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Salt Creek Golf Club

Salt Creek Golf Club in Chula Vista is a unique test, effectively blending golf tradition with modern design.

By Southland Golf MagazinePublished: October, 2007

The par-72, 6,886-yard layout has been characterized as an Americanized links course with an absence of bunkers guarding the fronts of greens, fescue grass, square tee boxes, and collection areas around the putting surface. And, of course, there are very few trees.

Those elements are countered with modern features, including forced carries, well-defined fairway bunkers, prominent elevation changes, and modern water hazards.

When taken together, these dual characteristics create a fun experience for both the skilled player and the novice.

THE FRONT NINE

There’s some spectacular scenery at Salt Creek, and perhaps the most amazing view comes from the fifth tee, where players will notice Mount Miguel on the right, while on the left lies the rest of the course, Chula Vista, Tijuana, and the Pacific Ocean in the distance.

The hole itself is a par 4 measuring 367 yards. It starts a two-hole stretch that departs from the first four links-style holes and displays modern traits — a lake and a sloping fairway. Keep your driver in the bag here, instead taking whatever club you feel most comfortable using to keep the ball in play. A solid strike will leave a short shot to a large green and a chance at birdie.

Another birdie opportunity awaits at the short par-5 sixth, though though you first must carry the lake off the tee. A good drive on this 503-yard test will leave you with a chance to go for the green in two.

The difficult par-3 seventh bucks the modern trend and reverts to more traditional design. It is long, at 224 yards from the tips, and gradually uphill, with a relatively narrow gap between two bunkers at the front of the green.

THE BACK NINE

The back nine provides similar changes of pace and two particularly memorable tee shots. The par-4, 462-yard 14th hole presents the most challenging tee shot on the course, requiring a lengthy carry to the fairway and an equally long approach to the green. The finishing hole is a links style par-5 with bunkers on the right and a steep hill on the left.

Overall, many golfers will find Salt Creek enjoyable because it’s not too punishing. The rough is not too high, and most fairways, like the par-4 16th, are forgiving. The greens, like on No. 11, are anything but ridiculous — the speed is fair and the breaks are not too severe.

A RELAXING DAY

For those who enjoy tranquil rounds of golf, Salt Creek is ideal. On the first 14 holes, there are no adjacent homes, and even when they pop up next to the 14th green, they do not intrude on the calm atmosphere. Even driving on the meandering cart paths can be relaxing.

Salt Creek’s pro shop contains a nice selection of golf shirts, and the restaurant features a complete breakfast and lunch menu.

The driving range contains many targets and a plush hitting surface. There is also a practice putting green and short-game area, which contains a bunker and hills to simulate different lies.

Green fees at Salt Creek range from $85-$105. To make a tee time, call (619) 482-4666 or visit saltcreekgc.com.

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