LA QUINTA RESORT & CLUB: DUNES & MOUNTAIN (1981)

DESERT REGION

Resort - 36 hole -cost: $70 - $190

50-200 Avenida Vista, La Quinta, CA 92253

Tel: (760) 564-7686   

Designed by Pete Dye. The Dunes Course is the least attractive of La Quinta Resort's layouts, but it is fun and challenging. The Mountain Course has long been considered one of the desert's leading courses. It combines spectacular mountainside vistas with a desert environment. The yardage listed is for the Mountain Course. Carts are included in green fees and mandatory. Mountain Course is semi-private and blocks out morning times for member play. From downtown Los Angeles (about 130 miles east to the course): Take I-10 east, exit at Washington Street, and go south. Turn right on Eisenhower to the resort, which is on the right. Shuttle service is provided to the courses. On the Mountain Course, if you can hit the ball straight off the tee, position your second shot properly on the green and putt well, you can shoot a low score. If not, do what I did and enjoy the views.

LA RINCONADA COUNTRY CLUB (1936)

BAY AREA REGION

Members only: 18 hole

14595 Clearview Drive, Los Gatos, CA 95032

Tel: (408) 395-4220   

Designed by unknown, Brad Benz (remodel). This mature course features rolling, narrow fairways, and an abundance of mature oaks that seem to move directly into the flight of your ball. The undulating greens are well protected by mounding and traps. Reciprocal play with other members-only clubs is allowed. From San Jose (about ten miles southwest to the course): Take Highway 17 south, exit at Lark Avenue, and turn right. Turn left on Winchester Boulevard and then right on La Rinconada Drive. Follow this to Clear view Drive and turn left.