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About Recreation Park 18 Golf Course

Golf at Recreation Park 18

Recreation Park 18 Golf Course stands as a historic gem in Long Beach, California, offering a blend of classic golf charm and modern conveniences. Established over a century ago and crafted by renowned designers William P. Bell and William F. Bell, this 18-hole, par-72 course stretches over 6,400 yards of Kikuyu fairways and challenging Bent and Poa greens. Golfers of all levels enjoy its elevated terrain and thoughtfully guarded bunkers that provide both challenge and enjoyment. Beyond the course, Recreation Park 18 features a night-lit driving range, comprehensive practice facilities, a welcoming clubhouse, and versatile event spaces, making it a premier destination for golf, learning, and memorable celebrations in the heart of Long Beach.

Recreation Park 18 Golf Course was named the “Readers Choice Favorite Golf Course” by Press Telegram in 2011 and has hosted numerous tournaments, including the Long Beach Golf Festival.

About Our Course

Founded in 1910, Recreation Park 18 Golf Course carries over a century of golfing heritage in Southern California. Designed by the prominent golf architects William P. Bell and William F. Bell, the course beautifully combines classic design principles with natural terrain. Distinguished by its Kikuyu fairways and carefully crafted bunkers protecting Bent and Poa greens, the course challenges players while maintaining playability for all skill levels. Its deep roots in the community and sustained preservation make Recreation Park 18 not only a preferred golfing venue but also a cherished historical landmark in Long Beach.

Prime Location in Long Beach

Situated conveniently in Long Beach, Recreation Park 18 is easily accessible for residents and visitors alike. Whether traveling locally or from nearby metropolitan areas, guests find the course’s setting inviting and readily reachable. Adjacent to major roadways and nestled within a vibrant community, the clubhouse and facilities provide a welcoming hub for golfers and event attendees alike.

Course Layout and Playing Experience

The course spans 6,405 yards with a par of 72, featuring a combination of elevation changes that demand strategic shot-making and skillful navigation. The Kikuyu fairways’ unique playing characteristics, coupled with the blend of Bent and Poa greens, require precision and adaptability. Golfers appreciate the challenge of the tough bunkers guarding the greens, as well as the absence of water hazards, which allows for more focused play on the course’s natural undulations. The 18th hole is often highlighted as the signature finishing hole, offering a memorable conclusion to the round.

Comprehensive Practice Facilities

At Recreation Park 18, players have access to a fully equipped driving range, which is illuminated at night for extended practice hours. Dedicated putting greens and chipping areas ensure golfers can hone all aspects of their short game, while practice bunkers provide additional opportunities to master sand shots. These facilities cater to golfers aiming to improve their skills or warm up before their rounds, making the course well-suited for both casual play and serious practice.

Programs & Instruction

Events, Weddings, and Community Engagement

The clubhouse at Recreation Park 18 is a vibrant event venue, featuring multiple versatile spaces including a banquet hall, cafe with indoor and outdoor patio seating, and a private garden complete with a gazebo. The venue accommodates a variety of events, from weddings and milestone celebrations to corporate outings and golf tournaments. Long-standing community traditions continue through active men’s and women’s golf clubs, fostering a welcoming environment for golfers of all ages and skill levels. The club’s dedication to service and ambiance elevates every event and visit.

Private Events & Weddings

Tour Our Course

Programs & Instruction

Amplify your love of the game as you tailor your skills with our team of golf professionals. Our incredible practice facility, comprehensive instruction, and opportunities for social and competitive play ensure that there is room for growth no matter your starting skill level.

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Play Better Golf

Become a part of the fastest growing golf membership program. Enjoy free range balls, discounted tee times, clinics, exclusive events, and reciprocal access to our Long Beach courses.

Join The Players Club

Host Your Event or Wedding

At Recreation Park 18 Golf Course, the lush setting is the ideal spot for your next event. Whether planning a business meeting or golf outing, you’ll enjoy personalized attention and may select from a variety of catering and event packages designed to fit any budget.

Start Planning Your Event

FAQs About Rec Park 18

Established in 1910, Recreation Park 18 was designed by the well-known golf architects William P. Bell and William F. Bell. Over its long history, it has become a significant landmark in Long Beach’s golfing heritage, combining traditional design with thoughtful modern improvements that maintain its challenging nature and charm.

I highly recommend it!

“This is my favorite golf course in Long Beach. The rates are reasonable, and there is a practice area for chipping and putting that is fantastic. The course is challenging, especially for beginners, but it’s a lot of fun. Overall, I highly recommend it!”
 — Israel M.

Looking forward to coming back soon!

“Had a great time playing here last weekend. The fairways were well maintained and the greens were fast and true. 

Had a great time playing here last weekend. The fairways were well maintained and the greens were fast and true. Pace of play was smooth, and we finished 18 holes in just under four hours. Staff were friendly and helpful throughout the day. The course offers a nice mix of challenging holes and scenic views. Definitely looking forward to coming back soon!”
– kji1308

Such a pleasure to work with

“Tawnya and everyone at Recreation Park 18 were so amazing and such a pleasure to work with for our wedding in 2024. The location was a dream and so picturesque. We loved it! They were a huge help in pivoting when there was going to be a chance of rain and it all turned out perfect.”

-Kerry M.

The food was delicious!!

“Mayra and her team were also so helpful and great, the food was delicious!! If we could do it all over again, we would definitely go with Rec Park not only because of its beauty, but because of its amazing planning team!!! We love you!!!”
 — Alejandra C.

The venue is incredible and so beautiful

“Working with Tawnya (and Spencer) at Recreation 18 was such a wonderful experience. After viewing the venue for the first time and meeting with Tawnya, we knew this was the venue we wanted to use to celebrate our special day. The venue is incredible and so beautiful and had every amenity we needed and wanted. Tawnya was so easy to work with, incredibly communicative, very accommodating and helpful, had great ideas and assisted with additional decor as well. The wedding day went perfectly and was everything we wanted it to be. We cannot express our gratitude enough to Tawnya for all of her help throughout the entire process.”

– Andraya E.

Wonderful people!

“Great course , with a cafe of yummy food and wonderful people!”

– Kelly S.