The Monterey Peninsula: California's Golf Capital
Few places on earth can match what the Monterey Peninsula offers a golfer. This rugged stretch of California coastline is home to Pebble Beach Golf Links — consistently ranked among the top five courses in the world — as well as Spyglass Hill, Poppy Hills, Laguna Seca, and the historic Del Monte Golf Course. For serious golfers, a trip here is a bucket list event.
The good news: you don't have to spend a fortune. While The Lodge at Pebble Beach is one of the most expensive resorts in America, the nearby towns of Monterey, Carmel-by-the-Sea, and Pacific Grove offer excellent accommodation at a fraction of the price — and most are within a 15-minute drive of every course on the peninsula.
The Lodge is the pinnacle of golf resort experiences in America. Rooms overlook Stillwater Cove and the final holes of Pebble Beach Golf Links. Staying here includes priority access to tee times on all Pebble Beach Resorts courses, world-class dining at Roy's and The Stillwater Bar & Grill, and an atmosphere that simply can't be replicated anywhere else. It's expensive — but you'll remember it forever.
Also part of Pebble Beach Resorts, The Inn at Spanish Bay sits alongside the Links at Spanish Bay — a stunning links-style course designed by Tom Watson, Robert Trent Jones II and Sandy Tatum. Slightly more affordable than The Lodge, The Inn offers the same resort privileges including access to all Pebble Beach courses. The bagpiper at sunset is an unforgettable touch.
Perched over the water on Cannery Row, the Monterey Plaza is the best full-service hotel in downtown Monterey. Elegant rooms, a rooftop spa, and the excellent Duck Club Restaurant. It's about 8 miles from Pebble Beach Golf Links — an easy 15-minute drive — and sits right next to the Monterey Bay Aquarium, making it ideal for groups where not everyone is golfing.
A beautiful ranch-style resort tucked into the sunny hills above Carmel. Carmel Valley gets far more sun than the foggy coast — often 10–15°F warmer. The resort has its own Pete Dye-designed golf course, outdoor pools, a working honey bee program, and exceptional farm-to-table dining. Great choice for golfers who want a more relaxed, luxurious base away from the touristy Cannery Row crowds.
The Hyatt Regency Monterey sits directly adjacent to the Del Monte Golf Course — the oldest operating golf course west of the Mississippi, established in 1897. This is one of the best-value golf resort packages on the peninsula. The hotel is comfortable and well-appointed, and the on-site course means you can walk to your first tee time.
Pacific Grove is Pebble Beach's quiet neighbor — literally sharing a border with the 17-Mile Drive gate. This charming Victorian seaside town has numerous small inns, B&Bs, and motels at a fraction of resort prices, all within 10 minutes of every Pebble Beach course. The Asilomar Conference Grounds is a particularly unique budget-friendly option set in a state park with stunning coastal views.
Downtown Monterey has a wide range of hotels at every price point — Marriotts, Hiltons, boutique properties and independent motels — all within 15–20 minutes of Pebble Beach. If you're playing multiple courses across the peninsula, Monterey's central location makes it an ideal base. Restaurants, the aquarium, and Cannery Row are all walkable.
Pebble Beach & Monterey Courses
Local Tips: Making the Most of Your Trip
Book early — very early. Pebble Beach Golf Links tee times regularly book out 60–90 days in advance, especially on weekends. If you're staying at a Pebble Beach Resort property, you get priority booking access — one of the best reasons to splurge on The Lodge or Spanish Bay.
The 17-Mile Drive is worth every penny. The $12 entry fee to drive through the Pebble Beach Resorts gates is one of the best bargains in California. Stop at Lone Cypress, Seal Rock, and the Ghost Tree for views you'll never forget.
Play Laguna Seca or Poppy Hills for value. If Pebble Beach green fees are out of budget, Laguna Seca Golf Ranch offers beautiful rolling parkland golf at a fraction of the price — and it's an excellent course in its own right. Poppy Hills is the only course in the US owned by a golf association (NCGA) and offers very competitive rates.
Carmel-by-the-Sea for dinner. After your round, the village of Carmel is 10 minutes away and has some of the best restaurants on the California coast. Reservations are strongly recommended at any of the top spots.