Southern California’s warm climate, scenic landscapes, and relaxed lifestyle make it a top retirement destination—especially for golf lovers. With countless golf communities in California, retirees can enjoy access to premier courses, social connections, and resort-style amenities.
Golf is one of the most popular sports for older adults, with people age 50 and older making up the largest age cohort, according to the National Golf Foundation. As a low-impact sport, it’s great for people with minor joint or mobility issues. And since golf is usually played with other people, it also provides a social aspect. Not only do you benefit from sunshine and fresh air, but you can also catch up with friends while hitting the links.
Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just starting, SoCal offers everything from exclusive country clubs to public courses, providing opportunities for both recreation and competition. Living in a 55+ golf community means more than just great golf—it’s about embracing an active, social lifestyle.
Read on to explore the best 55+ golf communities in Southern California and find the perfect place to retire.
1. Inland Empire Area
The Inland Empire (or IE for short) is more affordable than many of Southern California’s coastal areas. Instead of beach views, you can appreciate a different kind of beauty, from mountain vistas to desert landscapes. The best part? You’re only a short drive from the beach and the vibrant city life in Los Angeles and San Diego.
Living in the IE gives you access to a variety of golf courses, whether you’re looking for challenging championship layouts or more relaxed greens. For golf lovers, this region is a hidden gem, offering a mix of pristine courses at a fraction of the cost compared to pricier coastal options. It also doesn’t matter how long you’ve been golfing. The Inland Empire’s golf scene is diverse and budget-friendly, making it the perfect spot for those who want to enjoy the game without breaking the bank.
If you thought California was only for the ultra-wealthy, the Inland Empire might surprise you. For example, Riverside County’s cost of living is lower than many places in Southern California, making it an ideal choice for active adults who want to maximize their retirement savings without sacrificing their quality of life.
Notable 55+ Golf Communities
- The Oasis – Menifee, CA
- Sun Lakes Country Club – Banning, CA
- Solera at Oak Valley Greens – Beaumont, CA
- Seven Hills – Hemet, CA
- Panorama Village – Hemet, CA
- Four Seasons at Hemet – Hemet, CA
- Sun City Apple Valley – Apple Valley, CA
- The Colony – Murrieta, CA
- Highland Springs Country Club – Cherry Valley, CA
2. Orange County Area
When it comes to golf communities in California, Orange County offers a variety of upscale options. This vibrant region includes popular destinations like Anaheim and Laguna Beach and is known for its mild year-round climate and abundance of outdoor recreation opportunities. From golf courses to spectacular beaches, Orange County offers a quintessential SoCal experience.
However, the cost of living in OC is noticeably higher compared to other areas in the state. Just like the premium real estate prices, you’ll also spend more on golf memberships compared to other areas. But if your budget allows and you’re looking for a luxurious SoCal lifestyle, Orange County offers a blend of coastal views and idyllic golf courses.
In addition to luxurious homes in premier 55+ communities, Orange County offers convenient access to world-class health care. The area is home to many renowned medical centers and specialists, giving active adults peace of mind. Orange County also boasts an exciting arts scene, with attractions like the Festival of Arts of Laguna Beach, which showcases all kinds of art against a scenic coastal backdrop.
Notable 55+ Golf Communities
- Talega Gallery – San Clemente, CA
- Palmia – Mission Viejo, CA
- San Juan Hills – San Juan Capistrano, CA
3. Palm Springs Area
If you’re a sunshine-seeker who loves an active, outdoor lifestyle, check out Palm Springs. This SoCal city of about 45,000 residents is a desert paradise known for its year-round warm weather and celebrated golf courses. Like many of the golf course communities in California, the 55+ communities in Palm Springs provide a resort-style lifestyle and a strong sense of community. Living in Palm Springs allows you to enjoy a relaxed pace of life with plenty of opportunities to golf at some of the region’s top courses.
In addition to golf, living in Palm Springs gives you access to all kinds of outdoor activities, including hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Enjoy a quiet moment watching wildlife at Joshua Tree National Park or join a ranger-led tour to learn more about the park’s history and ecology.
Palm Springs is a destination that encourages an active outdoor lifestyle. With a warm, dry climate and proximity to acclaimed golf courses, including the famous PGA West and Indian Wells Golf Resort, Palm Springs has much to offer outdoor enthusiasts of all kinds.
Beyond golf, you can enjoy activities like hiking and biking through the stunning desert landscape. You could also take a scenic ride on the Palm Springs Aerial Tramway to experience panoramic mountain views. If you enjoy birdwatching, explore the area’s numerous nature reserves.
Notable 55+ Golf Communities
- Heritage Palms – Indio, CA
- Four Seasons at Terra Lago – Indio, CA
- Villa Portofino – Palm Desert, CA
- Sun City Palm Desert – Palm Desert, CA
- Sun City Shadow Hills – Indio, CA
- PGA West – La Quinta, CA
- Trilogy at La Quinta – La Quinta, CA
- Terra Lago – Indio, CA
- Escena – Palm Springs, CA
4. San Diego Area
When you’re looking for a tranquil, golf-focused retirement, San Diego stands out as an ideal destination. Like many golf communities in California, the golf communities in San Diego are a dream for active adults. Not only can you enjoy a round of golf with a view, but you can also benefit from amenities like state-of-the-art fitness centers, outdoor pools, and clubhouses that offer spaces for tournaments and private events.
San Diego boasts a Mediterranean-like climate, with average temperatures hovering around 70 degrees all year long. A coastal breeze keeps things comfortable in the summer, and in the winter, temperatures rarely dip below 50 degrees.
If you’re a history buff, you can explore popular destinations like Old Town San Diego State Historic Park, which is a great place for visiting museums and historic sites. Or, just enjoy the view from beloved places like Kate Sessions Memorial Park, which features walking trails, picnic tables, and some of the best views of Mission Bay.
San Diego is also home to many world-class medical facilities, including UC San Diego Health. This network of hospitals and medical centers offers all kinds of specialized care for aging adults and focuses on wellness that supports an active lifestyle.
Notable 55+ Golf Communities
- Oceana – Oceanside, CA
- Lake San Marcos – San Marcos, CA
- Oaks North – San Diego, CA
- Hidden Meadows – Escondido, CA
Live Your Best Retirement in a SoCal 55+ Golf Community
Retiring in Southern California means embracing a lifestyle tailored to your passions, whether that’s teeing off on a championship course, unwinding by a resort-style pool, or enjoying social events with like-minded neighbors. With so many golf communities in California, you can find the perfect balance of recreation, relaxation, and convenience.
From the desert oasis of Palm Springs to the coastal charm of San Diego, SoCal offers a diverse range of 55+ communities designed for active retirees. Not sure which community is right for you? 55places.com can help! Our team can connect you with a local real estate expert who specializes in 55+ communities in California, making it easier to find a home that fits your lifestyle and budget. Contact us today to start your search and make your dream retirement a reality!
