Gavilan Golf Course

If you haven't been to this nine-hole beauty in a while, now's your chance to unwind on its recently renovated fairways with today's feature: $15 for 9 Holes with Choice of Beverage and a Free Replay at Gavilan Golf Course in Gilroy ($32 Value. Expires July 1, 2012.)

A change in management in the last few years has made a positive impact on Gavilan Golf Course. Conveniently located just off of US-101, outside of Gilroy, Gavilan is home to an updated executive-length nine-hole course. Nestled in the Santa Clara Valley's garlic country — Gilroy is the "Garlic Capital of the Nation and World," after all — Gavilan takes its name from the Gavilan Mountains which lay like paintings in your view on nearly every hole. The mountains don't come into play, however; Gavilan is relatively flat and even-paced.

Under the new management, Gavilan has been newly renovated and golfers are praising the changes. The current design boasts five par-3s and four par-4s for a par of 31 and measures 1,818 yards from the back tees, with a shorter forward tee for a few yards off. The course is said to be great for beginners, so even those new to the game can play a relaxing round with experienced counterparts. The par-4s are home to narrow fairways and small, tricky greens, making a good run at Gavilan all about pin-seeking on approach.

While starting out on the 118-yard par-3 No. 1 may make you feel comfortable, Gavilan still has some tricks up its sleeve. Consider No. 9, a par-3 which plays 150 yards but requires you to make your shot over a crooked ravine, known for its hunger for golf balls. Also, the added length of No. 5 at 188-yards earns it the #1 handicap, so be sure to stay focused on this one.

All-in-all, Gavilan Golf Course is not the hardest of courses in Northern California, but it has a lot of worthy features and its renovations have given it new life. The course can be played in slightly over an hour and is super friendly to beginners, and the practice facilities are great for working on your skill shots.

Overall, Gavilan Golf Course is a great place to enjoy a quick round of golf on your lunch break or during twilight hours, and makes a great place to bring the kids or grandparents to enjoy a memorable family outing.