Global Sports: Seven Golf Courses in Southern California That You Have to Play

Monday, January 23, 2012

Seven Golf Courses in Southern California That You Have to Play

By Jake Cole


California is home to some of the finest golfing destinations in the world. This is especially true in the lower half of the state, where the weather conditions are warm all through the year. Regardless of whether you prefer the amenities that come with a high-class golf resort, or you enjoy playing inexpensive, yet tough courses, Southern California delivers the golfing experience for you.

There are many superb golf courses in Southern California, that choosing the best 7 is a chore for anyone. Nevertheless, with much consideration, I chose the following as some of the best in the lower half of the Golden State.

1. Pelican Hill Golf Club

Situated just south of Newport Beach, Pelican Hill hosts some of the best golf in Southern California. The club was designed by Tom Fazio (who's got more courses ranked in the top 100 than any other golf course designer) in the early 90's and offers a couple of amazing courses: Ocean North and Ocean South. While both courses provide awesome views of the Pacific Ocean, each one has their own unique feel, to ensure that golfers can get two unique experiences. In 2005, Fazio returned to Pelican Hill to revamp both courses in order to renew the beautiful dynamics of the golf club.

Regardless of your handicap, Pelican Hill is among the most satisfying golf courses in Southern California. If you are a golfing fanatic, you'll have to play a round at Pelican Hill Golf Club.

2. Torrey Pines Golf Course

Torrey Pines is often accepted as one of the most recognized municipal courses in all of California. With fantastic views of the Pacific Ocean, this Southern California golf course hosts the PGA Tour's Farmer's Insurance Open each year. However, the course has held its fair share of major PGA events as well, like the unforgettable 2008 U.S. Open, in which Tiger Woods defeated Rocco Mediate after 19 holes of playoff golf.

With incredible views along with an superb course design, Torrey Pines presents goflers with the perfect experience. If you are in the area, or if you are thinking about planning a trip, you should put this destination on top of your list.

3. La Quinta Golf Resort

Located only a couple of hours outside of Los Angeles in the golfing haven of Palm Springs, La Quinta Golf Resort is home to 6 incredible courses, including PGA West. The resort is so well-liked, that it was awarded the Golf Resort of the Year by the International Association of Golf Tour Operators.

In addition to being among the top golfing destinations in Southern California, La Quinta is also a excellent place for newbies to be taught the sport. This is because the resort hosts the Jim McLean Golf School, which was rated among the top teaching facilities in the United States by several sources, such as: U.S. News & World Report, CNN, & Travel & Leisure.

So, regardless if you are looking for a good spot to hone your skills, or if you simply want to vacation and enjoy a great day on the course, La Quinta is probably the best golf resorts in Southern California to accomplish this.

4. Indian Wells Golf Resort

If you watched the last season of Big Break on the Golf Channel, you've already noticed how well-designed the Indian Wells Golf Resort is. Similar to the La Quinta Golf Resort, Indian Wells is situated just a couple of hours outside of Los Angeles, in Palm Springs.

The resort has 2 different courses that players can test their skills on. Both of the courses were rated in Golfweek's Top 20 "Best Courses You Can Play" in California. So, no matter what course you decide on, you know you'll get a premier golfing experience.

5. Red Hawk Golf Course

Redhawk Golf Course is probably among the finest courses in Southern California for the price. It is very well-kept and maintained and was rated 7th amongst California's public golf courses.

The course is also one of the hardest in California, too. With a course rating of 75.7, a slope rating of 149, and one of the only island greens in Southern California (the par three 8th hole) this golfing destination is sure to keep you challenged all day long.

6. La Costa Golf Resort

The La Costa Golf Resort has a couple of unique courses: the North Course, as well as the South Course. The resort was made by Dick Wilson and, since it opened up in 1965, the course has hosted 37 PGA Tour events. Throughout the years, the last four holes of the South Course have played so tough that they have gained the nickname of "The Longest Mile in Golf" by several professionals.

The course was renovated in 2011 to help maintain the resorts incredible feel. With all of the features and the incredible golf that La Costa delivers, it definitely should be on the list of the best golf courses in Southern California.

7. Strawberry Farms Golf Course

Strawberry Farms was made in 1997 by James W. Lipe Jr. The course winds through 6,700 yards of canyons and wetlands and provides golfers with excellent panoramas. With a well-maintained facility, and many difficult holes, Strawberry Farms is the perfect place to go for Southern California golfers.

There is a long list of excellent golf courses in Southern California that golfing fanatics can play. No matter if you're a rookie, or you've been playing for some time now, you will find there's course out there for you. So, for anybody who is in the mood, go ahead and check out these amazing Southern California golf resorts.

For a list of the best courses in Northern California, follow the link to continue reading.




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