When it comes to golf, some courses stand out not only for their challenging fairways and scenic beauty but also for their peculiarities and distinctive features. One such course is the world-renowned Torrey Pines Golf Course, located atop the stunning cliffs of La Jolla, San Diego. While it’s famous for its breathtaking ocean views and hosting prestigious tournaments like the PGA Tour’s Farmers Insurance Open, Torrey Pines holds a few surprises that set it apart from the rest. Let’s delve into the five most unusual things about Torrey Pines that make it a must-visit destination for golf enthusiasts.

1. Publicly Accessible Championship Golf

One of the most unusual aspects of Torrey Pines is that it’s a publicly accessible championship golf course. Many top-tier courses around the world are private and exclusive, accessible only to club members and their guests. However, Torrey Pines opens its doors to both residents and visitors. Golfers are able to experience the same fairways where professional golfers compete. The South Course, specifically, remains public while hosting prestigious tournaments. This provides a unique opportunity for golfers of all skill levels to challenge themselves on a world-class championship course.

2. The Rare Torrey Pine Trees

The golf course derives its name from the Torrey Pine tree, an endangered and extremely rare species that’s native to this region. The presence of these trees on the golf course is a unique feature. Golfers will often find themselves navigating their way through fairways lined with these resilient, long-needled pines. The layout adds a touch of natural beauty and an unusual character to the course.

3. Iconic Hang Gliders Soaring Overhead

As you stroll down the fairways of Torrey Pines, you might be greeted by an unusual sight – hang gliders and paragliders soaring high above the cliffs. The glider port, located nearby, is a popular spot for thrill-seekers looking to take flight. It’s an unexpected and visually striking element of the course. Golfers enjoy a dynamic backdrop that changes with the movements of these adventurous aviators. The gliders add a unique, ethereal dimension to the golfing experience, making each round even more memorable.

4. Breathtaking Coastal Holes

While coastal golf courses are not uncommon, the layout of the coastal holes at Torrey Pines is unique. The South Course boasts several holes that run parallel to the dramatic cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The combination of ocean vistas and challenging play creates a rare and exhilarating experience. The par-3 3rd hole, for example, is particularly famous for its stunning ocean views and its complex green, making it a memorable and unusual golfing encounter. The coastal holes at Torrey Pines redefine the term “oceanfront golf” and set the course apart from the rest.

5. The Influence of Rees Jones

Architects play a significant role in shaping the character of golf courses, and the influence of Rees Jones on Torrey Pines is an unusual and interesting aspect of the course. Known as the “Open Doctor” for his work on U.S. Open venues, Rees Jones was brought in to renovate the South Course in preparation for the 2008 U.S. Open. His redesign maintained the course’s character while adding modern challenges. This unique combination of a public course with the expertise of a renowned golf course architect makes Torrey Pines a truly one-of-a-kind destination.