The Inside Swing

Pasatiempo Golf Club

San Francisco, California

Semi-Private · 18 Holes · Par 70 · 6,476 yds · $150–$300 · 4.7

Alister MacKenzie's personal favorite among his designs (he built a home on the 6th fairway), Pasatiempo in Santa Cruz is a bucket-list course for architecture aficionados. The rolling layout features MacKenzie's trademark contoured greens, strategic bunkering, and a dramatic barranca crossing.

History & Heritage

Pasatiempo opened in 1929, designed by Dr. Alister MacKenzie for Marion Hollins. MacKenzie built his home on the sixth fairway. Bobby Jones played the opening round and praised hole 16. Tom Doak restored original features in 2007.

Signature Holes

6
Hole 6 Par 4 · 395 yards

Adjacent to MacKenzie's former home overlooking the fairway.

11
Hole 11 Par 3 · 170 yards

Deep barranca fronts the green in a celebrated MacKenzie short hole.

16
Hole 16 Par 4 · 395 yards

MacKenzie's self-proclaimed favorite hole in all of golf.

18
Hole 18 Par 5 · 520 yards

Dramatic finisher with barranca crossing.

What to Expect

A bucket-list experience with MacKenzie's rolling terrain, barrancas, and contoured greens. Cool Santa Cruz coastal weather.

At 6,476 yards par 70, green complexes are among the most challenging anywhere.

Playing Tips

Greens are the primary defense. Being on the correct tier is essential. Barrancas require confident carries.

Highlights

  • Alister MacKenzie's personal favorite design
  • MacKenzie built his home on the 6th fairway
  • Bucket-list course for architecture lovers

Frequently Asked Questions

Can the public play?
Yes. Semi-private with fees from $150 to $300.
Did MacKenzie live here?
Yes, on the 6th fairway until 1934.
What else did MacKenzie design?
Augusta National, Cypress Point, Royal Melbourne.
Has it been restored?
Tom Doak led a 2007 restoration.

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