Saving money has been a hot topic of late since it seems the price of everything is going up. Golf is no exception. If you’re in Southern California, there are a multitude of muni choices that are easier on the wallet than joining a country club but feel less like a shabby muni. Here’s a quick rundown on three public courses that I’ve been to that have a certain quality about them that makes them worth at least a try:

Rancho Park, Los Angeles: This place has a lot of history and is located in a more upscale part of the city (Century City/Rancho Park). There are some trade-offs as it has a reputation of taking a very long time to get through because it is so popular. It’s been called the “most played course in the country” more than once. Most say that it’s a challenging course in a good way. The range often has a bit of a wait as well. While much of the facilities could use some renovation, the course is quite nice. Be patient and you’ll have a great time since you’ll spend between 5-7 hours depending on the day. I’ve read reviews that claim this can be closer to 8 hours on a busy day. Forget the weekend and use a sick day to go mid-day during the week. This has 18 holes, 6,688 yards, and is a par 71. The course record is 61. Weekends are $25 and weekdays are $20. Carts are available for $21 before 4:00 pm and $14 thereafter. (Oh yeah, and if you do play here, run over to Santa Monica Blvd and Ave of the Stars to the mall and eat at Houston’s when you’re done.)

San Clemente, San Clemente (South Orange County): Called “The Pride of the Pacific” this course is quite beautiful. Make sure you bring at least light jacket/sweater for most of the year as the breeze is directly off of the cold Pacific Ocean. It can be downright “frigid” in the winter months (trust me on this one). The pro shop, restaurant, and snack stand are immaculate and have better than average food and drink choices. There is a range but it fills up pretty quickly since it only has around ten stalls. The pace of the course is about 4-4.5 hours and the mellow vibe abounds. This course is also an 18 hole, is a par 72, and 6,447 yards. Prices are $41 for weekends and holidays, $33 on the weekdays, and $25 weekday twilight. Carts are $14 and pull carts are $2. (After your game drive down El Camino Real and pass the “downtown” area. Just north of where the bulk of the businesses are is La Siesta, where you get not only good food, but some of the friendliest wait staff in South Orange County.)

San Juan Hills, San Juan Capistrano (South Orange County): Also an 18 hole par 71, this course definitely has an upscale feel and is pricier than the other two. Again, a nice pro shop and restaurant are here as well as a rather large driving range with plenty of stalls. The wind can be a factor here but the hilly setting is quite nice. The estimated time is also about four hours. This place is definitely one of the best all-around as it seems to have the best of everything for every golfer. Monday – Wednesday you can walk the course for $40 or do it with a cart for $55. Thursday, Friday, and the weekend are cart only and $55, $60, and $73. The weekend rate of $73 is the same for holidays but there are also twilight specials throughout the week. (This is very close to the famous Mission so follow the signs to see it before you leave. There are some worthwhile places to eat right next to it as well).