El Cariso Golf Course

I don’t usually write reviews, but I felt compelled to share what I’ve observed during my visits. While the golf course itself is beautiful—with peaceful ponds filled with turtles and geese, and the occasional ducks making an appearance—the way some staff are treated is truly disappointing. Each time I’ve visited, I’ve noticed the hardworking men outside, constantly cleaning golf carts and attending to the grounds in the heat. They go unrecognized and unappreciated. Meanwhile, the staff inside—especially at the register—have come across as verbally abusive. I’ve seen moments where the outside workers, after pushing through tough conditions, take a brief moment to catch their breath, only to be criticized or yelled at by the inside staff who are sitting in air-conditioned comfort, scrolling on tablets or computers. Please, if management sees this—show appreciation to your outdoor team. And if any attorney or advocate reads this, I sincerely hope someone can speak to those workers and help improve their situation. That said, the course itself is lovely. My husband and I enjoy the three putting greens and the nature all around. The café is also a nice spot for a quick bite—surprisingly good for a golf course snack bar. So yes, the golf is great, but the treatment of the people who help make it happen needs serious attention.

El Cariso Golf Course in Sylmar is a true hidden gem. The course itself is stunning, with well-kept greens, a great layout, and one of my favorite holes- number 11. The café hits the spot, and the outdoor staff clearly work hard to keep the experience enjoyable. But what’s happening behind the counter is unacceptable, and it’s time it gets called out loud and clear. I’ve now seen multiple reports—and experienced it myself—of outdoor workers being yelled at and humiliated in front of customers by front desk staff. Let that sink in: workers who keep the course running are being publicly disrespected and abused by the very people who should be supporting them. The worst offenders? A red-haired cashier with a nasty attitude and an older man who’s supposedly a “supervisor,” though he acts more like someone who’s completely given up on life and takes it out on everyone around him. His behavior is unprofessional, toxic, and disgraceful. Whoever gave him a leadership position clearly did zero due diligence. This isn’t just poor management—it’s hostile, demoralizing, and embarrassing for a facility as beautiful as El Cariso. If there’s any accountability left in this operation, I urge whoever runs this course to step in and clean house. Staff should be respected. Customers should feel welcomed. And leadership should actually lead—not bully. Until this issue is addressed, it casts a dark shadow over an otherwise amazing place. You can have the best course in the world, but if it’s being run by people who treat others like dirt, it means nothing. Do better, El Cariso. The community is watching.

A nice 18 hole course with amazing views of the mountains. I had a solid experience overall with minor gripes. Customer service and check in was great. Got the cart and it was descent, course was not too difficult but it was challenging. The main gripe was lack of signage to tell you what hole you are at or which way was the next hole. They do have a map but you’ll be responsible for getting your self to the next hole. Outside of the no signage, it was still a fun course. Parking was plentiful and the driving range was good. The space between golfers was a little cramped but still a good range. I’d come back again.