El Macero, California
El Macero Country Club delivers a pristine private course experience rooted in classic parkland design. The subtle, tree-lined fairways and newly upgraded greens reward smart play and strategic decision-making. With a storied history and modernized infrastructure, it's the region’s gold standard for private club golf.
Ask a member about the club’s celebrity stories—few know Ronald Reagan once played a match here.
El Macero Country Club exudes the essence of West Coast parkland golf with a recently renovated edge. Routed through mature trees and bordered by quiet residences, the course is defined by its subtle doglegs, strategic bunker placement, and an emphasis on fairway control over brute strength. The 2025 overhaul by Golfplan refreshed all green complexes, bringing modern turf science and improved playability while retaining the course’s traditional heart. Bunkers were reshaped and reduced, collars modernized, and entry to the greens made more inviting, allowing for a greater variety of approaches while rewarding creativity and sound course management.
Bob Baldock’s original vision was honored in the recent renovation, blending classic parkland aesthetics with 21st-century surfaces and playability.
This reachable par 5 tempts the longer hitter with a prime early birdie chance, but the risk is all in the aggressive layup and approach angles. The hole rewards those who play for their optimal distance on the second shot while demanding a clean wedge or mid-iron to a green that can deflect mishit approaches.
Ideal drive puts you in position for a strategic layup or a daring second; precise distance control on the approach is key.
Tree lines and potential blocked angles make punishment for loose shots almost immediate, with subtle green contours waiting for those too aggressive.
Expect meticulously maintained fairways and greens, with newly rebuilt complexes and clean, modern bunkering.
Member-driven pace, generally brisk but influenced by event days—expect completion in four to four and a half hours.
Classic, understated private club energy; tradition and camaraderie prioritized, with a warm, welcoming feel over exclusivity.
Standard country club golf attire required; collared shirts and golf slacks or appropriate shorts.
Review the scorecard and satellite maps to plan optimal lay-up and approach zones before your round.
With recently reworked greens, you'll need crisp wedge shots and confident lag putting to score.
Warm up thoroughly; the practice facilities mirror the parkland feel and green speeds of the main course.
Club and course founded and designed by Bob Baldock
Club purchased from Mace family by members
Hosted the inaugural El Macero Classic collegiate tournament
Full course renovation of greens and bunkers completed
El Macero Classic held for the 12th time at the club
El Macero has welcomed golfing icons and celebrities ranging from Tiger Woods to Ronald Reagan, each testing their skills on its strategic parkland layout. The club’s history is suffused with stories of notable guests and memorable challenge matches.
After just five years post-founding, club members rallied to purchase El Macero, ensuring the course’s future as a true member-owned and operated private haven. This sense of stewardship continues to shape the club’s culture today.
The extensive 2025 renovation completely transformed every green and bunker on the property, blending playability with modern agronomy. Today’s El Macero offers improved drainage, approach flexibility, and tour-level presentation—without sacrificing its classic character.
As the home course for UC Davis golf, El Macero’s fairways are a proving ground for collegiate standouts and future pros alike. The annual El Macero Classic attracts top college teams, cementing the course’s status as a regional tournament venue.
Hosted the annual El Macero Classic collegiate tournament since 2014.
All 18 greens and every bunker were rebuilt in 2025.
UC Davis Aggies golf teams call El Macero their home course.
Byron Nelson, Joe DiMaggio, and Tiger Woods have all played here.
The club was purchased from founders by members in just its fifth year.
Best upscale public play near Davis with rolling terrain and casino amenities.
A well-conditioned, inviting 27-hole layout worth the drive for shot variety.
Great value and riverfront setting for a quick, fun round.
Tree-lined, forgiving layout—an ideal second round for visiting golfers.
Playable, affordable, and consistently reliable for all skill levels.
Davis, for fast access to El Macero, Yocha Dehe, and nearby Sacramento courses.
Courses with the most similar DNA profile — matched by deviation shape across all eight playing characteristics.
Why it matches: If El Macero Country Club is your kind of course, Olive Branch Country Club is worth a look because it puts the same premium on presentation.
Why it matches: Cherry Valley Club is a natural next stop after El Macero Country Club: it offers similarly polished playing surfaces.
Why it matches: If El Macero Country Club is your kind of course, Riverbend Country Club is worth a look because it puts the same premium on presentation.
Championship golf at the foot of the Tetons
Boise’s classic foothills private club experience
Scenic championship golf in Cody’s mountain basin
Community Sentiment
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