Pebble Beach, California

Iconic 18-hole cliff-hugging masterpiece — the most photographed golf course on earth. Note: public but books out far in advance — staying at Pebble Beach Resorts significantly improves tee time availability.

Demanding Stevenson-themed layout through forest and shore — considered one of the toughest public courses in the country. Note: public but books out far in advance — staying at Pebble Beach Resorts significantly improves tee time availability.

Robert Trent Jones Jr., Tom Watson, and Sandy Tatum collaboration — a Scottish-style links course along the Monterey coastline with ocean views on nearly every hole. A bagpiper plays at sunset. Same booking note as Pebble Beach and Spyglass — resort guests get priority.

Pete Dye design set in the rolling hills of Carmel Valley — a beautiful resort course at a more accessible price point.

Classic Robert Muir Graves design in a scenic Carmel Valley setting — a quiet, well-maintained alternative to the coast.

The oldest course west of the Mississippi (1897), now open to the public — historic, charming, and a fraction of Pebble's price.

NCGA-owned course winding through the Del Monte Forest — a worthy and more accessible alternative to the Pebble complex.

Two historic Fort Ord military courses reimagined as public gems — dramatic elevation and superb conditions at a fraction of Pebble's price.

Scenic municipal gem hugging the Pacific headlands — one of the best-value rounds in all of California.