jirwinelportal

I had not gone to El Cariso for a couple of years because I got frustrated with the condition of the course. Unfortunately the fairways were not markedly improved, although for January the greens were in very good condition. Ultimately this is a course where I go to practice, so I am not too disappointed. I had just hoped that the course would be in better shape as I heard there was a new operator. It didn't look like a new group to me.

The Springs has a few issues with burned out fairways but you really cannot beat the layout of this course. Ultimately you need every shot and solid putting to post a good score but it is the kind of course that gets in your head and you want to play it again and again. Which we do! My girlfriend and I have played it 25 times and 24 times we were paired up with terrific people. Enjoy this one while we still can!

Played on Christmas day for the first time and was thrilled to see the course in perfect condition. Greens were true and in great shape. Fairways were in their luscious-carpet-like condition. And my girlfriend broke 50 on the front 9 for the first time ever so it was a very fun day! This course, and their sister course Olivas Links, are some of the best golf for the money in Southern California and we will be back!

The Springs is not a premium, club-style course. But it is a very challenging course with a great layout that requires every kind of shot. When we played this time the greens were in fantastic condition and rolled fast. They are usually a little slower so this was a nice improvement. My girlfriend has basically learned to play on this course and we always enjoy the casual and fun, yet quality round of golf. I understand how much money it takes to maintain a golf course, but would love to see softer, more maintained fairways.

A wide open course that is playable for beginners and experienced players. The course was in very good shape for November 1, and the greens were is outstanding shape. Very fair, and receptive to quality shots. I've played this course at least 65 times and it delivers a quality challenge depending on tee box and it is a great walking course.

I was a little surprised that the quality of the fairways wasn't better, but the courses have seen a lot of action since the Covid shut down and the greens were still in good condition. I will always play these courses, but really wish the city would employ a few more professional greenskeepers to maintain the fairways. It isn't like cutting the grass at the park.

For a municipal course, you cannot beat the Encino/Balboa complex. Either course is a quality parkland style course. Most fairways are tree-lined, but you can usually recover from a wayward drive. However, you do have 4-5 forced carries over barrancas (you can find your ball in them) which gives you a challenge. The greens have been better, but the speed was consistent. I've played plenty of more expensive courses with worse greens. They now use 4 tee boxes for almost every hole which made it fair for my girlfriend who is still learning. And this is a great walking course - the old style course where tee boxes are near the greens and you can generally see 2-3 other holes from the one you are playing. I am a 12 index, and I shot 12 over today. I love it!

I have probably played 30 rounds at either the pitch and putt or the executive course here and they are great practice courses. There is enough interest on the executive course to keep you paying attention. I've played there with beginners, but I have played for 40 years and still enjoy a fun round at this course.