Did you know Monterey, California has four of Golf Magazine’s Best Public Courses? This amazing fact shows why the Monterey Peninsula is a dream spot for golf lovers everywhere.
The coastal beauty of Monterey makes golfing here unlike anywhere else. Pebble Beach Golf Links and hidden gems in Carmel Valley offer unique challenges. They all have stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
Your golf adventure in Monterey can take you from Sand City’s windy dunes to Big Sur’s rugged cliffs. You’ll find world-class courses that have hosted big tournaments. These courses have tested the skills of golf’s top players.
Playing golf in Monterey, whether at sunrise or sunset, is unforgettable. The golf courses in Monterey offer a unique experience. The mild climate lets you play golf all year, with spring and fall being the best times.
Key Takeaways
- Monterey is home to four of Golf Magazine’s Best Public Courses in California
- The area offers diverse golfing experiences from coastal links to forested fairways
- Pebble Beach Golf Links has hosted multiple U.S. Opens
- Spring and fall provide optimal golfing weather in Monterey
- Year-round golfing is possible due to the region’s mild coastal climate
- Courses like Spyglass Hill and Spanish Bay offer unique design features
The Monterey Peninsula: A Golfing Mecca
The Monterey Peninsula is a golfer’s dream. It has 25 18-hole courses and two nine-hole layouts. This coastal area offers a wide range of golfing experiences. The oldest course west of the Mississippi, Del Monte Golf Course, adds to its rich history.
Driving along 17-Mile Drive, you’ll see stunning views. The road winds through the Del Monte Forest. You’ll catch glimpses of famous courses among the trees and by the coast.
Pebble Beach Golf Links and Pacific Grove Golf Links are just two highlights. Monterey has something for every golfer, no matter their skill or budget. The area has hosted many big tournaments, like U.S. Opens and PGA Championships.
Recent updates at Quail Lodge & Golf Club and Poppy Hills Golf Course focus on the environment. These changes make sure Monterey’s golf is great and sustainable for the future.
Looking for affordable golf? Monterey has options. While Pebble Beach is pricey, Del Monte and Pacific Grove offer great golf at lower costs.
| Course | Morning Tee Time | Afternoon Tee Time |
|---|---|---|
| Pebble Beach Golf Links | $550 | $550 |
| Del Monte Golf Course | $120 | $120 |
| Carmel Valley Ranch Golf Club | $165 (18 holes) | $85 (9 holes) |
| Pacific Grove Golf Links | $75 | $75 |
| Black Horse/Bayonet | $165 | $50 |
| Quail Lodge & Golf Club (Non-guests) | $185 | $125 |
Top 8 Golf Courses in Monterey, California
Monterey’s golf scene is a mix of top public-access courses and exclusive clubs. It’s home to some of the most famous golf layouts in the U.S. Your golf experience here will be unforgettable, with stunning views and tough play.
Course ratings show off design excellence, beautiful scenery, and top-notch conditions. Whether you’re by the coast or inland, Monterey has something for every golfer.
Here’s a look at green fees and tee times for Monterey’s best courses:
| Course Name | Green Fee | Tee Time Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Pebble Beach Golf Links | $550 | Book 18 months in advance |
| Spyglass Hill Golf Course | $395 | Book 18 months in advance |
| The Links at Spanish Bay | $290 | Book 18 months in advance |
| Pasatiempo Golf Club | $275 – $307 | Book 14 days in advance |
| Bayonet Course | $145 | Book 90 days in advance |
| Black Horse Course | $145 | Book 90 days in advance |
| Pacific Grove Golf Links | $40 – $74 | Book 7 days in advance |
| Quail Lodge GC | $195 – $245 | Book 30 days in advance |
These courses offer different challenges and prices. Pebble Beach Golf Links is at the top with its famous coastline holes and high green fee. For those on a budget, Pacific Grove Golf Links is a great choice. It offers ocean views at a lower cost, earning it the nickname “Poor Man’s Pebble Beach.”
