Kip Puterbaugh's Aviara Golf Academy is the premier golf school in Southern California and is the longest running golf school in the Western United States with the most consistent staff with over 100 total years of teaching experience.

The Kip Puterbaugh Aviara Golf Academy opened in 1991 at the Arnold Palmer designed Aviara Resort Course in Carlsbad, CA, just 30 minutes north of downtown San Diego. The experience, dedication and longevity of his talented staff of 5 full time Master Instructors is unparalled in the golf industry. Kip began teaching in 1972 and joined by Wayne Searle they opened the Academy in 1991. Master Instructors Ken Green joined in 1994, Bruce Nakamura in 1995, Bob Knee in 1997 and Grant Halverson in 1999. Working together through the years they have developed a curriculum that will give the golfer of any skill level the best chance to improve their game.

Golf Digest has honored our staff with their survey of the Top Teachers in California by placing 5 of our teachers in the top 26 of the state. We are one of only three schools worldwide graded by Golf Magazine at a Gold Medallion resort that has a Top 100 Teacher and a Top 25 Golf School.