If you love golf and live in San Diego, you've probably heard someone say, "I need to check out Torrey Pines" at least once.

I've played at various golf courses, but Torrey Pines feels truly different. It's more fitting to say, "I'm going on a pilgrimage to a golf sanctuary" than just "I'm going to play golf."

This golf course, located on the coastal cliffs of La Jolla in northern San Diego, is one of the best public courses in the U.S. where you can tee off while overlooking the Pacific Ocean. What's even more surprising is that this prestigious course is not private; anyone can play here with a reservation.

Torrey Pines consists of two 18-hole courses: the South Course and the North Course. Both offer stunning ocean views, but most golfers consider the South Course to be the dream course. The reason is simple: the US Open was held here in 2008 and 2021.

Especially the 2008 US Open is an unforgettable match for golf fans. Tiger Woods, despite a knee injury, won after a dramatic 19-hole playoff against Rocco Mediate. I still vividly remember watching on TV and thinking, "Can a person really play golf like that?"

In 2021, Jon Rahm made a dramatic birdie on the last two holes to win the tournament. The Farmers Insurance Open on the PGA Tour is also held here every year.

What about the prices? They are surprisingly high yet somewhat reasonable.

Residents of San Diego enjoy significant discounts, with weekday rates around $70 to $100, but non-residents pay much more.

Depending on the season and time of day, the North Course costs about $150 to $220, while the South Course ranges from $250 to $320.

Cart fees are additional, and club rentals are available. Considering it's a famous course, I think it's worth the investment at least once.

However, making a reservation is not easy. Especially weekend morning tee times fill up quickly.

If you have a trip planned with local friends, I recommend booking through them at least a few weeks in advance.

Once you're there, the score becomes secondary. The moment you tee off towards the ocean, you feel the thrill of thinking, "Ah, I'm playing at Torrey Pines."

Photos turn out great, and just enjoying the view of the Pacific Ocean stretching below the cliffs throughout the round makes it worth every penny.

It's also a great place to visit with family members who don't play golf. Right next door, the Torrey Pines State Natural Reserve offers cliff hiking, and at the Torrey Pines Gliderport, you can see paragliders soaring over the ocean. After golf, enjoying seafood or steak in La Jolla makes for a perfect day.

Honestly, for Korean golf enthusiasts, Torrey Pines is a must-add to your bucket list.

It doesn't matter if you shoot in the 80s or 100s. Just walking the course that's part of American golf history and having the memory of playing on the fairways where Tiger Woods walked is worth it, and I can confidently say that this golf course holds great value.