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Bandon Dunes: 18 things you must know before planning your trip

An insider's guide to one of golf's most celebrated locations

Schedule a late-afternoon round at Bandon Dunes. Playing the par-4 16th hole as the sun sets is one of the most memorable things you’ll ever do on any golf course.

Play Preserve before anything else. The 13-hole par-3 course is a great primer for links golf, and each hole offers a view of the Pacific Ocean. Also, you can play as an eightsome at Preserve, which guarantees a ton of laughs.

Request caddies. You’ll have the same caddie during the entire length of your stay, and you can use your credit card in the pro shop to withdraw cash. But if you don’t want to splurge on taking a caddie for every round, know that caddies are most essential at Old Macdonald.

Bandon offers a replay rate: your second round during any given day is half-price. If you play two rounds in a day, the third round will be free. And Bandon will pay you $100 if you play a fourth round in one day.

Sheep Ranch, now the fifth 18-hole course at Bandon Dunes, opened in May, and boasts nine green complexes along the Pacific Ocean, and has double the amount of ocean acreage than the other four 18-hole courses combined. Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw designed Sheep Ranch, which was previously an unkept 13-hole routing done by Tom Doak and Jim Urbina in the early 2000s.

In our most recent set of rankings, Pacific Dunes is No. 2 on our ranking of America's 100 Greatest Public Courses, Bandon is No. 7, Old Macdonald is No. 12 and Bandon Trails is No. 14. All four courses are also ranked on Golf Digest's America's 100 Greatest (combining public and private). Sheep Ranch will be a candidate for the next set of rankings.

Stephen Szurlej: Bandon Trails

Out of the first four 18-hole courses, Pacific Dunes and Bandon Dunes offer the most stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. Old Macdonald is, by far, the most wide open. And Bandon Trails (pictured) presents the most intricate mix of risk-reward holes but is played entirely inland.

Photo By: Stephen Szurlej: Bandon Trails

BandonDunes.com

The 18-hole routing at the Punchbowl, a 100,000-square-foot putting green, changes every day. It’s the perfect spot to settle some post-round bets.

Photo By: BandonDunes.com

Thirty six holes a day is a very popular game plan if you can handle it. Playing 18 holes plus the 12-hole Preserve, or 18 holes plus the Punchbowl is an excellent alternative.

One knock against Bandon Dunes, if you want to nitpick, is that there's not much in the way of non-golf activities. The town of Bandon has a couple of bars and restaurants, but if you're looking to build a trip around cultural activities, this might not be your spot.

There’s a labyrinth on property, but nobody will ever tell you where it is, since it’s fun to try to find it. It’s a marble maze located in a wooded area—super peaceful.

Unless you want to play one of the windiest rounds of your life, stick to a morning tee time at Old Macdonald—it’s the course that’s most open to all the elements.

There are five restaurants on property, ranging from the no-frills McKee's Pub, to a selection of higher-end fare. You’ll probably never have better fish tacos than those served at Bandon Trails' Trails End.

Read “Dream Golf: The Making of Bandon Dunes” before you hit your first shot. It'll give you a better appreciation for the entire resort.

Start booking tee times now. Seriously—some golfers book tee times more than a year in advance.

The halfway house at Old Macdonald might be the most beautifully scenic halfway house you'll ever see.

Book a Links Lesson for your entire group, either on the day you arrive or before you tee off on your first 18-hole course. It costs $50 and it’ll help you understand how to play golf in the wind and on links courses. Plus, it’ll offer you a chance to meet Grant Rogers, Bandon’s Director of Instruction and one of golf's old-school gurus.

Show up prepared for all the elements, since you'll be playing lots of golf and since weather forecasts can change in an instant. Bring at least two pairs of golf shoes, stuff for chafing, a rain suit, chapstick, sunblock, cream, etc.

Shuttles take you everywhere, and you'll never have to wait more than five minutes to get one. Once you drive in from the airport, you can park your car and forget about it until it’s time to leave the resort.

Flying to North Bend is easiest, but it can be pricey. There are plenty of less expensive flights into Portland, but that requires a four-hour drive down to Bandon.

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Guide to planning a Bandon Dunes Golf Trip

Imagine if you gathered all of the world’s hardcore golfers for a weeklong conference with the sole purpose of designing a resort made just for them. When all of the ideas had been spitballed and voted on and fretted over, the result would be a plan for a world class golf course with amazing views and a resort that offered everything we want and none of the stuff we don’t. Guess what. Bandon Dunes held that conference (or they just had some really smart people in charge).

We have all played tons of courses and stayed in golf resorts but nearly every one of them is not really designed for just hardcore golfers. Instead they end up giving us golf with a bunch of extra stuff we don’t care about and leave out the stuff we really want (but often are afraid to ask for). Examples you ask. How about adding a cigar bar, poker tables and fine whiskey and ditch the work desks in the room or fancy day spas. Add caddies that care, a short course for when you arrive late, a huge putting green, outside seating area, tons of sitting areas, restaurants that serve good food at reasonable prices and a staff that understands you have saved for this trip for a long time (and spent countless hours convincing your wife you just have to go). Given my recent 4 day trip with 7 dudes, I would tell you that Bandon Dunes has nailed the epic golf trip in every way.

I could write 10 pages on this trip but I am going to try and give you what is most important. How to get there, where to stay, what to expect and what you should not miss. My goal here is simple: give you tips for your upcoming trip or convince you that it is a golf trip you must plan.

Getting to Bandon Dunes:

Unless you go between May and September you are going to have to fly into Portland or Eugene, Oregon. Everyone will tell you that the drive to Portland is a 6 hour nightmare which is totally wrong. The trip was 4 hours 20 minutes and we broke it up in Eugene so it really is two small drives. The part from Portland to Eugene is boring highway but the jaunt from Eugene to Bandon is quite spectacular and if you play your cards right and get out of driver duty it is even better. We flew in the night before so we could get to the course by 2. If we pushed it we could have gotten there in time to play a full round but we decide to take our time. Remember this is Oregon and there is shopping to be done.

Clearly flying into Eugene is closer, but be warned there are not many flights in and out, and ours got moved 3 times which screwed up connections and our golf planning. In the end, we ended up switching to Portland. In fact, we booked a red eye on the way home so we could play one more round before we left. Given the distance we traveled it was absolutely worth it.

Shipping your clubs to Bandon Dunes:

This is the second time I have used ShipSticks on a golf trip and the second time I was very thankful not to have to lug them through the airport. Since we rented cars, getting 4 guys and 4 sets of clubs in an SUV was going to be a challenge. Our solution was ShipSticks. For roughly $64 each way, ShipSticks takes the worry and hassle out of golf travel. You can read my ShipSticks review from a few years back but the short story is – simply print your labels from home then stick them on your travel bag or large box and away they go.

Shipping the clubs back is even easier. After our final round we just threw our wet clothes and clubs in the box and left them at the front desk. The Bandon Dunes staff took care of the rest and 3 days later they showed up on my doorstep

Staying at Bandon Dunes

There are a number of options that are pretty well described on the Bandon website. We stayed at the Inn which has double rooms at a very reasonable price.  Pro TIP : ask for room 101 which is much bigger than most and has a fireplace. At a minimum ask for a room with a view to #18 green. For us, saving money by doubling up in rooms was a no brainer but there are single rooms as well.

The rooms at the Inn are fairly simple but nice. Clearly they are made for dudes who will be tromping around in wet clothes and simply need a place to crash. For example, the carpets are a tight weave that is meant to withstand golf shoes and bags without getting torn up. The bathroom is large and has super hot water for reviving your core temperature. There is also a shoe / glove drier in every room which came in super handy. TIP: They also have a dry room where you can take your rain gear.

The other thing we loved about the Inn is the common area which has a bar that is open from 5-9. Most of the time it was just our group, making it super relaxing. Plus you can even order from the other restaurant and have it brought over, which we did while watching the Duke/Carolina hoops game.

Obviously, we only stayed at the Inn but I did ask a few staff members where was the best place to stay. They all agreed it was the Inn (in part because the Lodge is much louder and the villas are farther away). The reality is you won’t go wrong.

Speaking of the Lodge, that is the main structure that has a number of places to eat and drink. It is about a 4 minute walk from the Inn or you can take the shuttle which runs throughout the resort on a regular basis.

Golf at Bandon Dunes:

Oh Jesus. I have played my fair share of awesome golf courses but until you tee off with the raging Pacific Ocean to your side you will not understand the magnificence of Bandon Dunes. The two ocean courses are Pacific Dunes and Bandon Dunes. We played Pacific first in fairly decent weather. The night before there was a huge storm and waves were breaking at 15 feet. Of course we were a few hundred feet above the beach as well. Again, pictures and words will never do it justice. Somehow the Pacific Ocean is an entirely different beast than the Atlantic Ocean, and with towering cliffs it provides one of the most stunning views in all of golf.

Both of these tracks are simply mesmerizing and there are zero throw away holes. In addition, they do little things like tuck a halfway house in the side of a hill with the sole purpose of serving outstanding $6 bowls of chili (there is other food, but the chili rules).

Unfortunately, we played Bandon Dunes in a bit of a downpour. The first 7 holes were glorious (and very little rain). As we made the turn, I was ready to claim Bandon over Pacific but with the god awful weather on the backside I am just not in a position to do that. This brings up my next point.

What happens when the weather is bad?

No matter when you go to Bandon Dunes you run the risk of wind and rain. We went in late February and played 5 rounds in 4 days. We had one amazing day of sunshine, two of cold and medium rain and two in cold and hard rain. From what I have heard and read (and seen on the live Bandon Cam), February is a solid month to go to Bandon Dunes. The prices are significantly discounted and you have a good chance for decent weather. September is supposed to be the best but summer brings the wind which can be really strong. The good news is that even in the worst weather (and I think we had two of the worst back to back days in a long time), Bandon Dunes is glorious and more fun than any course I have played.

Obviously, sun and no wind was the best day but I can tell you with a straight face that not a single dude came off the 18th green without a smile and a story on any day. It’s crazy but the weather just does not ruin your adventure. I guess you need to embrace it a little but as a first timer you are so mesmerized by the scenery you forget about how hard it is raining.

My advice, keep score if you like but don’t go out there looking for record rounds. We played the green tees (which I think are most common). I am a 9 handicap and shoot low 80’s most rounds. I posted 93, 88, 86, 88, 86 and felt good about it. There are plenty of holes to par and we had about 2-3 birdies per round between the 8 of us. The problem is that there are also lots of doubles out there between the wind, rain, greens and just bad shots.

So, let’s rank the courses:

First off I think that the actual design of each course, i.e. greens and fairways is less important than the vibe you get. Each course has a distinct character and is like a puzzle piece in that when put them together creates a picture of golf lore. While each hole is cool unto itself, it’s never really the point – it’s like the whole arena you are playing in is what gets you stoked.

#1/2 Bandon Dunes/Pacific Dunes . We are splitting hairs on this one. There are more ocean views at Pacific Dunes but Bandon is probably more fun. It really does not matter because anyone who goes to Bandon will play both of these.

#3 Bandon Trails : We had glorious weather for this day but most caddies rank this course #2 behind Bandon. For us, it felt more like golf we are used to in terms of layout. The difference is the huge evergreen trees and monstrous feel. God, I loved everything about this course. DO NOT pass on playing it.

#4 Old Macdonald: Clearly the least impressive of the courses. This course is set more inland and can be described as a series of rolling mounds. HINT: this course is nearly impossible to play without a caddie. Without one you will likely get lost and end up on the wrong tee box. Depending on how long you are at Bandon Dunes, this would be the course to skip. I am told it is a great course for match play but the reality is there is limited time and the other 3 courses are just much better.

Should I get a caddie at Bandon Dunes?:

Initially we were not going to get caddies because none of us are high rollers. Fortunately we were convinced to get a forecaddie at Old Mac. As I mentioned we would have never been able to figure out where to hit the ball or where the next tee box was without the help of a caddie. Price wise it ended up a bargain. Forecaddies cost $120 for the group (that includes gratuity). We ended up tipping him more but for an extra $40 each it was totally worth it.

The next day a few of us got our own caddies because the weather was going to be rough. Again, the smartest move we could have made. Even though the pull carts are awesome, a caddie blows them away. Forget about lines and reads, being able to keep your hands in your pocket is pure joy. I know I can’t tell you how to spend your money but I felt like my $150 caddie fee was worth every penny and by the end of the trip you have a new friend.

Look, get a forecaddie at a minimum (just do it!). If you can almost afford it then get your own caddie (and get your cheap buddies to chip in since he will end up helping them too).

What to bring to Bandon Dunes:

Captain Obvious says bring your rain gear (and not the cheap stuff). When you play in a solid rain for 4 hours you’d better be prepared. I suggest testing your gear with a hose and for a long time. Playing in rain is not bad when you are dry but it sucks otherwise. In addition to rain gear, bring two pairs of good golf shoes, rain gloves and a hat.

Aside from the proper clothing I would also suggest stopping by the liquor store on your way in. Given that most people will play only one round of golf per day, you are gonna have time to kill. Despite the very reasonable drink prices and Bandon, we saved a ton of money by drinking our own booze during the day. Even better, no one cares. That’s my point, Bandon was designed for hardcore golfers who want to save a few bucks so they just let it slide when you wheel in 8 handles of brown liquor into your room.

Why is Bandon Dunes a must guys golf trip:

Remember, we come from the east coast so this is a big deal for us and we don’t get to see this type of scenery very often. Traveling 3,000 miles and spending $2K on 5 rounds of golf is no joke, so our expectations were pretty high.

The allure of Bandon is so hard to describe so perhaps some stories will help to illustrate it.

Oh the Weather:

We got to Bandon at about 2:30 which gave us just enough time to play the short course (13 holes). After gearing up we headed out to 35 mph winds and blowing hail. 1.5 hours later we came back with ear to ear grins. “Holy fuck that was insane” “Dude, that was the craziest golf I have ever played”. Again, weather just never ruins Bandon.

Bethany knows my name:

Our first dinner was at Pacific Grill which is one of the fancier venues. The restaurant is fairly small and was filled by about 60 dudes and one table of women. Food – off the chart. Halfway through the meal, (we had been drinking since noon), I realized our waitress had been calling me by name the entire night. I lean over to my buddy and tell him how special I am. Turns out, everyone was special that night as Bethany had quickly learned all of our names.

The next afternoon we ended up finishing our round and stopped into the Grill for a quick drink. Dazed and confused, it took us a moment to realize where we were. Fortunately, Bethany quickly recognized us and one lucky son of a gun even got a hug and a hot cup of water to warm his hands. Top notch, top notch.

Caddie kinship:

One our caddies name was Kurt and he had Steve’s bag for 4 rounds. Kind of an old salty dog, Kurt alway had a great read and quickly learned Steve’s bag. After one round Steve relayed a story from the day.

It was my first experience using a caddie and really enjoyed learning from my caddie Kurt over the course of 4 days. Lots of talk of golf of course, with interesting discussions on many other topics — including a multiple day discussion of our all-time baseball all-star teams. Kurt also facilitated my most memorable experience of the trip.

“On a par four, two of us pushed our drives substantially to the right — as we walked toward our balls Kurt summoned us over to a small grate that was located at the base of tree. Kurt removed the first grate to reveal another grate which when removed uncovered an ancient bottle of Scotch and a rustic leather guestbook — which we proceeded to sign. Just a really cool moment that sums up how visiting Bandon Dunes is unlike any other golf trip you will ever have.”

Not to be outdone, after we parted ways in Portland I got this text from Steve.

“I can’t seem to make any decisions without input from Kurt – I txt’d him from Denny’s this morning – you like the Grand Slam or the Denver omelette? Thankfully her txt’d back “go with the Omelette- but start with coffee first”  #lifecaddie”

From my own perspective, on the morning of our final round I showed up at Bandon Trails to meet my Caddie, Todd, who had caddied for me the last two rounds. Todd was there early and greeted me with a smile and a handshake. I thanked him for lugging me around the prior day in the rain. He just smiled and said it was a pleasure. He then handed me a book on Bandon with a short hand written note inside. Thankfully, the protective plastic bag he had placed the book in was never needed as we enjoyed a day of glorious sun.

Parting shots:

A week has passed since our trip and hardly an hour goes by without my phone dinging with another text from one of my travel companions waxing poetic about our adventure. I am sure there are other epic golf trips to be had, but a Bandon Dunes golf trip is certainly high on the list.

Golfing at Bandon Dunes is like taking a trip back to another century (and I don’t mean the Twentieth)! My expectations heading into the trip was to play some links-style golf without having to “cross the pond.” Bandon delivered the kind of golf I was hoping to experience and much, much, more. We did get our links weather — we played in rain, wind, hail, and not be left out — a little bit of sunshine. As with other memories, the multiple layers of clothing — referred to as “stupid gear” by one of the starters — fades with time and you just remember the camaraderie associated with surviving the elements. Somehow I smile deeply remembering the exact moment when it started to hail (brought on I am sure by one of us saying something like ‘this rain is not very wet’ — to which we responded ‘yeah — because it is frozen!’

More from my site

As a fellow Bandonista (been going there since it opened and spent a summer as a caddie), I think one of the great things about Bandon is that everyone takes something away from it differently. There is no right or wrong list of the courses. Personally, I like Trails the least and Old Mac the best (I think Old Mac is the most fun to play, while Pacific is the best course in my opinion). But, again, not wrong answer.

Glad you found the hidden whiskey hole right of #10 at Bandon. I’ve played with people who have gone there for 15 years that never knew about it.

Caddies are a must your first couple of times at least.

I hope you guys have a chance to get back sometime!

Thanks so much for your comment Tony. I am bummed I was not in the foursome that shared the whiskey but I guess that will be one more reason to return

Great group of guys! Thanks so much for golfing at Bandon Adam and allowing me to have so much fun working your bag for you. Hope to see you next time. Until then enjoy the book Dream Golf and feel the Bandon love.

