Itinerary: Golf Getaway

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.

Day One

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 & SpaBook It! 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 Bullwacker's or Jose's Underground Lounge for an evening of live music.

Day Two

6am

The Gallery Cafe at the Lodge at Pebble BeachBook It! is a haunt for early-morning golfers. Get a great view of the earliest risers teeing off at the first hole at Pebble Beach Golf Links as you enjoy a smoothie or dig deep into a delicious omelet plate.

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 BayBook It!. 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

This afternoon you will be playing 9 holes at the Peter Hay Golf Course, across from Pebble Beach Golf Links. You will get your short game on while enjoying amazing views and great rates!

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.

Day Three

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

This morning you will head over to the Monterey Pines Golf Course, or as the locals call it the “Navy Course”. The course is a United States Navy Golf Course that is open to the public. The course challenges both novices and experts!

12:30pm

At tournament time, one of the top dining spots is Jack London's Neighborhood Pub and Grill in Carmel-by-the-Sea. Fans, golfers and celebrities all enjoy the laid-back atmosphere, excellent burgers and finger-lickin' smoked ribs. Kick back with a beer, chow down and relive the best moments of your golf getaway.

2pm

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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