Monarch Beach Golf Links

Steve: This isn't really a links course, despite the name. But it's the closest you'll get in Orange County. The course is set up magnificently, with inventive hole layouts that test lots of different shots, water hazards, evil bunkers, sharp doglegs, and a few narrow fairways that intimidate even the sharpest of shooters. Only two holes have views of the ocean – Hole 3 and the tee on Hole 4.

The most discernable aspect of this course is twofold: The service leaves nothing to be asked for (not surprising, given the $170 price tag), and the sheer volume of information at your disposal to aid your game. Each cart has GPS, and the yardage books really come in handy, especially on those dastardly "cart path only" holes. I found myself consulting the yardage book on almost every hole.

(Full review)