City: Encinitas, CA

Category: Golf

Telephone: (760) 944-1936

Address: 1275 Quail Gardens Drive

Description: Opened in 1998, this course features no fewer than 15 holes with views of the mighty Pacific. Proximity to the ocean keeps the temperatures moderate, and when the weather is clear, the views are astonishing, making this course one of the most enjoyable in the county.Winding through the sloping hills and valleys of the quintessential beach community of Leucadia, the 6,587-yard course has fairly wide fairways and larger-than-average greens. Though water is a factor on only 3 holes, there are more than 50 bunkers, and afternoon winds can have a substantial effect on your score. The course is quite playable, however, if you don’t allow the back tees to tempt you and keep the ball off the fairways’ sloping sides.Encinitas Ranch has a double-sided driving range, practice bunker, chipping area, putting green, and snack shop; lessons are available. Price depends on who you are and when you play. Midweek prices are $54 for Encinitas residents, $72 for Southern California residents, and $77 for the general public. Add $5.00 to $60.00 on Friday, and $20.00 to $25.00 on weekends and holidays, which includes cart rental.