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California Golf Adventure Guide
The California Golf Adventure Guide is powered by the California Golf Course Owners Association and includes over 200 of the top facilities from California and Beyond.
california golf Adventure Guide in This issue: � � � � CoursesbyRegion TweetableHoles FavoriteOceanCourses WeddingLocales photo:Napa Valley's Chardonnay Golf Club photo courtesy of chardonnay golf club Welcome! On behalf of all of the golf course owners in California, I would like to welcome you to the California Golf Adventure Guide. This guide will provide you with a wealth of information regarding the wonderful golf courses and places to visit in the great state of California. California is blessed with some of the most beautiful and scenic property in the world and is home to some of the world's most revered golf courses. This guide will provide you with an in-depth introduction to many of California's finest courses and resort properties. From the amazing meeting of land and sea on the Monterey Peninsula to the incredible and majestic beauty of the High Sierras, you will have a multitude of beautiful and challenging courses to visit and play. I encourage you to take more time this coming year to play golf, the greatest game of all. The game of golf is a game for the ages. The people you meet and the wonderful courses available for you to enjoy are unsurpassed compared to any other game. Please take the time to review this guide carefully and support those courses that have contributed to make this publication successful. I look forward to seeing you on the links. Sincerely, George H. Kelley President California Golf Course Owners Association Publisher California Golf Course Owners Association 30098 Red Barn Place Canyon Lake, CA 92587 firstname.lastname@example.com Shaw Kobre In The Loop Publishing firstname.lastname@example.com Graphic Design & Layout Jason Hill J. Hill Design email@example.com Editor 951 246-2928 golfcalifornia.org www.facebook.com/CaliforniaGolf www.twitter.com/California_Golf california golf Nancy Bernstein firstname.lastname@example.com Marketing Director Robert Kaufman Kaufman and Associates email@example.com Text �2011 Shaw Kobre, Nancy Bernstein and Bob Fagan. All rights reserved. P // california golf adventure guide Table of Contents Regions 4 10 16 20 24 28 32 34 36 40 44 46 48 50 59 Bay Area Inland Empire North Coast High Sierra Orange County Central Coast Central Valley Shasta Cascade Desert Gold Country Los Angeles San Diego Out-of-State Central Coast Los Angeles Inland Empire Orange County San Diego Desert Bay Area North Coast Gold Country High Sierra Shasta Cascade Central Valley In the Loop Alphabetical Index California Welcome Centers offer valuable information and services for today's traveler. The CWCs are here as your personal travel concierge to assist you in all aspects of your California trip. For more travel information, please visit www.visitcalifornia.com. san francisco Bay area norTh coasT shasTa cascade cenTral Valley san diego counTy San Francisco 415 981-1280 Pier 39 #B12, 2nd Level San Francisco, CA 94133 cwcsanfrancisco@ guestservicesolutions.com Arcata 1635 Heindon Road Arcata, CA 95521 Anderson 707 822-3619 1699 Highway 273 Anderson, CA 96007 Merced firstname.lastname@example.com 530 365-1180 710 West 16th Street, Suite A Merced, CA 95340 Alpine email@example.com 209 724-8104 5005 Willows Rd, Suite H110 Alpine, CA 91901 email@example.com 619 445-0180 firstname.lastname@example.com San Mateo Santa Rosa 60 31st Avenue, Suite 389 San Mateo, CA 94403 9 Fourth Street Santa Rosa, CA 95401 gold counTry Tulare Auburn 650 578-8033 800 404-7673 high sierra firstname.lastname@example.com email@example.com 13411 Lincoln Way Auburn, CA 95603 4500 S. Laspina Street Tulare, CA 93274 Oceanside 559 688-6894 928 North Coast Highway Oceanside, CA 92054 530 887-2111 firstname.lastname@example.com 800 350-7873 deserT email@example.com inland emPire email@example.com cenTral coasT San Bernardino 909 891-1874 Mammoth Lakes 760 924-5500 1955 Hunts Lane, Suite 102 San Bernardino, CA 92408 email@example.com 2510 Highway 203 Mammoth Lakes, CA 93546 firstname.lastname@example.com El Dorado Hills 916 358-3700 2085 Vine Street, Suite 105 El Dorado Hills, CA 95762 email@example.com Pismo Beach 805 773-7924 333 Five Cities Drive, Suite 100 Pismo Beach, CA 93449 email@example.com Barstow 2796 Tanger Way, Suite 100 Barstow, CA 92311 760 253-4782 firstname.lastname@example.com Truckee 10065 Donner Pass Road Truckee, CA 96161 Oxnard 530 587-2757 1000 Town Center Drive Suite 135 Oxnard, CA 93036 Yucca Valley 760 365-5464 56711 Twentynine Palms Hwy. Yucca Valley, CA 92284 email@example.com firstname.lastname@example.com 805 988-0717 email@example.com powered by the california golf course owners association // 1 The Legendary Napa Valley You'll want to stay a little longer. CALISTOGA | ST. HELENA | RUTHERFORD | OAKVILLE | YOUNTVILLE | NAPA Come experience The Legendary Napa Valley -- where world-class wines, championship golf courses, friendly faces, historic surroundings, miles of nature preserves, and a spirit of wellness set a slower pace, inviting you to relax, savor, and restore. Our farm-to-table culinary scene will delight you, with more Michelin star-rated restaurants per capita than any other wine region in the world. And you'll receive a warm welcome in our winery tasting rooms, where you'll feel a rush of excitement on your palate when you sample our legendary wines. A vibrant art, live-music and theater community will scratch your cultural itch. Our healing hot-spring waters, crisp-clean air and luxurious spa resorts will renew you. You'll want to stay a little longer. Plan your trip to The Legendary Napa Valley at LegendaryNapaValley.com and download our free Visit Napa ValleyTM Mobile App. Join us in "The Napa Valley" community on Facebook and follow us at @LegendaryNapa on Twitter. LAKE BERRYESSA | AMERICAN CANYON Bay Area Napa San Rafael San Francisco Vallejo Oakland San Jose Santa Cruz courtesy of courseco . courtesy of boulder creek golf & country club local aTTracTions: Fisherman'sWharf GreatAmerica SanFrancisco SantaCruzBeachBoardwalk UnionSquare WineCountry Callippe Preserve Golf Course, fast becoming one of California's most decorated layouts. Boulder Creek Golf & Country Club . HiddenGem--JackFlemingDesign (executivecourse) Boulder Creek airPorTs: MetropolitanOakland InternationalAirport(OAK) SanFrancisco InternationalAirport(SFO) MinetaSanJose InternationalAirport(SJC) This wavy short course is carved out of a redwood forest. It has narrow fairways and numerous par 3s, which leave little room for error and make this course a challenge. The front nine features five par 3s, while the back has three par 5s and four par 3s. With condos, a swimming pool, tennis courts and a conference center, Boulder Creek is a popular place for an affordable corporate outing or retreat. bouldercreekgolf.com // 831 338-2121 Boundary Oak Golf Course "TheBestoftheEastBay"GolfCourse2010 --Diablo Magazine Walnut Creek Few municipal golf courses are longer in yardage from the back tees than Boundary Oak. Set in the rolling hills just below Mount Diablo, the fairways 4 // california golf adventure guide are roomy off the tee, but trees and water on six holes do come into play. The greens are sloped and quick. playboundaryoak.com // 925 934-4775 Callippe Preserve Golf Course Pleasanton Golfweek'slistof"BestMunicipalGolfCourses" 2008-2009 Chardonnay Golf Club . Napa HHHH "BestPlacestoPlay"--Golf Digest Chardonnay uses natural terrain, working vineyards, creeks and barrancas to provide golfers with both beauty and beast. The course contains some of the most interesting green sites in California. Centrally located in the Napa wine country, close to San Francisco and Sacramento, Chardonnay continues to be one of the best places to hold an event or outing. chardonnaygolfclub.com // 707 257-1900 Crystal Springs Golf Course ELGAChapterAwardforPublicFacilities --GCSAofNorthernCalifornia2008,2009,2010 Burlingame Cinnabar Hills Golf Club t San Jose The course is part of a federal reserve, and the holes range from flat to steep. For the most part, the course is revealing, without hidden tricks. However, local knowledge is key, and you will encounter some side-hill lies, even if you hit the fairways. The greens are small and traditional. playcrystalsprings.com // 650 342-4188 Deep Cliff Golf Course Cupertino CertifiedAudubonCooperativeSanctuary This short, par-60 course is popular for beginners, but its narrow fairways and small greens can be deceptively difficult even for the better player. A good time is had by all when holding a private event here. playdeepcliff.com // 408 253-5357 courtesy of cinnabar hills golf club Eagle Vines Vineyards & Golf Club Napa Valley Voted2ndBestGolfCourse --SF Gate"BestoftheBay"2010 Top45FacilitiesintheUSA --Golf WorldReaders'ChoiceAward2009 There are three nines: the Lake, Canyon and Mountain Courses. Terrific views, abundant bunkering and lightning-quick greens characterize the 27 holes. cinnabarhills.com // 408 323-7814 You're in for quite a ride on this challenging, diverse and entertaining golf course. Eagle Vines combines an old-world style layout of small greens, good bunkering and wide rolling fairways with a modern classic layout of tight fairways, fast greens and working vineyards. eaglevinesgolfclub.com // 707 257-4470 powered by the california golf course owners association // 5 courtesy of chardonnay golf club Set on 145 acres in Happy Valley, Callippe Preserve is surrounded by open space, native oaks and wildlife habit areas. The course affords excellent views of Mt. Diablo. A modern design that remembers how golf was supposed to be played. playcallippe.com // 925 426-6666 Gleneagles Golf Course at McLaren Park ATop-20Best9-HoleGolfCourseinU.S. --Golf World,2010 Las Positas Golf Course Livermore FamilyGolfatitsbest San Francisco Prepare for battle. This rugged nine-hole course will push your game to the limit. You will be fighting against hilly, narrow, tree-lined terrain, uneven lies and hitting onto little greens. If you play in the morning, you must brave the elements San Francisco is famous for: fog and wind. How many nine-hole courses have you seen with a slope of 140? gleneaglesgolfsf.com // 415 587-2425 This popular layout features both wooded and open areas. Its large, well-bunkered greens, water and wind form the challenge. A sporty, nine-hole executive course adjoins. laspositasgolfcourse.com // 925 455-7820 Los Lagos Golf Course San Jose Biggestlittlecourseyouwilleverplay Los Lagos is adjacent to Coyote Creek and is an interesting blend between a championship golf course and an executive course. This well conditioned rolling and mounded layout with five par 5s, only four par 4s and nine par 3s, will have you guessing at every turn. playloslagos.com // 408 361-0250 Meadowood , St. Helena WorldClassResort courtesy of Meadowood This is a quiet resort course in the heart of Napa's wine country that incorporates the natural terrain into its layout. Meadowood is peaceful, but does provide some challenge with tree-lined fairways and undulating greens. There are two par 4s, seven par 3s and water on one hole. The course is a walker's paradise and the resort is world class. meadowood.com // 707 963-3646 Metropolitan Golf Links t Half Moon Bay Golf Links "Oneofthebest18holesinthecountry" --Golf Digest Half Moon Bay ELGAChapterAwardforPublicFacilities --GCSAofNorthernCalifornia,2009&2010 Oakland The two courses at Half Moon Bay are the Old Course and the Ocean Course. The 18th hole on the Old Course is one of the highest ranked holes in the world. The Arnold Palmer/Francis Duanedesigned Old Course plays among the pines and homes before heading to the Pacific for a dramatic three-hole finish. The Ocean Course is a wonderfully crafted links-style course with excellent views of the ocean. With the wind, this course will put up quite a fight. halfmoonbaygolf.com // 650 726-1800 A Johnny Miller and Fred Bliss design--easily the most playable of Miller's collaborations. Located adjacent to Oakland Airport, this conveniently located course features an open, mounded windswept challenge. The course is very playable, yet interesting enough for all levels, and the conditioning is good. playmetro.com // 510 569-5555 Indian Valley Golf Club Novato Abeautifulplacetoplaygolf courtesy of courseco Indian Valley is a mature course with plenty of native oaks. Many of the fairways are rolling, and there are a few steep ones as well. Indian Valley boasts a 15,000-square-foot green, the largest in Marin County. indianvalleygolfclub.com // 415 897-1118 6 // california golf adventure guide Napa Golf Course at Kennedy Park JackFlemingdesignintheheartofthe winecountry Poppy Ridge Golf Course Zagatratedasoneofthetop15coursesinthe nationforvalue Livermore Napa This is long, parkland-style course with mature trees and water on 11 holes. The description may be simple, but the course plays tough. A steady putter and proper club selection are the keys to shooting a low score. playnapa.com // 707 255-4333 Napa Valley Country Club Napa Aprivateclubwitharichhistory There are three courses at Poppy Ridge that are played in 18-hole combinations. They are the Chardonnay, Zinfandel, and Merlot. The 27 holes here have been artfully blended to be similar in challenge and attractiveness. Bold, artistic bunkering is a highlight. Although this course is long, make accuracy off the tee a priority. Join the NCGA for great rates. poppyridgegolf.com // 925 455-2035 Pruneridge Golf Club Santa Clara SiliconValley'spremiergolftrainingfacility The original nine was built in 1917 and was designed by the members. The front nine features smaller greens and oak tree-lined fairways. The back nine was built in 1990 by Ron Fream and has a more modern feel, with an emphasis on target golf. This is a fun and interesting layout, but be careful if you wager with a member--local knowledge rules. Reciprocal play with other members-only clubs is allowed. napavalleycc.com // 707 252-1111 Pruneridge has only two holes that run side by side, and the course is well maintained. The fairways are narrow and most are lined by town homes, so out-of-bounds does come into play. Great for beginners and a nice alternative for the more advanced. pruneridgegolfclub.com // 408 248-4424 Pasatiempo Golf Club Santa Cruz Golf Magazine'sTop100CoursesYouCanPlay2010 (#11) Ranch Golf Club, The San Jose Dramaticanddemanding--150slopefromthetips This is an Alister Mackenzie masterpiece and annually is included among America's best. Though relatively short, it features some of the best green sites in American golf, making it a beautiful, classic challenge. Alister Mackenzie retired to Pasatiempo. The 16th hole is one of the toughest par 4s you'll ever play. pasatiempo.com // 831 459-9155 The Ranch Golf Club is not long by any means, but the forced carries and the exacting nature of any errant shot are extreme. This is not a beginner course. It is target golf, with challenging, multitiered greens. The dramatic elevation changes, rolling hills, oak-filled canyons, lakes and creeks make club selection difficult. theranchgc.com // 408 270-0557 Peacock Gap Golf Club San Rafael Hiddenandsecluded,yetsoclosetoSanFrancisco Rancho del Pueblo Golf Course San Jose 2007NGCOAPlayerDevelopmentAward Avoiding lateral water hazards, fourteen of them, and trees will be your biggest challenge. Twelve holes run parallel to a small creek. There is one lake, and San Francisco Bay comes into play on one hole. On some holes, if you miss the fairways far enough, you will land in another; however, the mature trees won't make your return shot easy. The greens are straightforward with little break. They are under new ownership and have some exciting improvements on the horizon. peacockgapgc.com // 415 453-4940 Built on the site of the old Thunderbird Golf Course, Rancho del Pueblo continues the recent renaissance of East San Jose. It is an executive course that incorporates three ponds and multiple sand bunkers. Rancho del Pueblo is a great place for juniors and adults alike to learn the game. ranchodelpueblo.com // 408 347-0990 powered by the california golf course owners association // 7 California - The green is always calling. From the stunning shore-lined courses at Pebble Beach to the desert fairways of Coachella Valley, California has a green to suit every golfer. With pleasant temperatures year-round, and over 800 golf courses to choose from, you can come and play anytime you like. After a round of 18 holes, head off course to sample mouth-watering wine and food, pamper yourself at a luxury spa and explore the abundance of activities the Golden State has to offer. visitcalifornia.com/golf Round Hill Country Club Alamo Celebrating50yearsofgolf TPC Stonebrae OneoftheBestNewCoursesfor2007 --Travel + Leisure Golf Hayward Round Hill is a private club with a long, relatively open course that plays among upscale housing. It is forgiving off the tee and places a premium on the approaches to the subtle, well-conditioned greens. Reciprocal play with other members-only clubs is allowed. rhcountryclub.com // 925 934-8211 Set in the hillside high above the East Bay, with dramatic views of Mt. Diablo and Mt. Tamalpais lies members-only TPC Stonebrae. Home to the Nationwide Tour's Fresh Express Classic. tpcstonebrae.com // 510 728-7878 San Ramon OneoftheEastBay'sbestvalues San Ramon Golf Club is an urban oasis. Trees and homes frame the layout, which features many doglegs, most of which favor the player who can work the ball left to right. golfsanramon.com // 925 828-6100 Silverado Resort . World-famousresortwithtwospectacular RobertTrentJones,Jr.