Del Monte Golf Course: Pebble Beach Resorts' underappreciated historical treasure

PEBBLE BEACH, Calif. -- It's understandable why the Del Monte Golf Course tends to be overlooked by guests at Pebble Beach Resorts.

It doesn't have the coastal setting or championship length to compete with the famed trio of Pebble Beach Golf Links, The Links at Spanish Bay or Spyglass Hill Golf Course.

Locals love Del Monte, however, since it's kept in great shape and offers great value in one of America's most expensive golf destinations.

The oldest course in continuous operation west of the Mississippi River, Del Monte G.C. is a historical classic. The first nine holes of the 6,365-yard parkland course date to 1897. It expanded to 18 holes in 1903 and was completely revamped in 1920 by William Herbert Fowler.

Its routing glides through a neighborhood behind the Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel and Spa several miles from Pebble Beach's resort campuses.

Oak, pine and cypress trees define wide fairways. Subtle elevation changes and tiny greens add to the layout's character.

All of the Golf Advisor reviews in April 2015 gave Del Monte five stars. User PADDIOKICK wrote:

"The staff is always friendly, course always in great shape and pace of play is phenomenal. I would recommend playing Del Monte on any trip to the Monterey Peninsula.