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At HotelsEscape.com, we’ve followed many exciting developments across world-class golf destinations, but few announcements have generated as much buzz as the transformation planned for The Links at Spanish Bay. One of the most recognizable courses at Pebble Beach Resorts is preparing for a complete redesign — a project that promises to elevate both the playing experience and environmental sustainability while preserving its stunning coastal character.

This major update marks a new chapter for a course that has long been part of the legendary Monterey Peninsula golf landscape. Here’s everything travelers and golf enthusiasts need to know about what’s coming next.

What Is Happening to The Links at Spanish Bay?

Pebble Beach Company has partnered with Hanse Golf Course Design, led by acclaimed architect Gil Hanse, to completely transform the 38-year-old course. The redesign will begin after the final round is played on March 17, 2026, with the new course scheduled to reopen on April 17, 2027.

The goal is clear: to create a more strategic, playable, and visually immersive golf experience that rivals the neighboring championship courses along the iconic 17-Mile Drive.

Why Is Spanish Bay Being Redesigned Now?

As golf evolves, so do expectations. Modern players seek courses that balance challenge, strategy, and accessibility while also respecting the environment. According to project leaders, the redesign will address all these elements.

The project aims to:

• Enhance playability for golfers of all skill levels
• Create more strategic shot-making opportunities
• Improve sustainability and course conditioning
• Better showcase the dramatic coastal setting

This investment reflects Pebble Beach’s long-term commitment to maintaining its reputation as one of the world’s premier golf destinations.

What Changes Can Golfers Expect?

The redesign includes sweeping updates that will reshape how the course looks and plays.

Major Course Improvements

New and Relocated Holes
Several greens will be relocated, including those at the current 14th and 18th holes. A brand-new par-three will also be introduced, replacing the existing 13th hole.

Larger, Modernized Greens
Putting surfaces will expand by about 40 percent, offering smoother conditions and more flexibility for hole placements.

Wider Fairways for Better Playability
Fairways will widen by approximately 30 percent, creating more forgiving playing corridors while still maintaining strategic challenges.

Enhanced Recovery Areas
Traditional rough around greens will be replaced with low-cut turf, allowing more creative shot recovery options.

Updated Tee Complexes
New tee layouts will improve sightlines, reduce forced carries, and provide multiple yardage options for players of different skill levels.

Adjusted Course Length and Par

• Forward tees will be shortened to approximately 4,705 yards
• Championship tees will extend to around 7,115 yards
• Overall par will shift from 72 to 71

These changes will make the course more inclusive while still appealing to elite golfers.

How Will Sustainability Be Improved?

Environmental responsibility plays a central role in the redesign. Planned upgrades include:

• New drainage and irrigation systems for better water efficiency
• A reduction of irrigated turf by about 12 percent
• Creation of three additional acres of natural habitat areas

These efforts will help ensure long-term sustainability while enhancing the natural beauty of the course.

What Makes This Project So Significant?

For golf fans, this redesign represents more than just a renovation — it’s a reinvention. The updated Spanish Bay will join Pebble Beach Golf Links, Spyglass Hill, The Hay, and Del Monte Golf Course as part of one of the most prestigious public golf collections in the world.

Its reopening in 2027 will also coincide with heightened global attention, as Pebble Beach prepares to host another U.S. Open.

When Will the New Spanish Bay Open?

Construction will begin in 2026 and the redesigned course is scheduled to open to the public on April 17, 2027. Golfers can already make future reservations through Pebble Beach Resorts.

FAQs

Is The Links at Spanish Bay closing permanently?

No. The course will temporarily close for a full redesign and is scheduled to reopen in 2027.

Who is designing the new course?

The redesign is led by Gil Hanse and the Hanse Golf Course Design team.

Will the course still have ocean views?

Yes. The redesign specifically aims to better highlight the coastal scenery.

Will the course be easier to play?

It will be more forgiving and playable while still offering challenges for skilled golfers.

Key Takeaways

• The Links at Spanish Bay will undergo a full redesign starting in 2026
• Major improvements include wider fairways, larger greens, and new hole layouts
• Sustainability upgrades will reduce water use and enhance natural habitats
• The course will reopen in April 2027 as part of Pebble Beach’s world-class lineup

Final Thoughts from HotelsEscape.com

At HotelsEscape.com, we see this transformation as an exciting milestone not only for Pebble Beach Resorts but for golf travel worldwide. Projects like this remind us that even legendary destinations continue to evolve — balancing tradition with innovation to create experiences that resonate with modern travelers.

When the new Spanish Bay opens in 2027, it won’t just be a redesigned course. It will represent a renewed commitment to excellence, sustainability, and unforgettable coastal golf. Visit www.pebblebeach.com