Pebble Beach Golf Links: The Crown Jewel
Pebble Beach Golf Links opened in 1919 and is the crown jewel of Monterey’s golf scene. It’s the top-ranked public course in the U.S. and ninth-best globally. Its stunning coastal views and rich history make it a must-play for golf lovers.
Iconic Coastal Views
The course offers breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Several holes hug the coastline. The famous 18th hole, a par-5 along the shore, has seen legendary moments.
Greats like Jack Nicklaus and Tiger Woods have won here against crashing waves.
Major Tournaments
Pebble Beach has hosted many prestigious events. The U.S. Open has been here six times, with three since 2000. The annual AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am is also a highlight, featuring stars and pros.
Green Fees and Booking Information
Playing this iconic course is expensive. Green fees are high, showing its status and demand. Getting a tee time requires planning and often a stay at a Pebble Beach resort.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Green Fees | $550 per player |
| Tee Time Booking | Two days in advance for resort guests |
| Non-Resort Guest Booking | 24 hours in advance, subject to availability |
| Resort Stay Requirement | Minimum $600+ per night for guaranteed advance tee times |
Despite the costs, golfing at Pebble Beach is unmatched. The mix of challenging play, stunning scenery, and walking in the footsteps of legends is unforgettable. It’s a dream destination for many golfers.
Spyglass Hill: A Challenging Robert Trent Jones Sr. Design
Spyglass Hill Golf Course is a masterpiece by Robert Trent Jones Sr. Built in 1966, it combines coastal beauty with woodland challenges.
The course layout is a showcase of Jones Sr.’s design philosophy. It has 4 par-3s, 10 par-4s, and 4 par-5s. The first five holes offer ocean views, while the rest are in dense forest.
Spyglass Hill is known for its tough play. It’s part of the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am. The course has dramatic elevation changes and six doglegs.
Notable holes include “Long John Silver,” a long par-5, and “Tom Morgan,” the shortest par-3. Three holes have ponds, making the game more complex.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Holes | 18 |
| Par-3 Holes | 4 |
| Par-4 Holes | 10 |
| Par-5 Holes | 4 |
| Ocean View Holes | 5 |
| Dogleg Holes | 6 |
| Green Fee | $395 |
For those who love a challenge, Spyglass Hill is unforgettable. The $395 green fee gives you access to this iconic course, where every hole is a test.
The Links at Spanish Bay: Scottish-Inspired Coastal Golf
The Links at Spanish Bay offers a unique coastal golf experience inspired by Scottish traditions. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., Tom Watson, and Sandy Tatum, this course opened in 1987. It has since become a must-play destination for golf enthusiasts.
Unique Features and Design
Spanish Bay boasts 14 holes with breathtaking Pacific Ocean views. This creates a stunning backdrop for your game. The course features 11 holes with challenging bunkers and 5 holes affected by marsh hazards.
With 9 multi-tiered greens and 5 locations featuring significant slopes, putting becomes an exciting challenge.
Evening Bagpiper Tradition
As the sun sets, you’ll experience a unique Scottish tradition. A bagpiper plays along the first fairway at dusk. This adds a touch of authentic charm to your golfing experience.
This nightly ritual creates a magical atmosphere. It blends the beauty of coastal golf with Scottish heritage.
Tee Time Bookings and Rates
To play at The Links at Spanish Bay, you’ll need to plan ahead. Green fees are $290, which includes a shared cart for two players. The course is open year-round, featuring Poa Annua grass on fairways and greens.
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Green Fee | $290 |
| Cart Fee (shared, per two players) | $110 |
While some reviewers mention challenges like narrow fairways and environmental sensitive areas, many appreciate the course’s layout and amenities. Book your tee time in advance to secure your spot on this Scottish-inspired coastal golf gem.
Pasatiempo Golf Club: Alister MacKenzie’s Masterpiece
Pasatiempo Golf Club is in Santa Cruz and is a masterpiece by Alister MacKenzie. Opened in 1929, it’s a 6,500-yard course with a par-70 layout. It’s longer than it looks, with a course rating of 72.3 and a slope of 140 from the championship tees.
