But after spending two unforgettable weeks there with my dad, I’m here to tell you: it should be.

We were looking for the perfect mix of world-class golf, incredible food, vibrant culture, and just enough adventure to make the whole thing feel special. Thanks to the team at Asia Golf Trips, we found exactly that — and then some.

From championship layouts framed by jungle-covered mountains to beachfront holes that felt straight out of a dream, Vietnam surprised us at every turn. This wasn’t just a great golf trip. It was one of the best travel experiences of my life.

In this post, I’m not just going to share the highlights of our trip (although there were plenty). I’ll also walk you through everything you need to know to plan your own Vietnam golf adventure — from the best courses to play, to the must-visit cities, to the food, culture, and travel tips that made it all unforgettable.

Let’s dive in with the obvious question:

Why take a golf trip to Vietnam in the first place?

Way back in 2009, the very first blog post I ever published was my “bucket list.” 

I was in a job I hated, and wanted some accountability for doing more in my life. So I wrote down a list of a whole bunch of stuff I wanted to do in life.

• Live on a tropical island: Check.
• Play Pebble Beach: Check.
• Go to Cuba Before the Embargo is Lifted and Have a Cigar: Check.
• Climb a Mountain: Check.

I’ve crossed off dozens of things at this point. But two really important ones, I hadn’t:

• Take an international trip with my mom
• Take an international trip with my dad

16 years later, it was time to make it happen.

My dad is a *very* casual golfer. And previously, the only golf trips we’d done were a few days at Bandon Dunes and a quick trip to Pronghorn.

So I knew I wanted to do something unique and memorable.

Enter: Vietnam.

If you think Vietnam is just motorbikes, street food, and backpackers — think again.

Golf in Vietnam is world-class, and the experience around it is even better. During our two-week adventure, my dad and I discovered that Vietnam delivers so much more than just great courses:

• Incredible Variety: Seaside links, mountain golf, lush parkland layouts — every round felt totally different, and every course came with its own “wow” moments.
• Luxury That Won’t Break the Bank: Five-star resorts, personal caddies, and VIP-level service at prices that would be unthinkable in the U.S. or Europe.
• Food That’s Worth the Trip Alone: Fresh, flavorful, and unforgettable. Every meal was an experience — from $2 banh mi sandwiches to beachfront seafood feasts.
• Unforgettable Culture and History:
  Ancient towns, vibrant cities, and landscapes that looked straight out of a movie. Every day offered something new to explore off the course.
• Still a Hidden Gem: Pristine courses, uncrowded fairways, and a feeling like you’ve stumbled onto a secret that’s too good to keep.

In the next sections, I’ll break down each of these in detail — plus share all the tips and stories you’ll need to plan your own trip to one of golf’s best-kept secrets.

The Four Courses We Played in Vietnam

One of the best parts of our trip was how every round felt like a completely new experience. Each course had its own vibe, its own scenery, and its own little moments that stuck with us long after we holed out.

I think that was one of my biggest surprises from the trip, was just how much variety there was, both in terms of the golf and the different regions we traveled through.

Here’s a look at the four courses we played, in the order we experienced them:

BRG Kings Island

We kicked off the trip just outside of Hanoi at BRG Kings Island, a sprawling 54-hole property tucked away among lakes and towering trees.

There are three courses here — Lakeside, Mountainview, and Kings — and we played the newest (and best) of the bunch: the Kings Course, designed by Jack Nicklaus.

One of the most unique aspects of the club? You have to take a 5-minute speedboat ride to get there. Literally, the only thing on this island is the golf club – so it’s a pretty cool experience.

The Kings Course was everything you’d want for a first round in Vietnam: lush fairways, big elevation changes, and enough water hazards to keep you honest.

The scenery was beautiful — a mix of forest and lakes — but what really stood out was the 19th hole: a bonus par 3 with two different greens that played over a beautiful lake. It’s one of the coolest little “Bye” holes I’ve ever played.

If you’re looking for a warm-up round that’s challenging without being overly punishing, Kings Island is a perfect place to start.

Hoiana Shores Golf Club 

If Kings Island got us excited, Hoiana Shores took things to a whole different level.

Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., Hoiana Shores sits just 15 minutes outside of Hoi An and feels like someone plucked a piece of Bandon Dunes and dropped it on the coast of Vietnam.

