Before You Go
Pebble Beach Golf Links is bucket-list golf, and proper preparation will help you make the most of your round. Book well in advance—tee times can fill up months ahead, especially for non-resort guests. Consider staying at one of the resort properties for priority booking access.
Tips
- •Book 60-90 days in advance for best availability
- •Resort guests get priority tee times
- •Arrive at least an hour early to enjoy the practice facilities
- •Consider a forecaddie for course knowledge
Course Strategy Overview
Pebble Beach rewards accuracy over distance. The narrow fairways, coastal winds, and strategic bunkering demand thoughtful club selection. Many holes play shorter than the yardage suggests due to firm conditions, while the coastal holes can play much longer when the wind picks up.
Tips
- •Club down off the tee on tight holes
- •Miss on the uphill side of greens—many slope toward the ocean
- •The greens are faster than they appear
- •Wind typically picks up in the afternoon
The Signature Holes
While every hole at Pebble is memorable, the stretch from holes 6-10 along the ocean is unforgettable. The tiny par-3 7th, the massive par-4 8th across the chasm, and the oceanside par-4 10th are among golf's most photographed holes. Don't rush through this stretch—savor every moment.
Tips
- •Hole 7: Club selection is everything on this 100-yard par 3
- •Hole 8: Take plenty of club for the uphill second shot
- •Hole 9 and 10: Stay left—the ocean claims countless balls
Weather and Timing
Fog is common in the morning, often burning off by mid-morning to reveal stunning views. Afternoon rounds tend to see more wind but often better visibility. The course plays fastest in summer but can be quite firm and fast in fall.
Tips
- •Morning rounds may start in fog but often clear
- •Afternoon rounds are windier but typically clearer
- •Pack layers—temperature can vary 20+ degrees
- •Fall offers the best overall conditions
Key Takeaways
- Accuracy beats distance at Pebble Beach
- Bring extra balls for the coastal holes
- A forecaddie is worth the investment
- Take time to enjoy the views—it's a once-in-a-lifetime experience
- The practice facilities are world-class—arrive early