Did you know Carmel, California has 25 18-hole courses and two 9-hole courses? This makes it a golfer’s dream spot. The weather is always good for golf, thanks to its mild climate all year.
Carmel has golf for everyone, no matter your skill or budget. You can play at affordable courses or world-class ones. The views are amazing, with cliffs, forests, and parks on every course.
Whether you’re a pro or just play for fun, Carmel’s courses are unforgettable. Imagine playing with the ocean as your backdrop or under tall pines. It’s a place every golfer wants to visit.
Key Takeaways
- Carmel offers 25 18-hole courses and two 9-hole courses near the Monterey Peninsula
- Year-round mild climate makes golf always in season
- Courses range from affordable municipal options to premium experiences
- Diverse landscapes include coastal cliffs, forests, and parklands
- Public courses cater to all skill levels and budgets
- Many courses provide stunning scenic views and unique challenges
- Carmel is a top destination for golf enthusiasts globally
Table of Contents
- 1 Discovering Carmel’s Golfing Treasures
- 2 Quail Lodge & Golf Club: A Renovated Gem
- 3 Carmel Valley Ranch Golf Club: Pete Dye’s Northern California Masterpiece
- 4 Pacific Grove Golf Links: The “Poor Man’s Pebble Beach”
- 5 Pebble Beach Golf Links: The Crown Jewel of Carmel Golf
- 6 Spyglass Hill Golf Course: A Challenging Forest and Dunes Experience
- 7 The Links at Spanish Bay: Coastal Breezes and Bagpipes
- 8 Poppy Hills Golf Course: NCGA’s Newly Renovated Treasure
- 9 Del Monte Golf Course: Historic Golfing in Monterey
- 10 Bayonet and Black Horse: Former Military Courses Turned Public Gems
- 11 Seasonal Considerations for Golfing in Carmel
- 12 Tips for Booking Tee Times and Saving on Green Fees
Discovering Carmel’s Golfing Treasures
Carmel’s golf scene is full of options for golf lovers. With over 20 courses, you can enjoy everything from historic parklands to coastal challenges. Pebble Beach Golf Links is a highlight, known worldwide.
Each course has its own special features. Spyglass Hill Golf Course, opened in 1966, mixes forest and dunes. The Links at Spanish Bay combines nature with over 100,000 native plants, giving a Scottish feel.
When planning your golf trip, check these fees and booking times:
| Golf Course | Greens Fees (per person) | Tee Time Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Pebble Beach Golf Links | $575 | Book up to 18 months in advance |
| Spyglass Hill Golf Course | $415 | Book up to 12 months in advance |
| The Links at Spanish Bay | $295 | Book up to 6 months in advance |
For those watching their budget, look for online deals. Book early, especially for Pebble Beach, to avoid missing out.
Carmel’s courses offer great amenities. You’ll find everything from clubhouses to practice areas and dining. Playing these iconic courses is a chance to make unforgettable memories.
Best Public Golf Courses in Carmel CA: Hidden Gems and Local Favorites
Carmel, California, is a golfer’s paradise with many public courses. You’ll find everything from famous links to secret spots. There’s a course for every golfer, no matter your budget.
Pebble Beach Golf Links is a must-see, with its stunning views and tough play. It’s pricey, but worth it. Pacific Grove Golf Links offers beautiful ocean views at a lower cost.
Spyglass Hill and The Links at Spanish Bay offer great golf and views. They’re affordable and loved by locals and visitors alike.
Bayonet and Black Horse courses are great for those looking for value without compromising quality. They were once military bases but now offer challenging play and fair prices.
| Golf Course | Greens Fees | Tee Times |
|---|---|---|
| Pebble Beach Golf Links | $550 | Book 24 hours in advance |
| Spyglass Hill | $395 | Book 7 days in advance |
| The Links at Spanish Bay | $290 | Book 7 days in advance |
| Bayonet Course | $145 | Book 14 days in advance |
| Black Horse Course | $145 | Book 14 days in advance |
| Pacific Grove Golf Links | $40-$74 | Book 7 days in advance |
Book your tee times early to get into these popular spots. Many courses have online booking for easy guest access. This makes planning your golf trip a breeze.
Quail Lodge & Golf Club: A Renovated Gem
Quail Lodge & Golf Club is in the heart of Carmel. It’s known for luxury and top-notch golf. The course, at 6,464 yards, has won Mobile 5-Star awards for 20 years.
Course Overview and Design
Robert Muir Graves designed the course. It’s fun and challenging for all golfers. With a slope rating of 128, it offers many challenges.
