Perched along the spectacular Sonoma County Coast, about 70 miles north of San Francisco, The Links at Bodega Harbour has long been known as a hidden gem that delivers great value. A tee time on this links-style layout that showcases Pacific Ocean views from all eighteen holes in unpretentious, low-key Bodega Bay is something of a poor man s alternative to ultra cool Monterey Bay s Pebble Beach Golf Links. A Robert Trent Jones, Jr. design, The Links at Bodega Harbour opened with nine holes in 1978 and became a full 18-hole layout in 1987. Jones came back for an extensive renovation in 2008. Though the course winds amidst tightly packed housing throughout much of the round, the combination of rolling fairways, cavernous pot bunkers, undulating greens, native coastal rough and seaside marshes create a glorious golf setting. The par 70 playing field maxes out at only 6,230 yards, but it presents a formidable challenge, especially when the wind is up. Hilly terrain spells lots of elevation changes and frequent awkward lies and stances. You ll need accurate shot making to avoid the ball-consuming rough and nearly 100 bunkers. The three finishing holes at The Links at Bodega Harbour, called The Pit by locals, are right by the ocean and the exhilarating highlights of the round. All players are required to walk holes 16th and 17th holes (pull carts are set out for players). Bite off as much of the protected wetlands as you dare on your drive on the short, angled par-4 16th. The 17th is a long carry par 3 over the environmentally sensitive area. You get your cart back for the fabulous finishing hole a long par 4 with a tough tee shot around bunkers and marsh en route to a final downhill approach backdropped by the ocean. Note that weather conditions can change quickly and the marine layer fog often hampers visibility and may even delay play. Practice facilities at The Links at Bodega Harbour include a putting green and a chipping area. There s no range, but you can take a few warm-up swings in a hitting net. The facility boasts a well-stocked pro shop, a snack shack and grill next to the shop and a bistro restaurant. The 19th hole ocean views can t be beat. Don t miss out on a tee time at The Links at Bodega Harbour it s a spectacular golf experience that provides great bang for your buck.