Turns out there's a fun and potentially inexpensive sport waiting for you to discover: Golf. We say potentially because, like many sports, getting into it hardcore can get very expensive. If you're willing to forgo the fancy clubs and designer gear, amateur golf is good time. No need to be Tiger to enjoy a day on the links.
First things first, research where to play. Lucky for you the City of LA maintains a list of courses and fees. Your under $10 choices include Rancho Park 3 Par, Los Feliz 3-Par, and the Armand Hammer / Holmby Park Pony Course. You’ll be looking at 9 holes instead of 18 and an "easier" course, but that's a solid two hour adventure already. If you’re not used to golfing, it will feel plenty challenging.
There are other courses, but the fees can add up. If you feel like getting a bit more into it, you can sign up for a free Golfzing account. Through it you can find discount tee times (ie non-peak hours/days) and earn points that can add up to free rounds even at pricier places. Another similar site is Click 4 Tee Times which offers deep discounts if you book through them. Works for us.
You may be ready to stand in the sunshine, but it’s kind of useless to try and golf without clubs. You can try and borrow a friends or get lucky at Goodwill, but if you can’t get your hands on your own just rent. Most courses rent clubs for super low rates. At Rancho Park's Par 3, it's only 25cents per. And, the onsite manager said most people can get through with just a putter, wedge, and a 7. A whopping 75 cents? Seems like a reasonable equipment fee. Just remember to call ahead and double-check so there are no rate change surprises.
Before you go, look into the rules and regulations for your course of choice. For example, at most places you have to have your own putter. No biggie for 25 cents, but nice to know in advance. A more important detail is your footwear: no heels on the course. You may wonder who would go golfing in heels, but let's just say there may be a difference of opinion as to what exactly constitutes a heel. Read the rules.
And finally, don’t forget the mini-cooler. A cool beverage is very welcome after a few hours. It's more convenient, and cheaper, to bring the six-pack and water bottles. You can usually borrow a golf bag carrier or rent one for $1. Attach your cooler bag and push away happily. Kind of reminds us of a stroller- adult style.
Fore!
Tip: We recommend some light stretching before and afterward. Though we may mock the idea of golf as a workout, our currently aching muscles seem to disagree.




