Central Coast of California

Between the bustling metropolises of Los Angeles and San Francisco runs an unparalleled stretch of American beauty that is the Central Coast of California. State Route 1 along the Pacific has long been aptly numbered in inspirational value for painters, writers, vacationers, and, of course, golfers.

Heading north from L.A., plot out a route of coastal and inland Skins (golf) and skins (grapes) that will engage all travelers.

Enjoy the Spanish architecture and abundant beaches that define the Santa Barbara region. Before sampling the fruits of the Santa Barbara Urban Wine Trail, pencil in a round at the picturesque Glen Annie Golf Club in Goleta, offering consistent views of the ocean while rolling through the region's foothills. The seaside links-style layout of Sandpiper G.C. in Santa Barbara is another must-play, and overnighters will be well served to research stay-and-play packages with such lodgings as the nearby Four Seasons.

Proceeding to the San Luis Obispo region presents further imbibing opportunity, with more than 200 wineries. Start the day with play at either the Peter Jacobsen-designed Cypress Ridge Golf Course or the diverse Avila Beach Golf Resort before teeing-up the palate for an afternoon of wine touring. There are no shortage of world-class bottlings to explore, although ensure your party makes a stop at Niner Wine Estates, Tablas Creek Vineyard, Chamisal Vineyards, Wolff Vineyards or Pear Valley. A memorable cultural stop should also be made at the historic Hearst Castle in San Simeon; built for newspaper mogul William Randolph Hearst, the castle is open for the public to tour one of the nation's largest and most lauded displays of art, architecture and affluence.

The journey north becomes mythical in the Monterey Bay region. If but once in his life, every golfer should experience Pebble Beach, where most players need to battle the awe that one is actually traversing such legendary turf. Pebble Beach Resorts is also home to the four other exceptional courses at Spyglass Hill, The Links at Spanish Bay, Del Monte and the nine-hole, par-3 fun of Peter Hay. To complete the lifetime experience, a drive up to Pasatiempo Golf Club in Santa Cruz will round out the unforgettable golf legend.

Post play, take in Monterey's host of stroll and splendor with a stop at the Monterey Bay Aquarium. In the waning hours of sunlight, enjoy a walk along Fisherman's Wharf with ample sights, shopping and dining options. A re-read of John Steinbeck's vivid (and hilarious) "Cannery Row" will further enhance appreciation of the region's history and character.