The course is known for its rolling terrain and deep barrancas. These natural hazards, along with MacKenzie’s strategic bunkering, make it a challenging course. Golf legend Juli Inkster played here, adding to its rich history.
The third hole is a par-3 of 214 yards from the tips. The 16th hole is a par-4 with a restored triple-tiered green. The final hole is a 169-yard par-3 across a ravine, ending your round with excitement.
| Green Fees | Tee Time Availability |
|---|---|
| $365 | Year-round |
Pasatiempo hosts the Western Intercollegiate Invitational, where Tiger Woods has played. It’s near Monterey Bay, less than an hour from Pebble Beach. It’s a top choice for golf lovers visiting the area.
Cypress Point Club
Cypress Point Club is a top spot for golf on the Monterey Peninsula. It has an 18-hole course that’s 6,536 yards long with a par of 72. The legendary Alister Mackenzie designed it in 1928. It’s often ranked as one of the best golf courses in the world.
The course’s design is a work of art. It has back-to-back par fives, short par fours, and tricky par threes. The layout includes blind shots and unique features. Golf lovers say the stretch from holes thirteen to seventeen is among the best.
The 16th hole is famous for its challenge. It’s a par 3 that requires a 218-yard shot over the Pacific Ocean. This hole tests even the best golfers. The club’s beauty is matched by its exclusivity, with the famous 17-Mile Drive running through it.
| Feature | Detail |
|---|---|
| Course Rating | 72.4 |
| Slope | 136 |
| World Ranking | #2 |
| Membership | 250 total, 75 local |
| Notable Event | 1981 Walker Cup |
Getting to play at Cypress Point is a rare chance. It’s mainly for members and their guests. The club’s costs are split among its members. This ensures top-notch care and exclusivity on the Monterey Peninsula.
Bayonet Course at Bayonet Black Horse: Military Precision
The Bayonet Course at Bayonet Black Horse celebrates golf’s military heritage. It was built in 1954 on the former Fort Ord military base. After a full renovation, it now offers a challenging golf experience.
Course Layout and Challenges
Bayonet’s layout features tight fairways and many dogleg lefts. It has a par 72 and yardages from 5,229 to 7,104 yards. This makes it suitable for all skill levels.
The course has a slope rating of 139 and a course rating of 74.8. It’s considered one of the toughest in the area.
Renovation and Improvements
In 2008, architect Gene Bates renovated the course. He replaced old grasses with Jacklin T1 Bentgrass. This upgrade improved the course’s performance.
Now, the course has fescue-framed fairways and unique bunkers. The bunkers have serrated edges, adding to the course’s character.
Greens Fees and Membership Options
Golfers can play this military-inspired course for $145. Stay-and-play packages are available at local hotels. These packages let golfers fully experience Monterey’s golfing paradise.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Green Fees | $145 |
| Course Rating | 4.7/5 (based on 56 reviews) |
| Staff Friendliness | 4.5/5 |
| Amenities | Bar, Grill, Restaurant, Clubhouse, Banquet Facilities |
| Season | Year-round |
Black Horse Course: The Scenic Sibling
The Black Horse course at Bayonet Black Horse is a beautiful addition to its sibling, Bayonet. It went through a big renovation to attract more golfers. The new par-3 15th hole adds to its beauty and challenge.
Black Horse is not as tough as Bayonet but has amazing views. These views are as good as those in Kona, Hawaii’s golfing paradise. The renovation made it fun for both new and experienced golfers. With 23.42 miles of fairways and greens, there’s lots to see.
Green fees for Black Horse are the same as Bayonet’s at $145. This is great value for such a high-quality course. The new layout is both challenging and beautiful, especially on the 15th hole.
| Course | Green Fees | Tee Times |
|---|---|---|
| Black Horse | $145 | 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Bayonet | $145 | 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Pacific Grove Golf Links | $64 (Weekday), $82 (Weekend) | 6:30 AM – 6:00 PM |
The renovation of Black Horse has made it a top course in Monterey. Its design and views make it a highlight among California’s public golf courses.
