REMEMBER THE PAR 3?
The 9-hole golf course running alongside Highway 1, near State Park Drive, the one with the radio towers on it, was where many beginners and seniors alike played golf for more than 35 years. Many residents of this area graduated from the Aptos Par 3 to our 18-hole courses, or retired from 18-hole courses to the Par 3. That property was put up for sale in 1999.
WHY SAVE THIS LAND?
The Aptos Par 3 is the last sizeable flat space in Aptos that is zoned for recreational use. With the population growing, and living space getting tighter and tighter, a large grassy area and room to play can make a conjested area more tolerable.
WHY SAVE THIS COURSE?
Two of Santa Cruz County’s three 9-hole golf courses are for sale. We need to permanently save at least one 9-hole course. The Monterey Bay area is known for its 18-hole golf courses. What is needed are 9-hole feeder courses and wind-down courses. Beginners of all ages, seniors, and the physically challenged need a short, flat course they can play at their own pace. The Aptos location along Highway One is central to the whole county and makes this course convenient to all residents, tourists and neighbors of surrounding counties. Dave McFadden, original owner of Par 3 always wanted it to remain open space, and it is zoned for Parks Recreation, and Open Space. As the population grows and development threatens the availability of parkland, large recreation sites become even more valuable. This opportunity to retain the Par 3 site, and restore the golf course should not be lost.
WHAT NEEDS TO BE DONE?
First the property must be purchased. Funds will be sought from State Park Bonds, grants, and other sources; however, much of the money must come from donations. A trust fund with the County has been set up for that purpose. Once the property has been purchased, County Parks can manage the course.
HOW CAN YOU HELP?
- Send a tax-deductible gift, check payable to “County of Santa Cruz” for “Aptos Par 3” to:
Save Par 3
PO Box 92
Aptos, Ca 95001-0092
- Request articles for your newsletters.
- Post this notice or distribute to colleagues.
- Contact us. Add your name to the growing list of supporters and be notified of new developments and progress in the campaign to save the par 3.

