Rancho San Marcos occupies a scenic valley setting in the Santa Ynez foothills north of Santa Barbara, where Robert Trent Jones, Jr. routed eighteen holes across rolling terrain framed by the Santa Ynez Mountains. The course opened in 1998 as part of a resort property that includes a historic ranch dating to the 1800s. Jones worked with the natural contours and native California landscape, incorporating oak woodlands, seasonal creeks, and elevation changes that provide both strategic interest and views across the valley toward the surrounding peaks. The routing moves through varied terrain, with several holes playing along ridgelines and others descending into lower meadows. Water comes into play on multiple holes, including lakes and creek corridors that define landing areas and approach angles. Jones employed his characteristic emphasis on strategic options from the tee, rewarding players who position drives carefully for optimal angles into greens. The bunkering is substantial but placed to frame preferred lines rather than simply penalize, and the greens feature moderate undulation suited to the resort's diverse clientele. The course serves both resort guests and outside play, maintaining a welcoming character consistent with its Santa Barbara wine country location. The property's ranch heritage and mountain backdrop give the setting a distinctly Californian feel, with the layout taking advantage of natural vistas without excessive earthmoving. Conditioning typically reflects the Mediterranean climate, with firm fairways and greens that play faster in summer months.