Pasatiempo Golf Club

Nestled in the hills above Santa Cruz with breathtaking views of Monterey Bay from the opening tee, Pasatiempo Golf Club stands as one of Dr. Alister MacKenzie's most cherished creations and perhaps his boldest architectural statement. The legendary designer, who also crafted Augusta National and Cypress Point, considered this his finest work—high praise from the master himself, who chose to build his American home overlooking the sixth fairway.

The course name, meaning "pastime" or "relaxed passage of time" in Spanish, perfectly captures the dichotomy that makes Pasatiempo so compelling. The front nine presents a relatively serene introduction with tree-lined fairways that allow players to settle into their rhythm, but the back nine transforms into a dramatic test of nerve and precision. Here, the course reveals its true character through deep, intimidating barrancas—Spanish ravines that slice across fairways and greens, creating some of the most thrilling and terrifying approach shots in golf.