9-hole round or a full 18-hole experience through creative use of alternate tee boxes that create different angles and distances:​

How the 18-Hole Round Works:

• Holes 1-7: Played twice from different tee positions

• Holes 8 and 17: Separate holes climbing up opposite sides of a large hill

• Holes 9 and 18: Return to the same green from very different positions​

This unique configuration creates variety within the compact layout while maintaining the historic character of the original design.​

Course Specifications

18-Hole Configuration:

• White/Black Tees: 6,004 yards, Par 70, Rating 68.7, Slope 112​

• Green/Yellow Tees: 5,320 yards, Par 70/72, Rating 70.1, Slope 110​

9-Hole (Front Nine):

• White Tees: 3,009 yards, Par 35

• Green Tees: 2,701 yards, Par 35​

Course Difficulty Analysis

Hardest Aspects:

Hole #8 – The Signature Challenge: At 245 yards, this par 3 provides a “breathtaking 180-degree view of the southern tip of Santa Clara County as well as the pristine Gabilan Mountain range”. The intimidating length makes it one of the most memorable and challenging holes in the region.​

Small Undulating Greens: The greens at Gilroy are notably small with considerable undulation, demanding precise approach shots and careful putting. Reviews note “greens were firm and played true” but require careful speed control.​

Elevation Changes: The course features “tricky elevation changes” that affect club selection and shot-making throughout the round.​

Shared Green on #9/#18: Playing to the same hole from different positions can create “traffic” with other groups, adding an element of unpredictability.​

Easiest Aspects:

Wide, Tree-Lined Fairways: The generous fairways provide ample landing areas for tee shots, making the course “user-friendly for the recreational golfer”.​

Quick Play Options: The 11-hole format allows for quick 9-hole rounds in approximately 90 minutes, perfect for golfers with limited time.​

Affordable Pricing: Low green fees and annual pass options make quality golf accessible.​

Family-Owned Atmosphere: Staff described as “awesome” with a welcoming, family-owned feel.​

Practice Facilities

Gilroy Golf Course provides a complete practice complex:​

Driving Range:

• On-site driving range facility

• Practice putting green

• Pitching/chipping area

• Sand bunker practice​

Range Pricing:

• Range Token: $12.00​

Indoor Golf Technology

A standout feature at Gilroy is the indoor golf simulator:​

• Over 200 virtual courses available

• $50.00 per hour for lessons, swing analysis, and simulation

• Perfect for off-season practice or inclement weather

• Used for both instruction and recreational play