LA CONTENTA GOLF CLUB (1973)

GOLD COUNTRY REGION

Public: 18 hole -cost: $21 - $33

1653 Highway 26, Valley Springs, CA 95252

Tel: (209) 172-1081   

Designed by Richard Bigler. Blind shots, narrow fairways, hills, small greens, uneven lies, out-of­bounds, and lateral water hazards are just some of the things you will encounter at La Contenta. Somehow they have crafted all of the above into a challenging but fun course. From Stockton (abut 30 miles northeast to the course): Off Highway 99, drive east on Highway 26 to Valley Springs. Off the beaten path, renovations and economical fees make this hilly layout worth playing.

LA COSTA RESORT AND SPA (1964)

SAN DIEGO REGION

Resort/Private : 36 hole -cost: $90 - $195

2100 Costa del Mar Road, Carlsbad, CA 92009

Tel: (760) 438-9111    

Designed by Joe Lee, Dick Wilson. Perimeter housing now dominates the landscape of these very playable, park-setting golf courses, one of Southern California's most famous golf destinations. There are two courses, the North and South. Play either of the two, as they are comparable. Neither individually is as good a test as the original composite course that the touring pros have played. The yardage listed is for the North Course. Walking is allowed, but you must use a caddy. From San Diego (about 30 miles north to the course): Take I-5 north, exit at La Costa Avenue, and head east. Turn left on EI Camino Real and right on Costa del Mar Road. Even though the new holes don't mesh well, La Costa is still an excellent facility with fun golf courses. If you want to get a feel of what the pros played, you need to bring a wad of cash and play both courses.