The standout holes have beautiful bunkers and swales. These add to the course’s beauty and strategy.
Recent Improvements and Upgrades
In 2014-15, Todd Echenrode of Origins Golf Design renovated the course. He added more contoured holes and drought-tolerant landscaping. This made the course better for players but still challenging.
Booking Information and Greens Fees
Green fees at Quail Lodge are $185 during peak times. Staying at the lodge offers great options, from suites to rooms. Guests can also play the 9-hole putting course for free.
| Booking Type | Green Fee | Additional Amenities |
|---|---|---|
| Prime Time | $185 | Access to practice facilities |
| Twilight | $145 | Complimentary cart rental |
| Lodge Guest | $165 | Free 9-hole putting course access |
Quail Lodge is perfect for a golf vacation. It’s like the best golf courses in Napa, California. Enjoy fine dining at Edgar’s with local ingredients for a memorable visit.
Carmel Valley Ranch Golf Club: Pete Dye’s Northern California Masterpiece
Carmel Valley Ranch Golf Club is a standout in Northern California. It’s the only Pete Dye course in the area. The course winds through scenic hills, blending vineyards and water hazards. Recent updates have made it even better for golf lovers.
The layout is a challenge, with Dye’s unique design elements. Players face bunkers and undulating greens, all with stunning views. The club has a pro shop, practice areas, and a clubhouse with dining.
| Time | Weekday Rate | Weekend Rate |
|---|---|---|
| Morning (6:30 AM – 12:00 PM) | $195 | $225 |
| Afternoon (12:00 PM – 3:00 PM) | $175 | $195 |
| Twilight (After 3:00 PM) | $145 | $165 |
Membership at Carmel Valley Ranch Golf Club comes with perks. You get preferred tee times, discounts, and access to special events. The club offers rates for both resort guests and day players, changing with the time and season.
For the best deal, book afternoon or twilight tee times. The club’s packages include golf and luxury stays. Don’t forget to book early, especially in busy seasons, to play on this Pete Dye masterpiece.
Pacific Grove Golf Links: The “Poor Man’s Pebble Beach”
Pacific Grove Golf Links is a budget-friendly coastal golf spot. It has an 18-hole course that’s 5,727 yards long and a par 70 layout. Golfers love it for its beautiful ocean views and low green fees.
Coastal Views and Lighthouse Holes
The back nine, built in 1960, offers stunning views near Point Pinon lighthouse. As you play, you’ll see amazing ocean views that are as good as the pricey places nearby.
Affordable Rates and Tee Time Availability
Known as the “Poor Man’s Pebble Beach,” Pacific Grove Golf Links is cheap. You can play a round for under $100. It’s a great choice for those who want to save money.
| Course | Green Fees | Tee Time Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Pacific Grove Golf Links | Under $100 | Readily available |
Course Challenges and Unique Features
Pacific Grove Golf Links has a mix of parkland and links-style holes. It has Poa annua greens and Kikuyu grass on tees and fairways. With a rating of 67.7 and a slope of 119, it’s a fair challenge for all skill levels.
When booking your tee time, keep in mind Pacific Grove’s guest policies are welcoming. Its affordable rates and beautiful coastal setting make it a must-play for golf fans in Carmel.
Pebble Beach Golf Links: The Crown Jewel of Carmel Golf
Pebble Beach Golf Links has been a golfing icon since 1919. It attracts players from all over the world. They come for its stunning coastal views and challenging play.
As the top-ranked public course in America, Pebble Beach offers an unforgettable round. It’s the pinnacle of golf for those seeking the best.
Historical Significance and Major Tournaments
Pebble Beach has hosted five U.S. Opens, making it a important part of golf history. Its beauty and tough layout have tested the world’s best players. The coastal setting adds a unique challenge, similar to the public courses in Rochester, New York.
Signature Holes and Coastal Cliffs
The course has iconic holes along the rugged coastline. The par-3 7th is a short but tricky hole on a cliff. It requires precision.
The par-5 18th ends your round with dramatic ocean views. It’s a fitting finale.
Premium Pricing and Booking Strategies
Playing at Pebble Beach comes with a high price tag. It reflects its world-class status. Planning ahead is important to getting an ideal tee time and managing your costs.
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Greens Fees | $575 per player |
| Tee Time Booking | Up to 18 months in advance |
| Booking Information | Resort guests get priority |
Though expensive, many find it worth every penny. To save, consider playing during off-peak seasons. Look for package deals that include resort stays.
