Monterey golf vacation FAQs

A dramatic stretch of California’s Central Coast, the Monterey Peninsula is world-renowned not only for its rugged coastline, charming seaside towns, and iconic 17-Mile Drive, but also for its extraordinary golf. From the legendary fairways of Pebble Beach to the windswept dunes of Spanish Bay, golfers here experience some of the most celebrated courses on the planet in an unforgettable natural setting.

With luxury resorts at Pebble Beach, boutique stays in Carmel, and the chance to combine golf with whale watching, wine tasting, and scenic coastal drives, a Monterey golf vacation truly has it all.

Check out our top tips and FAQs for a golf trip to Monterey to make your next getaway as smooth and memorable as possible!

• Monterey combines world-class golf with stunning coastal scenery, making it one of America’s best golf destinations.
• You can play 4 or 5 of California’s top public courses in one trip, Pebble Beach Golf Links, Spyglass Hill, The Links at Spanish Bay, Poppy Hills, and more.
• Beyond golf, the region offers iconic attractions: the dramatic 17-Mile Drive, Big Sur coastline, charming Carmel-by-the-Sea, and the Monterey Bay Aquarium.

The Monterey Peninsula is home to more top-tier public courses per square mile than almost any other region. With around 25 courses available, including Pebble Beach Golf Links and Spyglass Hill, and plenty of others ready to be explored.

• Pebble Beach Golf Links – The jewel of the peninsula and one of the world’s most famous courses, with truly unforgettable clifftop holes.
• Spyglass Hill – A stern but stunning test, blending coastal dunes with tree-lined forest holes.
• The Links at Spanish Bay – A traditional links course with rolling dunes and sweeping Pacific views.
• Del Monte Golf Course – One of the oldest courses west of the Mississippi, with undulating greens full of charm and tradition.
• Poppy Hills – Set in Del Monte Forest, this course combines natural beauty with impeccable conditioning.
• Pasatiempo Golf Club - A historic golf club, this is a formidable challenge due to its difficult greens, elevation changes, and the little-roll fairways.

• Late spring through early fall is ideal with mild temperatures, clearer skies, and the best coastal conditions.
• Fog is common in morning hours, dress in layers, and build flexibility into your schedule.

Yes! Monterey’s coastal climate allows golf throughout the year. While winters can be cooler, the courses remain open, and offseason tee times often provide excellent value.

The AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am is played every February on Pebble Beach Golf Links, Spyglass Hill, and Monterey Peninsula Country Club. It’s one of the PGA TOUR’s most iconic events, bringing together professionals, celebrities, and spectacular ocean scenery.

Yes, major resorts and public courses, including Pebble Beach, Spyglass Hill, and Spanish Bay, offer high-quality rental sets. It’s convenient for travelers who prefer not to bring their own equipment.

Absolutely - Monterey is one of the best golf destinations in the world. The peninsula offers a cluster of top-ranked public courses within minutes of each other. With dramatic coastal scenery, mild year-round weather, and a rich tournament history, it’s a true bucket-list region for golfers of every level.

Monterey offers a world-class selection of golf resorts, combining legendary courses, luxury accommodations, fine dining, and stunning Pacific Ocean scenery.

Some of our favorite golf resorts in Monterey include:

• The Lodge at Pebble Beach – The flagship property of Pebble Beach Resorts, offering elegant rooms overlooking the 18th hole of Pebble Beach Golf Links. Guests enjoy immediate access to the world’s most famous public course, plus fine dining and a timeless coastal setting.
• The Inn at Spanish Bay – Set beside the ocean and the Spanish Bay links, this resort combines modern luxury with a more relaxed, seaside atmosphere. An evening bagpiper serenade at sunset makes it a uniquely memorable stay.
• Casa Palmero at Pebble Beach – An intimate Mediterranean-style estate offering just 24 private rooms. Ideal for couples or small groups looking for luxury, exclusivity, and direct access to Pebble Beach golf.
• Hyatt Regency Monterey Hotel & Spa – A practical and scenic base just minutes from Pebble Beach and Carmel. With the historic Del Monte Golf Course onsite, plus resort amenities including pools, spa, and dining, it’s a fantastic choice for travelers seeking comfort and convenience.

Monterey is home to Pebble Beach, one of the most famous public golf courses in America, with holes hugging the cliffs of the Pacific Ocean. It has hosted multiple U.S. Opens and is consistently ranked among the world’s best. Beyond the course itself, the history, service, and sheer beauty make Pebble a once-in-a-lifetime golf experience.

Combined with the other world-class courses, the stunning beauty of the Pacific coastline, luxury resorts, and the cultural charm of Monterey, it offers one of the most iconic golf experiences in the world.

• Monterey Regional Airport (MRY) – Just 15 minutes from Pebble Beach.
• San Jose International Airport (SJC) – Around 1.5 hours away.
• San Francisco International Airport (SFO) – Roughly 2 hours by car, with a scenic coastal drive into the Peninsula.