Golf Itinerary

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 four Monterey County golf courses on its list of the top 100 courses in the world. Golf Digest also places four 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 & 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. Peter B's Brewpub located behind the Portola Hotel & Spa, in Monterey's bustling downtown neighborhood, is the perfect spot for a golf foursome to trash-talk each other while eating gourmet pub foo.

Day Two

6am

The Gallery Cafe at The Lodge at Pebble Beach 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, 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! Today's round will be at the Del Monte Golf Course, which you just admired yesterday.

This course is a favorite among locals as the less expensive and sister course to Pebble Beach. Del Monte Golf Course was designed by golf and polo enthusiast Charles Maud with over 6,300 yards of rolling fairways. This course has made it into the history books as the oldest operating golf course on the West. It's one of the first courses to feature green grass rather than sand or barren soil.

7pm

It's a short drive (with your car, not your golf club) from Pebble Beach to the neighboring village of 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

Today, you will see why Carmel Valley Ranch is rated among the "Best US Golf Resorts" by Travel and Leisure‘s "World's Best" readers' survey. The Carmel Valley Ranch Golf Course is a Pete-Dye designed course, the only in Northern California. It offers stunning views of the Santa Lucia Mountains and don't be surprised if you run into some friendly wildlife! 

12:30pm

At tournament time, one of the top dining spots is Brophy's Tavern 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.