Spyglass Hill Golf Course: A Challenging Forest and Dunes Experience
Spyglass Hill Golf Course is a mix of coastal and forest golf. It’s a 6,538-yard masterpiece by Robert Trent Jones Sr. The course has 18 holes that go through white sand dunes and Del Monte Forest. It’s known for its diverse terrain and strategic layout.
The first five holes offer stunning ocean views. Standout holes like Treasure Island and Billy Bones show off Monterey Bay and the Pacific Ocean. As you move on, the forest takes over, bringing new challenges.
Spyglass Hill is tough to play. It has a mix of par-3, par-4, and par-5 holes. Each hole has its own features, like double doglegs and elevation changes. Greens like Jim Hawkins and Tom Morgan have tilts and tiers, making shots and putts harder.
Playing at Spyglass Hill costs over $300 per round. It’s expensive, but many say it’s worth it. Hiring a caddie can help you better navigate the course’s complexities.
| Course Details | Value |
|---|---|
| Length (Gold Tees) | 6,538 yards |
| Course Rating | 73.8 |
| Slope | 140 |
| Average Round Time | Under 4:30 hours |
| Green Fee | $300+ |
Spyglass Hill Golf Course is unforgettable. Its mix of coastal and forest holes, along with its strategic design, makes for a challenging yet rewarding game. It’s great for golfers of all levels.
The Links at Spanish Bay: Coastal Breezes and Bagpipes
The Links at Spanish Bay is a unique golfing experience. It’s a 6,821-yard masterpiece that blends with the coast. Golfers get to see stunning views at every turn.
Course Design and Ocean Views
Tom Watson, Sandy Tatum, and Robert Trent Jones Jr. designed it in 1987. The course has a USGA rating of 74.1 and a slope of 146. It requires precision and strategy.
The fairways go through sandy dunes. This gives a links-style feel, like Scotland.
Evening Bagpiper Tradition
As the sun sets, a special tradition starts. At 5:30 p.m. during daylight savings, a bagpiper plays at the first tee box. This adds Scottish charm to your golf day.
Green Fees and Reservation Tips
Getting tee times at Spanish Bay needs planning. Book early to get your spot. The green fees are worth it for the memories.
| Season | Green Fees | Tee Time Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Peak (March – November) | $295 | 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Off-Peak (December – February) | $225 | 7:30 AM – 4:00 PM |
| Twilight | $175 | After 3:00 PM (seasonally adjusted) |
The Links at Spanish Bay is ranked among Golf Digest’s Top 50 Public Courses. Its challenging layout, stunning ocean views, and unique traditions make it a must-play for golf lovers in Carmel.
Poppy Hills Golf Course: NCGA’s Newly Renovated Treasure
Located in Pebble Beach, California, Poppy Hills Golf Course is a top spot for public golf. It has 18 holes, designed by Robert Trent Jones, Sr., and opened in 1986. It’s a golfer’s dream come true.
The Northern California Golf Association (NCGA) owns Poppy Hills. It’s the first course owned by an amateur golf association in the U.S. Every year, about 60,000 rounds are played here. The course has different tee lengths for all skill levels, from the challenging Black tees to the easier Gold tees.
In 2014, Robert Trent Jones Jr. renovated Poppy Hills. He made the course more challenging and eco-friendly. The renovation included new sandy waste areas and a new par-3 11th hole.
| Tee Type | Yardage | Course Rating | Slope Rating |
|---|---|---|---|
| Black | 6,857 | 73.5 | 135 |
| Blue | 6,561 | 72.1 | 132 |
| White | 6,175 | 70.3 | 128 |
| Gold | 5,421 | 66.8 | 120 |
NCGA members pay just $55 to play at Poppy Hills, a great deal compared to the $200 standard rate. This makes it a fantastic choice for those who want to play at a high-quality course without spending too much. After the renovation, Poppy Hills ranked 62nd on Golf Digest’s 100 Greatest Public Courses list. For more on how course difficulty affects play, check out this link.
Del Monte Golf Course: Historic Golfing in Monterey
Del Monte Golf Course was built in 1897. This course mixes tradition with challenge, drawing golf lovers from everywhere.
Oldest Course West of the Mississippi
Del Monte is over 120 years old and the oldest golf course west of the Mississippi still in use. It started as a nine-hole course by Charles E. Maud. In 1902, it grew to 18 holes. The course has hosted big events like the 1916 Western Golf Association Amateur Championship and the 10th Annual U.S. Hickory Open.