For sure!! Looking forward to our return trip in 2020.

Great story on Bandon, thanks! Fires permitting we’re heading out in early October, can’t wait!

Awesome… we head back in April 2021 (had to reschedule our March trip). Upside is we now get to play Sheeps Ranch.

Adam, such a great article and had me absolutely stoked for my trip planned in early 2021. I’ll take your advice on a caddy and hope my experience is as memorable as yours. Thanks for the tips!!

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Planning a Bandon Dunes Golf Trip

Published by derek wise on september 8, 2020 september 8, 2020.

It happened. I finally planned a golf trip to Bandon Dunes golf resort! As I write this, the trip is 11 months away, but I am already excited. In this golf perspective blog , I will talk through the planning of a Bandon Dunes golf trip.

About Bandon Dunes Golf Resort

The golf courses at Bandon Dunes are well-known throughout golf architecture enthusiast circles. Yet, Bandon Dunes notoriety can be disputed. The golf resort has not yet hit the radar of weekend warrior or casual golfers.

Bandon Dunes is part of Dream Golf Resorts . There are two sister resorts; Sand Valley in Wisconsin and Cabot Links in Nova Scotia. All the resorts feature on-site lodging, restaurants and top-notch golf courses.

The Bandon Dunes golf resort is home to six different golf courses . This feature makes Bandon Dunes a top “buddies trip” destination. The demand for Bandon Dunes golf trips is only increasing so expect to plan a year in advance.

The golf courses are the main attraction all ranking in the top 20 of public courses in the nation. There are five 18-hole regulation course and one 13-hole short course. The golf courses, year opened, architects and current ranking are as follows:

• Bandon Dunes (1999), Architect – David McLay Kidd (Ranked #7)
• Pacific Dunes (2001), Architect – Tom Doak (Ranked #2)
• Bandon Trails (2005), Architects – Coore & Crenshaw (Ranked #14)
• Old Macdonald (2010), Architect – Tom Doak & Jim Urbina (Ranked #12)
• Bandon Preserve Short Course (2012), Architects – Coore & Crenshaw
• Sheep Ranch (2019), Architects – Coore & Crenshaw (Not YET ranked)
• Punchbowl (Honorable Mention) putting course – Architects – Tom Doak & Jim Urbina

Finding Your Golf Group

A golf trip to Bandon Dunes is an investment in a golfing experience. Visiting golfers are treated to an immersive golf environment. The result are lifelong memories. I recommend finding a collection of like-minded golfers for the Bandon Dunes golf trip.

Golfers with an appreciation for course architecture, hole routing and width & angles should top the attendee list. The three golf course architects at Bandon Dunes subjectively top the list in all those categories.

In the end, bring friends and people you enjoy spending time with. Since many golfers play 36 holes a day, invite friends who enjoy the game of golf. Golfers who visit Bandon Dunes will walk away with a one-of-a-kind immersive golf experience.

Planning Your Golf Trip

Now that you have made the decision to go to Bandon Dunes, found friends to join you, it is time to plan your golf trip. Below are considerations for the golf trip details.

1) How many days will you need? It would be criminal to travel to Bandon Dunes and not play all the golf courses. Plan to play each course at a minimum. Playing 36 holes a day is very popular option due to the reduced replay rate offered at Dream Golf Resort courses; Bandon Dunes, Sand Valley and Cabot Links.

Plan for three (3) full days on-site at Bandon Dunes. Book 36 holes per day to fit in all the golf courses. Use the middle day to couple a full-length course with the short course, Bandon Preserve. This itinerary decision provides a deserved breather. Golfers will require five (5) days with this schedule allowing for a travel day and getaway day.

2) What courses should you play? All of them. Next.

3) Should the courses be played in a particular order? By this time, you have visited the Bandon Dunes website. Or you have conducted research on the courses most highly regarded. There are on-going debates regarding the best course at Bandon Dunes. The true ranking is highly subjective.

Recommendation: Bookend your trip with your most sought after golf course(s). Do this by staying an additional day. Bonus tip: Schedule the second tee times on the opposite time of day for different playing conditions.

4) Who do I call for reservations? The reservation staff at Bandon Dunes are some of the best in the business. Come prepared with a few date range options – your first pick may not be available. This can be the case even several months out. Bandon Dunes is becoming that popular. Draft a morning/afternoon schedule prior to calling. Expect a wait time before reaching a reservation specialist. Once reached, enjoy the experience of booking 36-hole golf days for a multi-day trip. No better phone call exists. Period.

5) Should we stay on-site? The short answer is yes. Several lodging options exist on the Bandon Dunes property. Take advantage of this and fully immerse yourself.

6) When can I make dinner reservations? For larger groups, dinner reservations are recommended. These can be scheduled 30 days prior to the trip.

7) Should I get a caddie? I am a firm believer in getting a caddie. Yes, it will cost you extra money but think about the golf investment. Spend the money to fully enjoy the Bandon Dunes golf courses. As an added incentive, the Bandon Dunes caddies will be assigned to you during the entire visit. They will know your game and help shepherd you around the golf courses in less strokes!

Bandon Dune Resources

In researching and planning my own Bandon Dunes golf trip, I came across several blogs to help with the planning. Below is a shortened list:

• Bandon Dunes Golf Blog by Bandon Dunes
• An Argument for Each Bandon Course as the Best by Plugged in Golf
• Bandon Dunes Overview Guide by Shane Bacon
• 18 Tips for a Trip to Bandon Dunes by Golf Digest
• A Caddie’s Guide to Bandon Dunes by Caddie Network

What is Next?

This blog covered the first stage of planning a Bandon Dunes golf trip. For many, there will be a handful of months from the time a Bandon Dunes trip is booked to the first tee time. As for me, my golf trip is scheduled for August 2021. Over the next several months, I will write additional blogs talking about the process. These will include topics leading up to the final preparations. Here are some draft blog titles in the works:

• Prepare Your Game for Links Golf
• Packing for a Bandon Dunes Golf Trip
• Mindset for a Week Long Golf Trip

*All photos in the blog were taken from Bandon Dunes Golf website . I will update all of them after my trip in August 2021!

A Wisconsin-based golfer who loves to share his perspective on the game as well as highlighting local golf courses through reviews.

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• Your essential guide to the ultimate Bandon Dunes golf trip

Bandon Dunes Golf Resort is one of our game’s great destinations.

This three-mile stretch of golf heaven occupies a grassy bluff 100 feet above the Pacific Ocean and stands as a celebration of natural wonder, wilderness, and the finest traditions of our game. You won’t find cart paths here, or millionaire mansions lining the fairways. Every possible diversion has been stripped away to allow the golf to take centre stage and your focus to remain firmly fixed on it.

The six links style courses at Bandon Dunes, which are strewn out along the rugged, windswept South Oregon coastline are nothing short of spectacular. Each has its own distinct personality and purpose and yet all share a connection with the natural wonder which exists all around them. 

The views will stop you in your tracks: on a clear day you can see for at least 11 miles in each direction, from the sand dunes and rolling hills on one side and the Pacific on the other, straight across to Japan. The colours are quite something too, from the vivid yellow of the Scotch broom to the deep green of the pines and golden-brown grass along the fairways. This may not be where golf originated, but – at times – it sure feels like it.

But if you’re planning a trip to Brandon where do you start? Well, we have created the ultimate guide to this incredible part of the world, so that you can equip yourself with all the knowledge and insider tips to have the kind of golf trip that will you never, ever forget. Bandon Dunes  isn’t the kind of place you get to visit every week, so when you do go, you want to  ensure you get it right – we’ve got your back.

BANDON DUNES: THE COURSES

1. bandon dunes.

It all began just before the turn of the 21st century, with one golf course – Bandon Dunes. Fittingly, it was designed by a Scotsman – David McLay Kidd – who set out not to build a golf course but to discover one within the land he’d been given by Mother Nature.

The ripples and undulations of the land are all natural and are very much in the spirit of a true Scottish links, while the fairways are generous. Expect the wind to be a constant companion on your way around Bandon Dunes golf course – the elements are very much part of the experience. This is not a golf course which delivers instant gratification – you need to work to earn that.

The routing gradually builds the drama, in the same way that Ballybunion in Ireland does, taking you gradually out to the bluffs and then back in again, out, and back in again, before returning your back to the centre of the resort come the 18th green. It’s a real thinker’s golf course and one deserves its reputation as one of golf’s most iconic courses.

BANDON DUNES SCORECARD

2. Pacific Dunes

The second course built at Bandon Dunes was Pacific Dunes, which many now believe is also the best. Designed by Tom Doak and opened for play in 2001, Pacific Dunes is wonderfully unorthodox and brilliantly original. In order to make the most of the ocean views, Doak chose a routing which includes a slew of par-4s on the front nine and no fewer than four par-3s on the back.

The result is a wonderful, almost rhythmic round of golf where you take one step towards the ocean and one back, as you get lost in among the natural sand dunes and shore pines and emerge again to something new and wonderful. Many believe this was Doak’s first masterpiece and what can’t be disputed is that it propelled him into the top tier of golf architects globally. Pacific Dunes is a golf course with personality and panoramas. What’s not to like?

PACIFIC DUNES SCORECARD

3. Bandon Trails

Set away from the clifftops, Bandon Trails is the golf course with the fewest sea views of any at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort but don’t let that put you off . Why? Well, this Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw design will take you on a thrilling journey over heaving sand dunes, across stunning meadows and towards beautiful Oregon forests. There is a brilliant stretch of holes early in your round, the 3rd, 4th, and 5th are all wonderfully memorable, and variety throughout.

The third course at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort offers a contrast to many of the other courses and that change of pace is welcome.

BANDON TRAILS SCORECARD

4. old macdonald.

The fourth course at Bandon Dunes stands in tribute to the great Charles Blair MacDonald , a pioneering architect of the golden age and the man who designed the first 18-hole course in America at Chicago Golf Club. McDonald also designed the National Golf Links of America .

When Tom Doak and Jim Urbina were tasked with designing Old MacDonald, they were asked to produce the golf course MacDonald himself would have created had this land been his to play with. Doak and Urbina responded with 18 holes peppered with fierce bunkers and sprawling greens which mean the golfer almost always has an angle in. There are nods to what became known as MacDonald’s template holes – borrowed from St Andrews – The Redan, Short, Long, Eden and even Road. This is a links experience that – as the name suggests – is a glorious step back in time. 

OLD MACDONALD SCORECARD

5. Bandon Preserve

Having opened in 2012, Bandon Preserve is the place on Bandon Dunes Golf Resort where fun is always to the fore. In the spirit of the incredible Cradle at Pinehurst , Bandon Preserve is a 13-hole par-3 course with spectacular ocean views, and an ethos of fun, enjoyment, and creativity.

Also like The Cradle, you can play up to eight golfers in a group. The Pacific Ocean provides the backdrop on every hole and all profits from this golf course go directly to help the Bandon Dunes Charitable Foundation in its work supporting conservation and community in the area.

BANDON PRESERVE SCORECARD 

6. Sheep Ranch

Bandon Dunes Golf Resort’s fifth 18-hole layout, Sheep Ranch occupies a truly breathtaking piece of land to the north of the site. With no fewer than nine greens in cliffside locations, it is wonderfully exposed to the elements with no dunes to protect you from the wind, which is why there are no traditional sand bunker – the fear was Sheep Ranch was too windy for then.

The combination of incredible drama with those ocean holes, incredible extravagant contours in the ground and the exposure to the elements, makes Sheep Ranch a fierce test of golf and a very worthy addition to the incredible portfolio at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort. 

SHEEP RANCH SCORECARD

7. Shorty’s 

The man behind Bandon Dunes Golf Resort – the great Mike Keiser – is not done just yet. Shorty’s will be the 7th course at Bandon Dunes on a site close to the 1st at Bandon Trails. The site is scattered with sand dunes, a shore pines and the architects have been tasked with creating a course unlike any other at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort. We know there will be 19 holes, yes 19, and we know the course has been named after Shorty Dow, the first caretaker of Bandon Dunes. We also know that all profits will once again go to the Bandon Dunes Charitable Foundation when it opens in 2024. 

BANDON DUNES: HOW TO GET THERE

It will not be news to you that Bandon Dunes Golf Resort is not the easiest place to get to. But good things come to those who wait and those who are prepared to. The resort is located 10 minutes from the seaside town of Bandon, just to the west of Highway 101.

But what is the best way to Bandon Dunes Golf Resort?

BANDON DUNES TRAVEL FLIGHT MAP

Closest airport to bandon dunes golf resort.

The closest airport to Bandon Dunes is Southwest Oregon Regional Airport (OTH) in North Bend. North Bend is about a 35-minute drive to Bandon.

How easy it is to fly into North Bend will be dependent on the time of year. United Airlines, for instance, fly in and out of North Bend from Denver twice-per-week between the beginning of May and the end of September. You can also fly into North Bend from San Francisco, but you’ll need to check your flight schedule to confirm when. You can also fly into Eugene, Oregon – which is around 2.5hr drive from Bandon. While flights also arrive in Medford (MFR), which has daily nonstop flights from Denver, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Portland, Salt Lake City, San Francisco, and Seattle and is a 3hr drive to Bandon Dunes. And finally, you can also fly into Portland, Oregon, which is a major international airport but is located a 4.5-hour drive from Bandon Dunes Golf Resort. If you do fly into Portland, you will have the best rental car options, which can be advantageous if you have a bunch of gear to transport.

BANDON DUNES GOLF RESORT: WHERE TO STAY

There is no shortage of places to stay if you’re playing Bandon Dunes Golf Resort.

For instance, you can stay off the resort and in the town – 10 miles or so away. The town is  relatively quiet but there are loads of places to stay. Or you can stay on the resort itself, which we think is always going to be first prize.

On Bandon Dunes Golf Resort itself, there are no fewer than six different accommodation options, ranging from Grove Cottages to the Chrome Lake Lofts , which are certainly one of the best places to stay at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort.

Each loft features two bedrooms and two bathrooms, with huge beds, high ceilings, plenty of common space and all the home comforts you could possibly wish for. The setting is lovely too, tucked away in a forest close to the main entrance of Bandon Dunes – it’s peaceful, serene, just what you need after a busy day on the golf courses. 

So, what’s the catch? The Bandon Dunes Chrome Lake Lofts are not cheap, but you get what you pay for. Bear in mind that you could also spread that cost by putting two adults in each bedroom/bathroom for a total of four adults per unit.

If you’re looking for the best value accommodation on Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, then the Lily Pond is a really good option, with each room featuring two queen beds. If you are on a big golf trip with friends, it is worth considering The Grove Cottages , which are 4-bedroom units and great for big groups. The Lodge also offer 4-bedroom suites, but the standalone nature of the cottages will give you that little bit more independence from the next group. The Grove Cottages also have their own fire pits.

Where else should you stay at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort? The best views probably come at The Inn , which sits just across from the 18th green of Bandon Dunes, allowing golfers to sit on their balconies, beer in hand, enjoying the suffering of their fellow golfers. The most highly prized rooms at The Inn tend to be on the ground floor, with each room having its own patio.

The most recently built accommodation at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort is at Round Lake , which are modern and feature the kind of amenities that you would expect from a high end hotel.

BANDON DUNES GOLF RESORT: WHERE TO EAT

Bandon Dunes Golf Resort has no shortage of dining options after you have spent the day working up a serious appetite. Whether you’re looking for a quick bite or something more refined, we have you covered. Here’s our where to eat guide for Bandon Dunes Golf Resort:

Ghost Tree Grill

-Cuisine: This is a Pacific Northwest inspired steakhouse, named after the iconic Ghost Tree on Old Macdonald’s 3rd hole. -Atmosphere: Ghost Tree Grill features a huge bar, an open kitchen, large TVs to show sport events, as well as an outdoor eating area complete with fire pit. Relaxed, fun, memorable. -Location: You’ll find the Ghost Tree Grill at the north end of Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, close to Sheep Ranch and Old MacDonald, of which it features sweeping views. 

Pacific Grill

– Cuisine: Pacific Grill is known for its Pacific Northwest-inspired menu, featuring fresh, locally sourced ingredients. The menu includes a variety of seafood, steaks, and other contemporary American dishes. – Atmosphere: The restaurant provides a casual yet sophisticated atmosphere, making it a great choice for a relaxed meal after a day on the golf course. – Location: Pacific Grill is conveniently located upstairs in the clubhouse at Pacific Dunes, offering beautiful views of the golf course and surrounding landscape.

McKee’s Pub

– Cuisine: This cosy pub-style eatery serves up classic comfort food, including burgers, sandwiches, and hearty appetizers. It’s a perfect spot to unwind and enjoy a casual meal with friends or fellow golf enthusiasts. – Atmosphere: McKee’s Pub has a relaxed and friendly atmosphere, making it a popular gathering place for golfers looking to share stories and experiences from their rounds. – Location: Situated at the Bandon Dunes Golf Course, McKee’s Pub is really conveniently located.               

Tufted Puffin Lounge

-Cuisine: The Tufted Puffin Lounge offers a diverse menu with a range of appetizers, salads, and sandwiches. It’s an excellent choice for a more laid-back dining experience. – Atmosphere: With its casual ambiance and large windows providing panoramic views of the golf course, the Tufted Puffin Lounge is a great spot to relax and enjoy a leisurely meal. – Location: Located within the Bandon Dunes Golf Course, this lounge is a convenient option for golfers looking for a casual dining experience.

Trail’s End Bar & Grill

– Cuisine: Trail’s End Bar & Grill offers a menu with a focus on comfort food, featuring items like pizza, burgers, and sandwiches. It’s a family-friendly option for guests of all ages. – Atmosphere: The laid-back and welcoming atmosphere of Trail’s End makes it a popular choice for those seeking a relaxed dining experience with a view of the course. – Location: Situated at the Bandon Trails Golf Course, this grill is a great place to unwind and enjoy a casual meal with family and friends.    

