Golf Paradise on California’s Coast
When it comes to iconic golf destinations in the United States, few places compare to Monterey County. Nestled along California’s central coast, this scenic region is a golfer’s dream—offering dramatic ocean views, perfectly manicured courses, and a mild year-round climate that makes every swing more enjoyable.
Whether you’re a scratch golfer or just enjoy a leisurely round with friends, playing golf in Monterey County is a bucket-list experience. Home to legendary courses like Pebble Beach Golf Links and Spyglass Hill, this region delivers an unforgettable blend of challenge and beauty.
Why Golfers Flock to Monterey County
Monterey County is more than just beautiful—it’s historically significant in the world of golf. It’s hosted six U.S. Opens, dozens of PGA Tour events, and continues to attract amateurs, pros, and fans from all over the globe.
Key reasons to golf in Monterey County:
Mild, coastal weather year-round
Spectacular Pacific Ocean scenery
Access to several Top 100 Courses in the U.S.
Luxury accommodations and dining
Proximity to attractions in Monterey, Carmel, and Pacific Grove
Pebble Beach Golf Links: The Crown Jewel of Monterey Golf
Arguably the most famous public course in America, Pebble Beach Golf Links is a must-play for any serious golfer. Ranked regularly among the top courses in the world, it’s known for its cliffside fairways, challenging layout, and rich tournament history.
What Makes Pebble Beach Special?
Ocean Views on Nearly Every Hole: The 7th and 18th holes are especially iconic—one offering a postcard-perfect par 3, the other a dramatic par 5 finishing along the cliffs.
Championship Pedigree: Pebble Beach has hosted multiple U.S. Opens and will host again in 2027 and 2032.
Open to the Public: Unlike many top-tier courses, you can actually book a round—though it’s highly recommended to stay at the Pebble Beach Resorts for preferred tee time access.
Pro Tip:
Book your round 6 to 12 months in advance and consider playing in the early morning to avoid coastal winds and enjoy the course at its calmest.
Spyglass Hill Golf Course: A Quiet Giant
While Pebble Beach steals the spotlight, seasoned golfers often cite Spyglass Hill as the more demanding course in Monterey County. Opened in 1966 and designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., Spyglass is renowned for its contrasting styles—starting with five holes near the dunes and ocean, then shifting into the dense Del Monte Forest.
What to Expect at Spyglass Hill:
Challenging Layout: Spyglass has a course rating of 75.5 and slope of 144—expect a test of precision and patience.
Two Courses in One: Holes 1–5 play with ocean breezes and coastal scenery, while 6–18 weave through pines and elevated terrain.
Pure Golf Focus: While less photogenic than Pebble, it’s widely regarded as the tougher of the two.
Spyglass also co-hosts the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am each year, making it a staple of professional-level play.
Other Must-Play Courses in Monterey County
While Pebble Beach and Spyglass Hill headline, Monterey County is home to more than 20 golf courses, each offering unique experiences for players of all skill levels.
The Links at Spanish Bay
A true Scottish-style links course set along dunes and shoreline.
Offers a sunset bagpiper performance daily—an iconic tradition.
Windswept and wild, it’s a scenic and strategic delight.
Pacific Grove Golf Links
Nicknamed “The Poor Man’s Pebble Beach” due to its stunning views and low green fees.
Back nine features oceanfront holes with seals and surfers in sight.
A hidden gem ideal for casual rounds.
Bayonet & Black Horse
Former military courses that now offer tournament-level play.
Located in Seaside, with panoramic views of Monterey Bay.
Affordable, challenging, and open to the public.
Planning Your Golf Getaway to Monterey County
To make the most of your visit, here are a few key travel tips:
Where to Stay
The Lodge at Pebble Beach – Iconic luxury overlooking the 18th green.
Casa Palmero – A Mediterranean-style retreat with spa services.
Carmel-by-the-Sea Inns – Quaint, walkable charm just minutes from Pebble Beach.
When to Visit
Summer and Fall offer the most consistent weather and best course conditions.
Winter is cooler and wetter, but green fees may be slightly lower.
Other Things to Do in Monterey
Visit the Monterey Bay Aquarium
Explore Cannery Row and Old Fisherman’s Wharf
Drive the 17-Mile Drive for scenic coastal views
Enjoy wine tasting in nearby Carmel Valley
Final Thoughts: Golf in Monterey County is Like No Other
If you’re dreaming of a golf trip that combines world-class play, breathtaking scenery, and luxury accommodations, there’s no better destination than Monterey County. Whether you're teeing off at Pebble Beach, braving the challenge of Spyglass Hill, or enjoying a relaxed round at Pacific Grove, each course offers a uniquely memorable experience.
Book early, bring your best swing, and get ready to experience golf the way it was meant to be played—coastal, challenging, and unforgettable.