With spring coming to Southern California, folks are already filling up their calendars with outdoor activities. Now is the time to bask in the sun and burn some calories with disc golf. It’s like regular golf, or “ball golf” to disc players, without as much equipment and virtually zero fees associated with playing. Plus, there isn’t a steep learning curve. You could pick it up in no time.
Disc golf has been around since the 1960’s but it has experienced a boom in popularity since the pandemic. The combination of relaxing outdoors and fun competition is drawing people out of their homes and onto the course.
We’ve cultivated a list of disc golf courses in the LA metropolitan area and Orange County so that you can plan out a weekend on the links. Most have no cost to play and allow dogs on the course, so bring your favorite pooches while you throw the disc.
(Photo by ROD VEAL, THE ORANGE COUNTY REGISTER/SCNG)
Down in the Long Beach area is the sprawling El Dorado Park which has been a destination for disc golfers since 1981. The 18-hole course is great for anyone looking to be near a major metro and be able to quickly jump into nature. After playing be sure to walk the winding pedestrian paths, say hi to the swimming geese or take your pup to the dog park.
La Mirada Regional Park is one of the best places to play in the LA Metropolitan area. Since 1976, this park southeast of downtown Los Angeles has courted people looking for a well-designed course. La Mirada park is one of the largest courses with two 18-hole sections if you’re looking for a longer day of playing.
Ken Malloy Harbor Regional Park is a hidden gem located in the South Bay. It isn’t well known, having only been around since 2022. This clean, family-friendly course is located on a campground that is good for beginners with shorter holes and plays with a bit of elevation throughout to keep the experienced golfer entertained.
Huntington Beach Central Park is a pay-to-play course in the OC. Don’t let the $3 on weekdays or $4 on weekends price deter you. It’s worth it. Especially for the seasoned disc golfer. There’s even a pro shop for those looking to upgrade their disc arsenal on the fly. The course features par-3s that offer a challenge for the average golfer.
These courses aren’t your only options. Use UDisc.com to find courses and information on how the courses are playing in real time. UDisc.com shows you the courses you can play in your region while providing rankings from players to lead you to the best location. Check for water, wind or other hazards before you head out. You can also view how long players generally spend playing on the course so you can schedule your day and maybe make some post golf brunch reservations.
Call some friends, get off your couch, grab some discs, and go play a round at one of these courses. See what the disc golf game and community have to offer to new players.