This is legit links golf — firm fairways, sandy waste areas, and ocean breezes that can turn a wedge into a five-iron real quick.

The course conditioning was immaculate, and the views? Unreal. I’ve played over half of the top 100 in the world, and Hoiana would hold its own against any of them.

If you love true seaside golf and want to play somewhere that feels a little wild and untouched, this is a must.

Here’s my full recap of Hoiana Shores.

Legend Danang Golf Resort 

We had an early tee time at Legend Danang, which had us streaming the last few holes of the Masters on the bus ride to the course.

The resort is home to two courses, a Norman design and a Nicklaus design.

We played the Norman course, and it didn’t disappoint.

The bunkering here was standout: big, bold, and strategic without being gimmicky.

The course plays tighter than some of the others we experienced, so accuracy off the tee mattered more than usual – something that on this particular day was not my forte.

The highlight was the par-3 16th, the signature hole that plays straight out toward the ocean. One of those shots where you almost forget to swing because you’re too busy soaking in the view.

Legend Danang felt like the kind of place you could easily play multiple times and keep finding new things to love about it.

Laguna Golf Lang Co

We wrapped up our golf journey with what I found to be the biggest surprise of the trip: Laguna Golf Lang Co.

Set about an hour outside Danang, this Nick Faldo design feels like you’re playing golf in Jurassic Park — massive jungle backdrops, dramatic mountains, and oceanfront holes that make you want to pull out your phone every three minutes.

The bunkering was beautiful, and the routing took you through rice paddies, forests, and beachside dunes — it was like playing four different courses in one.

A fun bonus: the 19th hole here (yes, another!) sits right on the ocean and is a must-play after you finish your front nine.

Laguna Golf Lang Co wasn’t just a great way to end the trip — it might have been one of the most visually stunning courses I’ve ever stepped foot on.

And this is just the tip of the iceberg for golf…

And when it comes to golf in Vietnam, these courses are just the tip of the iceberg.

Montgomerie Links is another course outside Hoi An that’s supposed to be fantastic.

Ba Na Hills also routes through a jungle landscape with impeccable conditioning.

And The Bluffs Grand Ho Tram is widely regarded as the best course in Vietnam. It’s about two hours outside Saigon and much more similar to Hoiana Shores than anything else. But on this particular trip, we stayed North (it can be pretty hot down South in April), so we didn’t get a chance to see it.

Hanoi is an Exciting, Crazy SE Asian City: Here’s What to Do

This was my third trip to Vietnam, but I was particularly excited for this as both previous trips I stayed in Saigon.

The trip started off in Vietnam’s second biggest city, Hanoi, which has around 11 million people.

Vietnam’s capital city is an electric mix of old-world charm and nonstop energy — and it’s one of the most fascinating places I’ve ever wandered through.

Here are some highlights from our stay:

The Sofitel Legend Metropole Truly is Legendary

If you’re coming to Hanoi, do yourself a favor: stay at the Metropole. 

You can absolutely save money by staying at any number of other places, but the Metropole provides a truly unique experience.

It’s not just one of the best hotels in the city — it’s easily one of the best city hotels anywhere in the world.

The Metropole is a total oasis in the middle of the chaos. From the moment you walk into the French colonial lobby, it feels like you’ve stepped into another era.  Originally built in 1901, the history here runs deep, and it shows in every detail.

We even took a tour of their Cold War-era bomb shelter that was rediscovered during renovations about a decade ago. Also, the list of notable people who have stayed here over the years is never-ending.

We stayed on the original side of the hotel, and it oozed old-school class. Add in a phenomenal breakfast spread (seriously, it’s worth waking up early for), and you’ve got a stay that is memorable in its own right.

Not to mention the fact that if it’s your first time visiting Hanoi, or really any big SE Asian city, having a relaxing place to serve as your home base will make your adjustment quite a bit easier.

Eat (and Drink) Everything in Sight

Next to Bangkok, Hanoi might be my favorite street food city on the planet.

Whether it’s grabbing a fresh, crusty banh mi from a sidewalk vendor, slurping a steaming bowl of pho at a tiny roadside stall, or diving into Michelin-recognized Bun Cha at Bun Cha Dac Kim, the food here is next-level — and ridiculously affordable.

