Barona Creek

Set into a hillside on tribe-owned land, Barona marks a departure from the tree-lined layouts that proliferate around San Diego. Its footprint is vast and open, with wide, firm fairways that place a premium on taking the right angle of attack. The greens, generously sized with plenty of movement, were re-turfed last year as part of a renovation that also overhauled the bunkers. But for all that’s new, the course looks mature and plays that way, with dry creeks creasing its face and a smattering of gnarled oaks, brought in from nearby, planted strategically here and there. Max fee: $160 (Photo: Courtesy Barona Creek)