These two gorgeous municipal 18-hole championship courses are on the coast between La Jolla and Del Mar, only 20 minutes from downtown San Diego. Home of the Farmers Insurance Open (formerly known as the Buick Invitational), and the setting of a memorable U.S. Open in 2008, Torrey Pines is second only to Pebble Beach as California's top golf destination. Situated on a bluff overlooking the ocean, the north course has the postcard-perfect signature hole (no. 6), but the south course is more challenging, has more sea-facing play, and benefits from a $3.5-million overhaul in 2002. In summer, course conditions can be less than ideal due to the sheer number of people lined up to play, and "tee scalpers" aren't uncommon. Tee times are taken 8 to 90 days in advance by automated telephone system ($43 booking fee). Golf professionals are available for lessons (which assure you a spot on the course), and the pro shop rents clubs. Greens fees on the south course are $183 weekdays, $229 weekends; the north course is $100 weekdays and $125 weekends. Cart rentals are $40, and twilight and senior rates are available. Tip: First-come, first-served tee times are available Monday through Thursday from 6:30am to 7:20am, and Friday to Sunday from sunup to 7:20am. Single golfers also stand a good chance of getting on the course if they just turn up and get on the waiting list for a threesome.