Reader reviewers highlight diversity of Southern California golf scene

By William K. Wolfrum,
Staff Writer

If there's one word that best describes Southern California, it's "diversity." From the people to the land to the opportunities for relaxation, So Cal has something for everyone.

Heck, where else can you ski and surf on the same day?

Southern California golf courses share that trait. Luckily, through our readers, WorldGolf.com is everywhere, able to uncover some of the hidden and not-so hidden gems of So Cal golf.

Here's a look at some courses our readers favor, and why.

Redhawk Golf Club, Temecula

"Beautiful, almost perfect conditions. Wait till you see the practice green. Very, very challenging golf test with a few 'tricky' holes. Local knowledge would help. Highly rated for its beauty and golf test. Worth the trip."

Gary Martin
Clinton, N.J.

Palm Meadows Golf Course, San Bernardino

"Since they have changed the front and back nine around the front nine is a challenge and the back can be had. But be careful: Seven of the back nine holes have out-of-bounds. Greens are running around 10 or 11 and above the holes can be 15. Great track for any level but there aren't many varied tee areas. Tough track for the ladies."

Danny Horvat
Lake Forest, Calif.

Ojai Valley Golf Club, Ojai

"I highly recommend this course. Well-manicured and worth the green fee."

John Curtin
Newton, Mass.

San Bernardino Golf Club, San Bernardino

"This course is challenging and has danger. There's water and trees to keep you busy. If you stay in the fairway, you'll have a great score to brag about."

Robert Kopenhaver
Riverside, Calif.

Compton Par 3 Golf Course, Compton

"Compton Par 3 is a rare find. Fat white sand, tall rough, fewer trees, windy conditions and rolling greens are just a few ingredients to this masterpiece. Unfortunately, the greens maintenance of recent months has been lacking, probably due to resource decisions. Otherwise probably one of the finest links-style layouts in the U.S."

David Romero

South Gate Municipal Golf Course, South Gate

"South Gate par 3 is a mature, narrow course that will truly test your short game. Many people who play the course are intimidated by its difficulty and quit the game for good here. This charming course is hidden in the suburbs of Los Angeles and is often empty of players … this makes for a private, backyard-type atmosphere. There are no fairways, just rough and greens. Tall pines line this shady nine-hole layout and create an ideal microclimate for small Poa annua greens. Use practice facilities and snack shop when you come. … You must have a hot dog."

David Romero

Marshall Canyon Golf Club, La Verne

"The course plays short but is challenging due to its very difficult greens. A few reachable par 4s and short par 5s for big hitters. The course is unfair due to heavily sloping fairways so good drives are not always rewarded. Usually not very busy so it's great for walk-ons, but call ahead to be sure."

D.S. Chase

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January 8, 2006