Torrey Pines, La Jolla, Calif. May 22, 2003: 2:58 PM EDT
LA JOLLA, Calif. (Money Magazine) -
It is a tenacious tree, the scrappy Torrey Pine. Only two groves exist in the world, and one clings to life on dry, craggy cliffs overlooking the seacoast of La Jolla (the other is about 100 miles north on Santa Rosa Island). But the Torrey Pines area often attracts travelers in search of another kind of wood: Its two municipal 18-hole courses are among the most beautiful golf destinations in the world. Plus, greens fees range from a relatively reasonable $150 to $195 per person a day with a guaranteed tee time.
Recent changes make Torrey Pines worth a visit this summer. Noted golf architect Rees Jones renovated the South Course last year, and there are luxe new accommodations. The Craftsman-style Lodge at Torrey Pines ($350 to $625; 800-656-0087) overlooks the 18th hole, and a stay there comes with guaranteed tee times. Golf packages start at $549 per person a night.
Less expensive lodging can be found at the Hilton La Jolla Torrey Pines ($140 to $280; call for specials; 858-558-1500), a family-friendly facility that offers all the usual resort amenities. Both locations are close to such local attractions as the San Diego Zoo and SeaWorld. And golf novices rejoice: Torrey Pines offers first-class instruction at its golf school (800-985-4653). But with whales breaching off Torrey Pines' South Course and warm weather almost every day, anyone can feel like a champion golfer. Sort of makes you want to hug a tree.
Kohler, Wisc.
It's a rather strange name for a vacation spot: Destination Kohler. But that's what has come from the transformation of Kohler Co.'s (yes, the faucet maker) turn-of-the-century headquarters into a grand resort. Two public venues designed by Pete Dye, Blackwolf Run and Whistling Straits (home to the 2004 PGA Championship), offer two 18-hole championship links apiece. (Greens fees range from $150 to $270 a day.) Check out the American Club, a Tudor mansion that was a dormitory for Kohler workers in the early 1900s and now is the Midwest's only AAA Five-Diamond hotel (about $350; 800-344-2838). Or try the Inn on Woodlake (about $200; 800-919-3600).
It's a rather strange name for a vacation spot: Destination Kohler. But that's what has come from the transformation of Kohler Co.'s (yes, the faucet maker) turn-of-the-century headquarters into a grand resort. Two public venues designed by Pete Dye, Blackwolf Run and Whistling Straits (home to the 2004 PGA Championship), offer two 18-hole championship links apiece. (Greens fees range from $150 to $270 a day.) Check out the 
