ARCHITECTS
Course info
Score
Difficulty
Weather
Price
Course Report
Sheep Ranch features no traditional sand bunkers—only grassy depressions—making it unique among U.S. championship courses.
About
Sheep Ranch at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort is a dramatic oceanside links course designed by Coore & Crenshaw, debuting in 2020. With nine greens perched atop oceanfront cliffs and no sand bunkers, it offers breathtaking Pacific views throughout, firm and rolling fairways, and a minimalist approach. It's renowned for pure golf and the resort's walk-only tradition.
Caddie Tip
Locals recommend playing low-trajectory shots to counter the ever-present winds, especially on holes flirting with the cliffs. On approach shots, use the firm fairways to run the ball onto greens, and always check your alignment; the dramatic background can make distance hard to judge.
The Main Challenge
The toughest aspect of Sheep Ranch is managing the severe coastal winds that sweep across the property, especially on exposed holes along the cliffs. No bunkers add a twist, but deep grassy hollows and sharp runoffs require creative short-game play. Judging yardage can be tricky amid such dramatic surroundings.
The Good
Golfers rave about breathtaking ocean views from every hole, the dramatic routing along ocean cliffs, and the course’s unique absence of sand bunkers. Sheep Ranch’s philosophy emphasizes pure, traditional links golf—walking required—making for a truly immersive coastal golf experience.
The Not So Good
Some golfers wish for more shelter from relentless coastal winds, especially in the afternoon, which can make scoring challenging. A few also mention the need for expanded on-course restroom facilities given the remote, walk-only nature of the layout.
Signature Hole:
#
16
The par-3 16th hole at Sheep Ranch plays directly toward the Pacific Ocean, with its green clinging to the very edge of the cliffs. The hole is exposed to ocean winds and visually dramatic, demanding a well-judged shot over chasms and natural contours with a stunning panoramic backdrop.
Clubhouse
The Sheep Ranch clubhouse offers high-resolution course views, a friendly pro shop with branded gear, and a casual dining area. Amenities are minimal yet comfortable, maintaining a focus on golf; expect attentive service, complimentary shuttles, and a relaxed, welcoming vibe.
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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