– Cuisine: For those seeking a more upscale dining experience, The Gallery Restaurant offers a fine-dining menu with a focus on premium cuts of meat and seafood, expertly prepared and presented – Atmosphere: With its elegant decor and attentive service, The Gallery provides a refined setting for a special dining occasion. – Location: Located just off the lobby in The Lodge at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort.

Sheep Ranch Clubhouse

– Cuisine: serves breakfast 30 minutes before the 1st tee time of the morning and closes after lunch time, once the last golfer has finished up. The menu features lots of Irish favourites such as Lamb Stew, alongside American classics like Hot Pastrami Hoagies, Coore’s Clam Chowder, and a Corned Beef Breakfast Burrito. – Atmosphere: Panoramic views, an outdoor patio, a fire pit surrounded by Adirondacks. It’s the perfect place to hang out after a round. – Location: It’s called Sheep Ranch Clubhouse, so we think you can figure this one out for yourselves.

The Bunker Bar

-Cuisine: Pizzas, grilled chicken sandwiches and burgers. This is a relaxed place to eat and pass the time. You’ll love it. – Atmosphere: The bunker vibe is the go-to late-night place at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, perfect for a game of pool, a hand of cards or to watch the game. You get the picture. -Location: Downstairs in The Lodge.

BANDON DUNES: GETTING AROUND

During your stay at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, you will not require a car. Like Pinehurst, there is a brilliant shuttle service available to all guests and the drivers will be delighted to take you and your clubs wherever you need to go on the resort 24 hours a day. You should not have to wait more than 5 minutes to get picked up wherever you are on the resort. Now that’s service.

BANDON DUNES GOLF RESORT MAP

BANDON DUNES GOLF RESORT: KEY FACTS

Address: 57744 Round Lake Road, Bandon, Oregon 97411, USA. Bandon Dunes golf resort phone number:  +1 888-345-6008 Website:  BandonDunesGolf.com

BANDON DUNES GOLF RESORT: FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (FAQs)

Can i take a golf cart at bandon dunes golf resort.

Bandon Dunes is walk only golf destination. Exceptions are made for guests who have a permanent disability which would stop them from being able to walk the course. If you do want to make that request, then you must inform Bandon Dunes with documents before your arrival.

Can I take a pull cart or trolley at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort?

Yes, there are no restrictions on push or pull carts at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort. They are actually available on a complimentary basis. Battery powered golf trollies can also be used.

Should I take caddie to play golf at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort?

Taking a caddie is not only a really good idea at Bandon but it’s actively encouraged. All caddies at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort are independent contractors and must be paid and tipped directly by the guest.

How much do caddies cost at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort?

The fee for caddies at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort in 2024 is $100 per bag, per round, plus tip.

What is the dress code at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort?

The guidance at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort is that all ‘appropriate casual golf attire’ can be worn. Denim is discouraged on the golf courses but acceptable in the restaurants and hotels.

Is there cell phone or mobile phone signal at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort? 

The short answer is – sometimes. Or even, maybe. You are, after all, visiting a remote part of the Oregon coastline so you can’t expect 5G at all times. So, manage your expectations and remember you are there to soak it all in – not check emails every 60 seconds.

How do I book a tee time at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort?

Carefully and well in advance. Bandon Dunes tee times can often disappear more than a year in advance, so know when you want to go, get organised and get booking. Bandon Dunes Golf Resort is now accepting bookings 18 months in advance. The best place to book tee times at Bandon Dunes and, in fact, your whole trip is to click here .  

How is the weather in Bandon Dunes Golf Resort?

Bandon Dunes exists in a changeable coastal climate, influenced by its proximity to the Pacific Ocean. Summers are generally cool with temperatures ranging from the mid-50s to mid-60s Fahrenheit, while winters are mild with temperatures in the 40s. The weather can be variable, and golfers should be prepared for a mix of sunshine, wind, and occasional rain, especially during the fall and winter months. Expect wind. Lots of it. 

How much attention should I pay to Bandon Dunes Golf Resort weather?

It’s important to pay attention to the weather at Bandon Dunes but not to obsess over it. As we have said, be prepared, pack properly but then go with expectations that you might be sun burned, you might be soaked, you might get cold, you might be too hot. Being adaptable and not allowing changing conditions to bother you too much will enhance your overall experience on the golf courses at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort.

How much does it cost to play at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort?

The cost to play at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort varies based on factors such as the time of year, where you stay, which courses you play and how often. There is a brilliant trip planner on the Bandon website that will help you work out the cost of a Bandon Dunes golf trip. Click here for more information.

Are there discounts or packages available at Bandon Dunes for multiple rounds or group bookings?

Bandon Dunes Golf Resort offers various packages and discounts, especially for multiple rounds and group bookings. Specials may be available during certain times of the year, so it’s recommended to explore package options and inquire about any ongoing promotions when making reservations.

What is the best time of year to visit Bandon Dunes Golf Resort?

Bandon Dunes is a year-round destination, but the peak golf season is typically from May to late September, when the weather is most favorable. However, the resort’s coastal location means weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for varying conditions.

Can I rent golf clubs at Bandon Dunes resort?

Yes, Bandon Dunes Golf Resort offers a really impressive set of rental sets which are renewed regularly with new sets. Brands available are  Taylormade, Titleist, Callaway, Cobra, and Miura. Rental sets are available for right-handed and left-handed golfers, there are also women’s sets available to rent.

What is the cancellation policy at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort?

Generally reservations are cancellable up to 30 days before you stay at Bandon Dunes but golf only reservations cannot be cancelled within 90 days of your tee times.

BANDON DUNES COURSE MAP

PACIFIC DUNES COURSE MAP

Bandon trails course map, old macdonald course map.

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The tagline for Bandon Dunes Golf Resort is “GOLF AS IT WAS MEANT TO BE…”. While this may be true, we think the better tagline should be “The Buddies Bucket list Golf Trip: As it was meant to be… Full Stop”.  Bandon Dunes sets a bar by which every other bucket list golf trip will be measured. The nice thing about Bandon is that it just fits the bill. Everything, every detail is thought through with a lens of making it the most enjoyable buddies golf trip experience that can be. With this Big Ball First guide on to how to best plan your trip, we hope it will be just that much better. 

Overview : Bandon Dunes Golf Resort is the brainchild of Mike Keiser, a successful businessman from upstate New York. Interestingly, he did not set out to become a Golf Magnet. His businesses were unrelated, but he had a huge passion for the game, and apparently for travel. He travelled all over Great Britain and Ireland playing the original links style golf courses that were the origin of the game…. and he simply fell in love. His passion led him to build a links style golf course on Lake Michigan called the Dunes Club. 

Over time, as he continued to play legendary golf courses (many of which were private), he formed a hypothesis: Every golfer should have the opportunity to play legendary golf. In some ways, Mike Keiser is the Patron Saint of Big Ball First. We also hold this belief and it’s our mission to make sure golfers of any means are able to maximise their experience when doing so. Okay, let’s just call him our Spirit Animal instead. 

Mike found a piece of property in Bandon, Oregon, that fit the bill perfectly for what he wanted to achieve: Build links style golf courses inspired by the ancient links style courses that gave birth to the game. He took a bet on David McLay Kidd (a relatively unknown golf course architect) and in 1999 the resort opened with its first golf course – Bandon Dunes – to instant acclaim. Over time, Mike formulated a codex that would be a guide to building a complex of epic golf courses: Designed by top golf course designers, built in a resort setting, singularly aimed at leaving the golfer in awe of the fact that every tiniest detail was thought through with golfer’s needs in mind. Each one of the original 4 golf courses is on Golf Digest’s Best 20 public golf courses, and soon, our bet the 5th will join that exclusive club. 

Location The location for the courses at Bandon could not have been better hand picked for the features you would expect of Scottish links golf 1.) seaside 2.) plenty of gorse 3.) weather and 4) prevailing winds. Some say that if you have nice weather when at Bandon Dunes you’re missing the whole point. You only get the “full” experience if it’s blowing 30 miles an hour and you have sideways rain and you can’t keep your equipment dry or a hat on. While we like an ‘authentic’ experience, that golf trip might not be for everyone. 

The resort is in remote southern Oregon about two-thirds the way from Coos Bay to Bandon, Oregon. This location, high on the cliffs above the pacific ocean is the fulcrum on which the entire Bandon experiment was catapulted to success. The best part is that even when you are not golfing, just sitting back and enjoying the scenery is a treat. 

For sure, the golf is the star of the show. Marching up and down the dunes out to the ocean and trekking from cantilevered greens hanging out over the beach below is a spiritual experience for the avid golfer, and even the casual golfer will be blown away. Gnarled bunkers and strategically placed gorse present hazards both figuratively and literally. When the gorse dries out it is sharper than razor wire and so full of oils that if it catches fire, it’s like napalm. In fact, our first trip to Bandon Dunes a caddie told us a story of a man that fell off a cliff into a gorse bush and lost an arm because of the thorny grabby vegetation. Subsequent caddies have cast doubt on the story as a wive’s tale. But all the same the spirit of the warning makes sense.. Besides, a caddie’s best day is when they don’t have to administer first aid two miles from the club house. Remember, the caddies like the bags light so the First Aid would be improvised and slapdash at best. 

Getting there As we mentioned Bandon Dunes is remote, yet you have a number of options to get to the resort… each with its set of drawbacks and advantages. Also, if you are doing the trip on a budget there are factors that you need to weigh. Some travel options require an extra night’s stay at the hotel and those rooms can be pricey – especially at peak times of year. Do the calculus (number of nights of hotel to maximize number of rounds of golf plus mode of transportation). Because the access to the golf is governed by the nights you stay, we like to get the most rounds of golf possible out of a two-night stay – which would be 3 at 1/day and 4 with a double.

Option 1: Fly Commercial As of the writing of this blog you can fly directly into Southwest Oregon Regional Airport (OTH, or Coos Bay) from San Francisco or Denver. Then once there you can either rent a car and drive the 30 minutes south to the resort, or hire a shuttle service to shuttle you back and forth. The shuttle is roughly 50 dollars per guy round-trip, and might be a good way to go. 8 guys in a suburban with golf gear can be a tight fit, unless you ship your clubs, which the resort very much recommends. The downside to flying commercial is that you are at the whim of the airline schedules. Sometimes they change and rarely are they optimized for you to arrive at the resort and get a round in. The upside is that it’s quicker than driving. 

Other things to consider when flying commercial; you can clearly connect into SF or Denver and catch a direct flight. Or you can fly to Portland and take the 4 hour drive south. If you stay for the night in Portland and have a nice dinner, and a hotel, then pick up your rental car in the morning and be at the resort in time for your first round. 

Drawbacks: Schedule makes it hard to maximize your number of rounds Advantages: Relatively quick and economical 

Option 2: Drive If you live in Portland, Seattle, or even San Francisco, you should strongly consider driving. The drive when you get into the coastal Oregon forest is simply stunning. It takes 8-9 hours from the bay area and 4/7 from Portland and Seattle respectively. The upside is you won’t have the expense or hassle of a plane ticket and you can make your trip go further economically. For our most recent trip we drove from San Jose to Crescent City, CA with the thought that we would hit wineries along the way. If you do this, keep in mind that if you leave at 7am you will be north of all the wineries before they open at 10,11 or 1. So do research on your departure time. We got an inexpensive hotel in Crescent City, had dinner and got a good night’s sleep. We were up at 8 and at the Bandon resort for a nice lunch and an afternoon round. From the north you likely don’t even need to stop. For the last day we were able to play, get in the car and make the trip home in one shot. The drive was breathtaking and something everyone should do. 

From the San Francisco Bay Area you may be tempted to drive straight to Bandon without  stopping. We don’t recommend this. Driving all that way won’t get you to the resort in time for a round that day, unless you leave at midnight. And really, who wants to tee it up after sitting in a car for 9 hours? Stop in Crescent City or another town along the way that strikes your fancy.

Drawbacks: Long drive Advantages: Economical, you can maximize your golf, and you will be truly stunned by the view along the drive.

Option 3: Fly Private Normally, we would never put this option in a blog for accessible public golf as it’s generally impractical. However, if a commercial flight means you have to stay an extra day to get your third round in, then it might pencil out. If each guy is spending $350 a night on a hotel and you have 8 guys that’s $2800. Add it to the $500 they would pay for a commercial ticket means you add an extra $4,000. That would be a total airfare allowance for 8 guys of seven grand. If you live on the west coast, for a couple hundred extra dollars you might be able to charter a plane (not a jet). If the plane gets you there in time to play a round in the afternoon and you can play a round in the am for your last round and fly home… it might make economic sense. You can either fly into Coos Bay, or there is a smaller airstrip right by the resort if the plane will fit the runway. Your pilot will know.

Drawbacks: Expensive Advantages: You get to maximize your trip

Getting around there The resort is quite remote, but the good news is that once you are there, it’s all self-contained. Restaurants, shopping, golf, practice, bars…anything you need is at your fingertips. It is quite spread out, but the system of shuttle busses they have is second to none, and the drivers are really helpful and sweet. You can drive around the resort if you have a rental car; that’s an option as well as each course and facility has parking. However, you likely won’t need to. You may be tempted to go 15 minutes south to the town of Bandon, but our advice is that once you are on property you stay on property. In your down time you have plenty to do and you will be all the more relaxed because of it. 

Staying there There are many places to stay at Bandon Dunes, but in our book there is a clear winner. Particularly, if you have 8 or 12 guys, get The Lodge. It’s the center of all the action, walkable to multiple restaurants and bar options. You have good access to outdoor areas, and there is always good people-watching. We would suggest the Golf, Dune or Lodge suite. Every room in the BD complex was built by Mike Keiser to represent your “refuge from your day of golf”. So when you are on your buddies bucket list golf trip you want a nice room with a common area, your own bedroom and your own bathroom. These rooms all deliver in spades–enough rooms that everyone in a foursome has their own bedroom and bathroom, complete with a living room sized perfectly for 8 guys playing poker. In fact, there is a very specific one we would recommend which is the one with a giant balcony off the back of The Lodge overlooking the 1st tee of Bandon Dunes Golf Course in one direction, the 10th tee and practice green and restaurant in the other. It’s huge, and spectacular, and you will feel like you won the Lotto. 

Truth to tell, all the accommodations at BD are really well done. Even the rooms you would share with another guy are large and every detail is thought through from a golfers’ golf trip perspective, right down to the electric shoe dryers and solid sharing bathroom set up. You can’t really go wrong. Just pick a roommate that does not snore if you are a light sleeper, and pay attention to how far the room is from The Lodge. 

If The Lodge suites are full, you can check out the Grove Cottage or Chrome lake lofts, both an eight minute walk from The Lodge. The Chrome Lake Lofts offer very comfy accommodations for two guys with their own rooms, own bathrooms and a nice sized living room. The Grove Cottage is an ideal setup for 4 guys. Bandon Dunes is not the Four Seasons to everyone, but the attention to detail and great service make it the Four Seasons of hard core bucket list golf for sure. 

Some people recommend booking an Airbnb nearby. There are a few, but between AirBNB’s and motels in Coos Bay and nearby Bandon you have one major issue: Access to golf more than 21 days out is predicated on staying on property. So we really can’t recommend this option as we would, in say, Scottsdale, AZ. If you by some sort of miracle have 8 guys that can go to Bandon in under 21 day’s notice and there is golf open, by all means have at it. If you want to defer 1 night of hotel on either end of your trip, there are some more reasonable options in Coos Bay as well as the town of Bandon, like the Lamplighter… If you do this for your crew it will be all about expectation setting. Bring earplugs the walls are thin.

When to go There are a couple schools of thought on when to go. Some people go when the weather will be at its best, yet the resort is at its most expensive. This would be July through September. Our caddie on the most recent visit said to favor September if you like “mild” weather— as you are least likely to get Marine layer fog, rain and the fiercest winds. Although you always have to be prepared for some pretty hard core wind and potential of rain. 

Others say that the best time to go is actually when you are going to hit inclement weather. “Golf as it was meant to be”, they say, means playing in sideways rain, rain gear, a bucket hat and gloves, as it was in the Old Country. Well okay modern day Old Country. 

Fact is, no matter when you decide to go to Bandon the weather will be a factor. It’s why the courses were built in this location. Each hole handicaps the prevailing winds. We have been in March and it’s been 60 degrees and no wind. We have been in September and it’s been so foggy we have had to have the caddie put a towel down so we could get a line off the tee box. So the advice is to pick the time that is best for you and your wallet. As the swing from high to low season cost-wise can be as much as 120%. 

Weather The only weather that we can pretty much guarantee you won’t get at Bandon Dunes is snow. That said, you need to be prepared for anything from 50 mile an hour wind, to sideways rain to fog so thick you can’t see your hand in front of your face. Most rounds you need to be prepared for multiple weather conditions in a single round. The witch of the wind can come at any time, particularly in the afternoon. Fog can roll in, it can start raining, or it can be beautiful. Make sure you layer and have quality wind and rain gear. 

