ARCHITECTS
Course info
Score
Difficulty
Weather
Price
Course Report
Bandon Dunes was the first course at the resort and brought links-style golf back to the U.S. West Coast, kickstarting a renaissance of pure, walking-only destination resorts in America.
About
Bandon Dunes, designed by David McLay Kidd, is the original anchor of Bandon Dunes Golf Resort on the Oregon coast. Opened in 1999, this true links course features wide landing areas, expansive undulating greens, and holes routed through rolling sand dunes with panoramic Pacific Ocean views. It is celebrated for its natural setting, strategic design, and classic Scottish-inspired golf.
Caddie Tip
Take one more club than you think when playing into the coastal winds, especially on exposed holes like 16 and 17. Trust your caddie’s local knowledge for best lines off the tee, as most penal rough and hazards lurk beyond the visible landing zones, and approach putts can break more than they appear on the large greens.
The Main Challenge
The toughest challenge comes from the ever-present, shifting coastal winds and deep native fescue rough. The large, undulating greens require creative shotmaking and precise lag putting. Holes routed along the cliffside test courage and strategic decision-making, making every club and every shot a new test of skill and adaptability.
The Good
Golfers rave about the pure links experience, panoramic ocean views, and the thrill of playing golf as it was meant to be. The natural dunes create memorable shot values, and the wind ensures each round feels unique. The camaraderie of walking with a caddie while experiencing minimalist golf draws repeat visitors from around the world.
The Not So Good
With Bandon Dunes’ fame comes high demand, and tee time availability can be challenging, especially in peak months. Wind and unpredictable coastal weather may frustrate those expecting perfectly calm rounds. Some golfers mention the resort’s premium prices and remote location as slight drawbacks for first-time visitors.
Signature Hole:
#
16
Hole 16 is a breathtaking par 4 that runs directly along the edge of the Pacific Ocean, with hazards left and dramatic sea views throughout. The tee shot must carry windswept dunes, while the approach is played to a green perched above rugged coastal cliffs, delivering one of Bandon’s most memorable and photogenic moments.
Clubhouse
The main clubhouse features ocean-view dining, a full bar, curated pro shop, private lockers, showers, and comfortable lounge areas. Services include on-site caddies, equipment rentals, and well-trained staff providing a high hospitality standard for all guests, plus a variety of dining options and extras on property.
Practice Facilities
Bandon Dunes offers a sprawling, 50-acre Practice Center with two full grass ranges oriented in opposite directions, a massive putting green, and multiple short-game areas for bunker, pitch, and wedge work. Charlotte’s 9‑hole par‑3 course sits alongside the range, letting players simulate on-course approaches before or after a round. Near the main lodge, the Punchbowl, an enormous, wildly contoured putting course that provides a social, lighted venue for inventive putting games and after‑dinner matches, echoing the feel of a fun, miniature links. Collectively, the facilities let serious golfers grind and buddies’ trips unwind in equal measure.
Dress Code:
Standard
No dress code enforced. All attire is permitted.
Collared shirts not required. Clean, athletic or golf-appropriate casual wear is acceptable.
Collared shirts required. No denim, gym wear, or overly casual clothing.
Collared shirts must be tucked in; no cargo or athletic shorts. No hats indoors.
Elite club standards; jackets required indoors, no changing shoes in the parking lot, and specific attire rules based on the area of the facility.
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