Why Pebble Beach Should Be on Your List

There are golf courses, and then there is Pebble Beach. Perched on the rocky headlands of California's Monterey Peninsula, this 1919 Jack Neville and Douglas Grant design has hosted six U.S. Opens and remains the only public course to regularly appear in the top five of virtually every major course ranking. The setting is unmatched — crashing waves, wind-sculpted Monterey cypresses, and sea otters bobbing in the kelp beds below the cliffs.

Getting There

Fly into Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) for the shortest drive — roughly ten minutes to the gate. San Jose (SJC) and San Francisco (SFO) are alternatives, each about a two-hour scenic drive down Highway 1. Rent a car; you'll want the flexibility to explore Carmel-by-the-Sea and Big Sur while you're in the area.

Booking a Tee Time

Non-resort guests can book up to 24 months in advance by calling the reservation line. Rates sit around $625 per round (cart included). The best value play is to stay at The Lodge, The Inn at Spanish Bay, or Casa Palmero — resort guests receive priority tee times and can book further ahead. A caddie is highly recommended (and mandatory for walking); expect a $50-100 caddie fee plus tip.

When to Play

Summer brings fog that typically burns off by midday, while autumn (September–November) offers the warmest, calmest conditions and golden light that photographers love. Winter and spring are cooler and wetter but dramatically beautiful — and far less crowded. Wind is a constant companion regardless of season; club up and keep the ball low.

Where to Stay

The Lodge at Pebble Beach is the classic choice — steps from the first tee with panoramic ocean views. The Inn at Spanish Bay offers a slightly more relaxed vibe and its own excellent links-style course. For a budget-friendlier option, Carmel hotels like Hofsas House or Cypress Inn are 15 minutes away and half the price.

Where to Eat

On-resort, The Bench serves upscale California cuisine with a terrace overlooking the 18th green — reserve a sunset table. Roy's at Pebble Beach is great for Hawaiian-fusion. Off-resort, Carmel's La Bicyclette is a local favorite for wood-fired pizza, and Cultura in downtown Carmel dishes out inventive Oaxacan flavors.

Holes You'll Remember

The par-3 7th is the most photographed par-3 in golf — a tiny green perched on a rocky promontory. The par-5 18th, curving along the bay with crashing waves left, is the greatest finishing hole in the game. But don't overlook the 8th — a 418-yard cliff walk that may be the most visually stunning hole you ever play.

Final Tips

Bring layers. Morning fog and afternoon sun can produce a 20-degree temperature swing.
Play Spyglass Hill the day before as a warm-up — it's even harder than Pebble.
Budget extra time for the pro shop; you'll want a souvenir flag or headcover.