-designedcourses Napa Silverado is comprised of two courses. The North Course is longer and more straightforward. The South Course takes more course knowledge and allows less room for error. Both courses have plenty of oak trees, water, and large, well-thought-out greens. With the legendary Johnny Miller at the helm, major golf course renovations are due to be completed Spring 2011. In 1870, General John Franklin Miller built a stately white-pillared mansion on his plantation. You will recognize the mansion as the heart of Silverado Country Club. silveradoresort.com // 707 257-5460 Vineyard Knolls Golf Club of Napa Napa LocatedintheheartofCarneros Vineyards Knolls is a private club set in the heart of the Carneros wine appellation. It is a traditional walking course, surrounded by vineyards, where you'll find tree-lined fairways and greens. vineyardknolls.com // 707 226-8184 Vintner's Golf Club Yountville "BestUp-ValleyGolfCourse" --Napa Sonoma Magazine StoneTree Golf Club Novato ExtremeChallenge StoneTree is two different golf courses, all in 18 holes. There are ten holes on the flats, with forced carries, mounding, water hazards and drainage areas. The other eight holes are up in the oak-covered hills, with little water, lots of trees, severe elevations changes, small greens and gorgeous views. stonetreegolf.com // 415 209-6090 Vintner's is a modern, nine-hole layout with large greens, good sized fairways and mature trees. This is a family golf course, challenging enough for mom and dad, easy enough for children and beginners. To satisfy the more experienced golfer, Vintner's underwent a redesign that welcomed the addition of black tees. The course also offers a large practice facility. vintnersgolfclub.com // 707 944-1992 Sunol Valley Golf Club Sunol Fun,affordablegolf Wente Vineyards, The Course at Livermore Golfweek'sBestCoursesYouCanPlay,2010 Sunol Valley has two 18-hole golf courses, the Cypress and Palm. The Cypress is short and narrow, with sloping greens. The Palm Course is longer and more spacious, with hazards on nearly half the course. sunolvalley.com // 925 862-0414 Well-framed greens and some wonderful holes and views highlight Greg Norman's first California project--one of the best golf experiences in east bay golf. Before you head out, get a feel for the greens; newcomers tend to over-read the break. Off the tee remember, keep it straight, there is a lot of out-of-bounds. wentevineyards.com // 925 456-2475 powered by the california golf course owners association // 9 courtesy of napa Valley destination council San Ramon Golf Club Inland Empire San Bernardino Ontario Riverside Temecula AlpineLakes Casinos Mountains WineTasting Apple Valley Country Club Apple Valley Atime-honoredreputationforplayingconditions airPorTs: JohnWayneAirport,Orange County(SNA) OntarioInternational Airport(ONT) Formerly a members-only course, Apple Valley opened to the public in 2008. This is a "walkingfriendly" flat course with tightly mowed, extensive fairways and hard, slick greens. Two lakes come in to play. applevalleycountryclub.com // 760 242-3125 Arrowhead Country Club San Bernardino Arrowhead is a private equity club since 1944. They have an 18-hole tour-quality conditioned, extremely walkable golf course. Their management company put forth great effort to successfully improve playing conditions. arrowheadcc.org // 909 882-1735 courtesy of teMecula conVention & Visitors bureau Greatgreens,greatviews Hot air ballooning in the Temecula Valley 10 // california golf adventure guide courtesy of oak Quarry golf club . local aTTracTions: An old quarry makes for stunning backdrops at Oak Quarry Golf Club. Bear Creek Golf Club Murrieta Hostofthe1985SkinsGame Green River Golf Club Corona Now18holesarebetterthan36... This members-only course is one of Jack Nicklaus's early designs in California. Water, strategically placed trees, bunkers and large, deceptive greens compose a beautiful and complete challenge. bearcreekgc.com // 951-677-8631 Green River was comprised of two 18-hole courses. Recent construction took only the best from both courses to form an excellent 18 holes of golf. playgreenriver.com // 714 970-8411 courtesy of hidden Valley golf club CrossCreek Golf Club Temecula Apristineworldremovedfromthehubbub Hidden Valley Golf Club s Norco NationalPublicGolfCourseoftheYear2010 --NationalGolfCourseOwnersAssociation CrossCreek uses the rolling landscape, mature oaks, lakes, and natural hazards to create a classic course that appears to have been around for decades. A pretty, engaging layout with some very challenging green sites. crosscreekgolfclub.com // 800 506-3402 Eagle Glen Golf Club AmemorableexperiencesetintheCleveland NationalForest Corona Hidden Valley is a bold contrast between course and rugged terrain. Elevation changes, spectacular views and a challenging layout make this course a great find for players of all skill levels. Hidden Valley was awarded the prestigious honor of being named Public Golf Course of the Year 2010-2011 by the National Golf Course Owners Association. hiddenvalleygolf.com // 951 737-1010 Eagle Glen is a scenic, well-conditioned course featuring elevation changes along the fairways and on the greens. The fairways are wide, accommodating golfers who don't have complete control of their oversized, stiff-shafted drivers. eagleglengc.com // 951 272-4653 Journey at Pechanga 4th"BestNewCoursesYouCanPlay" --Golf Magazine,2009 Temecula Soon to be a classic Arthur Hills/Steve Forrest design, Journey at Pechanga is routed over the beautifully rolling terrain between Pechanga powered by the california golf course owners association // 11 Creek and the adjacent mountainside. It weaves its way through numerous stands of mature California live oaks and provides stunning vistas of the Temecula Valley and the surrounding mountains. journeyatpechanga.com // 866 991-7277 Oak Quarry Golf Club "Top18CoursesonWestCoast" --Fairways + Greens Riverside Los Serranos Country Club Chino Hills California'slongestcourseatover7,500yards (SouthCourse) The two scenic courses at Los Serranos have punished many golfers over the years. The South Course is a par 74 and features six par 5s, constant elevation changes and can be breezy. The North Course is much shorter and less demanding. losserranoscountryclub.com // 909 597-1711 This stunning layout routes lush green fairways right through an old quarry. Oak Quarry features steep-sided bunkering that can intimidate even the most confident golfer. The contrast of the white-faced mountains and natural surroundings with the green fairways is dramatic, but don't let it divert your attention. This is a challenging layout that makes you think on every shot. oakquarry.com // 951 685-1440 Pala Mesa Resort Fallbrook Wellestablishedresortcoursewithtrickygreens Menifee Lakes Country Club Menifee 36waystoenjoyandentertainyou Temecula Valley, southern California's wine country There are two courses, the Palms and Lakes course. Water plays a prominent role on both courses. You will find the fairways snug and the traps well positioned for errant shots. Accurate left-to-right shots come in handy on both courses. menifee-lakes.com // 951 672-4824 Between Temecula's wine country and northern San Diego is where you'll find this getaway. You might want to practice a few putts before you head out. This is a tight course off the tee, where you find yourself driving out of tree-lined chutes to the fairway. Keeping it straight doesn't guarantee you an easy day or a low score. Unlike many resort courses, the greens here are fast, challenging and will punish a weak putter. Check their website-- great last minute deals can be found. palamesa.com // 800 722-4700 12 // california golf adventure guide courtesy of teMecula conVention & Visitors bureau golf 888.363.2852 among the vineyards TemeculaGolf.org Routed over the beautifully rolling terrain between Pechanga Creek and the adjacent mountainside, lies Journey at Pechanga. This championship golf course rises and falls a breathtaking 300 feet in 18 holes and boasts a signature, 435-yard, Hole 6 that has a spectacular 175-foot drop. YOU HAVE TO PLAY IT TO BELIEVE IT. 951-770-GOLF www.Pechanga.com Featuring 27 holes of championship golf surrounded by over 300 acres of rustic beauty, dramatic elevation changes, sweeping mountain views and year-round sunny weather. Golf Digest Rated 877-517-1823 � TemeculaCreekInn.com Redhawk Golf Club Temecula ConsistentlyratedoneofsouthernCalifornia's bestpubliccourses Flowers and elevation changes, added to an abundance of water and bunkering, make this one of the premier public access layouts in southern California. Redhawk's 8th hole is home to one of southern California's only island greens. redhawkgolfcourse.com // 951 302-3850 Temecula Creek Inn Golf Resort Temecula Feel-goodresortgolfatitsbest A beautiful setting with mountain views and elevation changes, Temecula Creek was awarded a four-star rating from Golf Digest's "Places to Play." There are three nine-hole courses: Oaks, Creek and Stonehouse. The Creek Course is flat and tree-lined. The Oaks Course has constant elevation changes and is bordered by trees. The Stonehouse is the most difficult of the three and features steeper grades, more trees and a few blind shots. temeculacreekinn.com // 858 675-8470 courtesy of teMecula conVention & Visitors bureau Rancho California, The Golf Club at Murrieta ClassicRobertTrentJonesSr.layout Tukwet Canyon Golf Club s Beaumont HomeoftheSouthernCaliforniaPGA Formerly known as SCGA Golf Club, Rancho California is a lengthy course featuring sculptured bunkers that guard both fairways and greens. Add in several lakes and large undulating greens, and you have a challenging course that will keep you coming back for more. scgagolfcourse.com // 951 677-7446 There are two courses: the Champions and Legends. The Champions Course is open, native in appearance, with rolling terrain and rugged bunkering. The Legends Course has constant elevation changes and is classic in design, with oak-studded fairways. tukwetcanyon.com // 951 845-0014 14 // california golf adventure guide courtesy of greg flores North Coast Eureka Ukiah Santa Rosa Sonoma local aTTracTions: CharlesSchulzMuseum InfineonRaceway PacificCoastline Redwoods WineCountry Ocean views at The New Links at Bodega Harbour courtesy of robert kaufMan Bennett Valley Golf Club Santa Rosa Greatvalue--funcourse Eureka Golf Course Eureka CertifiedAudubonCooperativeSanctuary airPorTs MetropolitanOakland InternationalAirport(OAK) SanFrancisco InternationalAirport(SFO) CharlesM.SchulzAirport, SonomaCounty(STS) ArcataAirport,Eureka(ACV) The fairways are driver-friendly (more so on the back nine) and many of the holes run parallel to one another. None of that takes away from the interest or the beauty of the golf course. www.bvgolf.org // 707 528-3673 Bodega Harbour, The New Links at . Bodega Bay Mustplay--extremechallenge Eureka has magnificent coastal redwoods and Douglas firs throughout, but don't be afraid to hit your driver off the tee. The course offers ample room on most fairways. Because of the damp climate, the ball tends not to carry, so be careful not to under-club. playeureka.com // 707 443-4808 16 // california golf adventure guide courtesy of robert kaufMan On this recently-remodeled Robert Trent Jones II design, the front nine is a demanding, hilly, linksstyle course with few flat lies. The back nine is more open off the tee, with subtle elevation changes. The course is well-manicured, with spectacular ocean views, tricky greens and a coastal breeze. Along with Sea Ranch to the north, Bodega is one of the best values for an ocean course in the state. bodegaharbourgolf.com // 707 875-3538 Fairgrounds Golf Course Santa Rosa Thenorthbay'spremierpracticefacility Little River Inn Golf Little River Romanceresort--funcourse A complete redesign and rebuild, the "all new" Fairgrounds opened in 2006. A Beginner Friendly Certification was awarded to the Fairgrounds by the National Golf Course Owner's Association in recognition of their dedication to junior golf and growing the game. A nine-hole course with two sets of tees was redesigned with modern greens similar to those on championship courses, furthering their reputation as a premier practice facility. fairgroundsgolfcourse.com // 707 284-3520 This is a charming, hilly nine-hole course with tight fairways, lined by firs and redwoods. There are excellent ocean views from three of the holes. For a coastal course, you will notice little wind. The course actually has 11 greens that can be used to create an 18-hole layout. In order to score well, hit it straight and keep the ball short and below the hole. This course is off the beaten path but a great place to sneak in some golf on your romantic getaway. With a reasonable price, you can't do much better. littleriverinn.com // 707 937-5667 Northwood Golf Club , Monte Rio Historicalmasterpiece;#3onGolfWorld's "Top25Best9-HoleCoursesinAmerica"2010 A 9-hole Alister Mackenzie design from 1928. Redwoods frame nearly every hole on this historic layout. Besides narrow fairways, you will encounter small greens, many of which have false fronts. Although short in yardage, Northwood does not give up low scores without some great shot-making. A rustic throwback to how golf was meant to be played. northwoodgolf.com // 707 865-1116 courtesy of robert kaufMan . Fountaingrove Golf & Athletic Club Santa Rosa HHHH1/2"PlacestoPlay"--Golf Digest This members-only course is beautiful, hilly and demanding. The fairways seem to get smaller as the day goes along. Do everything in your power to stay in the fairway. Several elevated tee shots provide not only some special views but blind shots as well. Reciprocal play is available with members of other private clubs. fountaingrovegolf.com // 707 579-4653 Foxtail Golf Club . Rohnert Park Greatvalue--greatfun Foxtail has two courses. The South Course is fairly level with subtle mounding, well-placed sand traps and lined by mature trees and homes. The North Course is the newer and stronger of the two. A major facelift with mounding and additional sand traps has made this course more challenging. Both are fun, user friendly and reasonably priced. A great place for a family golf outing. playfoxtail.com // 707-584-7766 courtesy of courseco powered by the california golf course owners association // 17 courtesy of sonoMa county tourisM bureau Oakmont Golf Club Santa Rosa Oneofthemostchallengingexecutivecourses inthestate(EastCourse) Sonoma Golf Club Sonoma Playwheretheprosplay Home to two courses, including the executive length East Course. On the West Course, if you are hitting the ball remotely straight, expect to have a good time. Oakmont West is a wellconditioned, pleasant golf course with ample fairways and greens. However, if straight is not in your game plan, you will contend with native oaks, lakes, creeks, streams and plenty of homes. The executive East Course is a demanding layout, with tough par 3s and short, tricky par 4s. oakmontgc.com // 707 539-0415 Rooster Run Golf Club Petaluma ThebestdrainingcourseinnorthernCalifornia Sonoma Golf Club is a very subtle, traditional golf layout, originally designed by Sam Whiting in 1928. The fairways seem wide enough, but they are easy to miss. The bunkers aren't very large but are always in the right place. The greens seem straightforward, but they are deceptively undulating and quick. Even the elevation changes are subtle. The only thing that is not subtle is your score at the end of the day if you try to be too aggressive. Play is open to members, guests and guests of the Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn & Spa. The course was home of the Charles Schwab Cup Championship for the PGA Champions Tour (Senior Tour) from 2003-2009. sonomagolfclub.com // 707 996-0300 Rooster Run offers level, wide fairways, wind and plenty of water hazards. The real story is the greens. They are large, quick and sloping. If you can putt here, you can putt anywhere. roosterrun.com // 707 778-1211 Wikiup Golf Course Santa Rosa Ashortcoursedesignedforbeginnersandseniors Sea Ranch Golf Links, The Sea Ranch Unpretentiousoceanfun This is a 9-hole short course that plays through the Wikiup subdivision. The course is suited for beginners and seniors. It winds along Mark West Springs Creek. 