Last Update :1/4/2007

GOLF Magazine- January 2007

Top 10 New Courses You Can Play

The year’s best new courses prove we are one nation under golf

Monarch Dunes Golf Club
Nipomo, Calif.
6,810 yards, par 71;
Greens fees: $60-$85;
805-343-9459, monarchdunes.com

What comes to mind for golfers when you think of California’s central coast? If you said "nothing," you’re not alone. But the future looks brighter for this region 100 miles north of Santa Barbara with Monarch Dunes’ opening.

Architect Damian Pascuzzo and consultant Steve Pate (a former Ryder Cupper) combined to create a natural-looking layout that keeps your interest level high throughout. However, your money’s worth comes at two holes: Nos. 6 and 13. The 560-yard sixth plays uphill, and a lake, a dune ridge and tall trees will menace your progress. The 423-yard 13th scoots downhill, but plays into the prevailing wind. In these days of juiced equipment, it takes real design skill to test the best at barely 6,800 yards. Monarch Dunes does that.

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