If you’re searching for the story behind one of California’s most legendary golf destinations, you’ve landed in the right place. The Pasatiempo golf course sits in Santa Cruz, California, and it’s not just another stop on your golf trip. It’s a living piece of golf history. This course connects directly to Bobby Jones, Augusta National, and one of golf architecture’s most celebrated minds. Below, you’ll find everything you need: quick facts, course history, membership costs, dining options, and answers to the questions golfers ask most often.
Quick Facts About Pasatiempo Golf Course
Before we dive into the details, here’s a snapshot table so you can get oriented fast.
| Category | Details |
| Location | 20 Clubhouse Rd, Santa Cruz, CA 95060 |
| Hours | Monday to Sunday, 6:30 AM – 6:00 PM |
| Phone | +1 831-459-9155 |
| Access Type | Semi-private (public tee times available daily) |
| Course Par | 70 |
| Architect | Alister MacKenzie |
| Public Green Fees | $325 – $405 |
| Member Guest Fees | $90 – $115 |
| Signature Holes | Par-3 16th, Par-4 18th |
| Dining | MacKenzie Bar & Grill, The Hollins House |
Now, let’s get into why this course matters so much to golf history.
The Story Behind Pasatiempo Golf Course
There is always a story behind every great golf course, and this is no exception, as it begins with a woman who did not want to conform to the norms. The property was developed by Marion Hollins, the first woman in golf and real estate development, as early as 1929. She desired a course that would put champions to the test and would stand the test of time. Accordingly, she hired a designer who had the same vision.
These were designed by the same designer, who had done the work of Augusta National and Cypress Point, Alister MacKenzie. He didn’t just design this course from a distance, either. MacKenzie liked it so much that he constructed his own house, just beside the 6th fairway. As a matter of fact, he termed it his best work before all the other courses he had ever designed.
Bobby Jones and the Opening Day That Changed Golf Forever
This is where the story becomes interesting. A grand opening of the course took place on September 8, 1929, with a foursome that remains the subject of discussion today by golf fans. More than 2,000 fans attended to see four legends play the first round.
| Player | Achievement |
| Bobby Jones | World’s premier amateur golfer |
| Marion Hollins | US Women’s Amateur Champion |
| Glenna Collett Vare | Multi-time US Women’s Champion |
| Cyril Tolley | British Amateur Champion |
Bobby Jones was on his way to glorious California that year to attend the U.S. Amateur at Pebble Beach. He, however, lost in the early stages of that tournament, leaving him with time. He has decided to go and play the new course, and so he selected Santa Cruz.
The next thing changed the history of golf. MacKenzie amazed Bobby Jones with his routing, his skill in using natural land, and his intricate green designs. This led Jones to employ MacKenzie shortly afterwards to work on designing a dream project of his own, which was a piece of land in Augusta, Georgia. That was to become Augusta National, which hosts the Masters.
Due to this linkage, golf historians refer to this course as the architectural sister of Augusta National. Hindsight: Golf would have had an entirely different appearance today without that illustrious visit of Bobby Jones, and may not have even existed at all.
What Makes the Course Layout So Challenging
This isn’t a course you can coast through. It’s a par-70 layout built for golfers who enjoy a real test. The greens run fast, and they’re anything but simple. Add in deep, strategically placed bunkers, and you’ve got a course that rewards precision over power.
The back nine steals the spotlight, thanks to its dramatic elevation changes and natural topography. Two holes in particular stand out.
| Hole | Par | What Makes It Notable |
| 16th | 3 | Demanding approach, unforgiving green |
| 18th | 4 | Plays over a massive ravine; signature finishing hole |
Golfers who’ve played both public courses and private clubs often say this layout ranks among the most complete designs in the country. That reputation isn’t new, either. It’s been building since Bobby Jones first walked the fairways back in 1929.
Amenities and Facilities Worth Knowing About
Beyond the 18 holes, there’s plenty to keep golfers busy.
| Amenity | Details |
| Driving Range | Full range available for warm-ups |
| Golf Carts | Available for rent |
| Event Services | Weddings, tournaments, private functions |
Additionally, the venue hosts full event services, including weddings and tournaments. So, if you’re planning a special occasion, this location doubles as a scenic event space with a built-in golf backdrop.
Where to Eat: Dining Options at Pasatiempo
After 18 holes, you’ll want good food, and this venue delivers on that front too.
| Venue | Style | Best For |
| MacKenzie Bar & Grill | Casual dining | Relaxing after a round, no reservation needed |
| The Hollins House | Refined, historic estate | Special occasions, private events |
MacKenzie Bar & Grill opens daily, serving casual dishes alongside sweeping course views. It’s the kind of spot where you can relax after your round without needing a reservation.
