A Private Retreat in the Heart of Carmel
Introduction
Perched high above the rolling hills of Carmel, California, Teháma Golf Club stands as a testament to exclusivity, natural beauty, and championship-level golf. Owned by Hollywood legend Clint Eastwood, this invitation-only club offers one of the most breathtaking and secluded golf experiences in the world. Designed by Jay Morrish, Teháma seamlessly blends rugged landscapes, panoramic ocean views, and meticulously maintained fairways, creating a golf course that is as challenging as it is stunning. Reserved for a select membership, Teháma is one of the most prestigious golf courses in the United States.
General Information
Teháma Golf Club is located in Carmel-by-the-Sea, California, USA, and was established in 1999. The course was designed by renowned golf architect Jay Morrish, known for his ability to incorporate the natural terrain into his designs. Teháma, meaning “abundance” in the language of the Native American Ohlone tribe, reflects the course’s unspoiled beauty and commitment to environmental sustainability. The club remains private and invitation-only, ensuring an unparalleled level of exclusivity.
What Makes Teháma Unique?
Course Layout & Design
Teháma is a Par 72, 6,506-yard championship course that offers a unique mix of dramatic elevation changes, rolling fairways, and fast, undulating greens. The course features wide-open holes with sweeping ocean views, contrasted with tight, tree-lined fairways that demand accuracy and precision.
Notable Holes:
- Hole 5 – A spectacular par 3, offering stunning views of Monterey Bay, with swirling coastal winds adding an extra layer of challenge.
- Hole 10 – A dogleg-right par 4 that requires a perfect tee shot to avoid deep bunkers while setting up for a downhill approach.
- Hole 18 – A majestic finishing hole, featuring an elevated tee box overlooking the Pacific Ocean, providing an unforgettable ending to the round.
Tournaments & Legacy
Major Championships & Historic Moments
While Teháma Golf Club does not host public tournaments, it has become a sanctuary for PGA Tour professionals, Hollywood elites, and business moguls. The club has served as the setting for numerous charity events, private competitions, and exclusive pro-am tournaments. Its secluded nature and strict privacy policies have made it a favorite retreat for golf’s biggest names.
Iconic Moments
- Clint Eastwood’s Vision – The legendary actor and director envisioned Teháma as more than a golf course; he wanted a golfing sanctuary that blends harmoniously with nature.
- Environmental Stewardship – Teháma is recognized for its sustainable course management, incorporating native grasses, water conservation techniques, and organic fairway treatments.
- PGA Tour Pro Retreat – The club has hosted countless top professionals for private practice rounds, including major champions who appreciate its secluded and challenging layout.
Champions of the Last Decade
Recent Tournament Winners
Since Teháma is an exclusive private club, it does not host public professional tournaments. However, it remains a frequent playground for top-ranked professionals looking to escape the public eye and fine-tune their game in a serene and challenging environment.
World-Class Facilities & Membership
As one of the most exclusive clubs in the United States, Teháma offers members an unparalleled golfing and luxury experience:
- The Teháma Clubhouse – A Spanish-style estate featuring gourmet dining, a cigar lounge, and panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.
- Private Practice Facilities – Members enjoy state-of-the-art practice areas, including a world-class short-game facility and advanced swing analysis technology.
- Luxury Spa & Fitness Center – Teháma provides an elite wellness experience, including personal training, yoga, and rejuvenating spa treatments.
- Invitation-Only Membership – Teháma does not disclose membership fees publicly, but it is widely regarded as one of the most exclusive golf clubs in the country.
Golfing Legends & Course Records
Teháma has hosted numerous elite golfers and celebrities, all drawn to its secluded charm and challenging design.
- Course Record: The official lowest round recorded is 63, though the club does not publicly release records.
- Longest Drive: Teháma’s par 5s have seen drives exceeding 400 yards, aided by the course’s dramatic elevation changes.
- PGA Pros Who Have Played Teháma: Legends such as Phil Mickelson, Tiger Woods, and Fred Couples have played at the club for private events and exclusive rounds.
Fascinating Facts & Little-Known Secrets
- Clint Eastwood’s Influence – The actor personally oversees much of the club’s development and is often seen around the property.
- No Tee Times – Unlike most golf clubs, Teháma does not operate on a tee-time system, allowing members to play at their own pace.
- Hollywood’s Hidden Golf Retreat – A favored escape for A-list celebrities and sports icons, Teháma is known for its strict privacy and no-media policy.
- Environmental Commitment – The course was designed with minimal disruption to the natural landscape, making it one of the most eco-friendly golf courses in California.
Why Every Golfer Should Play Here
While Teháma Golf Club is not open to the public, it remains one of the most coveted golf experiences in the world. Those lucky enough to receive an invitation gain access to a golf course that blends world-class design, breathtaking scenery, and an unmatched level of exclusivity.
Teháma is not just a golf course—it is a statement. A symbol of seclusion, prestige, and natural beauty, Teháma represents what golf was meant to be: a pure and immersive experience in nature.