Drink Some of the Best Cocktails in Asia

Slightly pretentious fact about me, along with my golf quest, I’ve got this stupid goal of visiting the Top 100 Bars in the world as well.

I’ve made pretty good progress, on some previous lists, getting to as many as 60/100 on the 2018 list.

So anytime I hit a new city, I like to find the best cocktail spots. While Hanoi isn’t as recognized as places like Hong Kong, Tokyo, or Seoul for cocktails – the scene is definitely coming around.

I hit a couple that were legitimately memorable.

Bar Hafflington is a loft-style bar packed with quirky relics and antiques, and the drinks are every bit as memorable as the space. It’s been recognized as one of Asia’s 50 Best Bars for good reason.

Bar Ne is where things get even wilder. Their signature “Pho” cocktail doesn’t just taste like pho — it actually works as a drink. It’s one of those rare novelty drinks that’s not just a gimmick but something you’ll be talking about long after you leave.

The Bambo Bar at the Metropole is an equally memorable hotel bar. Sipping a happy hour gin and tonic in the courtyard overlooking the beautiful pool is about as good as it gets – especially when the weather starts getting a little steamy.

Explore on Foot (and Dodge Some Motorbikes)

Hanoi is one of the most rewarding walking cities I’ve ever experienced.

Lakes, shops, cafés, historic architecture — there’s something worth checking out around every corner. Just know that crossing the street feels like a real-life game of Frogger thanks to the endless motorbikes zipping by. (Pro tip: walk slowly and confidently — they’ll dodge you.)

Wandering Hanoi without a strict agenda ended up being one of the highlights of the entire trip.

You can also shop for just about anything you can imagine… just be ready to question how (and if) some of it actually ended up for sale.

$250 North Face bags for $24? $160 Hoka shoes for 18 bucks?!

Are they knock-offs or did they simply “fall off the back of the truck?” It’s sometimes tough to tell, and while buying them may be ethically questionable, you can’t deny the quality is often great, and the value is even better.

Hoi An is a Chill, Stunning Touristy Town

Flying into Danang, you get a real sense that you’re arriving somewhere significant (and the airport was far nicer than I expected it to be).

As Vietnam’s third-largest city, Danang is a great choice if you’re looking for a bigger urban vibe paired with beautiful beaches. But for this trip, we had something a little quieter in mind.

About 45 minutes south, you’ll find Hoi An — and trust me, that’s where the real magic happens.

Hoi An is a charming riverside town of about 100,000 people. Life moves slower here. Everything feels more relaxed, more personal. After the buzz of Hanoi, Hoi An felt like hitting the reset button — in the best way possible.

Stay at the Anantara Hoi An Resort

When it comes to luxury in Hoi An, there’s really only one true five-star option: the Anantara Hoi An Resort.

The location couldn’t have been better. It was an easy walk to the riverfront and all the best parts of the city, but the resort itself felt like its own peaceful hideaway. The courtyard pool is a lovely place to spend an afternoon, and if you can snag one of the riverfront view rooms (book early!), it’s absolutely worth it.

Elegant without being stuffy, the Anantara nailed that perfect balance of comfort and understated luxury.

Get Something Custom Made

Hoi An is famous for its tailors and leatherworkers, and if you need an excuse to justify packing an extra suitcase, this is it.

Need a new custom suit? Want a pair of handmade leather shoes? Thinking about some unique jewelry?

Do it here.

The craftsmanship is top-notch, the prices are reasonable, and the turnaround time is shockingly fast. (Pro tip: leave a little time for fittings if you want to get it perfect.)

I’d gotten suits made in Saigon years ago, including getting custom suits for all of my groomsmen for the princely sum of $105 each.

They were a little more this go around, but I knew I wanted to try and get a couple more made.

Yaly is the most common answer you’ll get for the best tailor in Hoi An, but I visited a friend of a friend’s shop Thanh Tu, and May did a great job helping me get two suits done.

To accommodate our busy schedule and short time frame, she even came by my hotel to help with final measurements and came back to drop off the finished products before our 5:45am departure time.

And if you’re looking for more casual souvenirs, the bustling night market has you covered with endless stalls full of goods to dig through.

Eat (Even) More Amazing Food

Just like Hanoi, Hoi An is a food lover’s paradise — and we found one of the coolest ways to experience it.

