Before golf was invented, grassy pastures were viewed as the exclusive territory of roaming sheep, herds of cattle, and overzealous Civil War reenactors. Celebrate turf's competitive utility with today's Groupon: for $45, you get 18 holes of golf (up to a $75 value), a golf cart (a $15 value), and complimentary tees and balls at The Links at Bodega Harbour in Bodega Bay (up to a $90 total value).
The Links at Bodega Harbour is a recently renovated, authentic Scottish-style links course on the beautiful Sonoma County coastline. Dreamed up by Robert Trent Jones Jr., the course follows traditional Scottish style with beautiful fairways, choppy bent-grass greens, and warlords seeking golf balls for their nubby alternative dentures. All 18 holes feature ocean views, reconstructed bunkers and sand features, and challenges from the over-playful maritime wind. Golfers are advised to save their wits and portable speaker-swelling soundtrack for the challenging lineup of the final three holes. The Links at Bodega Harbour uses environmentally friendly maintenance practices to minimize carbon footprint and maximize otter hugs.
The Links at Bodega Harbour
Carefully crafted by renowned course architect Robert Trent Jones, Jr., The Links at Bodega Harbor’s 6,290-yard course brings the coastal majesty of Scotland’s famous links to the seaside hills of Northern California. Stunning elevation changes test golfers’ ability to adjust their yardages for up- and down-hill targets, while hillcrests offer picturesque views of the Pacific Ocean and dolphins using echolocation to chip in golf balls from tough lies in the ocean. Knee-high native grasses and cavernous pot bunkers threaten to ensnare errant shots, and fast, multi-tiered, bent-grass greens make golfers earn every two-putt. The 461-yard par-four 18th is rated the second-hardest hole on the course, ending the round with a dramatic flourish as golfers must launch their approach shot over a brambly ravine to reach a heavily-bunkered green stationed just steps from the sandy beachfront.
Those looking to enjoy bayside views without having to keep track of autonomous golf balls can retreat to The Bluewater Bistro & Bar. Glasses of Sonoma County wine let guests toast to the career of a sandwedge that decided to retire in the ocean as they lounge on couches next to a stone fireplace. The elegant diner serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus anchored by fresh fish and locally-sourced ingredients.
Course at a Glance:
18-hole, par 70 course designed by Robert Trent Jones, Jr.
Length of 6,290 yards from the farthest tees
Course rating of 71.5 from the farthest tees
Slope rating of 129 from the farthest tees
Four tee options