Itinerary: Golfing Weekend
Monterey County is often called the Golf Capital of the World, and no wonder. Within its borders lies legendary Pebble Beach, which hosted 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.
Friday
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 great food. Cannery Row Brewing Company, in Monterey’s bustling Cannery Row neighborhood, is the perfect spot for a golf foursome to trash-talk each other while eating gourmet pub food, including two-hour chicken wings and truffle fries. Afterwards, visit the Lounge at the Sardine Factory or C Lounge for an evening of live music.
Saturday
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! Legendary golfer Jack Nicklaus has said that if he could only play one more round of golf, he'd want to play it at Pebble Beach Golf Links. Golf Digest ranked it the top course on its "America's 100 Greatest Public Courses" list. It's hosted five U.S. Open Championships and numerous other prestigious golf tournaments. Today, you can show off what you've learned and find out what makes Pebble Beach Golf Links so special!
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.
Sunday
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
Rancho Cañada Golf Club, located in Carmel Valley, is known as much for its beautiful scenery as for its great play. The two courses straddle the Carmel River and offer sweeping views of the surrounding valley and mountains, as well as challenging play.
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.
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