Pebble Beach, California
Pebble Beach Golf Links
For a first trip, base yourself on the Monterey Peninsula and add Half Moon Bay on the way down from San Francisco. You’ll get dramatic Pacific views, excellent public golf, Carmel dining, and manageable driving. In fall 2026, avoid Half Moon Bay maintenance dates from October 27–29 and November 2–4
KNOW THE COURSE
What to know
Trip shape
San Francisco to Monterey
Fly into San Francisco, spend one night near Half Moon Bay, then continue south to Carmel or Monterey for four nights. This keeps the trip scenic without turning every day into a road trip.
- San Francisco → Half Moon Bay: about 45 minutes
- Half Moon Bay → Monterey: about 2 hours
- Monterey → San Francisco: about 2 hours
Round 1
Half Moon Bay Golf Links
Play the Ocean Course for the coastal drama and the Old Course for a more traditional parkland round. Expect wind and marine weather, so a morning tee time is usually the safer choice.
- Ocean Course
- Old Course
Rounds 2–4
Make Pebble Beach the centerpiece
Plan one premium round at Pebble Beach Golf Links, then pair it with Spyglass Hill or Del Monte. If Pebble access or cost is difficult, Pacific Grove and Bayonet Black Horse offer strong alternatives.
- Pebble Beach Golf Links
- Spyglass Hill Golf Course
- Del Monte Golf Course
- Pacific Grove Golf Links
Course strategy
Plan around the wind
Coastal mornings can be cool or foggy, while afternoon wind often makes exposed holes tougher. Bring layers, allow extra club on exposed approaches, and avoid stacking your hardest rounds back-to-back.
Where to stay
Carmel is the best home base
Stay in Carmel-by-the-Sea for walkable restaurants and easy access to Pebble Beach, Spyglass, Pacific Grove, and Carmel Valley. Monterey is generally more practical if you prioritize convenience and value.
- Carmel-by-the-Sea: best atmosphere
- Monterey: easiest logistics
- Pacific Grove: closest to several courses
Suggested itinerary
A comfortable 7-day schedule
This pacing gives you four serious rounds, one lighter round, and enough time for the coast.
- Day 1: Arrive San Francisco; drive to Half Moon Bay
- Day 2: Half Moon Bay Ocean Course
- Day 3: Old Course or rest; drive to Carmel
- Day 4: Pebble Beach Golf Links
- Day 5: Spyglass Hill or Del Monte
- Day 6: Pacific Grove or Bayonet Black Horse
- Day 7: Carmel morning; return to San Francisco
Transportation
Rent a car
A rental car is the simplest option, especially for clubs, coastal viewpoints, and separate tee times. Highway 1 is scenic but can add time; use it for sightseeing rather than when rushing to a tee time.
Off-course
Leave room for Carmel and Big Sur
Use one non-golf afternoon for Carmel’s galleries and restaurants, and another for the Big Sur coastline if road conditions allow. Monterey seafood is an easy post-round win.
- Carmel-by-the-Sea
- 17-Mile Drive
- Big Sur coastline
- Monterey seafood