Monterey County is often called the Golf Capital of the World, and no wonder. Within its borders lies legendary Pebble Beach, which will host the U.S. Open Championship for the fifth time in 2010. Golf Magazine lists three Monterey County golf courses on its list of the top 100 courses in the world. Golf Digest places five of Monterey County's golf courses on its list of America's Top 100 Golf Courses. Zagat's America's Top Golf Courses ranks Pebble Beach Golf Links the favorite in America.
With so many great golf courses in such a small area, how can you choose among the options at hand? This golf itinerary makes it easy.
6PM
Even if you can't actually tee off tonight, you can still admire the oldest golf course in continuous operation west of the Mississippi. Many rooms at the Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa overlook the historic Del Monte Golf Course, which opened in 1897 and was one of the first golf courses in the United States to have grass greens instead of sand or plain dirt.
7PM
The night before your first game of golf on Monterey Bay is the perfect time for beer and barbecue. Willy’s Smokehouse, in the historic Booth Warehouse in Monterey’s bustling Cannery Row neighborhood, is the perfect spot for a golf foursome to trash-talk each other while eating some lip-smackin' ribs. Afterwards, visit Bullwacker's, the Lounge at the Sardine Factory or C Lounge for an evening of live music.
6:30AM
Hope you didn't stay out too late! The Hyatt Regency’s TusCA Ristorante is the ideal place for a pre-golf breakfast. Depending on the time of year, you may even be able to watch the sun rise over a golf course graced with mist.
8AM
Before you head out for your first round, improve your game with a full morning lesson at Pebble Beach Golf Academy, located at the world-famous Pebble Beach Resorts. You'll get a video analysis of your swing, as well as tips on your short game.
Noon
Enjoy one of the best 19th holes in golf at Sticks Bar and Grill, located at The Inn at Spanish Bay. This restaurant has great food, a great view of The Links at Spanish Bay, and great historical artifacts from throughout the history of Pebble Beach.
1PM
Enough lessons and lounging – it's time to hit the links! The course for the day is Poppy Hills Golf Course, located at Pebble Beach. Poppy Hills has a 4 1/2 star rating from Golf Digest, is on Golfworld’s list of Top 50 golf courses, and was a longtime host to the AT&T Pebble Beach National Pro-Am.
7PM
It's a short drive (with your car, not your golf club) to Pebble Beach's neighbor, tony Carmel-by-the-Sea. Dine tonight at Cantinetta Luca, a laid-back Italian restaurant well-known for its wood-fired pizzas and warm ambience.
8AM
Rosine's Restaurant in Old Monterey is known for its popular Sunday brunch; by mid-morning potential diners are waiting on the sidewalk hoping for a table. Make sure to try the chili egg puff, a tasty dish you aren't likely to see anywhere else.
9:30AM
The old Fort Ord military base once held the most exclusive golf course in Monterey County, open only to members of the military. After the closure of the base, the city of Seaside purchased Bayonet & Black Horse Golf Courses and opened it to the public. This newly renovated, championship golf course is as well known for its difficulty as for its sweeping views of Monterey Bay.
12:30PM
On your way out of town, make a stop at the appointment-only Golf Lifestyles photo gallery. The gallery holds spectacular photos of the courses you just played, many of which are for sale. Hang one on your wall, and you'll have an ever-present reminder of your great golf weekend.
Monterey County Convention & Visitors Bureau P.O. Box 1770, Monterey, CA 93942 1-877-MONTEREY info@mccvb.org
In partnership with Monterey County and the cities of Carmel-by-the-Sea, Del Rey Oaks, Marina, Monterey, Pacific Grove, Salinas,
Sand City, Seaside, Soledad, Pebble Beach, Moss Landing, Carmel Valley, Big Sur, and Salinas Valley.
© Copyright 2009 Monterey County Convention & Visitors Bureau