What you need to bring: 

• Consider investing in a feather light golf bag or one that is waterproof
• Solid warm clothes
• A couple pair of waterproof golf shoes
• Quality rain gear
• Waterproof hat, either bucket or cap
• Rain gloves
• Quality windbreaker or two
• Earplugs have a dual use. If you have a roommate that snores they are good for that. If it’s blowing 40 on the course,  earplugs will help more than you may think.. 
• Sunscreen – even if it’s cloudy out, use it. 
• Quality lip moisturizer like a Carmex 
• Quality facial and body moisturizer
• Lots of golf balls
• Small first aid kit
• Your prescription glasses or contacts (non progressive for golf) bring an extra pair in case something happens to the first.
• Sunglasses- prescription if you have a prescription
• Bug spray, or sunscreen with bug spray in it
• A couple of hats and even a large sun hat

For the trip

• Bluetooth speaker (here is a good one on Amazon)_
• Alcohol of choice. If you play your lodging right, you will be hanging quite a bit back at the room, and having your wine or whisky handy will save some dough. Remember alcohol is cheaper in California than Oregon if driving. 
• Deck of cards
• Poker chips
• Massage gun – trust us on this one. Buy a 99 dollar massage gun on Amazon. On your fourth round you will thank us. 
• Ben Gay, menthol CBD, or lidocaine patch
• Cash of all sizes, but don’t forget small bills. Pressing the flesh of a shuttle bus driver with a fiver will be much appreciated, and the caddies don’t take Amex. 
• Your pharmaceuticals
• Snacks, especially ones you can throw in the golf bag. Peanuts, bars etc. If you are coming from the north including OTH airport stop in Coos Bay to get snacks. From the south, Bandon is a good choice. 
• If you are driving it might be wise to take a lawn chair or two to facilitate an impromptu hangout
• Knit hat and good winter jacket (fire pits at night are great, but the walk to them can be chilly
• Binoculars. 
• iPad, or tablet
• Flashlight- the property is quite dark after sunset. If you are not staying in the main lodge and you decide to walk, this will help.
• Wine opener/ Beer Opener (get one that is portable plastic so you can take it through airport security)
• Hearing aid batteries if you have a hearing aid

What not to bring:

• Your Pull Cart. They have pull carts there for rent for $5 that are built for the terrain. One unique thing about pull carts at Bandon Dunes is that you can wheel them straight over the greens. They actually encourage you to not go around the perimeter. 
• A cart bag or a heavy bag. If you are carrying it, it will kill you. If your caddie is carrying it, he will put you in a mostly empty light bandon bag. So leave your five pounds of lucky ball markers and round golf bag charms back in the room or at home
• Your work computer

Eating and Shopping There If Pebble Beach is Disney World, then Bandon Dunes is Epcot. Each of the five major golf complexes offer their own unique culture in the area of shopping and dining. Then of course, you have the Lodge, which might as well be a giant geodesic dome towering over the rest of the resort. 

We’re not sure why it came as a surprise to us, but each golf course has its own full sized golf shop complete with extensive logo wear specific to that golf course, all run pretty independently. Bandon Trails shares it’s golf shop with The Preserve and Pacific shares one with the Punchbowl. All of them carry primo gear, and if they don’t have something in your size they will order it and ship it to you after your trip. It’s very impressive, and Bandon Dunes golf shop has a very good clearance area in the back right corner, which is good for when you’re burning through your budget on $100 golf shirts. There is also a gift shop in The Lodge that has unique gifts and golf paraphernalia of all types. Be sure to peruse. 

As for food, you have some great options. I could go through them all, but I am going to hit on our favorites:

• Pacific Grill. Great restaurant of eclectic well made food. Great for lunch and a must-do for dinner
• McKee’s Pub. Named for trusted advisor to Mike Keiser, Howard McKee. He was indispensable during the planning and development of Bandon Dunes and this is a tribute to Keiser’s late friend. British pub style is great for having a pint, plopping down for some fish and chips, or going higher brow with the food in the upstairs dining room. 
• The Lodge. The Lodge is pretty much where you want to eat every breakfast, and many lunches. An environment that feels like a greenhouse lets you enjoy the views outside of the golf course, or you can sit on the patio. They make a great Bloody Mary, have a good white wine and beer list and killer onion rings.

The one thing to remember is RESERVATIONS. Don’t wait until you get on property, either. Make them when you book your golf. Your golf advisor will help you, and to do it when you book your trip is to avoid waiting 90 minutes or worse, missing a meal. 

Practice facility All of the courses except Sheep Ranch are served by a gigantic, state of the art practice facility. It boasts a large driving range with grass tees, giant practice green to tune in your flat stick and a short-game area. The courses at the resort are unique in North America in that they are 100% fescue, even the greens, similar to many courses in the U.K. and Ireland. You will want to spend some time getting used to this at the practice area, as it’s a unique style of play and requires an adjustment to your eyes.

In addition to the short game area you have the option to hit up “shorty’s” – a series of very short golf holes intended to get your pitch, chip and sand shots just right. Remember if you did not bring it you won’t find it here, but if you brought it, you can likely make it a little better if you dedicate some time here. Our bet is that you will use the practice facility on day one, and then not hit it again. It’s in kind of an awkward spot. Convenient to only Pacific Dunes and maybe Old Macdonald. 

Sheep Ranch also has a quality driving range and solid practice greens. This course is the furthest out so you will be thankful that you can hit some balls before going to corral some imaginary sheep. 

Money Unlike traveling abroad for a golf trip, money on the resort is easy…although be sure you have greenbacks in your bag or on your person. Small bills too, so you  can be sure to take good care of the shuttle drivers which will pay dividends. Caddies only take cash. 

Booking your trip One thing that gets under our skin when booking bucket list golf is the fact that you can’t just go online, see what’s available and book it. You have to talk to your buddies to come up with a time or times that work. Then you have to research the rooms you might want to have. Then you have to call the resort to see if the courses, tee times, or rooms are available during this time. If you get this done in one shot, you just made an ace. Inevitably the planner will be on the phone multiple times to get a window that is 80% right and will book it out of desperation. Then his credit card will bear the full burden of the deposit for the trip until his friends get around to paying their share. When you need to make a change, you better hope that someone gets back to you quickly if they can’t answer the line…all adding to the stress. Bandon Dunes does not disappoint in this area, meaning it’s just as disappointing as every other high end golf resort in this regard. Maybe some old school guys view this as part of the charm, flirting with a booking agent and telling bad jokes? Maybe the resort feels this is “more personal service”. Truthfully it’s just annoying and we are not sure why it’s not being addressed. If you have visited Bandon Dunes in the past- be sure to mention this is your second trip upon check in. The resort will likely give you a gift. 

To sum it all up At the beginning of the article we said this is the bar we hold all other buddies bucket list golf trip locations up to. It’s a definite measuring unit in legendary bucket list golf. It’s a class all in and of itself. It’s just golf, for golfers by golfers. If you only have three bucket list golf trips in your lifetime this must be in that three. Depending on what you are going for, this trip could easily be number one. If we had one bucket list round of golf left in our life it would be Pebble Beach for sure. But if we had only one buddies bucket list golf trip left in our life… it would have to be some sort of toss up between Bandon Dunes and St. Andrews. Once again that choice all comes down to what you are specifically looking for. 

Where to play :

• Bandon Dunes
• Pacific Dunes
• Old Macdonald
• Bandon Trails
• Sheep Ranch
• The Preserve
• The Punchbowl

Best Buddies Golf Trip Rankings

• Bucket list rank (from 1 to 5 buckets): 5 buckets 
• Caddies: 9 
• Location: 10
• Spectacle/ visual: 10
• New/ancient: modern
• Playability : 9
• Memorability : 10
• Buddy-a-bility : 10
• Service/etc: 10
• Value: 9- for the memories you will create you can do it as a value if you are careful when you go, how long you have to stay, and maximize the number of rounds you can get in. 
• Shopping: 10
• Warm up facilities/Range: 10
• Food & Drink: 9

About The Author

BBF or “Big Ball First” comes from a golf saying for hitting a shot fat. Or hitting the “big ball first” in that you hit the ground (the big ball) before hitting the golf ball. In the BBF blog, it’s a metaphor for traveling the planet, soaking in exclusive experiences, and pointing people to the Awesome, the Great, the Good, and the not so good out there. We’re hitting the big ball running with tales from international golf courses, with fine wine, fine food, did I mention golf…well, especially the ‘buddies bucket list golf trips’. The hope is that like minded people will enjoy the stories, and hopefully use it as a reference point. If this blog helps people prioritize the experiences they want to have on our planet then we will have succeeded on our mission. We only have so many go’s at “bucket list” travel experiences. Especially the bucket list buddies golf experiences. My hope is you can refine your experience based upon my learning, and take your “big ball first” experiences to the next level.

What a great and comprehensive essay! I can just share this with any of my golf friends who say “What’s Bandon like?”

What’s interesting is that almost the same amount of fun can be had pre-COVID and current-COVID. Most of what we do is outside, most meals can be taken outside or in spacious indoor sites…about all you miss are the poker games. Pro-tip: If you’re travelling by car and staying two to a room with a buddy and your trip is soon, get a COVID test just before going to confirm you can be a quarrenTeam …as Forrest Gump said, “One less thing to worry about.”

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Copyright 2020 Big Ball First. All Rights Reserved

15 things to know before booking your Bandon Dunes golf trip

Bandon Dunes. Almost from the day it opened, the passion project on the Oregon coast by developers Michael Keiser and Howard McKee has been one of the most sought-after golf destinations in the world. Fast forward, and the resort now boasts 5 courses, three of which are rated in the top 10 public courses in America. It started with Bandon Dunes, arguably the first true links course in the United States. Designed by Scottish wunderkind David McLay Kidd. It is the embodiment of pure golf, a revolution and a revival at the same time. If you woke up on the first tee and didn’t know where you were, you would swear that you were on one of the great courses of the Emerald Isle or bonny Scotland.

After Bandon Dunes came Pacific Dunes, the Tom Doak masterpiece that debuted in 2001 with more ocean views than the QE2 and now ranks only behind Pebble Beach among public courses in the United States. Pacific Dunes is as stunningly beautiful as a Hollywood starlet and, when the prevailing North wind is blowing, about as difficult to approach.

Then came Old Macdonald, another links gem that ranks number 10 in the country but may have the most passionate following of all of the courses. Even though it’s only been around for about a decade, it has an old soul. Old Macdonald is a course completely without pretense; walking it is in so many ways like a walk through life, full of beauty and fraught with danger, moments of glory and of potential four-putt despair. Like all great links layouts, Old Macdonald can be successfully navigated by players of all abilities and styles.

And there is the classic parkland beauty of Bandon Trails by the team of Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, the partnership that is dropping a trail of golf magic from coast to coast. The cherry on top is Bandon Preserve, the 13-hole short course that is a condensed version of the original and now ranks as the No. 1 short course in the U.S., just ahead of a 9-hole course in Augusta, Georgia that is reasonably difficult to book a tee time for.

Most people rightly compare the Bandon experience to Ireland or Scotland; the golf is stellar no matter which course you play, it is surprisingly affordable, and the off-course amenities are as memorable as the courses themselves. Truth of the matter is that from the East Coast it’s easier to get to Dublin than it is to get to Bandon. But once you get to Ireland you’d have to spend days moving from hotel to hotel on roads the size of cart paths in order to get the level of golf that is available within a five minute shuttle ride of your hotel room at Bandon Dunes. With the golf, the food, and the camaraderie, you are almost guaranteed to have a memorable golf experience at Bandon Dunes. But there are a few ways that you can 100 percent guarantee that it will be extra special…for your consideration, I present some tips to assure a perfect Bandon Experience.

1) Be prepared to walk

With only the rare exception (two or three rounds a day), all of the courses at Bandon Dunes are walking courses and they are not an easy walk . One round takes you on a 5+ mile walk up and down the dunes, and if you plan to play 36 holes on at least one day (see below), it will take a toll on your body. Walk some rounds or get on a treadmill to prepare before you get to Oregon and bring plenty of your preferred pain medication.

2) Book during May or December

The weather on the Oregon coast can be unpredictable to say the least, even in the summer months when tee times are the most expensive and difficult to secure. Booking in the shoulder season means not only greater availability; it’s also about 30% cheaper. And Bandon veterans know that there are days in December when warm Southerly winds bring weather when you can play in shirtsleeves.

3) Bring the proper gear

As mentioned above, the weather at Bandon is predictable and unpredictable at the same time in that you know it’s going to rain but you just don’t know exactly when or how much. Bring quality rain gear and plenty of changes of shirts and socks.

4) Fly into Eugene and drive to Bandon

Coming from the East Coast you can fly into Portland (4-hour drive) or North Bend (30-minute drive), but the best option is Eugene, about a 2-hour drive to Bandon. It is a gorgeous drive that will have you stopping often to snap pictures of some of America’s most beautiful scenery.

5) Stop at the Sugar Shack in Reedsport and SharkBite’s Seafood Cafe in Coos Bay

Ok, it’s going to take more than 2 hours from Eugene because you will have to make a couple of stops. The Sugar Shack in Reedsport is an old-school bakery that has warm service, hot coffee and some of the best donuts you have ever tasted. If you are feeling lucky try the Bigfoot, a donut that is roughly the size of an Air Jordan. And just outside Bandon in the town of Coos Bay is the SharkBite’s Seafood Cafe, a relaxed little joint that offers hand-crafted cocktails and quesadillas the size of a boogie board.

6) Stay for at least 4 days and play every course at least once

This is especially true if you are from the East Coast. It is a long trip, maybe once in a lifetime, and there are multiple courses to play. There are some hardy souls that plan 2-3 day trips with 36 holes or more per day. That’s ambitious at best and potentially self-destructive. Plan for at least three days of 18 holes and at least one day of 36.

7) Play The Punchbowl

The Punchbowl is an 18-hole putting course that has become an end of day ritual for Bandon regulars. It’s a great place to have a drink (brought to you on the course from the clubhouse), smoke a stogie and make a friendly wager or two. I find watching a group of good friends play the Punchbowl, with the laughter and shouts of friendship as a soundtrack to the sun setting over the Pacific Ocean, almost relaxing as playing.

8) Have the Lamb Stew at McKee’s Pub

Howard McKee, along with Mike Keiser, was the visionary developer who brought Bandon into being. A gifted architect and an exceptional human being, McKee passed away in 2007 at the age of 68. He is remembered by all who knew him and his spirit lives at McKees Pub. Located near the clubhouse for Bandon Dunes, McKees feels like stepping into a pub in Edinburgh, and tastes like it too. Everything on the menu is good but try the Lamb Stew, a big bowl of slow cooked goodness. You will gain the wonder and admiration of your friends of you finish it.

9) Play At Least One Solo Round

Bandon is all about spending time with old friends and making new ones. That said, I find the solitary round at either the beginning or end of the day to be like going to church. If you have time, book a late afternoon round at Old Macdonald. Walking alone with only your clubs and your thoughts will give you time to truly appreciate how wonderful our game truly is…and how lucky you are to be able to experience it.

10) Book a Massage

On some golf trips, many guys think of massage as something that the significant other goes for while they are out on the course. But after several days of navigating the ups and downs at Bandon the muscles will be screaming for relief. Book a massage at the on- property spa and you’ll get welcome relief.

11) Budget for the Pro Shops

Five courses, five logos and thousands of great gift options await at Bandon. If you are a collector of shirts you might want to bring an extra suitcase for the gear you are going to bring back. Like Vegas, set a limit before you go in the door and walk away when that number is spent.

12) Collect Cheap Souvenirs

Like I said souvenirs can be a costly business, especially if you are buying for friends as well as yourself. Scorecards, ball markers and even empty water bottles are frugal ways to score some memorabilia for your buddies back home.

13) Have a Cigar in The Bunker Bar

As the name suggests, The Bunker Bar is located on the lower floor of the Bandon Dunes clubhouse. There isn’t a lot of signage for it and on the stairs down it seems like you are going to end up in a storage room. But what you find is a cozy retreat that features poker tables, pool tables and a bar with a skilled bartender and a first-class collection of spirits. And since you can smoke indoors there, feel free to channel your inner Don Draper and try one of the fine choices offered at the bar or bring one of your own.

14) Bring a Phone Battery Charger or a Camera on the Course

The courses at Bandon are one big photo op, and you don’t have to be a pro to take snapshots that are magazine worthy. Taking all those snaps will drain your phone battery faster than a pony keg at a frat party so bring a battery pack or a dedicated camera so that you won’t be cameraless when you find yourself standing in front of the perfect sunset.

15) Hit The Boat for Fish and Chips

On the drive home, stop at The Boat Restaurant in Coos Bay. This little gem is packed with locals munching on the some of the best fish and chips in the area. While you wait for your grub you can take a quick stroll through the train museum next door.

Fantasy Preview: 2018 WGC-Bridgestone Invitational

Buying or selling: Miguel Angel Jimenez wearing sunglasses under his hat

Williams has a reputation as a savvy broadcaster, and as an incisive interviewer and writer. An avid golfer himself, Williams has covered the game of golf and the golf lifestyle including courses, restaurants, travel and sports marketing for publications all over the world. He is currently working with a wide range of outlets in traditional and electronic media, and has produced and hosted “Sticks and Stones” on the Fox Radio network, a critically acclaimed show that combined coverage of the golf world with interviews of the Washington power elite. His work on Newschannel8’s “Capital Golf Weekly” and “SportsTalk” have established him as one of the area’s most trusted sources for golf reporting. Williams has also made numerous radio appearances on “The John Thompson Show,” and a host of other local productions. He is a sought-after speaker and panel moderator, he has recently launched a new partnership with The O Team to create original golf-themed programming and events. Williams is a member of the United States Golf Association and the Golf Writers Association of America.

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‘I still think it was his fault’ – Beau Hossler on the college incident with Scottie Scheffler that almost resulted in a physical fight

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Back in January, John Fields, who’s the head golf coach at the University of Texas told the story on the  Subpar podcast  of when his players Scottie Scheffler and Beau Hossler almost got in a physical fight while they were on the Longhorns golf team.

“That was an almost fight,” he said.

“Beau walks by this golf ball and he looks at it, and for whatever reason he thinks that he’s outdriven Scottie by 15 yards,” Fields said. “So, Scottie doesn’t think anything — we walked right past the ball and Beau look at the golf ball. Scottie hits his shot, we get up to the [other] ball, Beau’s turn now, and he looks down and goes, ‘This is not my ball.'”