Pacific Grove Golf Links: The Poor Man’s Pebble Beach
Pacific Grove Golf Links offers a chance to play golf affordably with amazing ocean views. This 18-hole course is 5,732 yards long. It combines both inland and coastal play.
Affordable Ocean Views
Known as the “Poor Man’s Pebble Beach,” Pacific Grove Golf Links is a great deal. The back nine offers stunning ocean views, just like the expensive courses nearby.
Unique Course Features
The course has two unique nines. The front nine, from 1932, goes through tree-lined fairways. The back nine, added in 1960 by Jack Neville, is by the Pacific.
A highlight is the 10th hole, a par 3 next to the historic Point Pinos lighthouse.
Booking and Pricing Information
Green fees at Pacific Grove Golf Links are very affordable. This makes it a great choice for those looking for quality golf at a good price.
| Day | Resident | Non-Resident |
|---|---|---|
| Weekday | $40 | $65 |
| Weekend | $50 | $74 |
Pacific Grove Golf Links is just 2 miles from Monterey. It offers a fun and accessible golfing experience. With its mix of challenges and beauty, it gets 5-star reviews from many players.
Poppy Hills Golf Course: A Robert Trent Jones Jr. Renovation
Poppy Hills Golf Course is owned by the Northern California Golf Association. It opened in 1986 and was revamped in 2014. This renovation made it a modern gem.
The renovation aimed at being eco-friendly. It used a sand-capping method to improve drainage. This made the course firm and fast all year.
The course has 1800 sprinkler heads and a wireless soil monitor. These features help save water. It shows the course’s dedication to the environment.
Poppy Hills has a layout inspired by Augusta National. The front nine starts with an easy par-5. The back nine is tougher, with longer par-5s.
The 12th hole was redesigned as a par-4. This change made the back nine even more challenging.
The “Amen Corner” is a nod to its famous namesake. It includes the thrilling par-3 11th hole. The 18th hole ends the game with a creek crossing the fairway and green.
| Aspect | Rating (out of 5) |
|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 4.0 |
| Course Conditions | 4.9 |
| Layout | 5.0 |
| Friendliness | 4.3 |
| Amenities | 4.0 |
Poppy Hills is great for golfers of all levels. It combines environmental care with smart design. It’s a top spot to play in Monterey.
Quail Lodge & Golf Club: Carmel Valley’s Charmer
Quail Lodge & Golf Club is a true gem in Carmel Valley. It sits on 850 acres of beautiful fairways and oak-studded meadows. This AAA Four Diamond resort combines luxury with nature’s beauty.
In 2014-15, Todd Echenrode of Origins Golf Design gave the course a fresh look. He added eye-catching bunkers and fairway swales to the 6,464-yard layout. Echenrode made the course more enjoyable for players and improved its looks.
The course features drought-tolerant landscaping. This eco-friendly choice supports California’s water-saving goals. It also makes the course look amazing without harming the environment.
The Lodge has 97 guestrooms and suites. Each room comes with skylights, featherbeds, and plasma-screen TVs. Guests enjoy perks like free wine upon arrival and nightly turndown service.
| Golf Course Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Designer | Robert Muir Graves (1964), Todd Eckenrode (2015 refinement) |
| Course Length | 6,464 yards |
| Awards | “Best Playing Conditions” in Central California since 2016 |
| Lessons | Private, semi-private, and group options available |
| Unique Feature | Complimentary putting course among guest rooms |
For dining, visit Covey Grill. It offers New American cuisine with fresh seafood and steaks. Don’t miss the daily free wine hour in the lobby from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m.
Del Monte Golf Course: Historic Parkland Play
Del Monte Golf Course is a critical part of Monterey’s golf history. It’s the oldest course west of the Mississippi still in play. This Pebble Beach Resorts gem has a classic parkland layout that’s fun for all skill levels.
Course History and Design
Del Monte Golf Course was founded in 1897. It started as a nine-hole course and grew to 18 holes in 1902. It’s hosted big events like the California State Amateur and the 1916 Western Amateur, making it a big deal in West Coast golf.
