ARCHITECTS
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Course Report
El Cardonal is the very first golf course ever designed by Tiger Woods and marked the launch of his career as a golf architect.
About
Opened in 2014, Diamante (El Cardonal) is the first course designed by Tiger Woods, blending old-style Southern California strategic options with dramatic Pacific views. Located within a luxury resort complex, it offers challenging play for all skill levels, wide fairways, and a modern links-like aesthetic enriched by desert and coastal elements.
Caddie Tip
Plan each approach carefully, prioritizing the right angles to greens, especially on holes bordered by native arroyos and bunkers. On the finishing stretch, favor right-side approaches to leave uphill chips rather than risking tricky downhill putts. Experienced caddies recommend using the firm ground and avoiding aggressive lines.
The Main Challenge
El Cardonal challenges players with significant elevation changes, firm fast greens that demand accurate approach shot trajectory, and penal native arroyos that catch errant drives. The course forces strategic thinking on almost every shot, especially off the tee and around greens.
The Good
Golfers rave about the strategic variety throughout the course and the stunning long-range ocean vistas from elevated tees and greens. The overall resort experience, including friendly staff, scenic comfort stations, and top-class practice facilities, adds to the lasting impression.
The Not So Good
Some players note the use of railroad ties and artificial cart path features detracts a bit from the natural feeling. Summer months can bring dry conditions, which sometimes impact fairway lushness. Pace of play may suffer when the resort is busy.
Signature Hole:
#
18
The 18th hole is a par 5 measuring 337 yards, featuring a dramatic downhill tee shot with breathtaking views of the Pacific in the distance. A strong drive can set up a chance to reach the green in two, though cross bunkers guard the fairway. The safer play is to the right for a manageable uphill chip.
Clubhouse
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The modern clubhouse features upscale locker rooms, retail shops, fine dining and casual grill options, a bar, on-course comfort stations, and outdoor lounges overlooking the Pacific. Extras include spa amenities, an extensive wine list, and attentive resort-level service.
Practice Facilities
A full 14-acre practice facility includes double-ended ranges, a short-game area, multiple putting greens, dedicated bunkers, and a TGR Design par-three Oasis Short Course. On-site pros and well-maintained areas offer comprehensive training opportunities.
Dress Code:
Standard
No dress code enforced. All attire is permitted.
Collared shirts not required. Clean, athletic or golf-appropriate casual wear is acceptable.
Collared shirts required. No denim, gym wear, or overly casual clothing.
Collared shirts must be tucked in; no cargo or athletic shorts. No hats indoors.
Elite club standards; jackets required indoors, no changing shoes in the parking lot, and specific attire rules based on the area of the facility.
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