Coach Fields shared that Scottie was livid at Beau.

“You would’ve thought Mount Vesuvius just went off, like we had a volcano 15 yards below us. Scheffler got so mad when he figured out that he’d hit the wrong ball, he ran up to the green, 260 yards on a dead sprint, picked up the ball, ran back, and threw it at Beau’s feet. Beau goes ahead and hits the right shot, and Scottie has lost the hole now. He’d just lost a hole, but it’s killing him. And now, they’re jawing against each other on the way up [to the green], and finally on the next hole, on the par-3, I told Beau, ‘We are not going another step farther until you apologize to Scottie for that.’”

Fast forward to 2024, and Beau Hossler was asked about whether or not Coach Fields exaggerated the story after his opening round at the Houston Open yesterday.

“No, it wasn’t inflated. He [Coach Fields] probably deflated it if anything. We were playing this mess-around tournament before the regional there. Basically we were both playing a match. I wasn’t playing him, I was playing a New Mexico kid and he was playing a New Mexico kid. I don’t know if you’ve ever been to Lubbock, but it’s very, very, very windy.

“No. 2 is kind of this blind par 5 I think. We both hit it down the middle and whatever. I walked past the first ball, I walked to the second ball, it’s 10 yards in front. He hits the ball in the back and then I realized that that was not my ball that I was standing next to. We had different markings, but we both were playing a Titleist whatever, 3 with a Longhorn on it. One had a marking and mine didn’t. He wasn’t happy. I was like, well, listen, you’re the one who hit the wrong ball. I understand like it’s not a — but like you hit it, I didn’t.”

“It was a bad deal. It didn’t mean anything, but it was just — we’re really competitive, both of us,” Hossler said. “That was the really cool part about our golf team at Texas, it was like every player on the team was like either a very good player or a pretty good player that was very competitive. We wanted to kick each other’s ass all the time.”

“That was obviously a penalty and he wasn’t happy about it. I don’t blame him for not being happy about it. I still think it was his fault, he’s the only one who hit the wrong ball. I agree I should have checked closer that it was — that that was actually my ball, but one way or the other it’s a good story.”

Luckily, the two remained friends and the feud didn’t last very long. “That’s the good part of being friends. Once we got on the plane home, it was OK.”

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3-time PGA Tour winner calls for LIV to buy Champions Tour to fix ‘joke’ purses

While speaking on the  Subpar podcast , former PGA Tour winner and current PGA Tour Champions player Chris DiMarco said he hopes LIV buys the Champions Tour.

“We’re kind of hoping that LIV buys the Champions Tour,” he said.

“Let’s play for a little real money out here. I mean this is kind of a joke when we’re getting $2 million. There were like seven guys last week from TPC (Sawgrass, at the $25 million PLAYERS Championship) that made more money than our purses.”

In 2024, the Champions Tour had a total of $67 million in prize money over the course of 24 events.

DiMarco also defended LIV players for taking the money and said he would take it also.

“They wanted to play for a lot of money, and they deserve it. They have had some great careers, why not go and get some money?”

DiMarco also offered insight on Graeme McDowell’s move to LIV.

“I saw Graeme McDowell at the Old Memorial Pro Member, and he goes, ‘Listen, I went up to Jay Monahan and said I love the tour but I am struggling to keep my card and these guys are offering me all this money and less golf. I’m sorry, I’m going.’ And I do not blame him one bit, and I said I would have too.”

DiMarco was ranked as high as 6th in the world in 2006.

‘It won’t win you golf tournaments’ – Golf analyst rips Charley Hull’s course management

Charley Hull came just short of her third LPGA Tour victory over the weekend at the Fir Hills Seri Pak Championship when she played her last two holes at 3 over to slip all the way to 10th on the leaderboard.

After the round, Hull was blasted by Sky Sports commentator and former LPGA Tour player Trish Johnson for her lack of golf course management.

While speaking on the  Sky Sports Golf podcast , Johnson spoke harshly of Hull.

“I’m probably her harshest critic, because I know how good she is. She doesn’t win anywhere near enough for her talent, and she doesn’t get involved enough, in all honestly.

“The thing with Charley is that you’re never going to change her. I read something the other day that said how much she loves the game and it’s her love of the game [that costs her]. She’s never going to change and she’s just going to go for every pin.

“In theory that’s great, but it won’t win you golf tournaments, it just won’t because she’s not that much better than anybody else. If you put Charley against Nelly Korda, then I’m picking Nelly every single day of the week.”

Johnson also made a fascinating comparison between Hull and a famous male golfer, John Daly.

“Golf-wise that’s the way she plays the game and it’s a little bit like watching John Daly I suppose.”

“There’s something that John Daly had that made him a major winner and a winner, but Charley is kind of lacking that. Her talent is not in question, but maybe her application is. Maybe it’s just the case of her never changing and that will cost her golf tournaments, there’s no two ways about it. You cannot go for every pin because that’s the way you play and it being fun, as other players are better than that and you have to have course management.”

Hull is still only 27, and therefore has plenty of time to work on her flaws to achieve the success her talent should allow.

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Bandon Dunes: A Guide to Enjoying the Best Place on the Planet

(July 7, 2020: This post has been updated to include information on the fifth 18-hole course on Bandon property, the Sheep Ranch, with details and information that will help in planning a trip with a new course to play!)

Bandon Dunes is the perfect golf destination. It’s perfect for everything it has, everything it offers and even some of the stuff it decided to leave on the cutting room floor. It’s been a place that has weaved in and out of my life for years, dating back to my first visit as part of a media trip years ago. Since landing in North Bend back in April of 2012, I’ve been observing and noting things that make an experience at Bandon Dunes the best and things that maybe you should avoid when trekking to the west coast of Oregon. So here we go, my extensive Bandon Dunes guide. Enjoy!

The Boring Stuff: Transportation

In my opinion, there are two options to getting to Bandon Dunes that doesn’t involve a private airplane; flying to Eugene or taking the knuckleball flight directly to North Bend. I’ve done both a number of times and frankly, I prefer the flight to Eugene.

The pros of the North Bend option are simple and obvious; when you land, you’re 40 minutes from the Bandon Dunes gate. You get your bags, your clubs and boom, you’re off. The cons can be delays with a small aircraft and small airport. High winds can be an issue at certain times of the year and if the flight can’t go, you’re basically stuck in a very small airport hoping you eventually get to your connection.

The Eugene option is my preferred way because I feel I can rely on it. The drive to Bandon Dunes from the airport is somewhere in the 2.5-hour range, but it’s one of the most scenic drives you’ll ever take and with a direct option into Eugene, ends up being about the same time as connecting in San Francisco or Portland for your North Bend prop.

If you need transportation to/from any of the airports, I suggest using Aviation Transportation . The drivers are friendly and understanding, the drinks are included in the price and it’s roomy enough for however many guests you are bringing with you to Bandon.

Now to the Golf 

The first thing I’ll say seems simple enough, but I hear from a lot of people on social media something different so I wanted to get this point out first; play all the golf courses . I don’t care how you do it or how many holes you have to play in a day, but going to Bandon Dunes and skipping a golf course is like going to a five-star restaurant and only have apps and ‘zerts (shoutout Tom Haverford). You better have the main course or you’re wasting time and money.

The best rotations for golf courses should go like this; morning rounds on Old Macdonald and Pacific Dunes, afternoon rounds on Bandon Trails and Bandon Dunes. With Sheep Ranch, I am urging people to play Sheep as their first course of the trip or their last. The reason being, I think it’s the most picturesque course on property and will either smack you in the face when you first arrive (make sure that iPhone is charged up because you’ll be snapping photos all morning long as you take on the newest of the C/C masterpieces) or will leave you checking dates for a Bandon return as you depart the property.

Sheep Ranch is much like Old Mac in terms of when best to play; the earlier the better. The winds tend to pick up in the afternoon so it’s best to play the windier of the courses (Old Mac & Sheep) and the tougher of the courses (Pacific) when winds are down. Personally, I like to do Old Mac/Trails the first day and then Pac/Bandon the next. I think Sheep is a good course to couple with one of the tougher of the courses because Sheep is the easiest course on property (that is, if the winds aren’t howling 30-40 MPH), so it’s nice to get in a good score before taking on Pacific of Trails.

(An important Sheep Ranch note; it’s the longest of the shuttle rides because it’s the furthest from the lodge and centralized activity so plan for that, but just know, there is a Sheep Ranch driving range (it’s LOVELY) just to the north of the first tee. If you want to get out there early and grab a breakfast sandwich and/or a coffee, just know you can warm up for the round right there, which is a huge bonus.)

One of the things I find frustrating is when people downplay the fun of Old Macdonald and the absolute perfection of Bandon Trails. If there is any negativity from golfers that visit Bandon, it’s usually about those two golf courses, which is shortsighted and flat out wrong. Old Mac is a perfect links golf courses in the United States, forcing players of all skill levels to hit different shots and take on unique challenges. It has some of the most fun holes on the property (the green on No. 5 is WILD) and being in that central area (holes 3-16) makes you feel like you’re out in a park with a bunch of your pals.

Now, if you meet someone that hates on Bandon Trails, walk away, delete that person from your phone and vow to never speak to him/her again. Trails, in my opinion, is the best 18 holes on the property. It’s as peaceful a golf experience as you will find in this country, and that stretch of holes from Nos. 9-13 is as serene a walk as I’ve ever experienced in all my years playing this goofy game. When I think of my favorite holes at the resort, I gravitate towards Trails more than I realize (I really do think the par-5 9th is the hole I’d pick if I was given one last hole to play on this Earth).

The most fun experience at Bandon Dunes? Well, that is probably fairly universal in terms of opinion. That’s Bandon Preserve, the flawless par-3 course designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw that puts every other par-3 course in the world to shame. I can honestly say this about the Preserve; I’ve never played a round out there that I would consider anything but a 10 out of 10. Get a margarita at the little halfway house, carry your bag, bring a Bluetooth speaker and remember, the only rule at the Preserve is everyone has to hit putter off the tee of the final hole, the 13th. I’ve seen near aces with putters off the tee, have made a birdie myself by doing so (“nice two-putt!”) and it’s always entertaining to watch everyone give it a good smack and watch it roll down the runway to the green.

My advice for your Preserve round; either day in or morning out. If that doesn’t work with your schedule, make a Preserve/Trails day your easy day during the middle of the trip. You can sleep in a little, go a little harder the night before and be all set at Preserve to play a round, have a late lunch right there at Bandon Trails and then go out on Trails in the afternoon.

Food, You Ask?

One of the best things about Bandon Dunes, something Mike Keiser made a bullet point when bringing this dream to life, is how understated everything is around the golf.

The rooms are exactly as they should be, no fluff or excess needed. The beds are comfortable and the showers do their jobs and you’ll spend less time in your rooms at Bandon than any other place you visit. It’s for cleaning up and sleeping and that’s it.

But, how about the food? Is it understated like the rooms? Absolutely not. The food at Bandon is GREAT.

You’ll hear plenty of people tell you to get the Grandma’s Meatloaf at McKee’s Pub and I don’t disagree, but telling people what to order and eat seems like a wasted practice since all of that is what the person likes and what the person feels.

This is the advice I’ll give about food; just have a plan. Bandon Dunes is great because you get to turn your adult brain off for a few days. You never have to worry about driving anywhere or making phone calls. You are almost in a golfing daze for a few days, walking from pro shop to pro shop, first tee to first tee knowing that everything of importance to your day is already set. Your caddie is there and the times are secured and as long as you have golf balls in the bag and a couple of tees in your pocket, you are good to go (how much are things set for the golfer? The first tee shacks even have waterproof scorecards called Drycards that were invented by a Bandon Dunes caddie named Todd Petrey).

But for food, I urge you to have a plan. It can be a loose plan, but a plan nonetheless. Make dinner reservations before you get there for each night so you don’t have to stress about where you’re eating when you get there. Sprinkle in a dinner at The Pacific Grill and Trails End (at Pacific Dunes and Bandon Trails clubhouses, respectively). You’ll want to spend most of your time at McKee’s which is what my friends and I do, but the menus elsewhere are so different it’s worth venturing out.

I won’t sit here and give you ordering advice except for this; get the grilled cheese for lunch one day at Pacific Dunes. And get a side of spicy ranch dressing. The spicy ranch is so good there I’m convinced if Bandon bottled it and sold it in grocery stores they would diversify their ever-growing business four-fold.

With Bandon Dunes getting busier and busier by the year, the restaurants can be packed by 7 PM, so having those reservations, especially for a big group, is massively helpful. If you’re the alpha golf group guy (the one in charge), make the calls and get the reservations set, that way you’ll never have to stress again.

The Other Stuff

• I get asked about dates a lot. When is the best time to go to Bandon? The easy and obvious answer is anytime in the summer, but I’ve been in September, October, and November and had great days and mediocre weather days each time. If you avoid peak season at Bandon, you’ll find a better rate and a little fewer people, so it’s really what you’re looking for. A friend of mine that works at Bandon and has lived there for a number of years points people to mid-late April as a great time to go. Says the prices are still down and the conditions are usually fantastic.
• To take a caddie or not to take a caddie, that is the golf trip question. I’ll answer it easily here; take one. Each round. If you can afford it, take a damn caddie. It makes the Bandon Dunes experience a LOT better, plus, you’re playing 36 holes a lot so not having to worry about the bag makes those walks a lot better.
• When you play Old Mac, take a minute or two and check out the halfway house after the seventh green. It’s one of the best halfway houses on the planet, so much so that on sunny days when the course isn’t packed, I’ve sat on one of those benches with a buddy and had a couple of beers and just let a group or two go ahead of me.
• You’ll hear people mention the Labyrinth (my good pal Mitch Laurance walks you through it right here ). It’s worth 45 minutes of your time to go check it out, especially as the sun is setting. Follow the signs, enjoy your time in the woods and if you get lost, just flag down the nearest Bandon shuttle (three buddies and I may have run into this issue a few years ago).
• There is no real reason to leave the property once you get there, but if you must, a couple of places to go; Tony’s Crab Shack is the best place to grab a bite in the city of Bandon, but it’s only open for lunch (10:30 AM – 6 PM). Across the street from Tony’s is the Arcade (known locally as the caddie bar), which is open until 2 AM and has pool tables, darts, and some great shirts/sweatshirts to toss in with all the stuff you buy from the resort. Foley’s is the Irish Pub and a great place to grab dinner and watch a game.

Last thing … I recorded a podcast with my good buddy and the lead college football analyst for Fox Sports, Joel Klatt (also a silly good golfer) about our latest trip to Bandon Dunes. We answered a ton of questions, gave tips and must-dos when planning and arriving at one of my favorite places in the world. You can listen to that full episode right here if you’re an Apple Podcasts person ( Spotify link here ).

Bandon Dunes Golf Resort

The world-famous Bandon Dunes golf resort is iconic, and for good reason. Situated on Oregon’s Pacific coastline , Bandon Dunes’ golf courses combine 1,000 acres of lush greenery with a traditional Scottish-style golfing experience.

With cliff edges, primeval grassy dunes, and six different links courses to choose from, there are many reasons why you should choose Bandon Dunes Resort for your golf vacation.

A Bandon Dunes golf vacation should include a round on the Bandon Dunes course. Opened in 1999 and designed by Scotsman David McLayy Kidd, this course offers unparalleled views of the Pacific Ocean, as well as challenging play from the ever-present winds on this cliff-top course.

The other five courses include Pacific Dunes, Bandon Trails, Old Macdonald, Bandon Preserve, and Sheep Ranch. When you’re done for the day, unwind in the resort’s cozy lodgings or sample the award-winning wine choices and dining options . With so much do to here, our ‘know before you go’ list has got you covered.

Bandon Dunes Private Lodge

Bandon Dunes Private Lodge The ideal way for groups to experience the spectacular golf of Bandon Dunes.

Stay in a luxurious private 4-bedroom lodge located just off the fairways of the iconic Sheep Ranch and access the six distinct courses of one of the most popular golf resorts in the world.

Bandon Dunes Golf Courses

The resort’s first course, Bandon Dunes, opened in May 1999. The course was designed by Scotsman David McLay Kidd, traditionally offering the resort guest’s lowest scores.

Pacific Dunes (designed by Tom Doak), Bandon Trails, and Old Macdonald followed from 2001 to 2010, with a fifth course (Bandon Preserve) added in 2012, offering a 13-hole experience designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw.

In 2020, Bandon Dunes Golf Resort welcomed Sheep Ranch, a new course located just north of Old Macdonald, completing the links lineup. Sheep Ranch offers a picturesque golfing experience, with many of the holes featuring shots over water and cliffs.

Bandon Dunes also boasts a 100,000-square-foot putting course, designed by Doak and Urbine, adjacent to the first tee at Pacific Dunes. The Punchbowl is an immersive 18-hole golf course that takes around an hour to play.

Bandon Dunes – 4 Night Package

The Inn at Bandon Dunes 5 rounds of golf, 4 nights accommodation Forrest Double Room Golf at any of Bandon Dunes, Pacific Dunes, Bandon Trails, Old MacDonald, Sheep Ranch or Bandon Preserve (depending on availability) Porterage Included Sightseeing and restaurant recommendations

Price from $1,030 per person Based on 2 golfers sharing a double/twin room Off peak season All taxes and fees included

Price excludes flights, airport transfers and caddies All rates are subject to change without prior notice and vary according to seasonality and hotel or golf course availability. Travel insurance is always recommended.

Amenities at Bandon Dunes

Aside from its world-renowned golf courses, a Bandon Dunes golf package has so much to offer visitors. All 8 restaurants located on the resort have been inspired by the kindred spirit of Bandon Dunes’ golfing experience, offering locally-sourced Pacific Northwest Cuisine along with Scottish-style pub fare and microbrews.

