IT’S NOT JUST ABOUT THE GOLF

THE LODGE AT PEBBLE BEACH

Most people, particularly those who enjoy golf, recognize Pebble Beach as the premier golf destination in the country. I had always thought of it as a bucket list item, but after spending three days and two nights at the historic Lodge and playing Pebble Beach Golf Links, I realize why this once-in-a-lifetime experience turns into an annual staple.

The Monterey Peninsula’s spectacular landscape, which includes white-sand beaches, striking coastal bluffs, tall pines and cypress trees makes a perfect setting for a restful getaway. My wife and I thought we would spend a few days relaxing with a book, and enjoying the ocean views. We quickly learned that we could easily spend a week or more enjoying the many amenities and local activities of Pebble Beach and the surrounding areas.

Sure, sitting on our balcony at The Lodge overlooking the Pacific Ocean and the 18th green was breathtaking, especially after we learned that our room was right above the one where Tiger Woods stays when visiting Pebble Beach. But we quickly realized that we couldn’t just hang out in our room. There was too much to do in and around the resort.

Stunning scenes from every angle provide a magnificent backdrop for scenic hikes, bike rides and drives. There are guided tours to nearby missions, Big Sur and Point Lobos. There’s plenty of wine tasting through the Northern California wine-country, wonderful restaurant to sample creations by celebrated chefs, and ample shopping at destinations like Cannery Row and Carmel-by-the-Sea.

On the property, there are a variety of boutiques and gifts shops such as the Kids’ Shop, Marchesa Jewelry, The Beach Club Tennis Shop, an array of golf shops featuring game attire and gifts, and Golf Links to the Past, which features golf memorabilia and artifacts.

Clearly, the highlight of the stay was playing Pebble Beach Golf Links. I convinced my wife to tag along in a cart, and it was equally thrilling for her to enjoy the gorgeous views from each hole on the course. It was slow playing, particularly because every group seemed to have its own gallery (Pebble Beach permits ride-alongs and walk-alongs). But there was so much to look at that the pace really didn’t matter, and maybe even helped us take in more of the atmosphere.

We enjoyed a walk through the grounds of The Lodge, looking at the historic pictures of Pebble Beach that hang in the halls, spending lots of money in the golf shops surrounding the putting green by the lobby entrance, and taking in the captivating view that greeted us in the Terrace Lounge. Dinner in the Stillwater Bar and Grill featured a high-end menu and a panoramic view of the 18th hole along the water. The next night at The Bench was a bit more casual, but an equally great meal and setting. It is rare to find a resort property that is situated in such a perfect location as to provide each of its restaurants and features with tremendous golf course and ocean views.

The Lodge at Pebble Beach is first and foremost a golf resort with world-class courses. But it’s so much more, from the beach and tennis club to the world-class spa, the stunning 17-Mile Drive, and even a sunset bagpipe recital at Spanish Bay.

One of the newest additions to the Pebble Beach property is Fairway One at The Lodge. Located along the first fairway of Pebble Beach Golf Links, it offers an augmented guest experience with large guest rooms and a private setting perfect for visitors seeking an enhanced experience.
For such a luxurious resort, it is not pretentious. The staff is accommodating and welcoming, as though they know they’re an important part of the experience.

Pebble Beach may have once been on our bucket list, but now that we’ve experienced it, it will be on your annual to-do list.

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P.O. Box 1435 | Thousand Oaks | CA | 91360

805-849-7014

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