707 546-8787 A Robert Muir Graves design located along the coast, this is a challenging Scottish-style course with excellent ocean views. Sea Ranch is unprotected from the ocean breezes, and the fairways are outlined by native grasses and plants. Translation: Enjoy the beauty, but bring extra golf balls. Maybe the greatest value among California's ocean courses. searanchvillage.com // 707 785-2468 Windsor Golf Club Windsor FormerhostcourseoftheBenHoganandNikeTour Sebastopol Golf Course Sebastopol Family-owned,localfavoriteshortcourse This is a short, interesting and challenging golf course. The fairways are generous, but miss them and you will find yourself in a creek, pond or behind a native oak. If you can't hit the small greens, be prepared for a difficult chip to get up and down. windsorgolf.com // 707 838-7888 Wine tasting in the Dry Creek Valley This is a short but challenging golf course in good condition that is a favorite of locals, beginners and seniors. The small greens and hilly lies make for a challenging round. The 195-yard, par-3 eighth hole over water to an elevated green would be a welcome addition to any course. 707 823-9852 18 // california golf adventure guide About the photographers Aidan Bradley is regarded as among the best at his trade. He is widely recognized for his ability to capture the excitement and mood of a golf course. Over the years, Aidan's images have graced the pages of all the national golf publications and he is a regular contributor to golf coffee table books such as Nicklaus by Design, Golf Digest's "Top 100 Courses You Can Play", Golf, The Women's Game and many more. For more information on Aidan Bradley, we encourage you to visit golfcoursephotography.com. Robert Kaufman is an award-winning photographer and travel writer. His work has been featured in publications, both national and international, for over 30 years. Robert is best known for having his photo of an aging Casey Stengel residing in the Hall of Fame. Robert resides in Marin County, just north of San Francisco. rkaufmanphoto.com Tim Mazzeferro is a former Navy photographer, now using his training and years of experience to create lifestyle portraits and photographing rustic relics, hot rods and classic automobiles. He does this with the help of his faithful assistant, Max, his black lab. For more information on Tim Mazzaferro, please go to timmazzaferro.com. Tahoe-based photographer Chris Talbot has been aiming his lenses at beautiful travel-resort-landscape-wedding subject matter for 22 years. In that time, Chris has traveled around the world by boat and by plane, not to mention camel, rickshaw, bike and longboat. His images have been featured in many well-known travel and golf publications. For more information on Chris Talbot we encourage you to visit talbotimages.com. Joann Dost has practiced the art of golf photography since the late 1970s, traveling across America, the British Isles, the Far East and Australia to capture the essence of golf course architecture and the spirit of the game with her camera. Joann has received many awards for her photography over the years. Her work can be seen in national and international magazines and her fine art is available through better galleries worldwide. Joann currently resides in Pebble Beach. For more information on Joann Dost, please visit joanndost.com. powered by the california golf course owners association // 19 High Sierra Truckee Tahoe City Reno LAKE TAHOE YOSEMITE Mammoth Lakes Lone Pine local aTTracTions: Casinos LakeTahoe Skiing TruckeeRiver YosemiteNationalPark Aerial view of the 18th hole at Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course copyright � 2009 world golf tour, inc. and wgt.coM Coyote Moon Golf Course Truckee MountainMasterpiece Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course Stateline, NV Oneof"America'sTopGolf ourses"--Golf Digest C airPorTs: Reno-Tahoe InternationalAirport(RNO) Sacramento InternationalAirport(SMF) Coyote Moon is a must play. It is an upscale public course without homes surrounding the property to spoil the view. The fairways are generous, with granite outcroppings found throughout. The fairways have a funnel effect as you approach the medium-sized greens. The greens are well protected by sand, water and trees. At 6,800 feet above sea level, expect to get up to ten percent more distance on each shot. coyotemoongolf.com // 530 587-0886 Home of the American Century Celebrity Golf Championship, this gorgeous Lake Tahoe course does not give up low scores without a fight. The greens are fast and undulating. The fairways seem to get tighter with each passing hole. This course will challenge you both mentally and physically. After your round, head into Brooks' Bar & Deck, one of the "Best 19th Holes," according to Golf Digest. edgewoodtahoe.com // 775 588-3566 D'Andrea Golf & Country Club Sparks, NV Superbplayingconditionsandanewly- renovatedclubhouse Gray's Crossing, The Golf Club at Truckee CertifiedGoldAudubonSignatureSanctuary The course rises 450 feet above the valley floor and provides some excellent views. Each hole is separated by desert. Keep it in the fairway and you will be okay. dandreagolf.com // 775 331-6363 Sister course to Old Greenwood, Gray's Crossing is a "return to tradition." The course has fast greens and you need to get creative with your club choices and strategies. oldgreenwoodgolf.com // 530 550-5800 20 // california golf adventure guide n is for north Somewhere between the first swing and final putt, a fair amount of amazement occurs. Drives go further, scores trend lower, and even the most devout golfers tip their hats to the scenery that defines Tahoe. Equally impressive are the 10 local courses, 29 more within an hour's drive, brilliant dining and great values, all found at Cool Deals. GoTahoeNorth.com | 800.Tahoe4U Lake Tahoe No. 1 ski destination with Rand McNally and Orbitz and No. 1 travel destination with TripAdvisor! Golf is a big hit in north lake tahoe Golf courses in North Lake Tahoe are as abundant as water holes and sand traps. In fact, there are more than 50 courses in North Lake Tahoe within a 60-minute drive of the region, offering phenomenal venues and opportunities for visitors to take a swing. Courses in Incline Village include the Incline Village Championship, which is ranked one of the best in the state and recently underwent a multi-million-dollar renovation, as well as the Incline Village Mountain Course, both offering panoramic views of Lake Tahoe. In Kings Beach, Old Brockway's nine holes was the venue for Bing Crosby's first two unofficial invitational tournaments (1934 and '35), before the celebrity tournament concept outgrew the 3,314-yard course. The Resort at Squaw Creek's links style is a great example of the natural blend of golf and mountain settings surrounded by six majestic peaks. Audubon International continuously recognizes it as a Certified Cooperative Sanctuary. Courses in Truckee also boast big names and spectacular scenery. The Jack Nicklaus-designed Old Greenwood is an upscale par 72, while the area's Golf Club at Gray's Crossing emphasizes privacy and prestige. Coyote Moon, also in Truckee, incorporates towering pines, granite outcroppings and a meandering creek without a home in sight to impede the natural vistas. The course at Northstar-at-Tahoe keeps guests on their toes with the mountain nine (tight) opening up into the meadow nine. For a complete list of North Lake Tahoe golf courses, click to www.GoTahoeNorth.com. The site is also home to Cool Deals, updated daily, which offers savings on lodging and activities. powered by the california golf course owners association // 21 courtesy of chris talbot, talbotiMages.coM Incline Village, The Golf Courses at Incline Village, NV Golfweek's"BestCoursesYouCanPlay,"2011 Plumas Pines Golf Resort Graeagle Perennialmountainfavorite There are 36 holes at Incline Village. The Championship Course is a long and humbling layout, with excellent views of Lake Tahoe. Fairly high rough, pine trees, and fir trees create narrow fairways. Add in water and demanding greens and you can see why many golfers consider this one of the hardest courses in the Lake Tahoe area. The Mountain Course is a short, steep, executive target course with many of the same hazards as the longer Championship layout. The Mountain Course was named one of Golf Range Magazine's "Top Short Courses in America" for four consecutive years. golfincline.com // 866 925-4653 It is easy to get distracted by the beauty of your surroundings at Plumas Pines. The greens are usually quick, but it is the rolling, narrow, treelined fairways that keep golfers honest. Hitting a driver off the tee is not always your best option. plumaspinesgolf.com // 530 836-1420 Ponderosa Golf Course Truckee Greatviewsatagreatvalue Northstar-at-Tahoe Resort Golf Course Truckee Mountainvacationwonderland With wonderful views, Ponderosa is a flat, straightforward, user-friendly golf course. Originally developed by the residents of Truckee, this remains the only publiclyowned course in the area. ponderosagolfcoursetruckee.com // 530 587-3501 Resort at Squaw Creek Olympic Valley ClassicRobertTrentJonesJr.design Independence Day celebrated at Lake Tahoe. While golf is your destination, recreation will be your journey. Northstar is famous for its summertime activities. This Robert Muir Graves-designed course seems like two courses in one. The front nine is extreme mountain golf with narrow, treelined fairways that devour golf balls and greens that seem to get smaller with each hole. The back nine is a friendly meadow course with freeflowing fairways and beautiful mountain views. NorthstarAtTahoe.com // 530 562-3290 Set in a beautiful mountain meadow, there is nothing gentle about the challenge. The fairways are like island targets amid environmentally sensitive areas. Precise play is required. Resort at Squaw Creek is a recently-renovated fourstar, luxury resort and spa. This course is green in more ways than one--it uses no pesticides in order to protect the environment. squawcreek.com // 530 583-6300 Old Brockway Golf Course Kings Beach Ratedamongthe"Top10GolfCoursesinNorthern California"byGolf Today Magazine Tahoe City Golf Course Tahoe City TeeoffwheretheRatPackdid Old Brockway is a 9-hole course long enough to satisfy the low handicapper and forgiving enough to accommodate the high handicapper. The course has a view of Lake Tahoe on every hole. There is a lot of history here--Old Brockway played host to the first Crosby in 1934-35. oldbrockway.com // 530 546-9909 Originally opened in 1917, Tahoe City has a rich, star-studded history. Set in the mountains, this is a short course that derives its challenge from narrow fairways and hard-to-read greens. The course affords excellent views of Lake Tahoe from almost any location on the course. tahoecitygolf.com // 530 583-1516 Tahoe Donner Golf Course Truckee "BestRemodeledGolfCourseinAmerica" nomination--Golf Digest,2007 Old Greenwood Golf Course Truckee Rated#4onGolf Digest'slistof"America'sFinest NewUpscalePublicCourses"in2005 Jack Nicklaus Design. Through stately pines and blue sagebrush wind 18 holes of near-perfect golf. As a Certified Gold Audubon Signature Sanctuary, the course melds beautifully with the natural landscape to provide golf with both the beauty of the Sierras and the challenge of one today's modern classic layouts. oldgreenwoodgolf.com // 530 550-7010 This beautiful trek through the mountain woods is good for the soul and makes for fun golf as well. Set amid streams and the forest, Tahoe Donner completed an extensive renovation in 2006. Excellent greens. golftahoedonner.com // 530 587-9440 22 // california golf adventure guide There is a place in the world that simply must be experienced... To golf Edgewood Tahoe is truly a special experience. From May to October, you can enjoy beautiful greens, spectacular fairways, and of course, magnificent views of Lake Tahoe and the surrounding Sierras. There's also superior year-round lakeside dining, special events, and Brooks' Bar & Deck was recognized by Golf Digest as one of the "50 Best 19th Holes in America." This place is golfing at its best, an elevating experience where great golfing memories are made. Call 866.934.6530 or visit EdgewoodTahoe.com/CA Every July celebrities face off at Edgewood Tahoe, home of the American Century Celebrity Championship. Orange County Anaheim Santa Ana Irvine Newport Beach local aTTracTions: Beaches Disneyland Knott'sBerryFarm SouthCoastPlaza 14th hole at Coyote Hills Golf Club courtesy of orange county: california's golf coast Laguna Beach Thecanyoniscalling airPorTs: JohnWayneAirport, OrangeCounty(SNA) LosAngeles InternationalAirport(LAX) LongBeachAirport(LGB) courtesy of orange county: california's golf coast Set in a scenic and tranquil canyon with Aliso Creek coming into play on six holes, the course is short in length but long in character. The fairways are narrow, but the greens are large, elevated and tiered. The par 3s are the story at Aliso Creek. alisocreekinn.com // 949 499-2271 Anaheim Hills Golf Course s Anaheim Enchanting,oldCaliforniaterrain The "Hills" in Anaheim Hills is there for good reason. This is a short, fun course with fantastic elevation changes and few fairways running side by side. First-time players would be wise to hook up with a local to help them negotiate this tricky course but foolish to wager with him. playanaheimgolf.com // 714 998-3041 24 // california golf adventure guide courtesy of orange county: california's golf coast Aliso Creek Inn & Golf Course t Black Gold Golf Club Yorba Linda HHHH1/2Stars--Golf Digest Old Ranch Country Club Seal Beach BeautifulTedRobinsonredesign Sitting 750 feet above sea level, Black Gold