OCEAN TRAILS GOLF CLUB

A weekly look at golf courses open to the public in Southern Califronia.

* Address: 1 Ocean Trails Drive, Rancho Palos Verdes

* Phone: (877) 799-GOLF or (310) 265-5525

* website: www.oceantrails.com

* Green fees: $125 Mon-Thurs.; $195 Fri.-Sun.

* Tee times: Seven days in advance

The facility: Designed by renowned architect Pete Dye, this recently opened course is destined to become the premier golf destination in the Los Angeles area. The 18th hole was destroyed by a landslide in June, 1999, just six weeks before scheduled opening. As a result, only 15 holes are in play for the next few months, but green fees include unlimited play. The full 18 are expected to open some time this summer. With magnificent views of the Pacific on every hole, the setting is second to none. The clubhouse has three dining facilities, a well-stocked pro shop and an impressive locker room that includes a steam room.

The good: Dye has designed a shot-maker’s course that requires thought and is memorable. The 10th, 13th, 17th and what will be the 18th run along the coastline and a whiff of the ocean permeates the air from these holes. Hole No. 2, the highest point on the course, offers a dramatic view of the entire course. On clear days, Catalina Island dominates the horizon.

The bad: The course is wedged into 110 acres, making for some tight holes--especially on days when the wind blows. Scoring well is a difficult task even on calm days because the course can get extremely difficult around the greens and there are severe hazards throughout the course.

The score: The golf gods won’t play here until the final three holes open, but when they do, the waiting list will be long. Play here, and it’ll be a round you’ll never forget.