ARCHITECTS
Course info
Score
Difficulty
Weather
Price
Course Report
The course occupies only 365 of the Santa Lucia Preserve’s 20,000 acres, and membership is limited, with a two-club model separating golf from the other amenities.
About
The Preserve Golf Club is a private Tom Fazio design set inside the 20,000-acre Santa Lucia Preserve, minutes from Carmel. Routed over 365 acres blending seamlessly with a majestic mountain and valley landscape, the course is celebrated for its tranquil, exclusive setting, environmental preservation, and a layout that reveals new challenges and views with every hole.
Caddie Tip
Focus on precise placement off the tee; the winding fairways and frequent elevation changes mean taking driver is not always best. Remember that green speeds can be exceptionally fast, and many approach shots are better played to the front edges. Play for the proper angles and avoid short-siding yourself.
The Main Challenge
The real test comes from the constant elevation changes, forced carries, and extremely fast, undulating greens. The winding layout means club selection and shot shape are critical on several holes, while approach shots must be precise to avoid punishing runoffs and difficult short-game shots.
The Good
Golfers love the serenity and complete immersion in nature, surrounded by 20,000 acres of untouched land and dramatic mountain scenery. Each hole feels secluded and unique, creating a meditative and highly private experience that stands in contrast to the hustle of nearby Monterey Peninsula courses.
The Not So Good
Some find the course too quiet, with very few golfers on the property at any given time, creating an almost empty feeling. The layout, while visually stunning, receives criticism from some for lacking a single truly memorable or world-famous hole, and the dry summer conditions can impact turf consistency.
Signature Hole:
#
18
The par-5 18th hole finishes with a dramatic elevated tee shot offering panoramic mountain views and a challenging carry into a well-protected green, demanding both strategic thinking and precise execution to close out the round in style.
Clubhouse
The understated yet luxurious clubhouse sits atop a hill with panoramic views. It includes an elegant grill room, bar, dining, locker rooms, and attentive service, with additional amenities available at the adjacent Ranch Club, such as fitness, tennis, pool, and equestrian facilities.
Practice Facilities
The Preserve offers a comprehensive and exceptionally quiet practice experience, featuring a large multiple-tee driving range, a separate short game area, target greens, wedge zones, and putting greens, all maintained to private-club standards.
Dress Code:
Strict
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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