Designed by Alister Mackenzie, Robert Hunter. Part meadow, forest, and ocean-side course, this is simply one of the best, most enjoyable courses on earth. Sadly, it is fiercely private and only a few get to appreciate its beauty. From within Monterey: Take the Pebble Beach exit off Highway 1. Follow the signs to the Pebble Beach gate. The guard gives further directions from there. I've played over 1,500 courses and all of the Top 100.

CYPRESS RIDGE GOLF CLUB (1999)

CENTRAL COAST REGION

Public - 18 hole -cost: $30 - $60

780 Cypress Ridge Parkway, Arroyo Grande, CA 93420

Tel: (805) 474-7979

Designed by Peter Jacobsen. Set on a mesa overlooking the ocean, this is rolling course. Cypress Ridge affords excellent ocean views, but keep your head down. This is a rigorous course with deep fairway bunkers, sliding greens (hidden breaks) and environmentally sensitive areas that devour golf balls. The wind picks up in the afternoon. The course is walkable, but not recom­mended for the faint of legs. Carts are rewebsite: uired on weekend mornings. This is an Audubon International Signature Sanctuary. From San Luis Obispo (about 20 miles southeast to the course): Take US 101 south and exit at Los Berros Road. Turn left (west) and travel three miles. Turn left on EI Campo Road. At the next stop sign turn left. Make your first right at Cypress Ridge Parkway. The pro shop will be on the right. Interesting layout + reasonable rates + helpful staff = a course you want to play.