The Links at Spanish Bayou - People enjoy a day near the water.
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The Links at Spanish Bayou

4.8
·857 reviews·Del Monte Forest, United States

A stunning golf course on the 17-Mile Drive, famous for its dramatic coastal views and unique sunset bagpiper tradition.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Early mornings

Less wind, better play

CrowdLow
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The Links at Spanish Bayou - People enjoy a day near the water.

The Links at Spanish Bayou

Best Time

Early mornings

Less wind, better play

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A stunning golf course on the 17-Mile Drive, famous for its dramatic coastal views and unique sunset bagpiper tradition.

4.8
(857 reviews)

"Beautiful views on every hole, awesome experience, and the bagpiper at sunset was a real treat!"

Vertical photo
TIP

🎯 Play Early for Less Wind

The coastal wind picks up significantly later in the day. Tee off early for a more manageable game.

🌊 Break Towards the Ocean

Remember that most putts and shots will break more towards the ocean than you anticipate.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Spectacular Coastal Vistas

Spectacular Coastal Vistas

Every hole offers breathtaking ocean views, making it a golfer's paradise with unparalleled scenery.

The Sunset Bagpiper

The Sunset Bagpiper

18th Hole

Experience the unique tradition of a bagpiper playing as the sun sets over the Pacific. A truly magical moment.

Hole Eight Challenge

Hole Eight Challenge

Hole 8

A challenging hole with stunning views, often featured in golf highlights. Be prepared for the distance and conditions.

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Planning Your Visit

Embrace the Coastal Breeze

The Links at Spanish Bay is renowned for its stunning coastal views, but this also means wind can be a significant factor. Play early in the day to avoid stronger gusts and improve your game. Reddit

Plan for the Bagpiper's Serenade

Don't miss the unique tradition of the bagpiper playing at sunset. It's a memorable experience that adds a special touch to your visit, often mentioned as a highlight by visitors. Reddit

Best Times

When
Early mornings
Why
Less wind, better play
Crowd
Low
When
Sunset
Why
Bagpiper and golden hour
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

@maxwimmerr Bro, your future is looking bright! You are we’re so damn fun to hang with! I look forward to next time! #caddie_whisperer #golfing #golf #pebblebeach #spanishbay #highlights
caddie_whisperer
116 likes • 6.6K views

🎯 Play Early for Less Wind

The coastal wind picks up significantly later in the day. Tee off early for a more manageable game. Reddit

🌊 Break Towards the Ocean

Remember that most putts and shots will break more towards the ocean than you anticipate. Reddit

Golf, cars, and good company… Spanish Bay during Car Week is unmatched! Hearing and seeing all the cars passing by the course is tough to beat!
lowballers_911
86 likes • 0 views
A trip to pebble never disappoints. This year we played Spanish Bay ahead of the renovation happening next year which means once they’re done we will have to play again…
rebeccatroncoso
62 likes • 0 views

🎶 Don't Miss the Bagpiper

The evening bagpiper performance at sunset is a must-see and adds to the unique atmosphere. Reddit

🚗 Car Week Spectacle

If visiting during Car Week, enjoy the unique ambiance of cars passing by the course. Instagram

reddit.com

I'm going to play The Links at Spanish Bay this week... what do I need to know?

Tips

from all over the internet

🎯 Play Early for Less Wind

The coastal wind picks up significantly later in the day. Tee off early for a more manageable game. Reddit

🌊 Break Towards the Ocean

Remember that most putts and shots will break more towards the ocean than you anticipate. Reddit

🎶 Don't Miss the Bagpiper

The evening bagpiper performance at sunset is a must-see and adds to the unique atmosphere. Reddit

🚗 Car Week Spectacle

If visiting during Car Week, enjoy the unique ambiance of cars passing by the course. Instagram

What Travellers Say

4.8
(857 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors rave about the breathtaking coastal views and the unique sunset bagpiper tradition, calling it an awesome experience. While the price is noted as a bit high for what's offered, especially without a driving range or complimentary water, the stunning scenery and memorable atmosphere make it a worthwhile visit for many. Reddit

"Great course, beautiful views on every hole. Awesome experience! Only reason it doesn't get 5 stars is its a little odd at the price for 18 holes and a cart that you don't even get bottled waters. Not having a driving range is also a bummer. The Bag Piper in the evening was awesome as well!"

Matt Mobley

"Restaurant with beautiful views of the golf course and ocean.
Ordered the cheeseburger that was perfectly cooked.
Our waitress Megan was great.
For a real treat show up at sunset to see the bagpiper playing."

Pink Hat Gypsy

"I played this course on 12/31/24. It was carpath only so I decided to walk and it was beautiful and mesmerized by the views of the course. We were on the 18th hole when the bagpipes was played before the sunset."