offers excellent views of Orange County and Catalina Island. The course, bordered by the Chino Hills State Park, is rolling with a traditional feel. Not overly long, it has strategically-placed bunkers. The greens are medium-sized with some undulation. You will find water on eight holes. The golfer who is patient and can manage their game will score well at Black Gold. blackgoldgolf.com // 714 961-0060 Recently redesigned by Ted Robinson, the Old Ranch features 28 acres of water, open fairways and well-bunkered and mounded green sites. Getting your ball up and down from a missed approach shot could be hazardous to your score. The course is members-only, but reciprocal play with other members-only clubs is allowed. oldranch.com // 562 596-4611 Pelican Hill Golf Club Voted#2U.S.Resort2010Readers'ChoiceAward --Cond� Nast Traveler Coyote Hills Golf Course Fullerton "Top100Women-FriendlyCourses" --Golf For Women Newport Coast Coyote Hills was designed by Cal Olson and the legendary Payne Stewart. From the tips, the course boasts some exhilarating--and sometimes intimidating--tee shots. This is a good, challenging layout. coyotehillsgc.com // 714 672-6800 Pelican Hill is home to two golf courses that showcase designer Tom Fazio at his best. The South Course is located immediately above the Pacific. The canyon-crossing tee shots and oceanside holes are impressive. The North Course is higher above the Pacific and features spectacular ocean views. PelicanHill.com // 949 467-6800 Monarch Beach Golf Links . Dana Point "Top100GolfResort"--Cond� Nast Traveler Oak Creek Golf Club Irvine FunFaziodesignwithstylizedbunkering Rolling, wide fairways, meandering creeks, towering eucalyptus trees, and stylized Tom Fazio bunkering all combine for a pleasant experience at this upscale daily-fee facility. oakcreekgolfclub.com // 949 653-5300 San Juan Hills Golf Club , courtesy of orange county: california's golf coast 2010"BestofSouthernCaliforniaGolf" --Southland Golf Magazine San Juan Capistrano Nestled in the hills of San Juan Capistrano, this is a straightforward and fairly hilly course with plenty of trees and some water. To score well here, you will need to remember to use one extra club on the uphill holes or you will find yourself in one of the many green-side bunkers. San Juan Hills has been an OC favorite for over 40 years. sanjuanhillsgolf.com // 949 493-1167 powered by the california golf course owners association // 25 courtesy of orange county: california's golf coast This is a target golf course with great views, rolling hills, trees and an abundance of fairway and green-side bunkers. The course may appear short from a yardage standpoint, but it is a par 70. Don't under-club unless you brought lots of golf balls. monarchbeachgolf.com // 949 240-8247 The 2011 card is here! Only $49.95 2011 OC Golf Trail card benefits include: � SAVE hundreds of dollars on green fees! � The 2011 member card gives you 50% off one (1) round of golf at each of the 8 OC Golf Trail member courses and can be used 7 Days a Week at Any Time (major holidays excluded and not on Twilight rates). 50% off one round of golf at each of these Orange County courses. Golfer must present their OC Golf Trail Card at check in, in order to receive discount. OCCG 800-555-1982. Strawberry Farms Golf Club s Irvine Afavoriteofthosedoingbusiness insouthernCalifornia This upscale, daily-fee course plays in a valley. There are wetlands and hazards constantly to the golfer's left. This is an attractive, difficult layout. You'll find local golfers and business people alike at Strawberry Farms. strawberryfarmsgolf.com // 949 551-1811 Tijeras Creek Golf Club Rancho Santa Margarita GreatOCvaluedesignedforalllevels Tijeras Creek is the tale of two styles. The front is real estate golf, winding through a development. The back nine heads out along ridges and valleys for an exhilarating finish. The course recently underwent renovation including a complete bunker redesign. tijerascreek.com // 949 589-9793 Tustin Ranch Golf Club . Tustin "CourseoftheYear" --CaliforniaGolfCourseOwnersAssociation,2008 courtesy of tustin ranch golf club A 4-star recipient of Golf Digest's "Places to Play" in multiple years, Tustin Ranch has undulating fairways and multi-tiered greens. There is an abundance of sand and water, including waterfalls. All of this contributes to making this one of the most popular courses in Orange County. tustinranchgolf.com // 714 730-1611 powered by the california golf course owners association // 27 courtesy of orange county: california's golf coast Central Coast Monterey San Luis Obispo Santa Barbara local aTTracTions: Beaches Dining PacificCoastline Shopping Solvang WineCountry A different kind of foursome on the course at Alisal Guest Ranch & Resort aiden bradley golfcoursephotography.coM Alisal Guest Ranch & Resort Solvang Twochampionshipcoursesarejustpartofthestory airPorTs: MontereyPeninsula Airport(MRY) SanLuisObispoCounty RegionalAirport(SBP) SantaBarbara MunicipalAirport(SBA) MinetaSanJose InternationalAirport(SJC) SantaMariaPublicAirport(SMX) The natural setting of Alisal Guest Ranch is home to two courses: the River Course and the Ranch Course, both California golf personified. Keep your ball in the fairway to score well. The mediumsized greens are undulating and very puttable. The resort embodies the great outdoors from "catch-and-release" fishing to horseback riding. Tennis enthusiasts will be happy, as will the avid spa-goer. alisal.com // 805 688-6411 this a must-play for the golf enthusiast. Blackhorse is similar in nature but does not have the distance of Bayonet. The course affords many excellent ocean views. bayonetblackhorse.com // 831 899-7271 Chalk Mountain Golf Course Atascadero Greatvaluewithmanyelevationchangesand gorgeousscenery Bayonet & Blackhorse Golf Courses "Oneofthemostimpressiveredesignsyou'll eversee"--golfchannel.com Canyons, oak trees, sloping greens and narrow fairways are just a few of Chalk Mountain's obstacles. The course is not long in today's graphite and titanium world, but provides ample challenge. chalkmountaingolf.com // 805 466-8848 Seaside Cypress Ridge Golf Club Arroyo Grande HHHH"BestPlacestoPlay"--Golf Digest Good players have long recognized that the Bayonet course is one of the most demanding in America. Closely tree lined, its sloping fairways and recently-renovated greens and bunkers make Set on a mesa overlooking the ocean, this rolling course affords excellent ocean views. This is a rigorous course with deep fairway bunkers and sliding greens (hidden breaks). cypressridge.com // 805 474-7979 28 // california golf adventure guide Dairy Creek Golf Course San Luis Obispo Greatcamperandgolfspecials La Purisima Golf Course #33"America's50ToughestGolfCourses" --Golf Digest Lompoc The course has three large lakes that come into play as well as two creeks. Pennington Creek defines the front nine, while Dairy Creek meanders through the back nine. The greens are large but subtle in slope. Off the tee, aiming for the cart path could save you many strokes. The cart paths run away from hazards, and balls hit in that direction tend to funnel back into the middle of the fairway. centralcoastgolf.com // 805 782-8060 Monterey Anenduringfavoritesince1897 Monarch Dunes Golf Club . Nipomo Oneof"America'sBestNewCourses"--Golfweek Depending on who you talk to, this 100-year-old layout may be the oldest in the state. Owned by Pebble Beach Resorts, this flat but charming course uses its natural simplicity to create an enjoyable round of golf. The course has been ranked by Golf Digest as one of the top courses over 100 years old. pebblebeach.com // 831 373-2700 Monarch Dunes "Old Course" is an 18-hole, links-style course that winds through central California's coastal highlands. Monarch Dunes will challenge your game and awaken your senses. They have recently opened a 12-hole, par-3 course--the Challenge Course. monarchdunes.com // 805 343-9459 Eagle Ridge Golf Club "Top50Women-FriendlyGolfCourses" --Golf For Women Gilroy Monterey Peninsula Country Club Pebble Beach Co-hostoftheAT&TPebbleBeachNationalPro-Am The holes against the hillside are breathtaking and the bunkering is distinctively bold and attractive. The greens, with their speed and undulations, are perhaps the most challenging of any public course in northern California. eagleridgegc.com // 408 846-4531 Elkins Ranch Golf Course Fillmore Arelaxingexperiencesurroundedbyorangegroves This private, member-owned club is home to two courses. The Dunes Course combines the best of forest and oceanside golf to make what is one of the state's most underrated layouts. Recent renovations have made the course more difficult, especially for the average golfer. The Shore Course plays in the open, adjacent to 17-Mile Drive. The layout is simple and understated. mpccpb.org // 831 373-1556 Slightly rolling, tree-lined fairways and five lakes can be found at Elkins Ranch. Located in a quiet canyon setting, the course has few parallel fairways. It has elevated tees with greens that tend to break toward the town of Fillmore, due north. elkinsranchgc.com // 805 524-1121 Morro Bay Golf Course Morro Bay Panoramicoceanviewsfromalmosteveryhole Hunter Ranch Golf Course Paso Robles HHHH1/2"BestPlacesToPlay"--Golf Digest Morro Bay affords spectacular views of the ocean and is often referred to as a "poor man's Pebble Beach." This hilly course is best known for its small, tricky greens. Optical illusions often have golfers playing breaks in the opposite direction. centralcoastgolf.com // 805 782-8060 Hunter Ranch will punish the impatient golfer. On the front nine of this rolling course, players can hit a driver off most holes, but on the back nine, a driver is not always your best choice. Many fairways and greens are guarded by oak trees and sand traps. The greens are undulating and fast. hunterranchgolf.com // 805 237-7444 Pajaro Valley Golf Club Royal Oaks FuncoursebetweenMontereyandSantaCruz This is an often overlooked gem--scenic, with a few challenges, but not too difficult. The fairways are generous and the length modest, allowing the average golfer a chance at a good score. pajarovalleygolf.com // 831 724-3851 powered by the california golf course owners association // 29 aiden bradley golfcoursephotography.coM Del Monte Golf Course La Purisima is built into the hills of Lompoc. Do you have trouble keeping the ball straight? Beware--miss the fairways or greens and you will find yourself in trees, brush, creeks, ponds or a well-placed trap. With elevated tees and greens, chances are you will be hitting at an angle at some point during the round. Wind can be a factor in the afternoon. One of the best courses in California--words don't do it justice. lapurisimagolf.com // 805 735-8395 Pebble Beach Golf Links Pebble Beach Hostof2010U.S.Open,#1"America'sBestPublic GolfCourses"--Golf Digest America's premier public-access course affords gorgeous views and a walk through golfing lore. Its small putting surfaces, together with the weather, provide most of the golfing challenge to a course that everyone will want to play at least once. Guests of The Lodge at Pebble Beach, The Inn at Spanish Bay and Casa Palmero enjoy special booking privileges for golf reservations when arranging accommodations. pebblebeach.com // 800 654-9300 and allow women and less experienced players to avoid many of the hardships the back tees provide. The courses alternate each day between public and member play. ridgemark.com // 831 637-1010 River Ridge Golf Club Oxnard Countryclubqualityatpublicprices Peter Hay Golf Course Pebble Beach Nine-holecourseforplayersofallskilllevels With the Victoria Lakes Course opening in 2008, River Ridge is now home to 36 holes. Victoria Lakes will test you, with 8 acres of water and its own version of "Amen Corner." On the Vineyard Course, hit your driver on the front nine because there is water on six holes on the back. The greens are good sized and undulating. riverridge-golfclub.com // 805 943-4653 Peter Hay is across the street from Pebble Beach Golf Links. This is a short pitch-and-putt course located on a small hillside. A great place to work on your short game or teach the kids. Kids 12 and under are free. pebblebeach.com // 831 622-8723 San Juan Oaks Golf Club Hollister HomeofthePGATour,StageOneQualifying Poppy Hills Golf Course HomecourseoftheNCGA,the largestgolfassociationinAmerica Pebble Beach San Juan Oaks is an excellent Fred Couplesdesigned course. A good design, challenge, scenery and ambiance all contribute to what has become one of northern California's more popular public-access courses. sanjuanoaks.com // 831 636-6113 Spanish Bay, The Links at Pebble Beach #11"BestCoursesYouCanPlayinCalifornia"2011 --Golfweek Home to the NCGA, Poppy Hills offers fantastic rates to their members. Designed by Robert Trent Jones, Jr., the course is scenic, challenging and well-maintained. Longer hitters will need to throttle back and be patient on this layout that rewards accuracy. poppyhillsgolf.com // 831 622-8239 McWay Falls, Big Sur Rancho Maria Golf Club Santa Maria "BestPlacestoPlay"2008--Golf Digest Located within Pebble Beach, Spanish Bay is a true links-style course, which affords wonderful views. For those who like traditional park setting golf, the mystery and host of shot options at Spanish Bay will either delight or bedevil you. pebblebeach.com // 831 647-7495 Spyglass Hill Golf Course Pebble Beach #11"America'sBestPublicGolfCourses" --Golf Digest Want to score well at Rancho Maria? Head for the putting green. There are plenty of trees on Rancho Maria, which is set in the foothills, but it is the small greens that are sometimes lightning fast that will give you fits. There are no parallel fairways, and an afternoon breeze is common. ranchomariagolf.com // 805 937-2019 Ridgemark Golf & Country Club Hollister Perfectcourseforcouples Ridgemark is a semi-private club that boasts two fun courses. The Gabilan Course is the longer of the two and plays among the homes, while the Diablo Course extends into the countryside. The front nine of the Diablo is hilly, while the back nine is narrow and tree-lined. Accurate tee shots are a must. The forward tees are well thought out This is an exacting, demanding and exigent golf course. Translation: it's really hard. After opening with five holes out in the ocean view and sand, the course retreats quietly back into the forest. Back there, the only sounds you hear are the cries of desperate golfers trying to make par. Okay, we are exaggerating just a little bit. The truth is, this is a spectacular layout, set on rolling terrain, with ocean holes, forest holes and elevated, sloping greens. A must play for any golf fanatic. Host course for the AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am since 1986. pebblebeach.com // 831 625-8563 30 // california golf adventure guide Perfect Golf Getaway Whether you prefer the challenge of tight fairways, or a relaxing riverside setting, the Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort has championship golf and much more. Gourmet meals, horseback riding, luxurious spa and private lake also await at our secluded 10,000 acre resort in the Santa Barbara wine country. Amenities Include: � Private Cottage with Fireplace � 72-par Private Ranch Course � Includes Gourmet Breakfast & Dinner � 72-par River Course � Fitness Center and Spa � Tennis, Fishing and more 1054 Alisal Road � Solvang, CA 93463 firstname.lastname@example.com www.alisal.com Call or visit our website for special packages. 