TRUMP NATIONAL GOLF CLUB (310-303-3260)
California Golf Course Review 8/24/07
Trump National is one of those special places, where luxury combines with nature to provide one of the most incredible golf experiences in the USA. The property has no equal when it comes to luxury in golf experience - as world renowned restaurants, exclusive amenities, unmatched service and spectacular, panoramic Pacific Ocean views combine to make Trump National unforgettable!
The property has quite a history, including the experience of having the 18th hole washed away by a landslide in 1999, after which it re-opened as a 15-hole layout. Formerly known as Ocean Trails, the course was purchased by Donald Trump in November of 2002, and premiered to national acclaim in January of 2006. The original Pete Dye design was renovated by Donald Trump himself, with $250 million spent on the course, facilities and clubhouse.
The course is perched above the jagged cliffs of the rugged Southern California coast, and features some extraordinary vistas of the Pacific coastline and Catalina Island. White sand bunkers, crystalline lakes and spectacularly landscaped water falls help to create an aura of grandeur that makes this place completely special. The property has a commitment to preserve the natural landscape, and has taken a special interest in helping to further the livelihood of an endangered species - the California Coast Gnat Catcher (a small migratory bird).
Located just 30 minutes south of downtown LA, Trump National features a spacious clubhouse with lavishly appointed pro shop stocked with top name brands of equipment, attire and accessories. There are nicely appointed locker rooms with showers for men and women, three restaurants to choose from, plus lavish banquet facilities. An extensive practice facility is on property, and lessons varying from swing mechanics to on course management, for levels ranging from beginners to advanced players are offered.
Dining at Trump National is an experience in itself. The Golfers Lounge offers casual fare, while the Café Pacific is a bit more upscale. Trumps is a fine dining experience, and between the three top notch restaurants, golfers will find great variety and high quality in breakfast, lunch and dinner menus. With the fine amenities and service, this also is a great place for an outing, wedding, meeting or special event. The Grand Ballroom can host up to 300 guests in a lavish setting.
The golf course features outstanding conditioning from tee to green, with wide rolling fairways and large undulating (and sometimes tiered) green complexes. The sculpted tee boxes are often tucked into the hillsides, providing a memorable start as players attempt to concentrate on golf rather than the beauty of the surroundings. Believe me - it is no easy task to stay focused, as the ocean and cliffs are always in view. There are nearly 100 soft sand bunkers, and water hazards come into play near the green complexes on 4 holes. Up and downs can be tricky business, as many of the sloping putting surfaces are protected by swales, collection areas and mounding with high grasses. Thick brush usually lines the perimeters - stray too far off the tee or on the approach and your ball is gone!
All levels of players are able to enjoy a golf experience here, as five sets of tee boxes provide plentiful options. The tips play to a formidable 7242 yards/146 slope, while alternate sets measure in distance and slope 6291 yards/138 slope, 5881 yards/133 slope for men and 145 for women, 5270 yards/138 slope for women , and 4538 yards with a slope of 124 for ladies hitting from the forward tees. On course sprinkler heads are measured to the front, middle and back of the greens, and Par View GPS provides accurate info from tee to pin. The carts have mounted pin placement charts, and coolers plus ball & club washers are also standard.
The waterfalls on number one and eighteen are spectacular, but the entire course is nicely landscaped. There is a mix of holes that invite a grip and rip it state of mind, but there also are a variety of holes that demand lay-ups off the tee and careful shot placement. . The risk/reward factor comes into play often. The par threes are beautiful, and each of the par fours and fives have obstacles golfers will have to thoughtfully navigate. We especially had fun with the short par fours (there are three that play to less than 315 yards from the blue tees).
Green fees are very upscale - but keep in mind that many consider this to be the best golf facility in California. Fees include cart, GPS, practice balls, locker room facilities, sales tax - and oh yes - complimentary valet parking. The service, like everything else here, is top notch. For more info, visit our page for the course, with direct link to their website by clicking here.
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