POPPY RIDGE GOLF COURSE

The Rees Jones design threads through rolling California foothills dotted with native oaks, demanding precision over power on a layout that punishes wayward drives with unforgiving rough and strategically placed bunkers. Wind becomes a major factor on the back nine's elevated holes, where approach shots to multi-tiered greens require local knowledge and commitment. This East Bay track rewards course management and shot-making over brute force, making it a thinking golfer's test that improves with each round.