The weather in Rancho Cucamonga is truly something to appreciate.

"Ah, on a day like today, I just have to get out on the course..." It's that kind of neighborhood.

The surrounding environment is well-maintained, making it a truly blessed place for golfing.

But it's a bit disappointing that everyone used to rave about the 'Empire Lakes Golf Course,' right? It was close by and had a charming layout, but it closed down when the area was redeveloped.

It's really a shame. I sometimes think back to walking on that grass.

But is there really no golf course in the area? Not at all.

There's the 'Red Hill Country Club' holding strong. (It's easy to find at 8358 Red Hill Country Club Dr.) But as you know, it's strictly a private club. Unless you're a member or a guest of a member, regular folks can't get in, making it a bit of a dream for average weekend golfers like us. "It's right in front of me, yet I can't have it..." is a common sentiment.

Still, there's no need to be too disheartened!

If you look around a bit, there are plenty of great public golf courses nearby that are perfect for a weekend outing.

The first one that comes to mind is 'Sierra Lakes Golf Club.'

• Location: 15600 Clubhouse Dr, Fontana, CA 92336 (East Fontana area)

• Accessibility: It's just a 15 to 20-minute drive from Rancho Cucamonga, practically in your backyard.

• Attraction Points: The landscaping here is beautifully done. The condition of the grass and greens is quite good.

• Cost: Weekend green fees range from $50 to $90 depending on the season, which is a fair price considering today's costs. It's a great place for a good value round.

And the 'East Valley Golf Club' in Ontario is also close and a great public course that residents often visit.

Another tip is that 'Upland Hills Country Club' is also a very good option. However, be aware that the dates or conditions for public play can change, so it's best to check their website or give them a call before heading out to avoid a wasted trip.

"Need a change of scenery? Invest 30-40 minutes!"

"Ah, this weekend I want to spend some money and really enjoy a good round!" You know those days. In that case, invest just 30-40 minutes of driving. A completely different world awaits.

• Mount Baldy Mountain Course: If you enjoy a dynamic course with mountain breezes, the mountain courses near Mount Baldy are perfect. The air is completely different.

• Heading to Palm Springs: If you're already out, you can drive a bit further to Palm Springs, where world-class luxury golf resort courses are lined up waiting for you. The open views and green grass will take your breath away.

• Orange County Newport Coast: If you want to play luxuriously with a view of the ocean, I highly recommend 'Pelican Hill Golf Club' in Orange County, about an hour away. The thrill of hitting a shot against the backdrop of the endless Pacific Ocean is indescribable. It's the perfect gift for a special day.

Golf is much more enjoyable with good companions. I've noticed there are a lot of Korean golfers in this area. I wondered how they all find partners, and it turns out they are very active in Korean golf clubs.

If you're hesitant to go alone, try searching for 'Rancho Cucamonga Golf' or 'Inland Golf Club' on KakaoTalk open chat or Naver Cafe. You'll likely find local groups more easily than you think. Once you find a compatible partner there and go out for a round, chatting and enjoying a cold beer or a hearty bowl of soup afterward is a delightful experience. This is where the essence of life truly shines.

Lastly, a little tip!

If you have some free time or are retired, or if your schedule is flexible, make the most of weekday rounds. The green fees are significantly cheaper compared to weekends, and you won't be rushed by other groups, resulting in shorter wait times. You can focus on your swing in a relaxed manner, and once you get a taste of weekday golf, you'll find yourself saying you can't play on weekends because of the crowds.

With such nice weather, don't just stay home; how about heading out to a nearby course to swing your driver for the first time in a while this week?

Wishing you a great time hitting good shots with good people!