PASADERA COUNTRY CLUB (2000)

 

CENTRAL COAST REGION

Members only - 18 hole

100 Pasadera Drive, Monterey, CA 93940

Tel: (831) 647-2421  

 

Designed by Jack Nicklaus. From the back tees this is a difficult but beautiful course. Pasadera incorporates the hills, canyons, and oak groves to forge a classic design. The use of native grasses and the natural surroundings creates a peaceful atmosphere. The peacefulness is only interrupted by an occasional screaming, crying, or whimpering low handicapper who decided to play it from the tips. This is a member-only course, but is open to the public on Monday. From within Monterey: Off Highway 1, take Highway 68 toward Salinas. Make a left on Pasadera Road. The course is past the Monterey Airport.

 

PASATIEMPO GOLF COURSE (1929)

 

BAY AREA REGION

Semi-Private - 18 hole - cost: $135 - $150

20 Clubhouse Road, Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Tel: (831) 459-9155  

 

Designed by Alister Mackenzie. This is an Alister Mackenzie masterpiece and annually is included among America's best. Though relatively short, it features some of the best green sites in American golf, making it a beautiful, classic challenge. The club stays private until 10:30 a.m. on Saturday and 9:30 a.m. on Sunday. From San Jose (about 35 miles southwest to the course): Take Highway 17 south toward Santa Cruz. Take the Pasatiempo Drive exit. Follow the signs to the clubhouse. The clubhouse is on the right. Alister Mackenzie retired to Pasatiempo. To get a sense of what golf was, and unfortunately no longer is, this is a must-play. The 16th hole is one of the toughest par 4s you'll ever play.