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Course Report
The 14th tee at Bandon Trails was the view that inspired founder Mike Keiser to acquire the land and ultimately develop the entire Bandon Dunes Golf Resort.
About
Bandon Trails at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, opened in 2005 and leads golfers from rolling dunes through open meadows into dense coastal forest before looping back to finish in the dunes. Renowned for its strategic layout, stunning natural transitions, and walkable routing, Bandon Trails offers a distinct inland test among the celebrated coastal tracks.
Caddie Tip
Trust your yardages and don’t get greedy on approach shots, especially in the woods where wind is subdued but elevation changes are tricky. On the dunes holes, watch for sidehill lies and adjust your stance accordingly; the terrain offers plenty of kick points that can help or hinder if you play for them.
The Main Challenge
The biggest challenge is navigating the variety of settings—meadow, dunes, and forests bring changing wind conditions and rapid shifts in playing style. Tight landing areas, undulating greens, and strategic bunkering demand focus throughout, with particular care required on holes where elevation and deception play a key role.
The Good
Golfers rave about the course’s walkable routing, the seamless transitions from dunes to meadow to forests, and the shot variety required. The course’s tranquil forest holes and dramatic elevation shifts set a mood unlike any other at Bandon Dunes, making for a highly memorable and immersive golf experience.
The Not So Good
Some visitors note the lack of ocean views compared to the other Bandon Dunes courses. Others mention that play can slow during peak resort times and that the transition to forest holes—even though beautiful—can feel disconnected from the signature coastal scenery they expect from Bandon.
Signature Hole:
#
14
The par-4 14th is a short but demanding hole with an elevated tee that frames spectacular inland views. The dogleg left demands a precise tee shot to a tight landing area for a chance at an attacking approach to a well-bunkered green. Scenic as well as strategic, it’s a favorite among Bandon Trails regulars.
Clubhouse
The Trails clubhouse features a relaxed atmosphere with sweeping views, locker room facilities, a well-stocked pro shop, and an acclaimed grill serving local cuisine. Staff is accommodating, and the vibe is friendly, making it a popular spot for relaxing pre- or post-round.
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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