Torrey Pines Golf Course- La Jolla, CA

If you are a golfer, Torrey Pines is on your radar. Either you have played these two magnificent 18 hole courses, which hug the Southern California coast, or you want to. Although municipal courses, they host a variety of professional tournaments, including the U.S. Open, and the Farmers Insurance Open. Following these events is the perfect time to play, as the courses will still be in tournament conditions. Which is to say impossible for us mere mortals, but exciting nevertheless; you will literally be following in the footsteps of Tiger, Phil and 2018’s winner Jason Day.

Although tee times the day after a tournament are generally awarded to San Diego residents via a lottery system, you can score a spot by staying at the Lodge at Torrey Pines, which is a win-win situation. Your clubs will be whisked away upon arrival, by a fabulous kilted doorman, only to reappear at the correct course prior to your tee time. If you arrive early enough, you may even be able to catch some golfers coming in on 18, either from the hotel’s terrace, or your own balcony, if you are living large.

The William Bell designed courses date back to 1957, built on the site of Camp Callan, a World War II military training installation. The South Course was redesigned by Rees Jones in 2001, making it a punishing 7,698 yards. This is the course the pros play, which makes it the pricier of the two. Although you probably won’t have the round of your life, or as many birdies as Day, it is definitely worth playing.

The scenic North course is not only more player friendly, the rates are far more reasonable. Well, relatively speaking. Fresh off a $12.6 million Tom Weiskoph renovation, the course looks and feels brand new. Several bunkers were removed, green sizes increased, cart paths replaced, and the front and back nines reversed. With striking ocean views, deep ravines and sheer cliffs, it is a ridiculously beautiful course. Almost every hole is picture perfect, so at the bare minimum you will return home with a stunning screensaver.

This slideshow requires JavaScript.