Steele Canyon Golf Club

The Gary Player-designed Steele Canyon - which includes the Canyon, Ranch and Vineyard courses, ranging from 3,206 to 3,535 yards from the back tees - benefits from the natural terrain and beauty of the surrounding area. Player made the most of it, creating one of the nicest courses in the county. The Canyon nine features dramatic elevation changes, including the 214-yard, par 3 5th hole, called “Free Fall,” where you look down from an elevated tee and see a lake looking up just begging for balls.

Balboa Park Golf Course

Originally built in 1915, Balboa is not as long as modern courses - measuring 6,288 yards from the back tees - but is just as challenging. Hills and valleys offer different perspectives and several holes border canyon drop-offs, which gives the big hitters something to consider when they go for it. The nine-hole executive course measures 2,135 yards, includes five par-4s and is on a comparatively flat layout. Conveniently close to Downtown San Diego, the course is punctuated by its dramatic skyline and ocean views.

Riverwalk Golf Club

Riverwalk opened in 1998 with three nines - the Presidio, Mission and Friars courses, all par-36 ranging from 3,153 to 3,397 yards - after designer Ted Robinson reshaped the land to include “undulating fairways, waterfalls and well-protected bentgrass greens.” There are ponds, creeks or waterfalls present on 13 of the 27 holes. The signature hole - the 304-yard, par-four third on the Mission Course - is the highlight, with water guarding the hole virtually from tee to green. Each nine includes a pair of par-5s that measure more than 500 yards from the back tees. However, the par-3s can be just as challenging.

Oaks North Golf Course

This executive course offers North, East and South courses measuring anywhere from 3,417 to 3,608 yards. Each nine includes three par-4 holes - the longest being the 313-yard fifth hole on the South Course - enabling golfers to take the driver out of the bag a few times. Trees, water and sand provide challenges found on larger courses. The greens are good and true.

Temecula Creek Inn

The three nines at Temecula Creek - the Creek, Oak and Stonehouse courses - provide more variety than the other courses on this list. Creek Course has a traditional feel with adjoining fairways. The Oaks Course has more scenic surroundings. The Stonehouse Course is most notable for the elevation changes that put much different demands on players. An early start is advisable, especially in the summer, because the heat can be draining on those planning to play an extra nine.

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