800-425-4725 powered by the california golf course owners association // 31 Central Valley Sacramento Stockton Merced Fresno Bakersfield local aTTracTions: CaliforniaDelta Farm&DairyTours LodiWineCountry StateandRegionalParks SierraRailroad Stevinson Ranch Golf Club, 2007 CGCOA Course of the Year courtesy of steVinson ranch golf club Fig Garden Golf Club Fresno Friendlygolfsince1958 Riverside Golf Course Fresno HomeoftheFresnoCityChampionships airPorTs FresnoYosemite InternationalAirport(FAT) Sacramento InternationalAirport(SMF) Stockton MetropolitanAirport(SCK) MeadowsField, Bakersfield(BFL) This is a friendly, flat, narrow course ideal for walkers, although power cart rentals are available. The course has many old-growth trees, two lakes and a river that comes into play on three holes. figgardengolf.com // 559 439-2928 Forebay Golf Course Santa Nella 9holesnestledalongtheCaliforniaCoastalRange Built in 1939, you will find plenty of trees and subtle, sloping greens throughout the course, but what catches your attention are the fairway moguls. Even the straightest of shots will end up with an uneven lie. Riverside has a fully-lighted driving range. playriverside.com // 559 275-5900 This parkland-style, nine-hole course nestled along the California Coastal Range has wide fairways and large, level greens. forebaygolfcourse.com // 209 826-3637 Seven Oaks Country Club Bakersfield BeautifulandchallengingRobertMuirGravesdesign River Oaks Golf Course Ceres Getyourironsout This user-friendly executive course along the Tuolumne River features trees scattered throughout and many parallel fairways. 209 537-4653 The test is bold at Seven Oaks, a private club. Sand, water and considerable length combine with wind to push your skills to the limit on this flat layout. There are three nines: the Lakes, Island and Oaks. Reciprocal play with other members-only clubs is accepted on a limited basis. sevenoakscountryclub.com // 661 664-6404 32 // california golf adventure guide Stevinson Ranch Golf Club Voted#1PublicGolfCourseinCalifornia --2010Golf WorldReaders'ChoiceAward Stevinson Valley Oaks Golf Course Visalia 27-holesoffungolfsetinthePlazaPark Stevinson's landscape is distinct for its vast, open areas of grasslands, scattered trees and marsh areas. Its exceptional bunkering and links feel make for an excellent test of your skills. If you have a few days, stay at Stevinson Ranch and take advantage of their innovative golf school. The Savannah Course is a Certified Bronze Audubon Signature Sanctuary. stevinsonranch.com // 209 668-8200 There are three courses: the Valley Course, the Oaks Course and the Lakes Course. They are rotated in 18-hole combinations every day. The original courses--Valley and Oaks--are traditional in design, with large greens. The Lakes Course is more of a links-style course. playvalleyoaks.com // 559 651-1441 Turlock Golf & Country Club Turlock OnetheoldestcountryclubsintheCentralValley This members-only country club is a target course with narrow fairways, difficult rough and greens that do not accommodate a weak putter. The course is underrated and plays longer than the yardage on the scorecard.Reciprocal play with other members-only clubs is allowed. turlockcountryclub.com // 209 634-4976 left: Pleasure boats docked in Stockton. below: California's Central Valley is one of the most productive agricultural regions in the world. powered by the california golf course owners association // 33 Shasta Cascade Redding Red Bluff Chico Quincy local aTTracTions: LakeShasta LassenVolcanicNationalPark Shasta-TrinityNationalForest 9th hole of Mount Shasta Resort Golf Course courtesy of Mount shasta resort golf course Mount Shasta Resort Golf Course Mount Shasta DramaticViews Riverview Golf & Country Club Redding AprivateclubsetalongtheSacramentoRiver airPorTs: ChicoMunicipalAirport(CIC) ReddingMunicipalAirport(RDD) This is a rolling, narrow, tree-lined course with dramatic greens and eye-pleasing views set at the base of Mount Shasta. At 3,500 feet above sea level, Mount Shasta is short in length by today's standards, but that doesn't mean it's a pushover. The course is designed to make players think, giving them several options for each shot. A great getaway location. mountshastaresort.com // 530 926-3052 Situated alongside the Sacramento River, this is a traditional course with tree-lined fairways, small greens and demanding par 3s. To score low, keep it in the fairway and bring your best short game. Witness one of the great opening tee shots in golf and enjoy a very walkable trek along many narrow fairways. Reciprocal play with other membersonly clubs is allowed. riverviewgolf.net // 530 224-2250 34 // california golf adventure guide Lake Shasta powered by the california golf course owners association // 35 Desert Death Valley Junction Las Vegas Barstow Palm Springs Indio El Centro local aTTracTions: Resorts Spas Shopping Hiking Golf At 214 feet below sea level, Furnace Creek is the lowest golf course in the world. courtesy of furnace creek resort Angel Park Golf Club Las Vegas Among"America'sTop50CoursesforWomen" (PalmCourse)--Golf Digest Cimarron Golf Resort OneofGolf Digest's"BestPlacestoPlay"2003 (BoulderCourse) Cathedral City airPorTs: Ontario InternationalAirport(ONT) PalmSprings InternationalAirport(PSP) McCarranInternational Airport,LasVegas(LAS) You will find the Mountain Course and the Palm Course set at 2,500 feet above sea level. Both are desert-style courses with subtle mounding, a few trees, some water and generous landing areas. You will also find Cloud 9 at Angel Park. Cloud 9 is a 12-hole, lighted, par-3 course featuring famous par 3s from around the world. Angel Park also has an 18-hole putting course. angelpark.com // 888 446-5358 The mountains provide an excellent backdrop for both the shorter Pebble Course and Boulder Course. Both layouts are similar in design, combining desert golf with European-like characteristics. You will find strategically-placed sod-wall bunkers, mounding and expansive greens with subtle undulations. cimarrongolf.com // 760 770-6060 Palm Springs at night 36 // california golf adventure guide Furnace Creek Golf Course Oneof"America's50ToughestCourses" --Golf Digest Death Valley Mountain Falls Golf Club Pahrump, NV AhiddentreasureinthesouthernNevadadesert Furnace Creek is 214 feet below sea level and is the lowest course in the world. Because of the lack of altitude, the ball does not carry well, so remember to club up. Believe it or not, there are plenty of trees on the course, and water comes into play on six holes--a true oasis in the desert. Everyone needs to experience Death Valley, and Furnace Creek's resort has everything from swimming and tennis to horseback riding to occupy your time when you are not playing the world's lowest course. furnacecreekresort.com // 760 786-2301 Mountain Falls is about 45 minutes from Las Vegas. Surrounded by peaceful mountain ranges and rolling hills, the scenery is beautiful. There's a wide yardage range, making the course attractive to many skill levels. With all-rye fairways, the course is in great shape year-round. mountainfallsgolfclub.com // 775 537-6553 Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa Rancho Mirage World-classPalmSpringsgolfintheheartof RanchoMirage Legacy Golf Club, The "Top10CoursesYouCanPlay"inNevada --Golf Digest Henderson, NV The Legacy Golf Course features extensive mounding in the fairways and elevated greens where players can use their creativity with their approach shots. Carts are included and mandatory. Range balls are also included in the greens fees. thelegacygc.com // 702 897-2187 Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa is home to a player-friendly, 27-hole Ted Robinson design. There are three distinct courses: North, South and West. None of the courses are particularly long and are guarded by over 1,500 palm trees. All three courses can be narrow in spots but tend to have generous fairways on the gently rolling terrain. This is a great choice on windy days, as you will find these courses less windy than many of the neighboring facilities. And after a day of golf, there are plenty of opportunities to unwind at Rancho Las Palmas. rancholaspalmas.com // 760 862-4551 low is the name of the game. Whether it's the low scores or the amazing things your ball will do at 214 feet below sea level, playing the Furnace Creek Golf Course is an experience unlike any other. To reserve your next great golf adventure in Death Valley, visit furnacecreekresort.com or call toll-free 800-236-7916. Beautiful Places on Earth.� xanterra.com in death valley, Ask about Inn and Ranch packages. powered by the california golf course owners association // 37 Devil's Golf Course salt pan in Death Valley (do not bring your clubs) Rancho Vista Golf Course Palmdale AnoasisintheheartoftheAntelopeValley This Ted Robinson-designed course complements its surrounding desert landscape. In addition to contoured fairways, it features water--there are ten lakes in all. With plenty of wind and immature trees, an accurate punch shot comes in handy. ranchovistagolfcourse.com // 661 272-9903 Rancho Sierra Golf Course Lancaster AbeautifulnineholesintheAntelopeValley SilverRock Resort t La Quinta "BestTourGolfCoursesYouCanPlay"2009,2010 --Golfweek Rancho Sierra is an unusual course; you will find no sand, just grass bunkers throughout. The course is mature and somewhat narrow, with many trees and water on seven of the holes. It has short par 4s and par 3s and one par 5, ideal for seniors, juniors, beginners and high handicappers. ranchosierragolf.com // 661 946-1080 SilverRock is home of the Bob Hope Classic. The Arnold Palmer Classic Course layout has everything you would want in a desert course and then some. The biggest mistake golfers make at the Rock is not playing the correct tees. For an enjoyable experience, leave your ego behind and play from the slope that matches your game. silverrock.org // 760 777-8884 38 // california golf adventure guide randy duncan, silVerrock resort Toscana Country Club Indian Wells JackNicklausSignatureGolf , Hiking in Joshua Tree National Park Toscana is a private equity club located in Indian Wells. Nestled at the foot of the Santa Rosa Mountains lie two Jack Nicklausdesigned courses. toscanacc.com // 760 772-7000 Woodhaven Country Club Palm Desert Well-maintainedcoursewithinterestingholes Set on 100 acres with 500 homes lining the fairways, accuracy is a must off the tee. The greens are small and level. The attraction of this golf course is the distance--or lack of it. At 5,800 yards, the older, younger or weaker golfer can compete with the bigger hitters. woodhavencc.com // 760 345-7636 powered by the california golf course owners association // 39 Gold Country Nevada City Auburn Placerville Sacramento Jackson Sonora local aTTracTions: Fishing Kayaking OldTownSacramento Rafting Hole #2 at Saddle Creek, named Cape after a famous hole in Scotland courtesy of saddle creek resort Ancil Hoffman Golf Course Carmichael ABillyBell,Jr.design Bartley Cavanaugh Golf Course Sacramento Anaffordableandfunroundofgolf airPorTs: Sacramento InternationalAirport(SMF) A traditional, tightly-treed course with oak and pine, Ancil Hoffman requires accurate tee and approach play. When in good condition, the layout compares favorably to some of the best in northern California. golfancilhoffman.com // 916 482-3813 Auburn Valley Golf Club Auburn Bestkeptsecretinthefoothills The greens are modest in size and the fairways have a generous landing area. This course has numerous berms separating the holes from each other. Always a fun round, filled with unique challenges. bartleycavanaugh.com // 916 808-2020 Bass Lake Golf Course Rescue Fun,friendlyandaffordable With narrow fairways, elevated tee boxes that provide excellent views and rugged terrain, Auburn Valley plays much longer than the yardage indicates. If you survive tee to green, you will have to negotiate around notoriously quick greens. auburnvalleygc.com // 888 593-6747 The front nine is narrow and level, with plenty of oaks and pines. The eighth hole is a 200-yard par 3 over a lake. The back nine is more open, rolling, and has a links feel. Some words of advice: If you are going to miss the greens, be short rather than long. To really score well, course knowledge is key. basslakegolfcourse.com // 530 677-4653 40 // california golf adventure guide Bing Maloney Golf Course Sacramento 7-timewinner,"Top100GolfShops"--Golf Digest There is an 18-hole Championship Course and a nine-hole Executive Course. This is your typical older municipal course with flat greens and fairways outlined by mature trees. bingmaloney.com // 916 808-2283 Black Oak Golf Course Auburn Nineholeswithplentyofvariety DarkHorse Golf Club Auburn Amongthe"Top100NationwideGolfCourses" (3rdConsecutiveYear)--Golfweek Nothing is subtle about Black Oak. This is a hilly, exacting course where you will encounter uphill, downhill and side-hill lies. Plenty of water, creeks, native oaks and traps come into play. For the right-handed player who has a penchant for snap hooking off the tee, be prepared to re-tee most of the day. 530 878-1900 DarkHorse is a beautifully routed layout that meanders through the rolling terrain, oaks and pines of the Sierra foothills. It is a good test that boasts an excellent set of par 3s with attractive bunkering, complemented by a first-rate staff. darkhorsegolf.com // 530 269-7900 Cherry Island Golf Course Elverta Wellmaintained,smoothgreensandsuperior drainage Greenhorn Creek Resort t "ThequintessentialroundtoplayinGoldCountry" --Travel + Leisure Golf Angels Camp The low handicapper should pick spots to be aggressive. With water hazards or out-of-bounds on nearly every hole, the impatient player will rack up plenty of penalty strokes. The front side has far more trees to contend with than the back. You will find several of the greens elevated throughout. golfcherryisland.com // 916 991-7293 Greenhorn Creek is located just outside historic Angels Camp, home of Mark Twain's celebrated jumping frog. Situated in a panoramic setting, Greenhorn has been fine-tuned by Robert Trent Jones II. Rolling hills, lateral water hazards and wooded fairways make a very scenic and challenging layout. greenhorncreek.com // 209 729-8111 courtesy of greenhorn creek resort powered by the california golf course owners association // 41 Haggin Oaks Golf Complex Sacramento 75yearsofstoriedhistory Plumas Lake Golf & Country Club Olivehurst Anenjoyablechallenge Haggins Oaks is comprised of two 18-hole courses. The MacKenzie Course is the stronger of the two courses and features a traditional tree-lined layout on flat terrain. The Arcade Course is a "grip-and-rip it" course that can boost your self-esteem. Haggin Oaks is home to one of the best retail golf shops in the country. hagginoaks.com // 916 481-4653 This is a tight, scenic course where mature oaks, homes, condos and hazards can consume golf balls. Late in 2006, Plumas Lake renovated all of their putting surfaces, making them larger and adding undulations and contours. plumaslake.com // 530 742-3201 Mather Golf Course Mather CertifiedAudubonCooperativeSanctuary Saddle Creek Resort , Ranked8thamongthe"BestPublicAccessCourses inCalifornia"--Golfweek Copperopolis This former military facility is a park-setting course with tree-lined, wide, rolling fairways and many elevated tees. Mather has no hidden tricks, just a classic design that rewards the good shot and punishes the bad. playmather.com // 916 364-4354 Saddle Creek features wonderful views and an excellent variety of holes. Bold, artistic bunkering and quick, smooth greens make this the must-play course in Gold Country. Each hole is individually framed, so you often have the feeling that you have the course all to yourself. saddlecreek.com // 800 611-7722 Rafting on the American River "Savvy golfers stay & play both courses, 18 miles apart with well deserved reputations, in top condition. 42 // california golf adventure guide Whitney Oaks Golf Club Rocklin Pushyourgametothelimit William Land Golf Course Sacramento Sacramento'soldestgolftreasure A Johnny Miller Design. This course's reputation as a difficult one is well-founded. Ancient oaks, wetlands, granite outcroppings, water and narrow hitting areas are all part of the challenge here. Whitney Oaks does offer five sets of tees to serve golfers of all levels. whitneyoaksgolf.com // 916 632-8333 This is a busy, 9-hole executive course located in William Land Park, with five par 4s and one par 5, the rest being par 3s. williamlandgc.com // 916 277-1207 Sacramento River 17th at Schaffer'S Mill 9th at Grizzly ranch 16th at Gray'S croSSinG c h r i s ta l b ot � g o l f p h oto g r a p h y 7 7 5 . 