Uhnuh Buhnuhnuh

What People Like

Spectacular ocean views
Sunset bagpiper tradition
Unique coastal setting

What People Dislike

High price point
No driving range
No complimentary water

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Links at Spanish Bay is located along the famous 17-Mile Drive in Pebble Beach, California. You can access it by car, and there may be an entrance fee for the drive itself. Instagram

Yes, parking is available at the course. It can get busy, especially during peak times or events like Car Week. Instagram

While it's a golf course, if you're in the Pebble Beach area, you might be able to walk to it depending on your starting point, but it's primarily accessed by car. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Green fees can be substantial, reflecting its prime location and championship status. It's recommended to check their official website for current pricing and booking information. Reddit

Yes, booking tee times well in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season or popular events, to secure your preferred slot. Reddit

Keep an eye on the official website or golf booking platforms for potential deals, especially during off-peak seasons. Reddit

The course typically opens early in the morning and closes around sunset. Specific hours can vary seasonally, so it's best to check their official schedule. Reddit

🎫 ⛳ Onsite Experience

A standard golf dress code is usually enforced, typically requiring collared shirts and golf shorts or slacks. Check the course's specific guidelines before your visit. Reddit

Unfortunately, The Links at Spanish Bay does not have a driving range, which is a point of feedback for some visitors. Reddit

Yes, golf club rentals and carts are available for players. It's advisable to reserve these in advance when booking your tee time. Reddit

Expect coastal weather, which can be foggy in the mornings and often windy throughout the day. Layers are recommended. Reddit

The course is situated directly on the Pacific coast, offering panoramic views of the ocean, coastline, and surrounding natural beauty on nearly every hole. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, there is a restaurant with beautiful views of the golf course and ocean, offering a great spot to relax after a round. Reddit

The restaurant offers a menu that includes items like cheeseburgers and salads, with positive mentions of food quality and service. Reddit

Many visitors find it worthwhile for the incredible views and good food, making it a pleasant stop during a 17-Mile Drive. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Every hole offers a stunning backdrop, but the holes directly along the coast provide the most dramatic ocean vistas. The 18th hole at sunset is particularly iconic. Reddit

Early morning offers softer light and less wind, while sunset provides a magical golden hour glow, especially with the bagpiper. Reddit

Yes, visitors often stop along the 17-Mile Drive to admire the views and take photos, and the restaurant area also offers great photo opportunities. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While primarily a golf course, families can enjoy The Links at Spanish Bay as part of a scenic drive along the 17-Mile Drive. The restaurant offers a family-friendly atmosphere with incredible views, perfect for a meal. Reddit Kids will be mesmerized by the ocean vistas and the unique experience of the sunset bagpiper. Reddit Consider a leisurely stroll along the nearby beach areas for more kid-friendly activities. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Playing a round at The Links at Spanish Bay can be a significant expense. However, visitors can still experience its beauty without golfing by driving the 17-Mile Drive and stopping at the restaurant for a meal or drink. Reddit The views from the restaurant are spectacular and offer a taste of the course's allure without the green fees. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

This location is a photographer's dream. The dramatic coastal scenery, ocean waves, and the iconic sunset bagpiper provide endless opportunities for stunning shots. Reddit Aim for early morning or late afternoon for the best light. Even if you're not a golfer, the views from the restaurant and along the 17-Mile Drive are exceptional. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Navigating the Coastal Challenge

Playing The Links at Spanish Bay is an experience defined by its spectacular coastal setting. However, this beauty comes with a challenge: the wind. Visitors consistently advise playing early in the morning to catch the calmer conditions. The ocean breeze can dramatically affect your shots, turning a straightforward hole into a test of skill and strategy. Reddit Be prepared for the wind to be a constant companion, and adjust your club selection and swing accordingly. The course itself is designed to be fun yet challenging, offering a memorable round for golfers of all levels. TikTok

Beyond the wind, the course's layout is a key part of its appeal. While there isn't a driving range on-site, the focus is on the immediate challenge of each hole and the breathtaking views that accompany it. Reddit The greens can be tricky, and understanding how they break towards the ocean is crucial for success. Reddit Many golfers find the experience exhilarating, even if the course 'beats you up' a bit, especially when paired with a post-round beverage. Reddit

The Unforgettable Sunset Bagpiper

One of the most unique and cherished traditions at The Links at Spanish Bay is the evening bagpiper performance. As the sun begins to dip below the horizon, casting a warm glow over the Pacific, the distinct sound of the bagpipes fills the air. This ritual is a highlight for many visitors, adding a layer of cultural richness and emotional resonance to the already stunning scenery. Reddit

This tradition is particularly poignant on the 18th hole, creating a memorable finale to the day. It's an experience that transcends golf, offering a moment of reflection and appreciation for the beauty of the location. Reddit Many reviews and social media posts specifically mention the bagpiper as a must-see, often recommending timing your visit to catch this special performance. InstagramReddit It's a sensory experience that perfectly complements the visual splendor of a Spanish Bay sunset, making it a truly iconic part of the visit. Reddit

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