Tucked way up in the Santa Monica Mountains, right where the pavement of Reseda Boulevard starts to feel like it's escaping the Valley floor, sits Braemar Country Club Tarzana. It isn’t just some stuffy relic of the mid-century golf boom. Honestly, if you grew up in Encino or Tarzana, Braemar was basically the backdrop for every wedding, bar mitzvah, and hazy summer afternoon by the pool. It’s a massive footprint of green in an otherwise scorched-brown landscape during the California summers. But what actually makes this place tick isn't just the 27 holes of golf. It’s the weird, wonderful, and sometimes complicated intersection of luxury and local community.
The club feels different now than it did twenty years ago. You’ve probably noticed that private clubs across the country are struggling to stay relevant, but Braemar seems to have dodged that bullet by leaning into its "family" reputation.
The Golf Reality at Braemar Country Club Tarzana
Let’t be real: most people are here for the grass. Braemar is unique because it offers 27 holes, divided into the U.S. Open, Western, and Masters courses. Most clubs settle for 18. Having that extra nine-hole rotation is a huge deal for pace of play. If you've ever spent six hours behind a slow foursome on a Saturday morning, you know exactly why this matters.
The terrain is punishing. It’s hilly. Really hilly. You aren't walking this course unless you have the cardio of a mountain goat and a death wish. Because it's perched in the hills, the wind kicks up around 2:00 PM like clockwork. That breeze might feel great when it’s 95 degrees in the Valley, but it’ll turn your draw into a slice faster than you can say "mulligan."
Ted Robinson, the original architect, really utilized the canyons. You’re hitting over ravines. You’re dealing with uneven lies constantly. It’s a shot-maker’s course. If you’re used to flat, Florida-style resort golf, Braemar is going to frustrate you. But that’s the charm. It stays interesting.
Recent Renovations and the "New" Feel
A few years back, the club underwent a massive multimillion-dollar renovation. They didn't just paint the walls; they fundamentally shifted how the space functions. They brought in a more modern, open-concept design for the dining areas. The goal was clearly to attract the younger families moving into the million-dollar teardowns in the flats of Tarzana.
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The fitness center is actually usable now. It’s not just a dusty treadmill in a basement. We’re talking high-end equipment, specialized classes, and a vibe that competes with Equinox. For a lot of members, this is their primary gym. They drop the kids at the pool, hit the weights, and then grab a salad on the patio. It’s a lifestyle loop.
Beyond the Fairway: The Social Ecosystem
Braemar Country Club Tarzana acts as a sort of town square for the West Valley elite. But it’s not just about the "elite" label. You see a mix. You’ve got the old guard who have held memberships since the 70s, sitting in the lounge discussing local real estate. Then you have the tech entrepreneurs and young lawyers who are just trying to find a place where their kids can run around without getting lost in a public park.
The tennis program is arguably one of the strongest in the region. They have 20 courts. Think about that. Most clubs have four or five. They’ve got a massive junior program that funnels kids into local high school powerhouses like Harvard-Westlake or Chaminade. It’s a factory for local talent.
- The Pool Scene: In July, the pool is the heart of the club. It’s loud. It’s chaotic. It’s exactly what a family club should be.
- The Food: It’s actually good. Not "good for a country club," but actually competitive with Ventura Boulevard spots. The Mediterranean-inspired menu hits the mark.
- Events: From Fourth of July fireworks that the whole neighborhood tries to sneak a peek at, to holiday brunches, the calendar is packed.
What Nobody Tells You About Membership
People always ask about the cost. Look, it’s a private club, so it’s not cheap. But compared to the ultra-exclusive spots like Bel-Air or Riviera, Braemar is accessible. It’s part of the Invited (formerly ClubCorp) network. This is a crucial detail.
Being part of that network means if you travel, you have access to hundreds of other clubs. For a business traveler, that’s a massive perk. You can land in Dallas or Atlanta and have a home base to work or play.
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However, you should know that the hills come with a literal price. Maintenance on a canyon-side property is a nightmare. There’s always talk of assessments or capital improvements. It’s the nature of the beast when you’re building on a mountain. Also, the parking lot on a busy Sunday? Absolute mayhem.
The Wildlife and the View
One thing that makes Braemar Country Club Tarzana stand out is the sheer "nature" of it all. You are on the edge of the Topanga State Park. Coyotes are a common sight. Red-tailed hawks circle the canyons. You’ll see deer occasionally near the back nines.
Then there’s the view. On a clear day—usually after a rainstorm in February—you can see all the way across the Valley to the San Gabriel Mountains. It’s stunning. It reminds you why people pay the "Valley tax" to live here. Watching the sunset from the terrace with a drink in your hand is arguably the best experience the club offers. It’s quiet. You’re above the smog and the traffic of the 101.
Is It Right For You?
If you’re a scratch golfer who only cares about pristine, flat fairways and a silent clubhouse, you might find the family-centric energy a bit much. It’s a busy place. It’s vibrant.
But if you live in the Valley and you want a place where your kids can grow up, where you can actually get a tee time because there are 27 holes, and where you don't have to put on a suit to eat dinner, it’s hard to beat. The "Braemar family" isn't just a marketing slogan; it’s a real thing. People stay members for decades.
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Actionable Steps for Prospective Members
Don’t just call the membership office and ask for a brochure. Do it right.
- Request a Trial Round: Most clubs will let a serious prospect play a round. Pay attention to the bunkers. Are they well-maintained? That’s the "canary in the coal mine" for club maintenance.
- Visit on a Saturday Afternoon: You need to see the club at its busiest. If the noise level at the pool or the crowd at the bar bothers you then, you’ll hate it as a member.
- Check the Reciprocal List: If you travel for work, ask specifically which clubs in your frequent cities are included in the Invited network. This can effectively pay for the membership in saved office/gym/golf fees elsewhere.
- Ask About Junior Programs: If you have kids, talk to the tennis or golf pros directly. See if their coaching style matches your kid's personality.
Braemar isn't just about golf; it’s about having a sanctuary in a city that often feels like it's moving too fast. It’s a bit of old Los Angeles that has managed to modernize without losing its soul. Whether you’re there for the 27 holes or just a quiet place to watch the sun go down over the Valley, it remains a cornerstone of Tarzana life for a reason.
Strategic Insights for New Members
To get the most value out of a membership at Braemar, focus on the "off-peak" hours. Early morning mid-week tee times offer a level of serenity that is impossible to find elsewhere in Los Angeles. Additionally, leverage the social events to network; the club's membership base includes a high concentration of professionals in the entertainment and real estate industries, making it a subtle but powerful hub for local business connections. Always keep an eye on the club's long-term capital improvement plans, as these will dictate both the quality of your experience and any future financial commitments.