8 3 2 . 7 0 5 4 � ta l b ot i M a g E s . c o M powered by the california golf course owners association // 43 Los Angeles Los Angeles Long Beach Malibu Beaches Hollywood SantaMonica UniversalStudios VeniceBeach Altadena Golf Course Altadena Notimefor18?Tryaquick9! Friendly Hills Country Club Whittier Family-orientedprivateclub withachampionshipcourse airPorTs: LosAngeles InternationalAirport(LAX) LongBeachAirport(LGB) BobHopeAirport,Burbank(BUR) With an extensive practice facility, this is a great place to take up the game. Altadena has plenty of trees, but with many parallel holes and wide landing areas, missing the short grass is nearly impossible. Chipping or pitching onto the elevated and crowned greens requires a deft touch. dcgolf.info // 626 797-3821 Located in the hills, this a short and demanding course where driver is rarely your best option. To score well here, you need to keep in the fairway and be skilled with your flat stick. friendlyhillscc.com // 562 693-3623 Eaton Canyon Golf Course Pasadena ApeacefulninesetintheSanGabrielFoothills Industry Hills Golf Club CourseoftheYear,2009 --NationalGolfCourseOwnersAssociation City of Industry The course heads downhill for the first two holes, then works its way back up the hill to the clubhouse. Tree-lined with lateral water hazards on two holes, Eaton Canyon requires accuracy around and on the greens. The greens tend to break away from the mountain. dcgolf.info // 626 794-6773 The Eisenhower Course is one of the toughest layouts in California. The course is hilly and long. The large greens are tiered and undulating. The Zaharias Course is shorter but still hilly with plenty of trouble. If you have an A game, bring it to Zaharias. ihgolfclub.com // 626 810-4653 44 // california golf adventure guide courtesy of industry hills golf club at pacific palMs . local aTTracTions: Industry Hills Golf Club at Pacific Palms, 2009 CGCOA Course of the Year Lakeside Golf Club Burbank Hollywood'sGoldenEra'scelebrities'homecourse Sherwood Lake Club Thousand Oaks AspectacularNicklaus-designedpar3 Gently rolling terrain, mature trees and some strong bunkering make this private club course one of the true quiet gems of Southern California. lakesidegolfclub.com // 818 985-3335 Los Angeles Country Club, The Los Angeles Membersonlysince1897 This Jack Nicklaus-designed 18-hole par 3 was designed to complement the memers-only Sherwood Country Club's existing championship course. Sherwood Lake gives Sherwood Country Club members an opportunity to play with their children and work on various aspects of their game. sherwoodlakeclub.com // 805 497-3037 The Los Angeles Country Club is a membersonly club with two courses. The North Course is one of the country's top three dozen courses. Its strong, rolling fairways are highlighted by superb bunkering, great flow and balance of holes. The South Course is similar in style, but much less demanding and not as long. thelacc.org // 310 276-6104 Malibu Country Club Malibu Malibu'smostwanteddailyfeecourse Set in the canyons of Malibu, you will find the front nine narrow with lots of trees, undulation and out-of-bounds. The back nine is much more forgiving. malibucountryclub.net // 818 889-6680 Simi Hills Golf Course Simi Valley AbeautifulTedRobinsondesignwithexceptional practicefacilities Griffith Park Observatory Royal Vista Golf Club Walnut Newownershipandmanagementpavesthewayfor excitingimporovements This club has three nine-hole courses allowing three different 18-hole combinations: East/North, North/South and South/East. All the courses have moderate elevation changes, and plenty of mature trees line the fairways. Water comes into play on several holes, and many of the greens are elevated. There are quite a few doglegs, so tee-shot placement is key to scoring well. larv.com // 909 595-7441 This is a popular, rolling course with a good variety of holes. With lots of trees and rough, hitting it in the fairway is imperative. The greens are slower than they appear, and many golfers make the mistake of reading too much break. Great practice facilities with a lighted driving range and practice putting green, plus chipping and bunker practice areas. simihillsgolf.com // 805 522-0803 TPC Valencia Valencia Members-onlyTournamentPlayersClubcourse designedbyMarkO'Meara Sherwood Country Club Thousand Oaks HomeoftheTigerWoodsFoundation/Chevron WorldChallengeTournament Built on the site of the original Robin Hood movie and the M*A*S*H TV show, this Nicklaus design is dominated by its oaks, surrounding homes and hillside views. A members-only club, Sherwood has been the site of several TV-oriented golf competitions. sherwoodcountryclub.com // 805 496-3036 Scenic vistas and more than 1,200 beautiful oaks highlight this property that features wide fairways and gently sloping greens. Bowled fairways and greens tend to be forgiving, but don't discount a strong finishing stretch beginning at the 14th hole. Use of range and cart are included in green fees. Although you can't carry your own bag, you can walk using a power walking cart. tpcvalencia.com // 661 288-7925 powered by the california golf course owners association // 45 San Diego Oceanside Carlsbad Escondido San Diego local aTTracTions: Beaches GaslampQuarter Legoland SanDiegoZoo SeaWorld Hole #17 at Encinitas Ranch Golf Course aiden bradley golfcoursephotography.coM Bonita Golf Club Bonita Homeofthehappygolfer Escondido Country Club Escondido Fun&friendly.Formerlymembersonly, nowsemi-private airPorTs SanDiego InternationalAirport(SAN) This is a level, straightforward, tree-lined course. There is a river that comes into play on five holes and a lake that comes into play on another two. The greens are flat and there are no blind shots. bonitagolfclub.com // 619 267-1103 Encinitas Ranch Golf Course Encinitas AfuncourseoverlookingthePacificOcean This is a flowing, open course near the coast that affords excellent views. To score well at Encinitas Ranch, you will need to do two things: first, play in the morning--the afternoon wind will add several strokes to your score. Second, don't go left unless you like re-teeing. The greens are on the stiff side, but putt extremely true and you can attack them in a variety of ways. jcgolf.com // 760 944-1936 Nestled in the foothills of northern San Diego County, this is a rolling course with mature trees throughout. Although not long, some of the holes require precise shot-making. Your driver may not always be the answer. Hazards in the form of a creek come into play on several holes. The greens are not severely undulating, but can be tricky. escondidocc.com // 760 743-3301 La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club Spindrift Golf Course La Jolla Nineholesofsunandfun Spindrift is a 9-hole par-3 course. It is designed for beginners and low handicappers alike. Available to club members and hotel guests only. ljbtc.com // 877 346-6714 46 // california golf adventure guide Lake San Marcos Country Club San Marcos Afavoriteexecutivecourse Sail Ho Golf Club San Diego Apieceofhistory,recentlyredesigned Lake San Marcos has two 18-hole courses: the public, executive-length South Course and the private North Course. The North Course is a level, parkland-style course with plenty of trees. Conquer the large greens and you can score well here. It's also open to resort guests. lakesanmarcosresort.com // 760 744-9092 Originally the San Diego Country Club, Sail Ho is a short, par-3 executive course. The course is open, with bunkers on every hole but one. Architect Cary Bickler recently redesigned the fairways, greens and practice facilities. Sail Ho also boasts a new clubhouse. sailhogolf.com // 619 222-4653 Mt. Woodson Golf Club Voted"BestScenery"(SanDiegogolfcourse) --Southland Golf Magazine Salt Creek Golf Club Chula Vista Ruggedlybeautifullocationandfuncourse Ramona Despite its modest length, this is an entertaining and popular layout with no parallel fairways. The views and unique bridges are worth the price of admission. Tight and tough. mtwoodsongc.com // 760 788-3555 Oaks North Golf Course San Diego OneofAmerica'sTopShortCourses(NorthCourse) --GolfRangeMagazine Surrounded by the nature preserve of the Mt. Miguel foothills, this scenic course features many elevation changes, wide fairways, natural grasses and dramatic bunkering. Devoid of trees, it is not too long on the card, but you will find yourself hitting most all of your clubs. The greens are open in the front, making the layout quite playable. Carts are mandatory and are included in greens fees. saltcreekgc.com // 619 482-4666 StoneRidge Country Club Poway TedRobinson-designedchampionshipcourse Oaks North has three 9-hole courses, played in 18-hole combinations: North, South and East. These are well-conditioned executive courses with short par 4s that will tempt you to use your driver. If you are interested in scoring well, leave your ego at home and the driver in your bag. The par 3s range from just over a hundred yards to just over 200 yards. jcgolf.com // 858 487-3021 StoneRidge, a private club, is part of a housing development, so players who tend to hit the ball long and wrong will find themselves in the trees or out-of-bounds. The front nine is fairly level but the back nine is mountain goat territory. The greens are average size and undulating. stoneridgeclub.com Rancho Bernardo Inn San Diego SanDiego'slegendarygolfresort Torrey Pines Golf Course La Jolla Hostofthe2008U.S.Open Rancho Bernardo is an attractive resort course set in a valley and surrounded by homes. It is extremely playable with generous fairways and has hosted both PGA and LPGA events. It is dotted with trees and has an occasional lateral water hazard. This is a traditional layout without gimmicks. The highly esteemed resort has received numerous awards. ranchobernardoinn.com // 858 385-8733 The North Course is the shorter and the easier of the two courses. The South Course is probably the best known of San Diego courses, due to a PGA Tour stop. The course is relatively roomy, exposed to the wind, with small, well-guarded greens and sweeping vistas of the Pacific. torreypinesgolfcourse.com // 877 581-7171 Twin Oaks Golf Course San Marcos Apicturesquegolfchallenge Reidy Creek Golf Course Escondido Executivelength,championshipfeel Reidy Creek gives you a championship course feel at a fraction of the size. This 18-hole executive course plays through a natural valley with rolling terrain. The fairways are narrow and the greens undulating. jcgolf.com // 760 740-2450 The front nine is narrow, with out-of-bounds lurking for the player who hits the ball long and right. The back nine is more spacious. Throughout your round, you will encounter well-placed traps, undulating greens, and water. Carts are included and mandatory. jcgolf.com // 760 591-4700 powered by the california golf course owners association // 47 Out-of-State Kailua Honolulu Hilo HAWAII Phoenix Mesa Tucson ARIZONA local aTTracTions: ARIZONA GrandCanyon OldTownScottsdale MLBSpringTraining TaliesinWest Tombstone HAWAII Beaches Hiking Snorkeling Surfing The 8th hole of the Raptor Course at Grayhawk Golf Club in Arizona lonna tucker Arizona Biltmore Country Club Phoenix, AZ "JeweloftheDesert" Challenge at Manele, The Lana'i, HI "Top100GolfResorts"--Cond� Nast Traveler Adjacent to the spectacular Arizona Biltmore resort, you'll find two challenging courses: The Adobe and The Links. Restored in 2004, The Adobe offers extra challenges with wide fairways and classic cross-bunkers. On The Links, you'll find rolling fairways, five lakes and desert ravines that demand bold shots and accuracy. arizonabiltmore.com // 602 955-9655 This Jack Nicklaus-designed course features the five-tee concept to challenge even the best golfers with precise tee shots over natural gorges and ravines. The average golfer will enjoy the beautiful vistas without suffering limitations on distance and accuracy. Carved out of the rugged coast, this course sprawls across lava fields. golfonlanai.com // 808 565-2222 Koele, The Experience at Lana'i, HI GoldMedalResort--Golf Magazine airPorTs PhoenixSkyHarbor InternationalAirport(PHX) Tucson InternationalAirport(TUS) Honolulu InternationalAirport(HNL) LanaiAirport(LNY) Designed by Greg Norman and Ted Robinson, the front 9 plays through ravines wooded with pine, koa and eucalyptus trees. Water features are everywhere: seven lakes, streams with cascading waterfalls and one green that is completely surrounded by a lake. The first seven holes of the back nine are at an altitude of 2,000 feet. golfonlanai.com // 808 565-4653 48 // california golf adventure guide Eagle Mountain Golf Club . "Top50PublicCoursesintheCountry" --Golf World2009Reader'sPoll Fountain Hills, AZ Just outside Scottsdale, Eagle Mountain boasts spectacular views of the valley below. The course weaves through shaded box canyons and around mountain peaks in this scenic corner of the Sonoran Desert. eaglemtn.com // 480 816-1234 Grayhawk Golf Club Scottsdale, AZ "Top100YouCanPlayintheU.S."(Talon) --Golf Magazine Grayhawk is home to two exceptional courses: Talon and Raptor. Located in the Sonoran Desert, both courses offer unique challenges. The back nine of Talon was built around a series of deep box canyons and the greens are typically generous. Raptor flows over gentle hills with generous fairways, with strategically-placed bunkers providing ample challenge. The greens tend to be undulating and large. grayhawkgolf.com // 480 502-1800 Sierra Vista, AZ dick durrance courtesy of the wigwaM Pueblo del Sol Country Club Semi-privatecountryclubinCochiseCounty Near the foothills of the Huachuca Mountains, Pueblo del Sol offers some of the best putting surfaces around. They offer high elevations and bentgrass fairways and greens. Close to historic Tombstone and Kartchner Caverns. pdscountryclub.com // 520 378-6444 Wigwam, The . Litchfield Park, AZ "BestSouthwestGolfResortforBuddyTripsand FamilyTrips"--Travel + Leisure Golf The Wigwam is home to three 18-hole championship golf courses set in the West Valley of Phoenix. It is a great experience for families or a buddy trip. Two of the courses were designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr.: the famed Gold Course ("Arizona's Monster") and the Patriot. wigwamresort.com // 800 909-4224 Western Skies Golf Club Gilbert, AZ Wherethelocalsbringtheirfriends With a view of the Superstition Mountains, Western Skies is all about the pure enjoyment of the game. Well-manicured greens and good friends to challenge you on the course make for an enjoyable outing. westernskiesgolf.com // 480 545-8542 powered by the california golf course owners association // 49 In the Loop 2004 Pasatiempo Golf Club* bay area Some of our favorites California Golf Course Owners Association's Courses of the Year 2001 Pebble Beach Golf Links central coast 2002 San Juan Oaks Golf Club central coast 2003 Boulder Creek Golf and CC bay area 2005 Poppy Hills Golf Course central coast 2006 Cinnabar Hills Golf Club bay area 2007 Stevinson Ranch Golf Club central valley 2008 Tustin Ranch Golf Club orange county 2009 Industry Hills Golf Club at Pacific Palms* la 2010 Hidden Valley Golf Club* inland empire Tustin Ranch Golf Club, 2008 CGCOA Course of the Year For the past two years, the California Golf Course Owners Association's Course of the Year has also been awarded the national title. Hidden Valley is the current possessor of this prestigious honor. * national golf association golf course of the year 50 // california golf adventure guide breck rothage courtesy of Joann dost Joanndost.coM After the Snow Melts Best known for their skiing, these four