Visit the Pacific Ocean at Monarch Beach Golf Links in Dana Point, California
DANA POINT, Calif. -- Monarch Beach Golf Links delivers a taste of the good life golfers expect from Orange County.
Robert Trent Jones Jr. built a unique routing of three par 5s and five par 3s that's playable for everybody. The course -- which hosted the 2001 Hyundai Team Matches featuring pros from the PGA, LPGA and Champions Tours -- is entirely open to the public, not just for pampered resort guests of the nearby St. Regis Monarch Beach and Ritz-Carlton, Laguna Niguel.
From the 6,645-yard tips, the par 70 has more teeth when the breeze picks up in the afternoon. From the 6,052-yard gold tees, Monarch Beach can be tamed by anybody who plays smart. Deep bunkers with sharp edges sweep in circular motions like waves, guarding fairway doglegs and elevated greens. Ponds and hazards pinch eight holes, ready to pounce. The third hole swerves left through a maze of seven bunkers, finishing at a wild green overlooking the crashing surf. Welcome to the "OC," baby.
The day isn't complete without savoring the food, drinks and the blue ocean view at Club 19 restaurant in the clubhouse. A new chef has refreshed the menu with fantastic healthy choices that taste great.
Five-star reviews of the Monarch Beach Golf Links experience outnumber four stars on Golf Advisor. User u000001322387 wrote of his 'perfect day': "Monarch Beach Golf Links is a very beautiful and challenging course. My wife and I were greeted by a very friendly staff on arrival and throughout the day. The course is well maintained and has very beautiful views of the ocean on holes #3 and #4. After our round, we had lunch on the terrace that over looked the course and view of the ocean. The food and view was fantastic. This was well worth our drive.