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...
Read moreI 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...
Read moreMany issues here. I'm almost positive the city owns this course because its way below average. straight up... their fringe next to the fairway is way too high.. I hit a few great drives that On any other course would be visible and a great lie. I literally, lost one ball and had trouble locating a 2nd. Same thing with the other players in my group.. the greens were bumpy and not very consistent. Dry patches in a few spots. Overall, not very challenging other than unkept greens and high fringe.
They do have a few holes that I enjoyed. Not sure which hole it was but it borders the wash I believe. It's just a nice set up.. there's a blind dogleg right, which im not usually a fan of if the turn is completely blind but if you play it correctly and land your drive on the left of the fairway. It sets up a sweet 2nd shot towards the green. The range is old.. old mats is what you hit off. .....and u hit a combination of yellow, white and a few other colors and brands of golf balls... if you use blades, it's best to not hit any of their golf balls.. they are so heavy and so old that it's hard to be consistent. All golfers should know this. This is a great beginner's course.. however, if you know how to golf, you wouldn't waste your time at this place. Drive a few exits down and...
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