ARCHITECTS
Course info
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Course Report
Alister MacKenzie, the renowned designer of Augusta National, lived in a house along the sixth fairway of Pasatiempo during the last years of his life.
About
Pasatiempo Golf Club, designed by Alister MacKenzie in 1929, is a world-renowned parkland course overlooking Monterey Bay in Santa Cruz, California. Famed for its classic architectural features, rolling terrain, and rich history, it offers a challenging yet beautiful round with greens that rival the best in the world. The club hosts collegiate and amateur events and is beloved for its authentic MacKenzie restoration.
Caddie Tip
Play conservatively off the tee; accuracy is critical with several holes requiring precise placement to avoid deep bunkers and challenging barrancas. The greens are extremely fast and contoured, so stay below the hole whenever possible. Club selection is essential, and local knowledge of pin positions will save strokes.
The Main Challenge
Pasatiempo is especially demanding on approach shots, with complex green complexes heavily guarded by bunkers and severe undulations. The quick, sloping greens require precise putting and exceptional touch, while the deep barrancas on the back nine create several forced carries and risk-reward scenarios.
The Good
Golfers rave about the strategic brilliance of the routing, especially the classic bunkering, bold green complexes, and the thrilling variety of holes. The combination of architectural pedigree, history, and the panoramic views of Monterey Bay make every round at Pasatiempo uniquely memorable for passionate players.
The Not So Good
Some golfers note that the tree growth over decades has tightened playing corridors, reducing strategic options. Occasional pace of play issues occur during peak periods, and the high green fees can be a deterrent for repeat local play. Greens can become nearly unmanageable in speed during dry spells.
Signature Hole:
#
16
The 16th hole, a par 4, is widely considered Pasatiempo’s signature. It features a daunting tee shot to a narrow fairway, then a dramatic approach over a deep barranca to a severely sloped green. The hole showcases MacKenzie's architectural brilliance and demands strategy, courage, and touch to score well.
Clubhouse
The club features a historic and recently renovated clubhouse with the MacKenzie Bar & Grill, the Hollins House restaurant for fine dining and events, a well-stocked pro shop, locker rooms, and event spaces with wide views of the course and Monterey Bay.
Practice Facilities
Pasatiempo offers a full driving range, large putting green, and a dedicated chipping area with bunkers. The facilities are well-maintained and provide ample space for warm-ups or focused practice before a round.
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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