Playing Experience and Challenges
The 6,365-yard course is a Par 72 with a rating of 71.6 and a slope of 131. It’s not as tough as its coastal friends but still has its own challenges. Narrow fairways and small greens need precision, making it a fun yet challenging game for those visiting Monterey’s best golf courses.
Tee Times and Green Fees
Del Monte Golf Course is a more affordable option compared to Pebble Beach’s famous courses. Here are the rates:
| Time of Day | Weekday Rate | Weekend Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Morning (Before 12 PM) | $110 | $130 |
| Afternoon (12 PM – 2 PM) | $95 | $110 |
| Twilight (After 2 PM) | $75 | $85 |
Tee times can be booked up to 30 days in advance. Pebble Beach Resorts guests get priority. Public bookings open 14 days before the play date.
Carmel Valley Ranch Resort: Pete Dye’s Northern California Gem
Carmel Valley Ranch Resort is set in the Santa Lucia Mountains. It’s the only Pete Dye design in Northern California. The par-70 layout covers 500 acres of beautiful Carmel Valley, mixing challenge and beauty.
The course opened in 1981. It has four tee options, from 6,117 to 4,433 yards. Water hazards affect five holes, with the fourth and fifth being the most challenging.
The front nine starts with a 341-yard hole, offering elevated tees and stunning vineyard views.
The back nine is a favorite among golfers, especially holes 11 through 15. The 11th tee offers unforgettable views. Keep an eye out for local wildlife like quail, rabbits, foxes, and deer.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Course Length | 6,117 yards (longest tees) |
| Par | 70 |
| Signature Holes | 4, 5, 11-15 |
| Views | Vineyards, Santa Lucia Mountains |
Recent investments have improved the course conditions. The finishing holes on each nine are standout features. The 18th hole is an impressive end. For a golf getaway in Northern California, Carmel Valley Ranch Resort is ideal.
Golf Package Deals and Stay-and-Play Options
Monterey’s golf scene has great deals for golf lovers. Pebble Beach Resorts offers a 2023-2024 package. It includes a 3-night stay and 3 rounds of golf for $3,150 per person.
This package lets you play at top courses. You’ll enjoy Pebble Beach Golf Links, Spyglass Hill, and The Links at Spanish Bay. These are ranked high on Golf Digest’s “America’s 100 Greatest Public Courses List.”
For those watching their budget, Quail Lodge & Golf Club in Carmel Valley has a deal. It’s a 3-night, 3-round package starting at $1,300 per person. These packages mix great golf with comfy stays.
Pebble Beach Resorts makes the deal even better with discounts. You get 25% off a fourth night and 50% off a fifth. Plus, returning guests get a free fifth night and a $200 resort credit.
| Package Details | Pebble Beach Resorts | Quail Lodge & Golf Club |
|---|---|---|
| Duration | 3 nights | 3 nights |
| Golf Rounds | 3 | 3 |
| Starting Price (per person) | $3,150 | $1,300 |
| Validity | Feb 3, 2025 – Mar 31, 2025 | Not specified |
| Special Offers | 25% off 4th night, 50% off 5th night | Not specified |
These packages let you play on famous courses like Del Monte Golf Course. It’s among the Top 5 Courses over 100 Years Old. Pebble Beach has a rich history, hosting six U.S. Open Championships. Golfers can follow in the footsteps of legends.
Best Times to Golf in Monterey: Weather and Seasonal Considerations
Monterey’s mild climate makes it perfect for golf all year. Temperatures stay between 55°F and 70°F, ensuring comfortable play. Even in winter, the weather is great for golf, unlike in colder places.
June to August is the best time for golf here, with warm weather. Mountain golf courses are a cool escape during these busy months. Spring and fall are better if you want fewer people and lower prices.
Weather near the coast can change your game. The marine air might make you choose different clubs. Courses like Sharp Park, by Alister MacKenzie, offer special challenges because of the ocean. Always check if the greens are temporary after rain.
Looking to save money? Book weekday tee times. A round at Monterey’s courses usually costs about $84. But prices change with the season and course. Whether you’re a pro or just playing for fun, Monterey has something for everyone.