popular resorts host some of California's most demanding and scenic courses. Favorite Ocean Courses From North to South, the California coast provides golfers with both beauty and a challenge. There are ocean courses that fit every price range. Spyglass Hill Golf Course The Golf Courses at Incline Village high sierra Mount Shasta Resort shasta cascade Northstar-at-Tahoe Resort high sierra Resort at Squaw Creek high sierra The New Links at Bodega Harbour north coast For as little at $45 during the week, you can play this tricky, demanding ocean course. Several of the holes will still have you talking for weeks to follow. Half Moon Bay Golf Links bay area Monarch Beach Golf Links orange county Pebble Beach Golf Links central coast courtesy of Mount shasta resort golf course Pelican Hill Golf Club orange county The Links at Spanish Bay central coast Spyglass Hill Golf Course central coast Torrey Pines Golf Course san diego powered by the california golf course owners association // 51 25 of our Favorite California Resort Courses California has an abundance of world-class golf resorts, which range from the affordable to the opulent. Start Here 10 starter courses that even the better player wouldn't mind playing. Bing Maloney Golf Course gold country Deep Cliff Golf Course bay area Fairgrounds Golf Course north coast Peter Hay Golf Course central coast Pruneridge Golf Club bay area Rancho del Pueblo Golf Course bay area Rancho Sierra Golf Course desert Sebastopol Golf Course north coast Wikiup Golf Course north coast Vintner's Golf Club bay area Alisal Guest Ranch & Resort central coast Hole 9, Alisal Guest Ranch & Resort Superb location, excellent golf and an abundance of family activities might make Alisal, pound for pound, California's best golf and entertainment facility. Aliso Creek Inn and Golf Course orange county Boulder Creek Golf and Country Club bay area Furnace Creek Golf Course desert Greenhorn Creek Resort gold country Industry Hills Golf Club at Pacific Palms la Little River Inn Golf north coast Meadowood bay area Monarch Beach Golf Links orange county Mount Shasta Resort shasta cascade Northstar-at-Tahoe Resort high sierra Pala Mesa Golf Resort inland empire Pebble Beach Golf Links central coast Journey at Pechanga inland empire Pelican Hill Golf Club orange county Rancho Bernardo Inn Golf Resort & Spa san diego Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa desert Resort at Squaw Creek high sierra Double Your Pleasure (or pain) With the price of fuel, jumping from one course in the morning to another in the afternoon can be an expensive proposition. Here are 18 courses worth considering next time you want to catch a quick 36 holes. Alisal Guest Ranch & Resort central coast Bayonet & Blackhorse Golf Courses central coast Cimarron Golf Resort desert Foxtail Golf Club north coast Half Moon Bay Golf Links bay area Haggin Oaks Golf Complex gold country The Golf Courses at Incline Village high sierra Industry Hills Golf Club at Pacific Palms la Lake San Marcos Resort & Country Club san diego Los Serranos Country Club inland empire Menifee Lakes Country Club inland empire Pelican Hill Golf Club orange county River Ridge Golf Club central coast Silverado Resort and Spa bay area Torrey Pines Golf Course san diego Oakmont Golf Club north coast Sunol Valley Golf Club bay area Tukwet Canyon Golf Club inland empire courtesy of alisal guest ranch & resort Saddle Creek Resort gold country Silverado Resort and Spa bay area SilverRock Resort desert Sonoma Golf Club (Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn) north coast The Links at Spanish Bay central coast Stevinson Ranch Golf Club central valley Temecula Creek Inn Golf Resort inland empire Nine Hole Masterpieces Aliso Creek Inn and Golf Course orange county Gleneagles GC at McLaren Park bay area Old Brockway Golf Course high sierra courtesy of greenhorn creek resort Northwood Golf Club north coast Vintner's Golf Club bay area Greenhorn Creek Resort 52 // california golf adventure guide Where the Pros & Celebrities Play Here are 10 public access California Courses that have hosted PGA, LPGA or Celebrity Pro-Ams. Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course high sierra On a course set lakeside, Edgewood has been the home of the American Century Celebrity Golf Championship for over 20 years. Pebble Beach Golf Links central coast Poppy Hills Golf Course central coast Rancho Bernardo Inn Golf Resort & Spa san diego Silverado Resort and Spa bay area SilverRock Resort desert courtesy of boulder creek golf & country club Sonoma Golf Club (Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn) north coast Spyglass Hill Golf Course central coast The Course at Wente Vineyards bay area Torrey Pines Golf Course san diego The famed 18th green at Pebble Beach Golf Links Spas A California Golf vacation is not complete with out a visit to one of our legendary Spas. Here are 14 of our favorite golf/spa combinations. Alisal Guest Ranch & Resort central coast Meadowood bay area courtesy of chris talbot talbotiMages.coM Industry Hills Golf Club at Pacific Palms la A luxurious spa day does not get any better than this. Meadowood is set in the heart of the Napa wine country on a 250-acre estate. Pebble Beach Golf Links central coast Journey at Pechanga inland empire Monarch Beach Golf Links orange county Mount Shasta Resort shasta cascade Northstar-at-Tahoe (Ritz-Carlton) high sierra Pelican Hill Golf Club orange county Rancho Bernardo Inn Golf Resort & Spa san diego Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa desert Silverado Resort and Spa bay area Sonoma Golf Club (Fairmont Sonoma Mission Inn) north coast Resort at Squaw Creek high sierra Great Values Bennett Valley Golf Club north coast Elkin Ranch Golf Course central coast Hidden Valley Golf Club inland empire Morro Bay Golf Course central coast Poppy Hills Golf Course (NCGA members) central coast Poppy Ridge Golf Course (NCGA members) bay area Ridgemark Golf & Country Club central coast powered by the california golf course owners association // 53 The spectacular view from Oak Quarry's 14th tee Tweetable Holes Here are five holes that will have you reaching for your smart phone to tell the world. In 140 characters or less. Chardonnay Golf Club #8 bay area Half Moon Bay Golf Links (Old Course) #18 bay area Oak Quarry Golf Club #14 inland empire Old Greenwood Golf Club #6 high sierra Spyglass Hill Golf Course #4 central coast Bring Your GPS These tracks may not be right off the freeway, but all five of the courses listed below are well worth the journey. Greenhorn Creek Resort gold country Ridgemark Golf & Country Club central coast Saddle Creek Resort gold country San Juan Oaks Golf Club central coast Stevinson Ranch Golf Club is off the beaten path but worth the trip. courtesy of steVinson ranch golf club Stevinson Ranch Golf Club central valley 54 // california golf adventure guide courtesy of oak Quarry golf club We salute the following courses for their commitment to conservation and the environment. According to Audubon International, the following courses "protect our environment and preserve the natural heritage of the game of golf." For more information, please visit golfandenvironment.org. Certified Audubon Cooperative Sanctuaries Bartley Cavanaugh Golf Course gold country Bing Maloney Golf Course gold country Callippe Preserve Golf Course bay area Cherry Island Golf Course gold country Coyote Hills Golf Course orange county Coyote Moon Golf Course high sierra Crystal Springs Golf Course bay area Dairy Creek Golf Course central coast Deep Cliff Golf Course bay area Del Monte Golf Course central coast Eureka Golf Course north coast Fountaingrove Golf & Athletic Club north coast Furnace Creek Golf Course desert Haggin Oaks Golf Complex gold country The Golf Courses at Incline Village high sierra Little River Inn north coast Los Lagos Golf Course bay area Metropolitan Golf Links bay area Monarch Beach Golf Links orange county Morro Bay Golf Course central coast Napa Golf Course at Kennedy Park bay area Northstar-at-Tahoe Resort Golf Course high sierra Old Brockway Golf Course high sierra Pasatiempo Golf Club bay area Pebble Beach Golf Links central coast Rancho del Pueblo Golf Course bay area Resort at Squaw Creek high sierra Ridgemark Golf & Country Club central coast Riverside Golf Course central valley The Links at Spanish Bay central coast Spyglass Hill Golf Course central coast Tahoe Donner Golf Course high sierra TPC Stonebrae bay area Tukwet Canyon Golf Club inland empire Valley Oaks Golf Course central valley The Course at Wente Vineyards bay area rita crane courtesy of chris talbot, talbotiMages.coM Certified Audubon Signature Sanctuaries The highest level of commitment to the environment, per Audubon International, the below courses are "designed for the environment" and ensure application of "sustainable resource management practices in the long-term development of the property." Cypress Ridge Golf Club central coast The Golf Club at Gray's Crossing high sierra Old Greenwood Golf Course high sierra Stevinson Ranch Golf Club central valley Mather Golf Course gold country courtesy of courseco top: Crystal Springs Golf Course above: The Golf Club at Gray's Crossing left: Little River Inn powered by the california golf course owners association // 55 Steep Slope Ahead: >145 from the tips Some of the courses listed below are famous, others just infamous, but all of them will push the low handicapper's game to the edget. Fairways and Trails For the golfer who likes to mountain bike, or the mountain biker who likes to golf, here are some great layouts not far from some spectacular mountain bike trails. Old Greenwood Golf Course high sierra The Ranch Golf Club bay area Redhawk Golf Course inland empire The Links at Spanish Bay central coast Spyglass Hill Golf Course central coast There is much debate as to why Spyglass is not considered for a U.S. Open, although everyone can agree on this: Spyglass is one tough golf course, no matter what set of tees you choose. Aliso Creek Inn & Golf Course orange county 8 miles to Wood Canyon Trail Bennett Valley Golf Club north coast CrossCreek Golf Club The Golf Club at Rancho California Temecula Creek Inn inland empire 3 miles to Annadel State Park santa rosa All about 30 miles to San Juan Trail lake elsinore 9 miles to Mr. Toad's Wild Ride south lake tahoe Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course high sierra The Course at Wente Vineyards bay area Meadowood bay area Family Golf Ten courses that combine value, price and fun golf 10 miles to Oat Hill Road Trail calistoga Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa desert 35 miles to Hurkey Creek Park idyllwild Bass Lake Golf Course gold country Boulder Creek Golf and Country Club bay area Boundary Oak Golf Course bay area Eureka Golf Course north coast Hidden Valley Golf Club inland empire courtesy of napa Valley destination council Foxtail Golf Club north coast There is a reason Hidden Valley Golf Club was named the 2010 California Association Course of the Year. Their commitment to affordable family golf is second to none. Las Positas Golf Course bay area Los Lagos Golf Course bay area Oakmont Golf Club north coast Royal Vista Golf Club los angeles 56 // california golf adventure guide How Low Can You Go? You may never have the game to shoot under par, but you do have an opportunity to play the lowest course on the face of the earth. Furnace Creek Golf Course desert-- 250 feet below sea level Classics You Can Play Alister MacKenzie Courses Haggin Oaks (MacKenzie course)gold country Northwood Golf Club north coast Pasatiempo Golf Course bay area Jack Fleming Courses Boulder Creek Golf & Country Club bay area Robert Trent Jones, Sr. Courses The Golf Courses at Incline Village high sierra The Golf Club at Rancho California inland empire Spyglass Hill Golf Course central coast William P. Bell Courses Altadena Golf Course los angeles Furnace Creek Golf Course desert Riverside Golf Course central valley Torrey Pines Golf Course san diego Wedding Locales Golf courses can be the perfect venue for a wedding; here are some of our favorite courses that offer a superb location for that special day. Furnace Creek Resort Golf and Wine Pairings NAPA Cabernet Sauvignon is king in Napa, but they have so much more to offer. With the San Pablo Bay cooling it down at night, the Carneros appellation in southern Napa is home to beautiful pinot noir and chardonnay. Aliso Creek Inn and Golf Course orange county Black Golf Golf Club orange county Chardonnay Golf Club bay area Cinnabar Hills Golf Club bay area Crystal Springs Golf Course bay area Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course high sierra Old Ranch Country Club orange county The Ranch Golf Club bay area San Juan Oaks Golf Club central coast Sherwood Country Club los angeles Silverado Resort and Spa bay area Temecula Creek Inn inland empire courtesy of napa Valley destination council courtesy of chris talbot, talbotiMages.coM SONOMA COUNTY What do wine fans appreciate most about Sonoma County? The diversity of the varietals. One is hardpressed to find something that doesn't grow well in some corner of Sonoma County. If time is an issue, choose northern Sonoma County. Healdsburg is the meeting place of three appellations: Russian River Valley, Dry Creek Valley and Alexander Valley. TEMECULA VALLEY Temecula Valley is southern California's wine country and maybe California's best kept secret. This up-andcoming region is comprised of mostly small, familyowned wineries. Whether tasting sauvignon blanc, chardonnay or cabernet, you will find the tasting rooms relaxed, friendly and leisurely paced. CENTRAL COAST The Central Coast is an expansive wine area that includes the entire central coast of California, which includes dozens of AVAs. Rhone varietals (think syrah) are a highlight of the Paso Robles area while beautiful pinot noir is grown all along the coast, from Monterey through Santa Barbara. Stag's Leap powered by the california golf course owners association // 57 courtesy of furnace creek resort courtesy of tiM Mazzaferro, tiM Mazzaferro.coM Cruise Around the Lake Circle Lake Tahoe clockwise, starting in the south Hwy. 50, Hwy. 89, Hwy. 28 Car of choice: '67 Mustang Roads: Plenty of twist and turns, cruising is the operative word. With plenty of other vacationers, don't plan on being in a hurry. Total driving distance: 49.1 Coastal California Cruising Hwy. 1, Northern California Car of choice: 1962 Corvette Roads: Windy, along the northern California coast. This road is not for the faint of heart or those who get carsick. Total driving distance: 115 miles Courses along the way: Little River Inn Golf, The Sea Ranch Golf Links, The New Links at Bodega Harbour Courses along the way: Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course, Tahoe City Golf Course, Old Brockway Golf Course, The Golf Courses at Incline Village Off the lake: Resort at Squaw Creek, North Star at Tahoe Resort, The Golf Club at Gray's Crossing, Coyote Moon Golf Course Expense report: A good mix of high-end and reasonably priced courses along the way. courtesy of tiM Mazzaferro, tiM Mazzaferro.coM Sticks & Surf Surf in the morning, golf in the afternoon Car of choice: Woody Roads: A mix of freeway and coastal roads, you can't go wrong with this drive, just give yourself plenty of time to enjoy the scenery. Total driving distance: 481 miles Blacks Beach Torrey Pines Golf Course san diego Aliso Beach Park Aliso Creek Inn & Golf Course orange county Expense report: Nothing is ever free, but this is pretty darn close. You can play three interesting coastal courses that are half the price of some of the other California coastal gems. courtesy of tiM Mazzaferro Cruising the San Diego Freeway I-5 all the way Car of choice: '65 Chevy Malibu Roads: freeway, freeway and more freeway Total driving distance: 92 miles Courses along the way: Torrey