There are also plenty of bars to enjoy, along with a fitness center, spa & sauna. If you’re planning an active adventure vacation in Bandon Dunes, hiking trails, the Labyrinth, and fishing areas will keep you entertained outside of the golf courses. There’s also ample accommodation on-site, including single rooms, double rooms, and suites.

Attractions near to Bandon Dunes

While Bandon Dunes Golf Resort offers extensive entertainment, there are a number of must-visit attractions located just a short walk or drive from Bandon Dunes. Whiskey Run Beach is a popular spot located near Sheep Ranch Golf Course, while Whiskey Run hiking trails offer a great day out for those looking to stay active. Elliot State National Forest is also located less than 1 hour north of the resort, offering a ride through Coos Bay and Bunker Hill.

Bandon Dunes also offers a Shuttle Service to help you navigate the resort.

How to get to Bandon Dunes

Bandon Dunes is located just 10-minutes from the town of Bandon, Oregon. Southwest Oregon Regional Airport (OTH) is a short 35-minute drive from Bandon Dunes, with regular flights from Denver, Colorado, and San Francisco, California.

Eugene, Oregon, is around a 2.5-hour drive from the resort, Eugene Airport (EUG) also offers daily nonstop flights from cities including Burbank, Chicago, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, San Jose, and Seattle.

Bandon Dunes also offers a private air charter option, flying directly to Bandon State Airport (S05).

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Bandon Dunes FAQs

Bandon Dunes Golf Course is located on the Pacific coast of Oregon , around 240 miles southwest of Portland or a 4-hour drive.

Bandon Dunes Golf Course does not offer golf carts for all guests, but they do make exceptions for guests with a permanent disability.

There are six 18-hole courses, including the Bandon Dunes course, Pacific Dunes, Bandon Trails, Old Macdonald, Bandon Preserve, and Sheep Ranch. There’s also a new 19-hole short course called Shorty’s. All of these courses are considered to be some of the best golf that Oregon has to offer.

Premier Golf offers a 4-night off-peak package for around $1,030, including accommodation and enough time to play all the courses Bandon Dunes has to offer.

A golf trip to Bandon Dunes will cost you around $1,000, depending on the duration of your stay, but keep in mind this doesn’t include the cost of all your meals or any other activities unrelated to golf that you include in your schedule.

The easiest course at Bandon Dunes is considered to be Sheep Ranch which has the lowest slope rating at 122, while also offering picturesque views.

We recommend a minimum of 4 nights at Bandon Dunes as this gives you enough time to enjoy all six courses and takes into account long travel times.

The best time for golf in Bandon Dunes is in the Summer due to the weather conditions, which are clear and sunny with temperatures that average in the low 70s. However, Bandon Dunes is usually busy year-round, and booking in the shoulder season may not mean it’s quieter.

The closest airport to Bandon Dunes is Eugene Airport (EUG), a 2-hour 50-minute drive and approximately 125 miles away. Portland International Airport (PDX) has the most connections available for travelers from all over the country and is a 4-hour 20-minute drive and 253 miles out.

The hardest Bandon course to walk on is the Bandon Trails, as it has the most undulation and some hilly terrain. Between the 13th green and 14th tee players are offered a hill ride as this point is notoriously steep.

Rounds at Bandon Dunes have an average completion time of 4 hours 20 minutes, which is below the national average.

Bandon Dunes Golf Resort Trip Planning Information

Planning your trip to bandon dunes golf resort.

Bandon Dunes Golf Resort is the ultimate walking golf experience.There is likely no one else in the world where three top public walking only golf courses are located in such proximity to one another. With the addition of Old Macdonald, Bandon will be firmly ensconced as the ultimate walking golf destination in the world.

18th Green looking back at Bandon Trails.

As a first time visitor, I thought I had prepared well for the trip but there were a few things that I was unaware of upon arrival.

The information below may be helpful for first time visitor to the resort.

For more information, please check out the Bandon Dunes Golf Resort website .

Weather, Clothing and Choosing a Time to Visit

Since you are going to the Oregon coast you are probably expecting rain – it is a good idea to expect the unexpected and pack for all weather conditions.

November, December, January, February and March are the wettest months in Bandon, while June, July, August and September are pretty dry. It is possible to get a wonderful long weekend any time of the year at Bandon, which is why many local and some return golfers roll the dice and visit in the late fall or early spring, but if you want clear skies then late June through September are probably your best bet.

Average temperatures at the resort range from 54/38 in the winter to 68/48 in the summer. The climate along the coast is fairly temperate, never too hot or too cold, although there is always the chance of snowfall in the winter or a heatwave in the summer.

The most consistent element at Bandon is the wind, which is present all year round. Calm periods are quite rare and apparently tend to occur around late September to early October. Normally, however, expect to play with winds in the 10 mph to 30+ mph range. During my visit, the first morning was calm, probably 10 to 20 mph, but the rest of the time it was 25 mph to 40 mph. This is links golf, so wind is part of the experience, just be prepared.

16th flagstick at Bandon Dunes whipping in a 30 mph wind.

Since the wind, rain, and temperature can vary significantly over short periods of time, it is wise to pack a fairly heavy bag for Bandon with an assortment of clothing options for your stay. In the summer, you might be able to wear shorts, but pants will protect your skin from the wind. On the ocean holes, a long sleeve top or light jacket will probably add to your comfort, while short sleeves will often suffice on the inland holes.

During the spring, fall and winter, a really good rain suit is a grand idea. Most of the water-proof pants that are made by top manufacturers will be comfortable enough to play in for your entire trip. Skillful layering will allow you to stay dry and add on or peel off clothing as necessary throughout the round.

In making a decision about the best time to visit, I would recommend performing a thorough cost/benefit analysis. While the “off season” is certainly cheaper, it is much easier for an Oregon or Nor Cal resident to shrug it off if the weather is brutal enough to make the golf too difficult to handle. If you are travelling in by plane, then it may be wise to consider visiting in the high season, or the months immediately on either side, with the hopes of landing some decent weather.

The spectacular view from the 16th Tee at Bandon Dunes.

Getting to Bandon

As my friend and fellow Society member Matt Lang discovered, getting to Bandon with several connections can be a dicey proposition. Matt had a three leg flight from New York to Denver, then to Portland, and finally to Coos Bay. A broken plane, some bad weather and a missed connection got him to the resort a day late. More importantly, he missed a morning round at Pacific Dunes!

Imagine missing a chance to play the all world 13th at Pacific Dunes because a flight was missed.

Bandon is a four to five hour drive from Portland, so it may worth considering a direct flight into PDX, followed by a drive down to the resort. While Matt may have been unlucky, I have heard of others who have found themselves in a similar situation. How often does one plane leave on time, nevermind two or three?

If you are going to pick up a connection into Coos Bay, then try to find a direct flight to San Francisco or Portland, with at least an hour or two layover, to minimize the impact of potential delays on the flight in.

If you can fly private, well, let me know if you are passing through Portland so I can hitch a ride!

Contact the nice people at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort to coordinate a shuttle to and from the airport at Coos Bay.

Lodging at the Resort

There is an abundance of Lodging options at the Resort, which is nice. The Grove consists of four bedroom cottages, Chrome Lake has twenty-one cottages with up and downstairs units, the Lily Pond buildings have affordable and comfortable two bedroom units, The Inn has thirty-nine individual rooms located near the 18th Green at Bandon Dunes, and The Lodge, which consists of single bedrooms and suites, is located at the center of the resort.

I thoroughly enjoyed our quarters in the Lily Pond and would highly recommend them. They are a short walk to the Lodge, and the rest of the resort can be accessed via shuttle.

Remember that after parking your car in the lot, you will probably not venture from the resort during your stay as it is nicely self contained.

Food and Drink

There are several dining options at the resort.

The Lodge holds The Gallery Restaurant, The Tufted Puffin Lounge and The Bunker Bar. McKee’s Pub is located a short walk from The Lodge and was my favorite place to eat and have a pint or glass of wine after the round. They have a solid bar menu and the food is affordable.

Both Pacific Grill, at Pacific Dunes, and Trails End, at Bandon Trails, are great for pre and post round food and drinks. There is excellent food at the course clubhouses, with the Sliders at Trails End the culinary hi-lite of the visit.

After your round at Bandon Trails, 5th Hole pictured, get the Sliders and a Beer at Trails End.

The Practice Area and Short Course

The practice area at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort is excellent. There are dual ranges, a mammoth putting green, a chipping area and bunkers. If you are not worn out from thirty-six holes a day it is easy to burn that last bit of energy banging balls on the range.

The Short Course is a ton of fun and a hidden gem at the resort. If you have a chance, get up to the short course before your first round and get a quick refresher course on links golf. The bunkers and greens on the short course are very challenging and it is a great chance to practice those bump and runs that you will be using throughout your stay.

The wind really howls at the practice area and short course, so if you can control your ball flight and ground game up there then you are set for the big courses.

If you cannot control your ball, you may end up in the Hell Bunker on the Long Hole at Old Macdonald.

Caddie Services

Bandon Dunes Golf Resort is a walking only resort, since it provides “golf as it was meant to be.” As many guests play a great deal of golf on their visit, it is wonderful that the resort has one of the best caddie programs in the world.

All of the caddies that are available to guests are Professionals. Some have been at Bandon since it opened, others have caddied on various pro tours, others at exclusive clubs or overseas at famed links courses like St. Andrews.

From the Bandon site:

The caddie is paid directly by the guest. You may charge the fee to your room or credit card in any of our golf shops and you will receive the cash to give the caddie. Bandon Dunes caddies average $80-$100 per bag. The amount of any fee is the sole discretion of the player. No one else may determine a fee, nor may anyone demand one. Our expectation is that a caddie’s performance will exceed your expectations and warrant at least the average stated above. If you wish to comment on a caddie’s performance please feel free to contact our Caddie Services department at 541-347-5875.

It is possible, and often wise, to request a particular caddie for your visit if you choose to take one. If available, your Professional Caddie or Evans Candidate of choice will likely accept your bag and join you on your daily golf adventure at the resort.

In high season, about 75% of guests will employ a caddie, while over the course of a year that average is about 63%. So if you have a caddie in mind for your trip, contact the resort as early as possible to ensure their availability.

Course Reviews

Just click on the course for a full photo tour and course review:

– Bandon Dunes

Bandon Dunes was the foundation for all that would follow and the 4th Approach is where the golfer first meets the ocean.

– Pacific Dunes

Pacific Dunes is one of the top courses in the world for reasons such as the tee shot at the 4th.

– Bandon Trails

Bandon Trails is an epic journey as illustrated by the Par 4 7th.

– Old Macdonald

The rugged landscape of the C.B. Macdonald template inspired course is incredible to behold, as is the design. Biarritz pictured.

Enjoy your time at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, it is a very unique and special place designed specifically for passionate walking golfers.

All Photos by Rob Rigg, 2009 Review by Rob Rigg, 2009

12 Comments

We just got back from 5 days of playing all of the courses at least once. 10 on a scale of 10. The experience was outstanding.

Excellent review. I am planning to make a first trip to Bandon next spring. The caddie information is especially interesting.

I played 4 rounds March 2010 @ Bandon with 2 rounds at Pacific my favorite. My caddie for all 4 rounds was Jack Parish, a cagey veteran. On the first hole of my first round he asked how far I hit some clubs. By the 6th hole he was handing me clubs and just pointing me in the right direction. I didn’t look at a scorecard or yardage book during my trip. I trusted Jack. He lead me around and took all pressure off me so I could enjoy my walk around 3 great golf courses. I am booked for 5 rounds Feb. 2011, Old McDonald here I come. I have already requested Jack to caddie for me again. I liked it so much that I am willing to spend 14 hours getting there from Upstate NY.

The resort is a hoot. My room spotless and comfortable. The food is very good and the service excellent. I made new best friends each night having a cigar and scotch by McKee’s Pubs outside fireplace and later at the Bunker bar. The practice facility is great. Worth the time and money.

hi Alex – I am planning to visit bandon & am also from upstae NY – do you have any flight / travel advice ?

Jim, I leave Albany on Feb 3. Fly to Washington, Washington to San Fran, San Fran to Coos Bay. You will have to fly united. Ship your clubs ahead. Last year they were only letting 25 people on a 30 seat plane due to weight restrictions. Bags do get left behind. Ckeck in 24 hours ahead. That is the criteria the airline used to decide who was going to get off the plane. Yes they did kick someone off the plane, 45 min. of waiting till they decided who, last check in . It would be a shame to miss my 920a tee time at Old Mac on 2/4. The Bandon website site has info about getting from Coos Bay to the resort a car service with Caddy Shack on the TV and beer on the bus, maybe a 35 min trip. The resort will also set up shipping your clubs with UPS and e-mail you shipping label. Superbowl Sunday in the Bunker Bar! PS Take a caddie and ask for an experienced one. This year I’m staying at the Inn which is a 3-4 min walk to McKees Pub and the lodge. Last year I was at the lodge which is the middle of everything at night. Hope you go. Alex

Just got back from a 8 man serious golf junk it buddy trip to Bandon Dunes. Was my 1st time visiting and hopefully not my last! A must play for any golfer who loves the game! Fantastic courses, we had just unbelievable weather. High 60’s all days and little to no wind for the 2nd week of October 2011. My favorite was Old Mac, Bandon Dunes, Trails and lastly Pacific. All were just amazing, caddies were great, play and condition the best! Hopeful planning another trip in 2012 to visit. It will be a place I want to play ever year god willing.

Made the trip to Bandon in October 2011. Weather was pleasant although we did play in some rain the first day on Pacific Dunes. Winds were minimal (for Bandon). Courses and facilities are fabulous…like no other place in America. Our group had two great caddies who not only told us where to hit the ball, but also told us the story behind each course (and most holes for that matter). The golf aside, the view of the Oregon coast is spectacular.

Each course is different and its difficult to pick a favorite. For me and what I enjoy most in a golf course, I rate them Trails first, Old Mac second, B Dunes third and P Dunes fourth. And a testament to how good these courses are, my fourth pick Pacific Dunes is rated #17 in America’s top 100

Can’t wait to go back. Hope to make two trips in 2012. My stongest endorsement.

Hi Steve – After my last trip I rated the courses the same way – Pretty amazing when ALL of the courses are THAT good. Thanks for posting on TWG!

Great article. I am back in Bandon in early May for the second time. Very much looking forward to playing Old Macdonald since last time I was there (2008) it was being built. Due to your article I have booked caddies for the days we play two courses in the same day. It is strange for Australian’s to use caddies (except for when we are in Asia), so it will be an experience. Interesting how many of the blogs I read about Bandon mention how difficult it is to get to Bandon. Try getting there from Australia!

Just returned from second Bandon trip this past Sunday night. First was in June 2010 and was part of 10 day drive and golf trip from LA to US Open at Pebble Beach (2 days) then on to Bandon where I played 6 rounds in 4 days then back south to play Harding Park in SF, Pasatiempo in Santa Cruz and finished with Spyglass.

This trip was with great group of 7 guys and we planned 7 rounds in 4 days but added to that 8 more on day 2 (until it was too dark) and the Preserve on day 3. All flew in, 1 LA-SF-Coos Bay, 4 through SF and Eugene and drive, 1 through Eugene – Portland and I did non stop LA-Portland and drove down so I could play Pumpkin Ridge, Ghost Creek in Portland (fabulous course but recommend play in dry season).

Bottom line is I will try to make it annual trip as it is without a doubt one of best 2 golf experiences in my golf life ( the other being Augusta) and I have nothing but good things to say:

Getting there – everyone who flew through Eugene and SF had cancelled flights (in Eugene) and 3-4 hour delays in SF as did Coos Bay flyer. I think that had as much to do with small planes as SF fog. I will continue to fly to Portland and make the 4 hour drive.

Lodging – have stayed in Lodge and Lilly Pond – both are good and given that it’s all about golf, some post golf food and drink, all my room is for is collapsing so I will go with cheaper option with a bath tub for a hot soak.

Service – as good or better than any place I’ve ever been – golf resort or first class hotel

Caddies – have had 2 and been exposed to a few others and highly recommend them – per previous comments they not only know the courses and how to help you play them, but many of them know the history of the architecture and can talk about that which I find to be a big plus.

Golf – there are no bad courses, only which one is your favorite. Mine is Old Mac, others in our group liked Bandon as #1 and other Pac Dunes. The Preserve had just opened and we were fortunate to get on it due to a no show, but I highly recommend it as well – you’ll never play a more beautiful or interesting par 3.

Go – enjoy!

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Tips For Planning An Amazing Golf Trip To Bandon Dunes, Oregon

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Golf trips to Scotland are a bucket list item for many golfers. The game was born near the wind-swept beaches of Scotland and many golf enthusiasts maintain that the purest form of golf is Scottish links golf. There are no tree-lined fairways nor lush green teeboxes like you would typically find in the United States. Links golf is played between the short grass and the long grass, with the wind coming off the ocean being the biggest obstacle from tee to green due to the fact that there are no trees in sight.

After a Scottish golf experience without having to hop the pond? You can experience it at Bandon Dunes. The idea behind Bandon Dunes is simple. What if there could be an authentic links golf experience in the United States? It would require a wind-swept beach, and when developer Mike Keiser stood on a piece of property just north of Bandon, Oregon, he knew he had found his spot. He hired a Scottish golf course architect to design an authentic links golf course, and Bandon Dunes was born. The course opened to the public in 1999.

Of course, Keiser had no idea how popular Bandon Dunes would become. When one links golf course could not handle the demand, he opened another course on the property. And then another. And then another. And what was originally one lodge on the property has grown to five different lodging options. It is truly one of the top golfing destinations in the United States.

Here are some tips for planning a once-in-a-lifetime golf vacation to Bandon Dunes.

