Your Chances of Getting on: Good. The revamped courses open this fall, and a new hotel a year later, so the public will have plenty of access.
Peak Greens Fees: TBD
Contact: 22651 Pelican Hill Road South, Newport Beach; (949) 760-0707;, www.pelicanhill.com  

Trump National
Why Play It? This dramatic clifftop design has the best coastal exposure in the L.A. area, with stunning scenery throughout.
Your Chances of Getting on: Good if you are willing to pay top dollar, better during the week.
Peak Greens Fees: $250 to $375
Contact: 1 Ocean Trails Drive, Ranchos Palos Verdes; (310) 265-5000;, www.trumpgolf.com

Palos Verdes Golf Club
Why Play It? This hilly, coastal, exclusive course was designed by the renowned George Thomas, of ultraprivate Riviera fame.
Your Chances of Getting On: Fair; the semiprivate club allows outside play only during the week.
Peak Greens Fees: $215. 
Contact: 3301 Via Campesina, Palos Verdes Estates; (310) 375-2759; www.pvgc.com  

MIAMI

Biltmore
Why Play It? This classic by all-time great designer Donald Ross will transport you back to golf's golden design era, circa 1925.
Your Chances of Getting On: Great for hotel guests; pretty good for anyone else.
Peak Greens Fees: $150.
Contact: 1200 Anastasia Avenue, Coral Gables; (305) 460-5364; www.biltmorehotel.com

Crandon Park
Why Play It? This windswept course on Key Biscayne has been rated among the nation's top 75 and is considered the best public course in the area.
Your Chances of Getting On: So-so. The course is popular and accepts tee times only five days out.
Peak Greens Fees: $97.
Contact: 6700 Crandon Boulevard, Key Biscayne; (305) 361-9129; www.miamidade.gov/parks/parks/crandon_golf.asp  

Doral