TALEGA GOLF CLUB (2001)

 

ORANGE COUNTY REGION

Public: 18 hole - cost: $70 - $122

990 Avenida Talega, San Clemente, CA 92673

Tel: (949) 369-6226   

 

Designed by Lee Schimdt & Brian Curley, Fred Couples. There are no ocean holes, but plenty of white sand to keep you busy if you happen to find yourself in one of the many large traps. The front nine is more forgiving, with many parallel holes. Although the back nine fairways are just as generous, miss them and you will be hard-pressed to find your ball. The back side runs through a canyon, so you will encounter forced carries off the tee and natural vegetation lining the fairways. Carts are included and mandatory. There is no driving range. From Irvine (about 25 miles south to the course): Take the San Diego Freeway (I-405) south to I-5 to the Avenida Pi co exit and head east for about three miles. Turn left on Avenida Vista Hermosa and then again left on Avenida Talega. Talega is a tough, upscale residential course with severe greens. There is nothing ground breaking about the layout, but it is attractive and well conditioned.

 

TAMARISK COUNTRY CLUB (1953)

 

DESERT REGION

Member - only: 18 hole

70-240 Frank Sinatra Drive, Rancho Mirage, CA 92270

Tel: (760) 328-2141

 

Designed by William P. Bell, William F. Bell. Flat, well-bunkered, and with many rows of trees, Tamarisk is a good test of golf. This course is one of the oldest in the desert. From downtown Los Angeles (about 120 miles east to the course): Take I-10 east, exit at Date Palm, and turn right. Turn left on Gerald Ford and then right on Duval. Turn left on Frank Sinatra Drive, and the club is on the left.