Classic Parkland Layout
Del Monte’s layout is both classic and tricky. It’s not long, but its small, sloping greens require accuracy. The fairways and greens are made of blue grass, adding to its charm. The par-72 course has a 71.6 rating and a 131 slope, making it challenging.
Affordable Alternative to Pebble Beach Courses
Del Monte is a more affordable choice than its famous neighbors. It has competitive green fees and easy tee time bookings. It has a 4.5 out of 5 rating from over 500 reviews. People love its well-kept conditions, friendly staff, and engaging layout.
For those looking for public golf courses with character, Del Monte is a great choice. It’s affordable and easy to visit, making it a must-see in Monterey.
| Feature | Rating (out of 5) |
|---|---|
| Course Conditions | 4.3 |
| Value | 4.2 |
| Layout | 4.4 |
| Staff Friendliness | 4.7 |
| Pace of Play | 4.2 |
| Amenities | 4.0 |
Bayonet and Black Horse: Former Military Courses Turned Public Gems
In Seaside, California, Bayonet and Black Horse golf courses are a must-try for golf lovers. They were once military courses but got a $14 million makeover in 2008. Now, they’re top-notch championship courses.
The Bayonet Course is 7,104 yards long, with a slope rating of 141 and a course rating of 74.8. Its “Combat Corner” (holes 11-15) is famous for its tough challenges. The 9th hole is one of the toughest two-shotters in the U.S.
Black Horse Course is a bit shorter at 7,024 yards. It has a similar slope but a 73.8 course rating. It has unique holes, like a 247-yard par-three and a 265-yard par-four on the front nine. Both courses have exciting par-fives at the start and end.
Gene Bates redesigned the courses, making them even more challenging and appealing. The Bayonet Course was chosen for the 2012 PGA Professional National Championship. This shows how highly regarded it is.
Planning your visit to these public gems requires some planning. Here’s a look at the greens fees and tee times:
| Course | Weekday Rates | Weekend Rates | Tee Time Availability |
|---|---|---|---|
| Bayonet | $110 – $140 | $130 – $160 | 7:00 AM – 5:00 PM |
| Black Horse | $100 – $130 | $120 – $150 | 7:30 AM – 4:30 PM |
Bayonet’s narrow fairways require accuracy, while Black Horse’s wider fairways offer stunning views of Monterey Bay. Italy’s golf courses are also breathtaking, but with different scenery.
Don’t forget to book your tee times early, especially during busy times. These former military courses are now public treasures. They offer a test of skill in beautiful surroundings.
Seasonal Considerations for Golfing in Carmel
Carmel’s mild weather lets golfers play all year. Summer and the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am in February are the busiest times. This means more people and higher prices for tee times and green fees.
But, spring and fall are better. The weather is cooler, and the courses are less crowded. Places like Pacific Grove Golf Links and Half Moon Bay Golf Links offer beautiful views.
Winter has its own appeal. It’s cooler, but still nice for golf. You might find cheaper rates and more tee times during this time.
| Season | Tee Time Availability | Green Fee Rates | Weather Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Spring | Good | Moderate | Mild, occasional rain |
| Summer | Limited | Peak | Warm, sunny |
| Fall | Very Good | Moderate to Low | Cool, foggy |
| Winter | Excellent | Lowest | Cool, occasional rain |
Carmel’s golf courses use recycled water, keeping the game great all year. This started in 1994, saving 300 million gallons of drinkable water for recreation.
Tips for Booking Tee Times and Saving on Green Fees
Planning ahead is important to getting a spot on Carmel’s top golf courses. Many clubs offer online pricing that changes, leading to big savings. For places like Pebble Beach, booking early is essential. The average star rating for golf courses in Carmel is 4.5 stars based on the GolfPass platform, showing their high quality.
Looking for ways to save your golf budget? Check out package deals or twilight rates. Playing during off-peak seasons can also save you money. Some courses offer discounts for replay rounds or multi-course packages. With 30 days to book in advance, you can find the best deals.
Here’s a quick guide to green fees and booking information for some top Carmel courses:
| Course | Green Fees | Tee Time Booking |
|---|---|---|
| Pebble Beach Golf Links | $550 – $595 | 60 days in advance |
| Spyglass Hill | $395 – $415 | 30 days in advance |
| Pacific Grove Golf Links | $68 – $79 | 7 days in advance |
Remember, most courses require soft-spiked shoes and proper attire. For exclusive clubs like Cypress Point, where green fees are $500, you need a member’s sponsorship. With 100+ reviews for many courses, you can do your research before booking.
