Central Valley

California's Central Valley stretches over 450 miles through the center of the state and parallels the Pacific Ocean. Also called the "Sacramento Valley," it encompasses such towns as Bakersfield to the south, past Sacramento and Fresno to Stockton at the northern end.

Mostly flat, the region is especially rich with agriculture, thanks to fertile soil producing a wealth of gardens, farmlands and wineries. The Central Valley produces 8 percent of America's agriculture despite a land mass much smaller. Well off the beaten path compared to California's larger tourist hotspots such as Yosemite National Park or Lake Tahoe, small farmers markets, roadside produce stands and winery and cheese festivals showcase the valley's fertile landscape.

While the northern part of the valley receives about 20 inches of rain each year, the southern area, the San Joaquin, is a much drier and can very get hot in the summer, while the winter months are foggy and rainy.

The golf courses around the Central Valley are lesser known compared to California's other regions such as Monterey or Palm Springs, but the many cities scattered throughout offer more understated courses. This also means you'll discover some of the better bargain plays in the region, even if the headlining golf courses of California are to be found elsewhere.