Guests gather along the fairway to watch the helicopter drop during the annual Golf Ball Drop event in Encinitas.
(Giselle Ball)
Guests enjoy food, drinks, and conversation during the coastal reception at Encinitas Ranch Golf Course.
(Giselle Ball)
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Guests gather along the fairway to watch the helicopter drop during the annual Golf Ball Drop event in Encinitas.
(Giselle Ball)
Coastal Encinitas Rotary Club’s annual Golf Ball Drop continued its upward trajectory this year, generating a record $61,913 in gross revenue and drawing broad support from residents, local businesses, and community partners, according to a news release.
Held May 10 at Encinitas Ranch Golf Course, the event featured the fundraiser’s signature helicopter golf ball drop, along with a silent auction, food, drinks, and entertainment. By the end of the evening, participants had purchased 2,272 golf balls, helping make the 2026 event the most successful in the fundraiser’s history.
While the helicopter drop remains the highlight of the evening, organizers say the event’s growth reflects something larger: increasing community engagement.
More than 61 percent of golf balls were purchased by non-club members, demonstrating the event’s appeal beyond its membership. The silent auction showed a similar trend, with 66 percent of auction items won by non-members.
“The event has truly become a community fundraiser,” organizers said in the news release. “Each year we see more residents, businesses, and supporters getting involved, whether they are attending for the first time, sponsoring the event, donating auction items, or purchasing golf balls.”
The fundraiser also received strong support from local sponsors, whose contributions helped drive overall revenue and expand the event’s impact. The silent auction generated more than $12,600 in revenue, while sponsors contributed $15,000 toward the event, the news release stated.
Proceeds from the Golf Ball Drop support Coastal Encinitas Rotary’s charitable mission and community service efforts, including grants and partnerships benefiting local nonprofit organizations. This year’s beneficiaries included the Boys & Girls Club Griset Branch, Just in Time for Foster Youth, and Warrior Foundation–Freedom Station.
Since its inception, the Golf Ball Drop has evolved from a Rotary fundraising event into a community tradition that brings together residents, businesses, and nonprofit partners for a shared purpose.
With record revenue, record participation, and growing support from outside the club, organizers believe the event’s success reflects the generosity and community spirit that continue to define Encinitas, according to the news release.
Planning for next year’s Golf Ball Drop is already underway.
Those interested in learning more about Coastal Encinitas Rotary Club, its community service projects, and volunteer opportunities can visit www.coastalencinitasrotary.org. The club welcomes visitors to attend its weekly meetings every Tuesday at Cicciotti’s in Cardiff.
Whether you’re looking to give back to the community, connect with local leaders, support charitable causes, or simply learn more about Rotary, members encourage interested residents to stop by and discover how they can get involved, the news release stated.