Pines Golf Course, Encinitas Ranch Golf Course, San Juan Hills Golf Club, Monarch Beach Golf Links, Strawberry Farms Golf Club, Oak Creek Golf Club, Tustin Ranch Golf Club Expense report: There is a wide range of courses along the 5 so it all depends how you are feeling that day. 17-Mile Drive 17-Mile Drive, Central Coast Car of choice: '48 Chevy Truck, Roads: Scenic, confusing, wooded drive Total driving distance: 4.6 miles Courses along the way: Pebble Beach Golf Links, Spyglass Hill Golf Course, Poppy Hills Golf Course (the old AT&T Pro-Am rotation). Alternate courses: Del Monte Golf Course, The Links at Spanish Bay Expense report: This is a once in a lifetime trip, expensive but for the passionate golfer worth every penny. Morro Rock Morro Bay Golf Club central coast Steamer Lane Pasatiempo Golf Club bay area Expense report: The surfing is free and you'll find the greens fees range from moderate to high-end. 58 // california golf adventure guide courtesy of tiM Mazzaferro, tiM Mazzaferro.coM Alisal Guest Ranch & Resort Aliso Creek Inn and Golf Course Altadena Golf Course Anaheim Hills Golf Course Ancil Hoffman Golf Course Angel Park Golf Club Apple Valley Country Club Arizona Biltmore Country Club Arrowhead Country Club Auburn Valley Golf Club Bartley Cavanaugh Golf Course Bass Lake Golf Course Bayonet and Blackhorse Golf Courses Bear Creek Golf Club Bennett Valley Golf Club Bing Maloney Golf Course Black Gold Golf Club Black Oak Golf Course Bodega Harbour, The New Links at Bonita Golf Club Boulder Creek Golf and Country Club Boundary Oak Golf Course Callippe Preserve Golf Course Chalk Mountain Golf Course Challenge at Manele, The Chardonnay Golf Club Cherry Island Golf Course Cimarron Golf Resort Cinnabar Hills Golf Club Coyote Hills Golf Course Coyote Moon Golf Course CrossCreek Golf Club Crystal Springs Golf Course Cypress Ridge Golf Club D'Andrea Golf Club Dairy Creek Golf Course DarkHorse Golf Club Deep Cliff Golf Course Del Monte Golf Course Eagle Glen Golf Club Eagle Mountain Golf Club Eagle Ridge Golf Club Eagle Vines Vineyards & Golf Club Eaton Canyon Golf Course Edgewood Tahoe Golf Course Elkins Ranch Golf Course Encinitas Ranch Golf Course Index resort resort public public public public public resort Members only public public public public Members only public public public public public public resort public public public resort semi-private public public public public public public public public semi-private public public public public public public public public public public public public central coast orange county los angeles orange county gold country desert inland empire out-of-state inland empire gold country gold country gold country central coast inland empire north coast gold country orange county gold country north coast san diego bay area bay area bay area central coast out-of-state bay area gold country desert bay area orange county high sierra inland empire bay area central coast high sierra central coast gold country bay area central coast inland empire out-of-state central coast bay area los angeles high sierra central coast san diego 805 688-4215 949 499-1919 626 797-3821 714 998-3041 916 482-3284 888 446-5358 760 242-3125 602 955-9655 909 882-1735 530 269-1837 916 665-2020 530 677-4653 831 899-7271 951 677-8631 707 528-3673 916 433-2283 714 961-0060 530 878-1900 707 875-3538 619 267-1103 831 338-2121 925 934-4775 925 426-6666 805 466-8848 808 565-2222 707 257-1900 916 991-6875 760 770-6060 408 323-7815 714 672-6800 530 587-0886 800 506-3402 650 342-4188 805 474-7979 775 331-6363 805 782-8060 530 269-7900 408 253-5357 831 373-2700 951 272-4653 480 816-1234 408 846-4531 707 257-4470 626 794-6773 775 588-3566 805 524-1221 760 944-1936 alisal.com alisocreekinn.com dcgolf.info playanaheimgolf.com golfancilhoffman.com angelpark.com applevalleycountryclub.com arizonabiltmore.com arrowheadcc.org auburnvalleygc.com bartleycavanaugh.com basslakegolfcourse.com bayonetblackhorse.com bearcreekgc.com www.bvgolf.org bingmaloney.com blackgoldgolf.com bodegaharbourgolf.com bonitagolfclub.com bouldercreekgolf.com playboundaryoak.com playcallippe.com chalkmountaingolf.com golfonlanai.com chardonnaygolfclub.com golfcherryisland.com cimarrongolf.com cinnabarhills.com coyotehillsgc.com coyotemoongolf.com crosscreekgolfclub.com playcrystalsprings.com cypressridge.com dandreagolf.com centralcoastgolf.com darkhorsegolf.com playdeepcliff.com pebblebeach.com eagleglengc.com eaglemtn.com eagleridgegc.com eaglevinesgolfclub.com dcgolf.info edgewoodtahoe.com elkinsranchgc.com jcgolf.com powered by the california golf course owners association // 59 Escondido Country Club Eureka Golf Course Fairgrounds Golf Course Fig Garden Golf Club Forebay Golf Course Fountaingrove Golf & Athletic Club Foxtail Golf Club Friendly Hills Country Club Furnace Creek Golf Course Gleneagles GC at McLaren Park Gray's Crossing, The Golf Club at Grayhawk Golf Club Green River Golf Club Greenhorn Creek Resort Haggin Oaks Golf Complex Half Moon Bay Golf Links Hidden Valley Golf Club Hunter Ranch Golf Course Incline Village, The Golf Courses at Indian Valley Golf Club Industry Hills Golf Club at Pacific Palms Journey at Pechanga Koele, The Experience at La Jolla Beach & Tennis Club, Spindrift GC La Purisima Golf Course Lake San Marcos Resort & Country Club semi-private public public semi-private public Members only public Members only resort public semi-private public public resort public public public public public public public resort resort resort public resort/semi-private san diego north coast north coast central Valley central Valley north coast north coast los angeles desert bay area high sierra out-of-state inland empire gold country gold country bay area inland empire central coast high sierra bay area los angeles inland empire out-of-state san diego central coast san diego 760 746-4212 707 443-4808 707 284-3520 559 439-2928 209 826-3637 707 579-4653 707 584-7766 562 698-0331 760 786-2301 415 587-2425 530 550-5800 480 502-1800 714 970-8411 209 729-8111 916 808-2525 650 726-4438 951 737-1010 805 237-7444 775 832-1146 415 897-1118 626 810-4653 866 991-7277 808 565-4653 877 346-6714 805 735-8395 760 744-1310 escondidocc.com playeureka.com fairgroundsgolfcourse.com figgardengolf.com forebaygolfcourse.com fountaingrovegolf.com playfoxtail.com friendlyhillscc.com furnacecreekresort.com gleneaglesgolfsf.com oldgreenwoodgolf.com grayhawkgolf.com playgreenriver.com greenhorncreek.com hagginoaks.com halfmoonbaygolf.com hiddenvalleygolf.com hunterranchgolf.com golfincline.com indianvalleygolfclub.com ihgolfclub.com journeyatpechanga.com golfonlanai.com ljbtc.com lapurisimagolf.com lakesanmarcosresort.com 60 // california golf adventure guide Lakeside Golf Club Las Positas Golf Course Legacy Golf Club, The Little River Inn Golf Los Angeles Country Club, The Los Lagos Golf Course Los Serranos Country Club Malibu Country Club Mather Golf Course Meadowood Menifee Lakes Country Club Metropolitan Golf Links Monarch Beach Golf Links Monarch Dunes Golf Club Monterey Peninsula Country Club Morro Bay Golf Course Mount Shasta Resort Golf Course Mountain Falls Golf Club Mt. Woodson Golf Club Napa Golf Course at Kennedy Park Napa Valley Country Club Northstar-at-Tahoe Resort Golf Course Northwood Golf Club Oak Creek Golf Club Oak Quarry Golf Club Oakmont Golf Club Oaks North Golf Course Old Brockway Golf Course Old Greenwood Golf Course Old Ranch Country Club Pajaro Valley Golf Club Pala Mesa Golf Resort Pasatiempo Golf Club Peacock Gap Golf Club Pebble Beach Golf Links Pelican Hill Golf Club Peter Hay Golf Course Plumas Lake Golf & Country Club Plumas Pines Golf Resort Ponderosa Golf Course Poppy Hills Golf Course Poppy Ridge Golf Course Pruneridge Golf Club Pueblo del Sol Country Club Ranch Golf Club, The Rancho Bernardo Inn Golf Resort & Spa Rancho California, The Golf Club at Rancho del Pueblo Golf Course Rancho Las Palmas Resort & Spa Rancho Maria Golf Club Rancho Sierra Golf Course Rancho Vista Golf Club Redhawk Golf Course Reidy Creek Golf Course Members only public public resort Members only public public public public resort/Members only semi-private public resort public Members only public resort public public public Members only resort public public public public public public semi-private Members only public resort semi-private public resort resort public semi-private resort public public public public semi-private public resort public public resort public public public public public los angeles bay area desert north coast los angeles bay area inland empire los angeles gold country bay area inland empire bay area orange county central coast central coast central coast shasta cascade desert san diego bay area bay area high sierra north coast orange county inland empire north coast san diego high sierra high sierra orange county central coast inland empire bay area bay area central coast orange county central coast gold country high sierra high sierra central coast bay area bay area out-of-state bay area san diego inland empire bay area desert central coast desert desert inland empire san diego 818 985-3335 925 455-7820 702 897-2187 707 937-5667 310 276-6104 408 361-0250 909 597-1711 818 889-6680 916 364-4354 707 963-3646 951 672-4824 510 569-5555 949 240-8247 805 343-9459 831 372-8141 805 782-8060 530 926-3052 775 537-6553 760 788-3555 707 255-4333 707 252-1114 800 571-6795 707 865-1116 949 653-5300 951 685-1440 707 539-0415 858 487-3021 530 546-9909 530 550-7010 562 596-4611 831 724-3851 800 722-4700 831 459-9155 415 453-4940 800 654-9300 949 467-6800 831 622-8723 530 742-3201 530 836-1420 530 587-3501 831 622-8239 925 447-6779 408 248-4424 520 378-6444 408 270-0557 858 675-8470 951 677-7446 408 347-0990 760 862-4551 805 937-2019 661 946-1080 661 272-9903 951 302-3850 760 740-2450 lakesidegolfclub.com laspositasgolfcourse.com thelegacygc.com littleriverinn.com thelacc.org playloslagos.com losserranoscountryclub.com malibucountryclub.net playmather.com meadowood.com menifee-lakes.com playmetro.com monarchbeachgolf.com monarchdunes.com mpccpb.org centralcoastgolf.com mountshastaresort.com mountainfallsgolfclub.com mtwoodsongc.com playnapa.com napavalleycc.com northstarattahoe.com northwoodgolf.com oakcreekgolfclub.com oakquarry.com oakmontgc.com jcgolf.com oldbrockway.com oldgreenwoodgolf.com oldranch.com pajarovalleygolf.com palamesa.com pasatiempo.com peacockgapgc.com pebblebeach.com pelicanhill.com pebblebeach.com plumaslake.com plumaspinesgolf.com ponderosagolfcoursetruckee.com poppyhillsgolf.com poppyridgegolf.com pruneridgegolfclub.com pdscountryclub.com theranchgc.com ranchobernardoinn.com scgagolfcourse.com ranchodelpueblo.com rancholaspalmas.com ranchomariagolf.com ranchosierragolf.com ranchovistagolfcourse.com redhawkgolfcourse.com jcgolf.com powered by the california golf course owners association // 61 Resort at Squaw Creek Ridgemark Golf & Country Club River Oaks Golf Course River Ridge Golf Club Riverside Golf Course Riverview Golf & Country Club Rooster Run Golf Club Round Hill Country Club Royal Vista Golf Club Saddle Creek Resort Sail Ho Golf Club Salt Creek Golf Club San Juan Hills Golf Club San Juan Oaks Golf Club San Ramon Golf Club Sea Ranch Golf Links, The Sebastopol Golf Course Seven Oaks Country Club Sherwood Country Club Sherwood Lake Club Silverado Resort and Spa SilverRock Resort Simi Hills Golf Course Sonoma Golf Club Spanish Bay, The Links at Spyglass Hill Golf Course Stevinson Ranch Golf Club StoneRidge Country Club StoneTree Golf Club Strawberry Farms Golf Club Sunol Valley Golf Club Tahoe City Golf Course Tahoe Donner Golf Course Temecula Creek Inn Golf Resort Tijeras Creek Golf Club Torrey Pines Golf Course Toscana Country Club TPC Stonebrae TPC Valencia Tukwet Canyon Golf Club Turlock Golf & Country Club Tustin Ranch Golf Club Twin Oaks Golf Course Valley Oaks Golf Course Vineyard Knolls Golf Club of Napa Vintner's Golf Club Wente Vineyards, The Course at Western Skies Golf Club Whitney Oaks Golf Club Wigwam, The Wikiup Golf Course William Land Golf Course Windsor Golf Club Woodhaven Country Club resort semi-private public public public Members only public Members only public resort public public public public public public public Members only Members only Members only resort/Members only resort public resort/Members only resort semi-private resort Members only public public public public semi-private resort public public Members only Members only Members only public Members only public public public Members only public public public public resort public public public semi-private high sierra central coast central Valley central coast central Valley shasta cascade north coast bay area los angeles gold country san diego san diego orange county central coast bay area north coast north coast central Valley los angeles los angeles bay area desert los angeles north coast central coast central coast central Valley san diego bay area orange county bay area high sierra high sierra inland empire orange county san diego desert bay area los angeles inland empire central Valley orange county san diego central Valley bay area bay area bay area out-of-state gold country out-of-state north coast gold country north coast desert 530 581-6637 831 637.8151 209 537-4653 805 983-4653 559 275-5900 530 224-2250 707 778-1211 925 837-7424 909 595-7441 800 611-7722 619 222-4653 619 482-4666 949 493-1167 831 636-6113 925 828-6100 707 785-2468 707 823-9852 661 664-6474 805 496-3036 805 497-3037 707 257-5460 760 777-8884 805 522-0803 707 996-0300 831 647-7495 831 625-8563 209 668-8200 858 487-2117 415 209-6090 949 551-1811 925 862-0414 530 583-1516 530 587-9440 858 675.8470 949 589-9793 858 452-3226 760 772-7000 510 728-7878 661 288-7925 951 845-0014 209 634-4976 714 730-1611 760 591-4653 559 651-1441 707 226-8184 707 944-1992 925 456-2475 480 545-8542 916 632-8333 800 909-4224 707 546-8787 916 277-1207 707 838-7888 760 345-7513 squawcreek.com ridgemark.com riverridge-golfclub.com playriverside.com riverviewgolf.net roosterrun.com rhcountryclub.com larv.com saddlecreek.com sailhogolf.com saltcreekgc.com sanjuanhillsgolf.com sanjuanoaks.com golfsanramon.com searanchvillage.com sevenoakscountryclub.com sherwoodcountryclub.com sherwoodlakeclub.com silveradoresort.com silverrock.org simihillsgolf.com sonomagolfclub.com pebblebeach.com pebblebeach.com stevinsonranch.com stoneridgeclub.com stonetreegolf.com strawberryfarmsgolf.com sunolvalley.com tahoecitygolf.com golftahoedonner.com temeculacreekinn.com tijerascreek.com torreypinesgolfcourse.com toscanacc.com tpcstonebrae.com tpcvalencia.com tukwetcanyon.com turlockcountryclub.com tustinranchgolf.com jcgolf.com playvalleyoaks.com vineyardknolls.com vintnersgolfclub.com wentevineyards.com westernskiesgolf.com whitneyoaksgolf.com wigwamresort.com williamlandgc.com windsorgolf.com woodhavencc.com 62 // california golf adventure guide Where The Fun Starts Now! "Rated No. 5 Best Public Golf Course in America in 2010" by Golf World Readers Choice Awards CENTRAL VALLEY'S BEST STAY & PLAY GOLF PACKAGE, STARTING AT $130. John Harbottle III and George H. Kelley, the Savannah course at Stevinson Ranch is a throwback to the early days of golf architecture in America, importing the character and traditions of the great Scottish Links courses. Imagine waking up and being only steps away from the 1st tee where you will find a truly unique links design course known as the "Jewel of the Valley." Designed by All our Stay and Play Golf Packages include: " " " " " " " *Private Cottage * Golf with Cart * Unlimited use of our Practice Facility* Two Drink Vouchers * Friendly, First-Class Service INFO/RESERVATIONS 877.752.9276 All inquiries to firstname.lastname@example.com www.stevinsonranch.com do you speak Sonoma? SonoMulligan: n. With 18 courses, the ability to play golf in Sonoma Wine Country again and again. Grab your bag and head our way. Get your visitor's guide now: SonomaCounty.com/SpeakSonoma 1-800�576-6662