DIANA BESZEDITZ / Shutterstock

1. Fly Into Southwest Oregon Regional Airport

The closest major airport is Portland International Airport, and the drive from the airport to Bandon Dunes is approximately 4.5 hours. But United Airlines now has daily flights to Southwest Oregon Regional Airport in North Bend, just 25 miles from Bandon Dunes. These flights originate from both the San Francisco (SFO) and Denver (DIA) airports, so flights can be booked from many destinations through one of those two airports to North Bend.

There are also regional airports in Eugene, Oregon (2.5 hours away), and Medford, Oregon (3 hours away), which carry flights from Alaska, Allegiant, American, Delta, and United Airlines.

If your flight is to one of these regional airports, the drive down the Oregon coast on Highway 101 has some of the most spectacular coastal highway views in America. If flying into Eugene, a stop at Oregon Dunes National Recreation Area , approximately halfway between Eugene and Bandon Dunes, could be the perfect mid-drive respite.

2. Stay On The Property

There are five different lodging options on the Bandon Dunes property. Those who visited Bandon Dunes when it first opened may not be familiar with all of the lodging options that have opened in the last 10 years.

The largest accommodation on the property is The Inn . This lodge features both single- and double-occupancy rooms as well as a bar area with a view of the 18th green of the Bandon Dunes course. Next door to The Inn is The Lodge , which has both single-bed hotel rooms and four-bedroom suites.

There are also cabin-style accommodations at Bandon Dunes. The Grove cottages were built with golf groups in mind. Each cabin has four bedrooms. Chrome Lake is a series of 21 individual buildings with three hotel rooms in each. The most affordable options on the property are the Lily Pond cottages. If you’re traveling with a foursome, all four players can stay in one room with two queen beds, a sitting area, and a private deck.

There are also lodging options off property. Bandon is a town of 3,000, so lodging options are limited, but the town has a Best Western , the Table Rock Motel , and several bed and breakfast options.

3. Give Yourself Enough Time To Play All The Courses

Many people are unaware that there are four courses at Bandon Dunes, plus a 13-hole par-3 course and an 18-hole putting course. Each is a unique golf experience, which is why a longer trip to Bandon is always preferred.

Bandon Dunes , built in 1999, is the original course on the property and is the one must-play course in Bandon. There are differing opinions on which is the “best” course on the property but there is no disputing that Bandon Dunes is central to the Bandon experience.

Due to the success of the Bandon Dunes course, Pacific Dunes was built two years later and opened in 2001. Designed by American golf course architect Tom Doak, Pacific Dunes is very similar to the Bandon Dunes course. Like Scottish links,the course has no trees. There are sandy waste areas and vast views of the Pacific Ocean.

The Bandon Trails course, designed by former PGA golfer Ben Crenshaw and his design partner Bill Coore, provides a completely different golf experience on the property. Bandon Trails is further inland, away from the ocean and tucked up into a pine and spruce forest. Yes, trees. This course is much more like the typical American golf experience with fairways framed by trees and meadows.

The most difficult course on the property, with a USGA course rating of 74.4, is Old Macdonald . Named for renowned golf course architect C.B. Macdonald, designer of such courses as the St. Louis Country Club, the Chicago Golf Club, and The Old White Course at The Greenbrier, Old Macdonald was designed by Tom Doak to pay homage to the style of C.B. Macdonald.

There are also two more golf experiences on the property designed for those who might not want to walk 18 holes of golf but want to experience Bandon Dunes. Bandon Preserve is a 13-hole par-3 course near the ocean that invites golfers to experience golf at Bandon without the full 18-hole commitment. Finally, The Punchbowl is a putting course on the property. There are 18 holes on this massive putting green and a “course” laid out for putting from hole to hole.

4. Get A Caddy

The golf courses at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort do not have carts. Much like the links courses in Scotland, the only option is to walk the course. Caddies and push-carts are available for all golfers, so don’t think that this will be 18 holes of carrying your golf bag around.

Links golf is different from the type of golf many golfers are used to in the United States, so in addition to facilitating movement around the course, a local caddy can help you learn how to play on this unique terrain. Caddies are available at the course and golfers pay the caddies directly. Many groups will utilize the caddies as double-bag caddies (meaning they’ll carry two golf bags), so each golfer splits the cost of the caddy with his or her playing partner.

5. Eat At The Restaurants On The Property

Bandon Dunes Golf Resort has six restaurants on the property. Options range from the Bunker Bar , a typical post-round bar with drinks and snacks, and the Tufted Puffin Lounge , with bar food and drinks, to The Gallery Restaurant with it’s Wine Spectator award-winning wine list. Several restaurants on site serve breakfast, lunch, and dinner, so golfers truly never have to leave the property.

Joshua Rainey Photography / Shutterstock

6. Spend A Day In Coos Bay And North Bend

If you do want to venture out to explore the area, Coos Bay and North Bend, about a 25-minute drive north, are the best destinations for restaurants. Options range from Hilltop House , a higher-end restaurant with many local seafood dishes in North Bend, to 7 Devils Brewing Company , a microbrewery in Coos Bay that serves pub food. Both Coos Bay and its sister city North Bend sit on Coos Bay, the largest bay along the Oregon coast, so many restaurants have fantastic views of the water.

Be sure to stop at Shore Acres State Park on the drive to or from Bandon. Shore Acres is the former estate of timber baron Louis Simpson. You can tour the grounds and visit all of the manicured gardens on the property, then follow the path to the ocean overlook to watch the waves crash against the rocky shores. Shore Acres is adjacent to two other state parks — Sunset Bay State Park and Cape Arago State Park. All three parks offer spectacular views of the Oregon coast.

7. Bring Your Rain Gear

This is the Oregon coast. Keep in mind that you won’t be golfing along a beach in the Virgin Islands. Winds can be heavy at times, and rain can come in off the ocean quite often. It is a good idea to pack rain gear for every round as well as long-sleeve shirts and pants. Bandon can be golfed in the typical golf polo and shorts or skirt, but when the weather changes, it changes quickly.

That said, stormy skies can clear at a moment’s notice, leaving you with a perfect sunset over the ocean as you sip your post-round cocktail on one of the many patios overlooking the course and the waves.

Whether it’s a weekend trip to play one of the courses or a full week to play every 18-hole course plus Bandon’s par-3, golfers keep coming back to the area, and Bandon keeps adding golf courses with a fifth course currently in the works.

All four Bandon courses made the latest Golf Digest rankings of the top 100 golf courses in the United States . The highest rated course is Pacific Dunes, 17th on their list. Bandon Dunes comes in at number 36. Old Macdonald is ranked 50th and Bandon Trails is ranked number 69. The ability to play four Golf Digest top 100 golf courses on one property is unmatched anywhere in the United States and makes this far-flung collection of sand dunes in a remote corner of Oregon one of the top golf destinations in the United States.

Robert and his wife Pam live in Champaign, Illinois. He works as a landscape architect during the day and a writer at night. His wife's job in medical devices takes her all over the country and Robert travels with her whenever he can. With three grown sons living between Missouri and Idaho, they are almost always traveling somewhere. Any time off is spent, you guessed it, traveling.

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Bandon Dunes: How to plan your trip

2025 reservations now open

BANDON, Ore. – A memory of the Bandon Dunes Golf Course : The Pacific Ocean shimmers pale blue-gray to the horizon, golfers, tiny dots of them, are scattered across a plateau of green, a beach below where ocean waves end their journey of thousands of miles in a froth of white foam.

This is Mike Keiser’s vision of the game of golf, one he’s replicated elsewhere on dramatic outcroppings where the land meets the sea. It’s a vision that golfers worldwide have embraced enthusiastically.

It’s hard to believe that Bandon Dunes has been around for less than 25 years. In that time, it’s made its mark  – again and again – as top golf architects working for Keiser built one masterpiece after another on that plateau of green.

The Bandon Dunes Resort opened in 1999 as a destination for golfers to get back to “golf as it was meant to be,” to borrow a phrase from the resort’s marketing. Its courses play along dramatic bluffs towering 70 to 125 feet above a nearly four-mile stretch of unpopulated southern Oregon coast.

David MacLay Kidd built the original Bandon Dunes course, emulating the Scottish style of play that emphasizes keeping the ball low or on the ground. All courses are walking only. The five championship courses are pocked by dense patches of gorse (brought over from Scotland by a man named Bandon to corral his sheep). Stiff afternoon winds prevail during summer and rain squalls are possible year-round.

All of which means that the courses of the Bandon Dunes Resort are the closest to links golf you’ll find outside of the British Isles, except, perhaps, for Keiser’s Cabot resort courses on Cape Breton, Nova Scotia.

The nearest population center is the town of Bandon , a sleepy seaside village, population 3,300, long favored as a getaway for hippies and others escaping civilization. At the time Bandon Dunes was built a few miles south of town, the idea of a golf resort hundreds of miles from a major population center seemed outlandish. But over time, Keiser’s resort and the world-class quality of golf courses he built there proved the early skeptics wrong.

In this article we’ll lay out what you need to know to plan a trip to Bandon Dunes. But let’s start with a warning up front:

The bad news is that post-pandemic demand for bucket-list golf trips has Bandon Dunes lodging booked through most of 2024.

A bit of good news is, first, golf on its courses can be reserved even if you’re not staying at the resort; and, second, even in the colder months, the golf at Bandon Dunes is worth the trip.

The Bandon Dunes courses

As my colleague, Alabama Golf News Editor Gregg Dewalt, wrote yesterday, the five regulation courses are on everyone’s best-of lists, and the designers are a who’s who of the modern greats.

Notably, one course, Old Macdonald , a tribute course that borrowed ideas of C.B. MacDonald , one of the most influential golf architects of the early 20th Century.

Shorty’s, the new short course, is being built by Whitman, Axland and Cutten , a Canadian concern that built Keiser’s first Nova Scotia course. There is talk about yet another 18-hole course, at Bandon Dunes but no formal announcement has been made.

The overall atmosphere

In contrast to many golf resorts, the vibe at Bandon Dunes is decidedly laid back. From its earliest days when only the most diehard golfers would make the trek there, the resort has carefully managed its growth to ensure there are no lines or hubbub at its golf shops and restaurants.

“I think a lot of people would assume, ‘Well, why don’t you just build more rooms?’” said resort spokesman Michael Chupka. “ ’You could fill ’em up,’ and it’s like, well, if we do that and we bring in a lot more people, then it’s going to affect the overall experience.”

The result is a sense that, if anything, the place seems underpopulated. There’s no waiting or need for reservations at most of the resort’s restaurants.

When they say walking only …

They mean walking only. For those not used to walking an 18-hole round, it’s best to log a few loops walking your home course to strengthen the legs before making the trip to Bandon Dunes because rounds there are, to be frank,  a hike.

Elevation changes within and between holes during a single 18-hole round can be as much as 50 to 80 feet, meaning there are some substantial hills to climb and descend. Pushcarts are complimentary. Rounds are expected to be completed within four hours and 25 minutes and your caddies are the courses’ traffic cops charged with keeping things moving.

Caddies and forecaddies

Caddies are available although not mandatory but they add immensely to the golf experience. You’ll be asked when you register for a stay there whether you want caddies. If you do, the resort’s practice is to assign you a caddie for all of your rounds during a stay unless you ask to make a change.

The caddie fee is $100 per bag, plus tip. The cost of a forecaddie – who advises a group of players but doesn’t carry a bag – ranges from $40 to $60 per player, depending on the size of the group, plus tip.

All caddie fees are paid directly to the caddie in cash. Players who might forget their wallet in their room can get cash to pay their caddie from the golf shop, and that amount will be charged to the room.

Caddies have the right to ask you to empty your bag of excess items that they’ll store in a secure area of the clubhouse. With clubs, balls, tees and a rainsuit, your bag must weigh less than 25 pounds if it’s going to be carried by your caddie.

The practice facilities

Bandon Dunes has a superb centrally located practice range that includes a large putting green, a chipping green, and a bunker and pitching green, plus Charlotte’s, a nine-hole par 3 course. Each of the regulation courses has its own practice putting green, and Sheep Ranch has its own practice range.

The Punchbowl is a 100,000-square-foot putting course designed by Tom Doak and Jim Urbina that opened in 2014. It’s located near the first tee of the Pacific Dunes course. Each day, staff maps out two 18-hole layouts on the massive putting surface and the routing changes daily. The Punchbowl is free and there are no tee times. There’s even on-course beverage service.

The restaurants

Counting all options, including golf clubhouse snack bars, there are 10 dining options at Bandon Dunes. The top-of-the-line restaurant is the Ghost Tree Grill, a brand-new restaurant off the 18 th green of the Old Macdonald course. With floor-to-ceiling glass to take in sunsets, the restaurant features a raw bar with local oysters, sashimi, and Pacific Northwest seafood and steaks.

McKee’s Pub at the Bandon Dunes course clubhouse serves Scottish pub fare, plus burgers and pizza. For breakfast and lunch, there’s the Tufted Puffin and The Forge , but by spring, The Forge is expected to be converted into an Italian bistro , based on results of a guest survey from a couple years ago.

Other options include the Pacific Grill, Trails End with a Pacific Northwest seafood-focused menu, the Bunker Bar, and the Library Lounge, a smallish whiskey bar that serves wraps, sandwiches and antipasto trays.

Parked by the central practice range is Charlotte’s , a food truck that serves BBQ and tacos. Even the walk-up snack bar at the Sheep Ranch clubhouse has a bit of flair, offering lamb stew to go.

Getting around Bandon Dunes resort

The resort has a fleet of 15 free shuttle vans, six of which are on duty at any time. Staged throughout the resort, they are summoned by guests via house phone or by staff, and they generally appear within five minutes. They serve all courses, the practice facility, all lodging and restaurants.

Lodging at Bandon Dunes

By the standard of the typical American golf resort, Bandon Dunes is relatively small in the number of units. It has 210 rooms scattered in small building clusters on cul-de-sacs throughout the property. The Inn and the main lodge have the most rooms and have the feel of a small hotel.

All rooms are eithr new or recently renovated. All sport a clean, minimalist design emphasizing natural wood evocative of Scandinavian style. Because golf in the Pacific Northwest in fall and winter can be wet, all rooms have electric golf-shoe dryers. Soap and bath products are by Occitane.

What everything costs

Bandon Dunes, like the rest of the golf world, has seen an explosion in interest of golf since the pandemic subsided and, sadly, availability reflects that. While lodging in December of this year is widely available, little to no lodging availability exists from March through next fall, according to the resort’s online calendar.

Lodging availability doesn’t really open up again until next November, when the least expensive option for a single golfer, a California- king room in the main lodge with a view of nearby dunes, going for $250 a night. The good news is that Bandon Dunes just opened up reservations into April 2025.

For a twosome, a double in either the Chrome Lake or Lilypond units goes for $360 a night. The green fee for all courses next November is $200 a round, $100 for a replay. For the sake of comparison, if there were availability next July through September, the cost of that Lilypond or Chrome Lake double would be $460 a night; and the price of golf would be $350 a round, $175 for a replay.

More good news: While you might not be able to stay at the resort for much of 2024, golf is available to non-guests, albeit at a higher rate. Rates for an 18-hole round for “Day Guests” range from $140 in January to $400 in July. “Premium Day Guests” can reserve a tee time up to a year in advance from April through most of November for a slightly higher fee.

For players looking to visit Bandon Dunes but stay off-campus, the lodging website Booking.com shows there are eight motels in the Town of Bandon, plus some Airbnbs.

The weather

They play year-round at Bandon Dunes. In the Pacific Northwest, winters are notable more for rain than cold. Highs in November are generally in the mid-50s and lows range from 40-ish to the mid-50s, with the average low hitting around the mid-40s, according to the weather site wunderground.com.

 Getting to Bandon Dunes

Bandon Dunes is on Oregon’s Pacific Coast south of Coos Bay. Most people fly into Eugene (EUG) , two and a half hours away by car. All major airlines fly to Eugene, plus Allegiant and Avelo. The best fares are to Portland (PDX), which is four and a half hours north. The closest airport, North Bend (OTH) is about 35 minutes away. It’s served year-round by United through San Francisco. In the summer months United has flights through Denver twice a week. The Rogue Valley International-Medford Airport (MFR) is about three hours away. It has nonstop service via all major carriers via Salt Lake City, Denver, Phoenix, Portland, Seattle, San Francisco and the Los Angeles/Southern California airports.

Dan Vukelich is the online editor of Alabama Golf New s.   He lives in Albuquerque, N.M.

Have a story idea or a news item to report to Alabama Golf News ? Email [email protected]

All images courtesy of Bandon Dunes Resort

• Bandon Dunes , Mike Keiser , Old Macdonald , Pacific Dunes , Sheep Ranch , Shorty Dow

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Bandon Dunes Golf Resort: A Golfer’s Dream Come True

It’s all true.

After a year of planning my first trip to Bandon Dunes and researching the resort and its acclaimed courses to a nearly obsessive degree, I couldn’t help but wonder if the destination would live up to its billing.

As it turns out, Bandon Dunes was a far different experience than I expected, and it was better than I could have imagined.

It’s a place where the focus is on golf, and nothing else. Everything at the resort is designed to optimize the golf experience. While this makes Bandon Dunes not a place for family-oriented vacations with a variety of attractions, it has become a destination where the golfing experience is unrivaled.

Avid golfer Mike Keiser, after making his fortune in the greeting card business, was frustrated with the state of the modern American game and course architecture in the 1980’s. The focus in the industry was making tracks as difficult, perfectly manicured and manufactured as possible with a relentless drive to challenge the most elite players. The problem was that many of these courses were so difficult that they were unplayable for the average golfer, making the game frustrating and inaccessible. To make matters worse, industry development was focused on selling real estate along the courses, further degrading the golf experience.

Following a test of the waters by building his own 9-hole golf course in Michigan, the Dunes Club, Keiser set out to find the right property to build a true links course in the United States. He wanted to provide golfers with the type of experience that hearkened back to the origins of the game and captured the spirits of the first golfers in the British Isles centuries ago. After years of searching, with the help of his business partner and friend, Howard McKee, he finally found the right property in remote, coastal Oregon.