The Hollins House, on the other hand, offers something more refined. This historic estate serves as a premier dinner house, and it’s also a popular venue for private events. If you’re celebrating something special, this is where you’d want to book.
Understanding Membership Costs
Talking numbers now, however, since membership here is not like most clubs. This is an equity owned club, and it means that you cannot just write a check and pay an amount of money that is a standard initiation fee. Rather, membership is in the form of a shareholder model in three distinct financial levels.
| Membership Tier | Cost Range |
| Share of Stock (purchased from existing owner) | $100,000 – $200,000 |
| One-Time Initiation Fee | $20,000 – $25,000 |
| Individual Annual Dues | $8,640/year (~$595–$676/month) |
| Couples Annual Dues | $11,820/year |
| Additional Golfing Child | $1,116/year |
How the Shareholder Model Works
To begin with, you will have to buy some asset of a share in privately owned stock owned by an existing owner of the company. The club has a list of the sellers and the prices of shares vary depending on how many people want to buy the shares. After getting a share you will then pay a start-up fee to commence the membership. Subsequently, annual playing fees would maintain your privileges annually.
Perks That Come With Membership
Membership isn’t just about paying fees. It comes with real advantages too.
| Perk | What It Means |
| No Hidden Minimums | No food/beverage minimums, no surprise assessments |
| Annual Flexibility | Shareholders choose yearly whether to activate playing privileges |
| Priority Tee Times | Dedicated blocks Friday–Sunday, plus early booking access |
| Discounted Guest Rates | $90–$115 per round vs. $325–$405 for public players |
Public green fees actually help subsidize club operations, which is part of why this membership structure remains stable year after year.
Public Access vs. Membership: Quick Comparison
| Feature | Public Player | Member |
| Green Fees | $325 – $405 | Included in dues |
| Guest Rate | N/A | $90 – $115 |
| Weekend Tee Time Access | Standard booking | Priority blocks (Fri–Sun) |
| Booking Window | Standard | 2 days before public |
| Upfront Cost | None | $120,000+ (stock + initiation) |
Why Golf Historians Keep Coming Back to This Course
This is why this very course continues to feature in the history of golf. It is not the MacKenzie design and the quick greens. It is the straight path of this property to Augusta National, which is probably the most renowned course of the world.
Bobby Jones didn’t just play a good round here in 1929. This was something that changed his overall vision of competitive golf venues. The magnitude of that visit left a ripple effect, which is presently affecting the sport. Whenever people watch the Masters, they indirectly witness the impact of what occurred on this Santa Cruz course decades ago.
Tips for Planning Your Visit
If this is your first round, there are some things to consider. Teetimes are booked very fast, particularly on the busiest days of the weekends. That way, it is a good idea to make a reservation. Moreover, bring an assortment of clothes in changing weather conditions because the weather can change (sun and fog) in Santa Cruz during the day.
Also, inquire about reserving at Hollins House in case you are interested in a more formal meal after a round. Casual golfers will, on the other hand, be at home in MacKenzie Bar & Grill.
Final Thoughts
This Santa Cruz gem may represent much more than a picturesque round of golf at the conclusion of the day. It provides a direct link back to one of the most significant events in the history of golf courtesy of Bobby Jones and his doomed visit of 1929. You want to pursue history, secure a membership investment, or just a bucket-list round; the Pasatiempo golf course will provide an experience that not many other venues could serve you with. From MacKenzie’s brilliant architecture to the narratives still shared on that opening day, this course continues to be a must-have tour for serious golfers all over.
Also Read About: The Country Club Brookline: History, 1999 Ryder Cup & More
Frequently Asked Questions
- Where is Pasatiempo golf course located?
It’s located at 20 Clubhouse Rd, Santa Cruz, CA 95060, along the central California coast.
- Who designed the course?
Alister MacKenzie designed it. He’s the same architect behind Augusta National and Cypress Point.
- What is the connection between Bobby Jones and this course?
Bobby Jones played the opening round in 1929 and was so impressed by MacKenzie’s design that he later hired him to help create Augusta National.
- Is the course open to the public?
Yes, it’s semi-private, meaning public tee times are available daily alongside member access.
- How much do public green fees cost?
Public green fees typically range from $325 to $405 per round.
- What’s the par for this course?
It’s a par-70 championship layout.
- How much does membership cost?
Membership requires purchasing a share of stock ($100,000–$200,000), a one-time initiation fee ($20,000–$25,000), and annual dues starting around $8,640.
- What dining options are available on-site?
Guests can choose between MacKenzie Bar & Grill for casual dining or The Hollins House for a more formal experience.
- Can members bring guests?
Yes, members can bring guests for discounted rates between $90 and $115 per round.
- What are the most famous holes on the course?
The par-3 16th and the par-4 18th are considered the standout holes, especially the 18th, which plays over a dramatic ravine.