Little River Golf Courses

With its incomparable natural beauty and proximity to the Pacific Ocean, few would arge that Little River is one of Northern California's treasures. It's also an ideal backdrop to a variety of courses that golfers of all skill levels will enjoy.

Here are some of those courses and what they offer:

Little River Inn Golf & Tennis Club

Part of one of the region's favorite resorts, Little River's nine-hole golf course presents not only spectacular ocean views, but challenges befitting of a layout that is surrounded by redwoods and pine trees. It's a case of nature - the course is an Audubon-certified sanctuary - blending with recreation. Annual golf and tennis memberships are available.

The 5,458-yard course includes a pro shop, driving range, and putting green.

Sea Ranch Lodge & Golf Links

The Sea Ranch Golf Links combines ocean landscape with a Scottish links-style layout over 18 scenic holes. There are four different tee boxes per hole, enabling golfers to choose the kind of challenge they're looking for.

Designed by noted architect Robert Muir Graves, Sea Ranch opened as a nine-hole course in 1974 before the final nine holes were added in 1995 for a total layout of 6,649 yards. The course is open for play year around. In 1998, Sea Ranch was cited by Golf Digest as being one of its 'Places to Play,' and it has been listed as one of the state's most picturesque courses. It includes a full grass driving range, putting green, and pitching/bunker green.

Ukiah Municipal Golf Course

Challenges abound at one of Northern California's oldest public courses. The Ukiah Municipal course encompasses the rolling terrain and hills of the surrounding area while providing a perfect setting for all levels of golfers - from experienced, to those taking up the sport for the first time. This course has been open to the public since 1931.

Brooktrails Golf Course

The nine-hole Brooktrails executive course provides a fun challenge in nearby Willits, Calif. Also designed by Robert Muir Graves, Brooktrail's layout measures 1,279 yards and has a par of 28. 

About the Author: John is a guest contributor from The Inns of Glendeven, a wonderful Mendocino lodging option.