When the original Bandon Dunes course opened in 1999, the resort exploded in popularity. This proved that American golfers were interested in a true links experience void of all fluff and side distractions, and they lapped it up in droves. Following the smashing success of the first course, five more elite tracks have since been built and the resort has grown up to become a vast playground of golfing bliss.

My trip to Bandon Dunes started as a gift to my father for his birthday last year. After playing Whistling Straits, we presented him with a gift card to Bandon Dunes and a promise that a planned golf trip was forthcoming. We hoped to book a trip in early summer of this year, and as I found out, booking a trip “only” 12 months in advance was a very challenging endeavor. More on that later, but suffice to say that I was able to find a window of availability in mid-June.

Our itinerary was as follows:

Day 1 – Arrive and play Old Macdonald

Day 2 – Bandon Trails and Pacific Dunes

Day 3 – Bandon Trails (again), Bandon Dunes (OG) and Bandon Preserve

Day 4 – Sheep Ranch and Depart

Joining my Dad and I were my brother, Dave, and my Dad’s lifelong friend, Pat. It was great bonding time with family, and Pat brought a very light-hearted, witty personality to our group. Rounding out the crew were our fantastic caddies, Jason and Joe. They paired extremely well with our group, with Joe’s sarcastic, dry demeanor matching Pat perfectly while I connected with Jason’s laid-back vibe. Since Bandon assigns the same caddies to groups for the entire duration of a trip, we gelled over the course of the trip and the caddies got to know our games thoroughly which helped them provide sound advice. The next time I go to Bandon, I’ll be requesting Jason and Joe as caddies again.

the courses

Bandon Dunes’ five 18-hole courses are presented in order of how I would rank them, but a case could be made for any of them to be ranked highest. All of the tracks are rated in the top 100 in the U.S. in most notable publications, a major feat that you won’t find at any other property on the planet. On top of that is the Preserve, Bandon’s world-class 13-hole short course, which is a great experience in its own right and should not be skipped.

While Bandon’s courses are all outstanding, they are of a different flavor than what is served up at Midwest parkland tracks. This was my first “true” links golf experience (links golf aficionados may disagree on whether Bandon’s courses are true links), and I had to learn to play a little differently on the fly. The turf conditions are very firm, requiring solidly struck approach shots from tight lies. The ball runs out a lot on the firm turf as well, and it is crucial to have a plan for where you’d like the ball to roll after it lands. The ball doesn’t check up nearly as much on links turf, either, and shots like Texas wedges and bump-and-run chip shots are very useful to have in your bag. If you think courses like Erin Hills and Sand Valley play firm and fast, just wait until you get to Bandon.

Bandon’s greens also are slower and bumpier than what one would typically expect at upscale courses in the Midwest. This doesn’t mean the greens at Bandon are poorly conditioned; rather, the conditions reflect the turf type and environment of a links course, and align with the original intentions of the architects.

Even though I like to play the ball low and have developed my Texas wedge to be one of my go-to shots in recent years, I still felt ill-prepared to play a true links-style game that was unfamiliar to me in the opening rounds of the trip. However, I got better at it as the trip went on, and embraced the unique challenge. In your first trip to Bandon, it’s important to have an open mind and to be prepared for golf that is a little different than what is played back in Wisconsin.

pacific dunes

The second course built at the resort, Pacific Dunes may be the best golf course sequel of all time, one that turned Bandon Dunes from a single-course curiosity into a top golf destination.

Pacific Dunes is great in every aspect, which is why it is my favorite course at Bandon Dunes, and one of my favorite courses anywhere.

Tom Doak’s stunner weaves through dramatic dunes and groves of shore pines to the oceanside and back several times. The course has tremendous variety in both hole design and aesthetics, and a brilliant hole sequence that captures the optimal level of anticipation and excitement throughout the round.

No conventions were followed at Pacific Dunes, with unusual par sequences like back-to-back par-3’s to start the back nine and atypical features like alternate greens on the 9th hole. The course has the smallest greens at the resort and demands more precision than the other tracks. Despite having just three true oceanside holes, more than half of the course feels like it’s right on the cliffs. The seaside holes are spectacular, but the inland holes are just as strong, fully utilizing undulating topography throughout the property. Pacific Dunes’ greens also rolled the fastest and truest of any of the six courses at Bandon.

bandon dunes

In the 1990’s, a brash, unknown, twentysomething David McLay-Kidd unapologetically laid out what would become the original track at Bandon Dunes. This is the course that started it all and proved Mike Keiser’s intuitions correct – that American golfers would embrace true links golf in a remote location. The course itself is outstanding, starting at the main lodge and looping down to the ocean for high drama a few times before ascending back. While the property is not as dramatic as Pacific Dunes, every slope and feature is maximized to produce an extremely memorable 18 holes.

The oceanside holes at Bandon Dunes are nothing short of world-class, and left me in a state of awe.

The exclamation point came at the 16th, which may be the most fun hole I’ve ever played. This short par-4 plays over a sandstone cliff and diagonal cross bunkers to a green nestled against the Pacific. It’s reachable even for shorter hitters, but takes risk-reward to another level with sand and ocean waiting to consume mistakes.

bandon trails

Bandon Trails, the third course built at the resort, is the only one at the resort without any oceanfront. The course jumps out of dunes overlooking the Pacific into a charming meadow, then heads up into a majestic pine forest before returning back the way it came. The track lives up to its moniker, as it looks and feels more like a hike in nature than a golf round at times. Paths between holes are tastefully routed through stirring maritime fauna complete with trail markers to round out the theme.

When it comes to the golf, Coore and Crenshaw delivered 18 very compelling holes that blend seamlessly into the natural environment. Bandon Trails may be the toughest course to walk, and the toughest course to golf on site. The climax comes at at the 14th hole, next to the “Eureka” spot mentioned earlier, with the best view on the course.

Bandon Trails may be the best golf course on the property, but nothing beats the cliffside holes on the original two courses, which is why I have Trails ranked third. That said, I was absolutely blown away at the strength of the layout and the stunning beauty of a diverse natural environment perfected by brilliant golf architecture.

sheep ranch

The new kid on the block, Sheep Ranch, has already been part of Bandon Dunes lore for over 20 years. Keiser and his business partner, Phil Friedmann, purchased the property in 2000, but it wasn’t initially part of the resort. Tom Doak built 13 greens on the mostly flat, exposed landscape perched high above the Pacific. Resort guests could gain access to play on the site if they asked the right people and paid a small fee, and were encouraged to create their own cross-country routing. I can’t imagine a better setting for free-form golf than at Sheep Ranch.

Coore and Crenshaw were enlisted to convert this golfing Shangri-La into the resort’s fifth 18-hole course, which opened in 2020. They delivered an ingenious routing over the small property, taking full advantage of its dazzling oceanfront. The course is relatively flat and short and features zero sand bunkers, making it the easiest course on the property if the wind doesn’t blow hard.

While I didn’t find Sheep Ranch to be one of the best courses at the resort, it is impressive that the architects found 18 holes on a tiny property while maximizing the scenery. There’s nothing more fun than taking in amazing views while chasing a low score, and that’s what Sheep Ranch is all about. We ended our trip at Sheep Ranch, and its beautiful clubhouse patio with a sweeping ocean view was the perfect spot to unwind after the round and reflect on a golf trip for the ages.

old macdonald

Designed by Tom Doak and Jim Urbina, Old Macdonald was the fourth course built at Bandon Dunes, opening in 2010 despite the Great Recession bringing most golf development to a halt in that era. The course is a tribute to architect C.B. Macdonald, featuring modern takes on many of his famous “template” holes that borrowed ideas from the classic links of the British Isles. Old Macdonald has massive, undulating greens that call for strategic positioning and a thoughtful approach to each hole.

The property is the least scenic of the six courses on site. However, there are plenty of memorable spots, such as the iconic Ghost Tree on #3 where golfers crest a hill to find a vista of most of the course and the ocean beyond.

Old Macdonald’s undulating greens were a blast to tackle, and the template holes piqued my architectural interest. Even though it was my least favorite 18-hole course at the resort, it would probably be one of my favorite courses played in a typical season, and it absolutely should not be skipped on a Bandon trip.

bandon preserve

Two words sum up my experience on Bandon Preserve – pure joy. This magical 13-hole short course starts from near the Bandon Trails clubhouse and loops down towards the ocean and back over some extremely hilly terrain. In fact, the topography was so dramatic that Coore and Crenshaw could not find a way to incorporate it into the Bandon Trails layout.

There is no better way to unwind after a day on the longer courses than with a laid-back round on the Preserve, firing at flags and shooting for birdies. We heard a lot of hooting and hollering from nearby groups having a ball. My dad and I played Preserve as a twosome and found ourselves waiting for large groups ahead (up to eight people in a group are allowed on the Preserve), but we didn’t mind resting our legs and taking in the panoramic Pacific views at sunset.

Unlike some other modern par-3 courses at elite resorts that require no more than wedge, Bandon Preserve features mostly full-length par threes that one would find on a regulation course. Putter through long iron were all required, making it useful practice in addition to a fun experience.

It may be tempting to skip Bandon Preserve to ensure that all five 18-hole courses are on the itinerary, but I would go out of my way to play it, and consider it one of the highlights of the trip.

planning a trip to bandon dunes

While the resort’s reservations staff is extremely helpful, planning a trip to Bandon Dunes is a daunting exercise due to the sheer scale of the resort and the high demand for reservations.

When I set out to plan the trip last year, the resort was booked nearly 100% through the end of 2022, and only small windows of availability existed. I jumped on one in June 2022, but the initial itinerary was far from ideal, including off-site lodging, room switches, and missed courses. After many calls to Bandon’s wonderful reservations department over the past year, I was eventually able to craft a terrific itinerary and secure ideal on-site accommodations.

However, even with all of the effort made to optimize the itinerary, it still wasn’t perfect. Playing 36 holes on consecutive days (with the Preserve tacked on at the end of the second 36-hole day) was a physically taxing experience. Also, walking 18 holes after a long day of travel proved to be challenging.

For those of you looking to plan a trip to Bandon Dunes, here are some tips:

-Book the trip 18 to 24 months in advance, ideally as soon as reservations open up for a given year (typically in December two calendar years in advance). This will ensure that you have your pick of tee times and lodging, and will allow you to plan out an ideal sequence of rounds.

-If possible, space the trip out to encompass more than 4 days. Alternating days of 18 and 36 holes would help save the legs and make those later rounds more playable. Combining the Preserve with an 18-hole round would make for a good lower-key day, as well. Allowing for some time to recharge or even for some non-golf activities would minimize the potential for burnout towards the end of the trip.

-Do your homework. Knowing where to find the courses, lodging, and amenities, and other logistics will pay dividends once you’re there. That said, the excellent resort staff will provide as many pointers as you need to find your way around. The free shuttle service around the resort is very convenient as well.

-If you’re on the fence about taking caddies, you should definitely go for it. The caddies at Bandon are world-class professionals, and are as much tour guides as they are bag-carriers and putt-readers. Links golf is all about understanding how the ball runs out and avoiding terrible spots, and having someone by your side with extensive course knowledge is a huge asset. Many times during the trip, I misread a putt or aimed in the wrong direction, but I had my caddie there to correct my intuition. Bandon also pairs golfers with the same caddies for the entire duration of their trips, and it’s easy to bond with them as members of your group throughout your stay.

-Flying into North Bend (30 minutes form the resort) was a very convenient option, and should be considered if it is available (typically in the summer months only). About 75% of the passengers on our North Bend connection were fellow golf nuts also on their way to Bandon, as evidenced by sunburns, golf-branded apparel, and the high number of golf bags on the baggage carousel!

dining and amenities

The food at Bandon Dunes is varied and exquisite. Five full-service restaurants can be found on the property (and a sixth is under construction near Old Macdonald), each with their own flair. The food prices were very reasonable, which made it easier to splurge on nice dishes.

We frequented Trails End the most, which was conveniently located near our hotel rooms. Trails End features Asian-inspired cuisine and speedy counter service for breakfast and lunch. The adobo chicken bowl and breakfast wrap were my two favorites at this spot.

Pacific Grill is slightly higher-end with a focus on seafood, and is part of the Pacific Dunes clubhouse featuring a sweeping view of Pacific Dunes, The Punchbowl putting course, and the ocean. We dined there after our first 36-hole day, where pasta paired with pinot noir was my favorite meal of the trip.

McKee’s pub proved to be the perfect spot for a casual meal and drink after golf. The Adirondack chairs by the nearby outdoor fireplace were a great place to wait while our table was being prepared. The pub was a boisterous venue, filled with happy golfers sharing stories of fun times on the links.

The main Lodge features The Forge, a higher-end steakhouse. We didn’t get a chance to eat there, but we did dine off its menu in the neighboring lounge. The Lodge has also recently added a spectacular fire pit and patio area overlooking the Bandon Dunes 1st tee and practice area.

Last but not least, the pastrami sandwich at the Sheep Ranch Clubhouse restaurant was amazing and was the perfect last meal to have on the trip.

I stayed in the Round Lake Lodge, Bandon’s newest lodging addition. The rooms were very upscale and comfortable, and featured idyllic views of the forest and Round Lake. The shower was high-tech with great water pressure to aid recovery from all-day golf. While guests will not likely spend much time in their rooms, the comfortable arrangements help ensure that golfers can arrive at their morning tee times well-rested.

Hiking trails are also available to guests around the property. We had one morning free of golf, and while I was exhausted from the prior day of 40,000+ steps, I still took a short hike down to the Labyrinth. This wonderful tribute to the late Howard McKee is located in one of the most peaceful wooded settings I can imagine.

The service at Bandon Dunes was outstanding, from the food and beverage staff, to the golf personnel, to the lodging staff. Everyone I encountered at the resort was extremely helpful, and always willing to lend advice on how best to optimize the experience even if asked about an area or topic outside of their domain. Most of the staff are from the Coos county region, and give the resort a local feel.

closing thoughts

Already a massive resort, Bandon Dunes is still growing to meet the demand of the golf boom. It continues to add lodging and restaurants like clockwork, and more courses are on the horizon as well. Tom Doak has already routed a second short course, located in heaving dunes next to Bandon Preserve. Also, David McLay-Kidd has been tapped to design the sixth 18-hole course at the resort, tentatively named New River Dunes and located just south of the city of Bandon.

Keiser’s dream has also extended well beyond Bandon, as developments with a similar spirit have sprouted up around the globe. Golfers in Wisconsin are no more than a few hours away from Sand Valley, another sand-based Keiser property that is exploding in popularity and scope.

While my first trip to Bandon Dunes took a lot of planning and execution, it was worth every minute of effort and lived up to all of the hype I’ve heard about the resort over the years. Four days of non-stop golf on six world-class tracks, with great company and great caddies, was an experience I’ll never forget. Anyone who loves golf owes themselves a trip to this spectacular venue at least once in their lifetime.

For more on Bandon Dunes, check out WiscoGolfAddict’s 2015 content here:

https://wiscogolfaddict.com/2015/08/10/bandondunesgolfresort/

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Getting Here

Bandon Dunes is just west of Highway 101, a 10-minute drive from the seaside town of Bandon, Oregon and a 35-minute drive from the Southwest Oregon Regional Airport (OTH) in North Bend. The local airport is served by flights from Denver, Colorado and San Francisco, California.

Commercial Air Service Options

North Bend Oregon (OTH)

Commercial air service is available from Denver (DEN) and San Francisco (SFO) to Southwest Oregon Regional Airport in North Bend (OTH), just 25 miles north of Bandon Dunes Golf Resort via United Express, (800) 864-8331.

Reservations to and from Denver for 2023 summer air service via United Airlines is now available for booking. From May 7 through September 27, 2023, nonstop flights between Denver (DEN) and North Bend (OTH) are available twice per week on Sunday & Wednesday.

Rental cars are provided via Enterprise.

There is no food and beverage available at the airport, please plan to eat at the resort before departing.

See below for private air transportation information into Southwest Oregon Regional Airport, North Bend.

Eugene, Oregon (EUG)

Approximately a 2.5-hour drive from the resort, Eugene (EUG) provides many daily nonstop flights options from Burbank, Chicago, Denver, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Oakland, Phoenix, Portland, Salt Lake City, San Francisco, San Jose, and Seattle.

Airlines include: Alaska, Allegiant, American, Avelo, Delta, Southwest, and United

Rental cars include: Alamo, Avis, Budget, Enterprise, Hertz, and National

Medford, Oregon (MFR)

Approximately a 3-hour drive from the resort, Medford (MFR) provided many daily nonstop flights from Denver, Los Angeles, Phoenix, Portland, Salt Lake City, San Francisco and Seattle.

Airlines include: Alaska, Allegiant, American, Delta, and United

Portland, Oregon (PDX)

Approximately a 4.5-hour drive from the resort, Portland (PDX) provides daily service from most U.S. hub cities.

Airlines include: American, Air Canada, Alaska, Delta, Frontier, Hawaiian, Horizon, Jet Blue, Southwest, and United

Rental cars include: Alamo, Avis, Budget, Dollar, Enterprise, Hertz, National, and Thrifty

Charter Air Service Options

Private air charter is a comfortable and efficient way to get here. Fly directly to Bandon State Airport (S05) or Southwest Oregon Regional Airport (OTH), 10 and 35 minutes, respectively, to the gates of the resort.

Flights for groups may be arranged through StraightLine Private Air .

In addition to rental cars, ground transportation to the resort is available through our various transportation partners.

Aviation Transportation (877) 315-7963

Bandon Golf Transportation (541) 551-0059

Connoisseurs Golf Transportation (877) 347-6466

Loop Civilized Golf Travel (866) 604-5667

Sunshine Limo Service (541) 344-5466

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