This bloggist took up golf the year of the Bethpage Black U.S. Open and has enjoyed the game ever since. The main source of enjoyment seems to be other golfers, because golfers are nice people.
Just about every round this golfer has played has been on the public and municipal courses in Orange County, California. One notable exception is El Dorado in Long Beach near the Orange County border. It is flat and therefore easily walked, and every hole is very different from the others. Getting out is another story, since it does get pretty busy, even on weekdays.
Another favorite course is Anaheim Hills, which is the closest course to this golfers home. Walking this one is not allowed because of the extra hilly lay-out. Some of the tees offer striking views of the county below. Check out the Anaheim Hills page for some examples.