Come Bowl with Us
Our Proud 90+ yr. History
Since June 5th, 1932, when Mayor John Forward rolled the first bowls, the San Diego Lawn Bowling Club has been part of Balboa Park’s living history. The club began with a simple game and a small group of dedicated players and has grown into a well-loved institution with year-round play, tournaments, and community events.
We are a proud, long-standing community tradition. The club remains rooted in tradition while welcoming each new generation to the green. For more pictures of historic moments in our Club, see "From the Achives" below.
The Game
Lawn bowling is played on a 120' long rectangular grass surface called a "rink". One to four players on opposing teams alternate rolling their bowls toward a small white ball (the “jack”) at the far end of the rink. After all bowls are rolled in one direction, a team scores one point for each of its bowls that end up closer to the jack than the opponents closest bowl.
The subtle curve of the bowls adds a unique challenge, requiring focus, control, and strategy. One side is slightly flattened, which causes the bowl to curve as it slows down and that’s where it gets challenging.
While easy to learn, the game rewards practice and precision. It’s a low-impact outdoor activity that encourages patience, social interaction, and skill development at every level.
Whether played casually or competitively, lawn bowling brings together players of all ages in a friendly, relaxed setting. The green at the San Diego Lawn Bowling Club is natural grass—the only one of its kind in the city—making each game feel both traditional and special.
Bowling Schedule
We bowl year-round on two natural grass greens. Social and setup games are for members and guests (experienced lawn bowlers).
Casual attire and flat soled shoes are all that is required. For tournament play, white or coordinated team uniforms are requested.
Players should arrive 15 minutes prior to the start time in order to have their names placed in the open draw. If you cannot arrive by then, please call the clubhouse at 619-238-5457 to let them know you plan to bowl.
Social Bowling Days
Sunday 9:30 am
Tuesday 9:30 am
Thursday 10:30 am
Friday 9:30 am
Saturday 9:30 am
Setup Game Days
Monday
Wednesday
Note: Greens mowing days are Tuesday and Friday mornings. No green may be used until its mowing and maintenance have been completed.
Free Lesson
Learn to bowl with a short, fun, free lesson.
One of our highly qualified bowling instructors will give you a free lesson at a time that is convenient for you. The free lesson is open to one or two individuals. This offer is valid for any San Diego County resident.
The only requirement is that you wear flat soled shoes without heels. This is important to avoid damage to the greens. The Club provides all the necessary equipment for you to use. It's as simple as that!
To set up a free lesson email us at [email protected].
We look forward to hearing from you.
Membership
Open to anyone aged 12 years and up.
Regular: $235/yr.
Includes access to all SDLBC tournaments, membership in the Southwest Division of US Lawn Bowling Asscociation, voting rights, and eligibility to hold office.
Youth: $100/yr.
Individuals aged 12-25. Includes access to all SDLBC tournaments. Persons under the age of 18 must be sponsored by an adult member.
Temporary: $50/mo.
Defined as a person who joins the club for a 30-day trial basis (prospective new members only) or a person whose permanent full-time residence is outside of San Diego County (not to exceed four months per calendar year). Temporary members may bowl in club tournaments except Singles tournaments.
Greens Fee: $5/attendance or $260/Annual Fee
Membership and Greens Fees are based on a calendar year and are prorated beginning on May 1st.
Tournaments
Many individuals join for social play and later discover a passion for competition. Club tournaments run throughout the year in a variety of formats, creating opportunities for all skill levels. Tournament Page These events allow individuals to sharpen their technique while enjoying friendly, spirited matches.
As part of the Southwest Division of Bowls USA , the club also connects members to a larger network of competitive events across Southern California. Members can take part in regional play, division-sanctioned tournaments, and even qualify for national competitions such as the U.S. Open and U.S. National Championships.
Whether you're curious about stepping into tournament play or already looking to advance, your club membership opens the door. Competing builds confidence, camaraderie, and skill—and it all starts with rolling your first bowl.
From the Archives
June 5th, 1932 - Inauguration of the San Diego Lawn Bowling Club
Mayor John F. Forward Jr. and Council roll the first bowls at the opening of the San Diego Lawn Bowling Club.
A proud moment marking the beginning of a long-standing community tradition.
1932 – Early members enjoy a match on the original green.
The sport's welcoming spirit was already taking root in Balboa Park.
1960 – Camaraderie as members pause to pose for the camera.
These moments capture the friendship that defines club life.
1960 - Club Members on the Green
Courtesty of SD City Clerk Archives
1962 – Club Members on the green.
Skill and focus meet in this lively afternoon of play.
19?? - Bowling Besties – Smiles and friendship shine through in this lighthearted photo.
Lawn bowling brings people together in ways that last far beyond the game.
1982 – Lucy Killea of the San Diego City Council tries her hand at lawn bowling.
Her visit underscored local support for community recreation.
1983 – Mayor Roger Hedgecock visits during the National Singles and Pairs Championship.
His presence highlighted the event’s importance for San Diego’s sports culture.
2022 - Mayor Todd Gloria and Councilman Steve Whitburn rolling at our 90th anniversary celebration.
2022 - Mayor Todd Gloria and Councilman Steve Whitburn with Club Members on the green.
2022 - Club Member Photo at 90th Anniversary
Celebrating 90 years of Lawn Bowing in San Diego's Balboa Park.