Behind the Scenes at Kip Puterbaugh’s Aviara Golf Academy

Kip getting a lesson from Hall of Fame Player
and Instructor Paul Runyan

Kip Puterbaugh heads the Aviara Golf Academy, which has been in operation since 1991. He and his staff of master instructors Wayne Searle, Ken Green, Bruce Nakamura, Bob Knee, Grant Halverson, Jason Puterbaugh and Jamie Puterbaugh have combined to form a curriculum that gives students of all playing abilities a great opportunity to learn about the golf swing. Kip and his instructors share the same passion for teaching and they take pride in being able to teach players of all skill levels. Golf Magazine has chosen us as one of the Top Golf Schools in the country. We offer the latest in technology and our instructors are committed to keeping their skills at the highest level possible. We offer excellent instruction in beautiful surroundings.

The golf swing can be a confusing subject, so our goal is to get you to understand your swing and what makes it work. At the Aviara Golf Academy, we do not teach gimmicks or secrets, just the proven fundamentals of the champions of the game, past and present. So come find out why tour pros such as Larry Mize, Scott Simpson, Dennis Paulson, Dave Stockton Jr., Loren Roberts, Ian Leggatt, Chris Riley, Jenna Daniels, Nick Jones and more have chosen the Aviara Golf Academy as their home for golf instruction.

Our Facility

The Aviara Golf Academy is located in Carlsbad, California. It is a dedicated private teaching facility designed specifically for golf instruction. We’ve incorporated cutting-edge swing analysis technology, including Swing Catalyst, Foresight, Gears, and FlightScope. Our teaching stalls are covered, complete with high-speed cameras and audio input, enabling students to receive personalized video instruction via email. Additionally, we provide both grass and mat tees at our range, as well as designated chipping and putting areas exclusively for our students. You’ll also find a private putting studio adjacent to the outdoor putting green, equipped with a WellPutt putting platform, JC Video, and Quintic for putting analysis.

Our team is passionately committed to staying at the forefront of golf technology and instruction. Come experience the Aviara Golf Academy, “where higher education means lower scores.”

What We Offer

The Aviara Golf Academy operates year round and specializes in 3 to 1 student teacher ratio in the One,Two and Three day golf schools, Short Game schools, Playing schools and Private lessons. We can also customize outings for corporate events and groups of two or more. Please see our curriculum page for details of each program.

If you’re looking for a place to stay while attending the Aviara Golf Academy, we can offer you corporate rates here on the resort.  Gift certificate packages are also available for all schools and lessons. Call the office and we will be happy to personalize a gift certificate package for you.

About The Course

CARLSBAD, Calif. — Named by Golf Digest and Golf Magazine as one of the best resort golf courses in America, and the #1 golf resort in Southern California according to the readers of Condé Nast Traveler, the Aviara Golf Club overlooks the beautiful Batiquitos Lagoon ecological reserve. The only San Diego golf course designed by Arnold Palmer, Aviara features a memorable coastal layout: par 72, 18 holes over 7,007 yards uniquely sculpted around rolling hillsides, native wildflowers, and plenty of bunker and water challenges.

The course is complemented by premier golf facilities that include a practice driving range, putting and pitching greens, an industry-leading GPS system on all golf carts, and an upscale golf shop. The elegant two-story, 32,000 square-foot Spanish colonial clubhouse features locker facilities, a full-service bar, a cozy lounge with fireplace, and the adjoining Argyle Steakhouse with indoor and outdoor balcony seating.

Visit www.golfaviara.com for more information.