Unveiled in 2014, El Cardonal is an inland layout with an “Old California” design motif that marked the architectural debut of superstar Tiger Woods. Set back from the sea on higher ground than the Dunes Course, the 7,363-yard, par-72 layout meanders through sand dunes on the outgoing holes. The back nine, framed by desert vegetation, crisscrosses a series of arroyos. Bold, flashed-face bunkers, reminiscent of the ones built by Golden Age designer George C.

Thomas at Riviera and Bel-Air in Los Angeles, have been placed to create strategic options. With its broad fairway corridors and accent on playability from the forward tees, El Cardonal was designed to accommodate a wide range of golfers.

According to Ken Jowdy, Diamante’s developer, “He (Woods) is focusing more on the people he plays with on Wednesdays (the amateurs in the pro-ams) than on the weekend (the pros).” Byron Bell, president of Woods’ design company, said “Tiger grew up playing some of the great, old-style courses on the West Coast. Bunkers and other hazards were used not as a deterrent, but instead to force players to make a decision. Tiger wants the variety of holes and strategic options to promote shot-making while still creating a very playable experience.”