Poppy Hills Golf Club

Location: Pebble Beach | Style: Parkland | Length: 7,002 yards | Par: 71

Opened in 1986 and designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., Poppy Hills Golf Club is tucked 200 feet above sea level in the scenic Del Monte Forest on the Monterey Peninsula. The course was originally nicknamed the “Hilltop Course” and quickly became a fixture on the PGA TOUR, co-hosting the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am from 1991 to 2009.

Extensive practice facilities, along with the excellent Porter’s Grill & Pub, make for the perfect day out, with plenty to enjoy on either side of playing this exceptional course.

In 2013, Poppy Hills underwent a major renovation with a focus on water conservation and sustainability. The redesign introduced firmer, faster playing conditions and improved irrigation and drainage, while preserving the course’s natural forest setting. The result is a modern, eco-friendly championship venue that blends seamlessly with its surroundings and is perfect for a Pebble Beach golf vacation.

Course highlights

• Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., weaving through the towering Del Monte Forest
• Former PGA TOUR venue, co-hosting the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am for nearly two decades
• Eco-friendly renovation in 2013/14, transforming the course into a firm, fast, sustainable layout
• Ranked the 75th best golf course in California by Top 100 Golf Courses

Signature Holes

The standout closing hole is the par-5 18th, a 519-yard risk/reward finisher. Reachable in two for longer hitters, the green is heavily guarded at the front by a hazard, demanding precision on the approach.

The bold play is a right-to-left draw into position for an eagle putt, while the safer route leaves a delicate chip over the hazard to set up birdie. It’s a dramatic finish that perfectly captures the strategic nature of Poppy Hills.

Clubhouse & amenities

Guests at Poppy Hills enjoy excellent practice facilities, including a full driving range, short-game area, and putting greens. After the round, Porter’s Grill & Pub is the perfect 19th hole, offering hearty fare, local wines, and forest views that match the course’s relaxed yet refined atmosphere.

Did You Know?

• The original working name for Poppy Hills was the Hilltop Course, a nod to its elevated forested setting.
• It was the first golf course in America owned and operated by a golf association, the Northern California Golf Association.
• Many PGA TOUR pros praised the layout during its run as a Pro-Am host, citing its intricate design and unique inland character within Pebble Beach.