Peacock Gap Golf Course

Don't forget how close you are to the ocean.

Peacock Gap Golf Course in San Rafael can lull you into a false sense of security, with a gentle layout of 6,359 yards from the blue (back) tees. But when you take into account the dead air, you may stop wondering why there aren't any black tees.

The 1957 track combines gentle slopes with tree-lined fairways, solid greens and plenty of water, including a par-3 over an inlet of San Pablo Bay.

It also may give you a chance to hit your target score. Not only is it a par-71, but the white-tee rating is a mere 68.3, with a pleasant 116 slope.

But don't be deceived. The ocean air can make you wonder where your power went, and if you get off track, the rough is punishing.

Still, low rounds are available.

Play smart golf on the front nine if you want to score. The opening hole is a dogleg-left par-4, but a straightaway par-4, par-3 and par-5 follow in succession.

No. 4 is a legitimate birdie hole, even though it plays longer than the 500-yard white-tee distance. In fact, the par-5s all provide chances to grip it, rip it and score, as well as being some of the best holes on the track.

The fifth hole is the hardest on the course, a long dogleg-left par-4 that may leave you wondering when the easy, short holes begin.

No. 6 may not be easy, but it is the shortest par-4 (292 yards from the whites) and arguably the most fun hole at Peacock Gap. The elbow-dogleg left requires an iron or fairway wood off the tee, and an approach across water to an elevated green.

The front side ends with a solid par-5 that should put a smile on your face.

The back nine has more variety and is much easier, starting with a short par-3 downhill.

There are three par-3s on the back side, and the best is No. 16. The tee shot goes over the edge of the bay to a green fronted by two bunkers. Enjoy the best hole on the track, and one of the best you'll find anywhere.

The finish is solid with a short par-4 over a hazard at No. 17, and a long, dogleg-right par-4 to close.

Positives at Peacock Gap are the variety and the chance to shoot low if you stay in the fairway. The greens roll true, and don't have too many wacky tiers or undulations.

You may even see a few deer on the course.

You even hit off grass on the practice range, although the balls land in dirt.

The 57-year-old course shows some signs of wear and tear and the price is a little steep. But remember, this is Marin County. You can save $12 by walking, and you can walk this course.

Directions - Take Interstate 80 west to Vallejo. Take Highway 37 west to Highway 101 south. Take the Central San Rafael exit. Turn left on Second Street, which turns into Pt. San Pedro Road. Follow it for four miles, and turn left on Biscayne Drive. The course is on the left.