ARCHITECTS
Course info
Score
Difficulty
Weather
Price
Course Report
The first five holes at Spyglass Hill run through dramatic seaside dunes before the course dives into the Del Monte Forest, famously described as 'Pine Valley-by-the-Sea meets Augusta National.'
About
Spyglass Hill Golf Course, designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. in 1966, offers a dramatic contrast between ocean-side dunes and the lush Del Monte Forest. Recognized for hosting the AT&T Pebble Beach Pro-Am and USGA events, its layout is both beautiful and demanding, providing a memorable challenge for serious golfers, with sweeping coastal views and tree-lined inland holes.
Caddie Tip
Conserve strokes early—holes 1–5 are exposed to the wind and demand precision, especially with ocean breezes impacting club choice. Once in the forest, focus on accuracy over power as holes tighten and elevation changes come into play. The greens are quick with subtle breaks, so thorough green reading and careful approach shot placement are essential.
The Main Challenge
The greatest challenge of Spyglass Hill is its demanding routing: the first five holes play along rugged coastline and dunes, frequently into a stiff breeze, requiring excellent shot control. The transition to pine forest brings tighter fairways, elevation changes, and small, well-protected greens—precision and course management are essential throughout.
The Good
Golfers love the distinctive split personality of Spyglass Hill, with unforgettable ocean views and coastal holes at the start, quickly transitioning into pine forest holes with strategic shot requirements and some of the best-conditioned greens in California. The diversity and challenge, set against Monterey Peninsula scenery, make it a bucket-list experience.
The Not So Good
The biggest complaint is often the high greens fees and limited public access unless staying at Pebble Beach Resort. Play can also be slow due to popularity, and wind exposure on the opening holes can be punishing for less skilled players. Some also find the transition to forest holes less visually exciting compared to the oceanfront start.
Signature Hole:
#
4
The par-4 4th hole, 'Blind Pew,' is Robert Trent Jones Sr.'s favorite par 4 he ever designed. This 376-yard hole features a wild, sunken green nestled among sand dunes, only 10 yards wide at its narrowest and 55 yards deep. Club selection and accuracy are crucial, as the dramatic green complex both punishes and rewards precision.
Clubhouse
The Spyglass Hill clubhouse provides dining, a full-service golf shop with logo merchandise, locker rooms, and lounge areas. First-class service complements extensive amenities, and there is easy access to Pebble Beach Resort dining and hospitality, ensuring a top-tier experience before and after your round.
Practice Facilities
Expect full practice amenities including an expansive grass driving range, well-maintained chipping areas, and large putting greens. Facilities are shared with Pebble Beach Resorts and maintained to championship standards, offering all the resources needed for proper warmup and short game refinement.
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.
.avif)
.webp)
.png)
%20%236.jpg)
.png)
