GOLF
The Genesis Invitational: How much does it cost to be a member at the Riviera Country Club?
More people are playing golf than ever before, so how much will it cost to become a fully paid-up member at the Riv?
There’s no denying that golf’s popularity is on the increase. Participation in the sport has taken off since the Covid days with a marked uptick in rounds played on private courses in the US. It is now a thriving recreational activity with millions taking up the sport in their spare time. According to the National Golf Foundation’s 2023 report, the number of rounds of golf played at private courses nationwide were up 2.8 percent last year while rounds played at public access courses were up 4.5 percent.
And you don’t need to be a PGA-accredited pro to experience some of the 32 US courses that host PGA Tour events or major championships although when factoring in membership, dues and other costs, obviously it doesn’t come cheap. For example, a one-year single membership for Pebble Beach Golf Course will set you back $2,500 with state taxes on top even before you have even strolled out of the clubhouse.
So how much would it cost to become a member at the Riviera Country Club, located six hours down the coast from Pebble in southern California, where the 2024 Genesis Invitational tees off this week?
The relaxing Riv, perfect for a round of golf
Founded by members of the Los Angeles Athletic Club, the Riviera Country Club dates back to the mid-1920′s. It was purchased by the Meyers family in 1953, who remodeled and expanded the course the following year. The Meyers (Eric, Charlotte, Ryan and Hope) still own it to this day. During the past 70 years it has undergone numerous redesigns and facelifts and is set to host the men’s and women’s golf events at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.
Known for its laid back, friendly atmosphere, the Riv is ranked among the top 50 golf courses in the world and among the top 25 courses in the United States. Membership rates include a tax-exempt initiation fee of $300 plus annual dues of $1600 per individual or $2400 at a reduced family rate (husband and wife). Dues are subject to State Sales Taxes, which are around 10 percent.
Non-member daily rates vary depending on the season. From January to April, green fees start at $59.95 (including cart) before noon or $47.95 (including cart) from midday onwards. The course is open 12 hours a day from 6:30 a.m. until 6:30 p.m. From May to October, daily fees are $44.95 for 18 holes, $34.95 for nine holes - both including a cart or $21.30 walking. The winter rates (November-December) are: $54.95 (18 holes), $42.95 (9 holes) including a cart or $15.00 (no cart) after 3:00 p.m.
Obviously there could be some other costs to include, such as club rental ($25), range balls ($3-$7), pull cart ($2) or storage space (Club storage: $60/year, locker: $75/year). On the plus side, members are eligible for pro shop discounts as well as discounted cart rates.