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Private Eyes: Bel-Air Country Club

An impressive membership roster and a classic layout are just two selling points of this Los Angeles legend.

BY JOEL BEERSPublished: July, 2010

Established: 1926

Designer: George C. Thomas

6,754 yards, Par 70

Amenities: Tennis courts.

Why it’s on our list: Take a look at the membership roster for a who’s who list of the celebrity and business worlds. And check out the address — Bel-Air, just down the road from Beverly Hills. Enough said.
   
“It’s an awesome membership and it’s very fraternal,” said P. Alexander Roberts II, who has caddied at the course an estimated 350 times.
   
The social atmosphere doesn’t mean it’s a 24/7 party, however. It’s decidedly old school in terms of traditions. Denim and shorts aren’t allowed, and cell phones are forbidden in the clubhouse and on the course.
   
The layout, while not as long or daunting as others on the list, is majestic. It’s set in four canyons and is a memorable walk, as four tunnels and a miniature suspension bridge must be navigated.

Bet you didn’t know: Renowned instructor Eddie Merrins has been affiliated with Bel-Air since 1962. But did you know that Merrins coached the UCLA men’s golf team from 1975-1989 and led the Bruins to their first NCAA title in 1988? Or that he was inducted into the College Golf Coaches Hall of Fame in 1992, the UCLA Athletics Hall of Fame in 1996, the World Golf Teachers Hall of Fame in 2008 and the PGA Golf Professional Hall of Fame in 2009? Well, now you do.

Wow factor: Ronald Reagan, Conrad Hilton and Alfred Hitchcock all owned homes overlooking the course.