We joined a motorbike food tour, hopping on the back of Vespas and weaving through town as we sampled five different local dining spots. From chicken rice to the famous white rose dumplings (a regional specialty), and even “snakehead” catfish (trust me — it tastes way better than it looks and sounds), it was one of the most fun and unique experiences of the trip.

And then there’s Chef Duc.

Chef Duc is the mastermind behind some of Hoi An’s best restaurants, including Mango Rooms and Mai Fish – he’s one of the most celebrated chefs in Vietnam.

We had the once-in-a-lifetime chance to do a private dinner at his villa — hands down one of the best culinary experiences I’ve ever had. (One of the major perks of traveling with a tour operator like Asia Golf Trips — its owner, Scott Resch, seemingly knows everyone in Vietnam.)

If you’re exploring on your own, make sure to grab a table at Mango Rooms down by the river and order the smoked duck. You can thank me later.

Hue: A Detour Worth Taking

After checking out of the Anantara in Hoi An and squeezing in an early morning round at Legend Danang, we hopped in a private bus and made the two-hour drive north to Hue — the former imperial capital of Vietnam.

At first, it felt like a slight detour from our golf-centric adventure. But by the end of our stay, it was clear: this side trip was absolutely worth it.

Stay at Azerai La Residence

Hue’s energy is a world away from the hustle of Hanoi or even the laid-back vibe of Hoi An — and Azerai La Residence matched that shift perfectly.

Originally built as the French governor’s mansion, the resort has been lovingly restored into a stunning Art Deco-style hotel that felt like stepping back into a more elegant time.

The rooms were sleek and modern (bonus points for the incredible showers), the spa offered a welcome recharge after days of golf and travel, and the pool? Arguably the best pool of the entire trip — a massive, palm-lined centerpiece that was just begging for an afternoon lounge session.

The only downside was that there was some construction happening right on the other side of the hotel’s property line, which threw off the views a bit.

But if you’re looking for a spot to unwind in true style, Azerai nails it.

Touring the Imperial City

While Hue might not be as instantly recognizable as cities like Hanoi or Saigon, it holds a deep cultural and historical significance.

For nearly 150 years, it served as the capital of Vietnam under the Nguyen dynasty — the country’s last royal family — and touring the Imperial City was one of the most fascinating experiences of our entire trip.

We spent about three hours exploring this sprawling UNESCO World Heritage Site: massive moats, intricately carved gates, royal residences, and ancient temples — all telling the story of Vietnam’s regal past.

Fun fact: Hue was home to 13 emperors over its dynastic history, and although the city suffered heavy damage during the wars of the 20th century, ongoing restoration efforts have brought much of it back to life in stunning detail.

We even saw the exact spot where the final King abdicated from the throne, thus ending hundreds of years as a monarchy.

It was humbling and awe-inspiring at the same time — the kind of experience that made me realize just how rich and complex Vietnam’s story really is.

Hue wasn’t just a detour. It ended up being one of the most interesting parts of the entire trip.

Final Stop: Laguna Lang Co

After nearly two weeks of golf, travel, and adventure, ending our trip at Laguna Lang Co couldn’t have been more perfect.

We started with the fast-paced energy of Hanoi, gradually slowed things down through smaller towns like Hoi An and Hue, and finished by fully embracing vacation mode at a stunning beachfront resort. If you’re looking for the ultimate way to wind down after an action-packed trip, this is it.

One Course, Two Unique Resorts

Laguna Golf Lang Co isn’t just home to one of the best golf courses in Vietnam — it also features two fantastic resorts side-by-side, each with its own distinct vibe.

Angsana Lang Co: Bigger, Family-Friendly Luxury

We stayed at Angsana Lang Co, and it absolutely blew away my expectations.

This beachfront resort has around 220 rooms, a huge pool complex (complete with a massive lazy river), and multiple restaurants spread throughout the property.

Side note: Ever since visiting the Four Seasons Punta Mita, I’ve been a sucker for a good lazy river — it’s one of the most underrated family resort features out there. Angsana’s version did not disappoint.

Our room? A massive three-story, two-bedroom suite with floor-to-ceiling ocean views, a private rooftop deck, and our own infinity pool.

Waking up every morning with the ocean framed perfectly outside the windows was about as good as it gets — it was one of the ultimate “this is why we travel” moments.

Banyan Tree Lang Co: Romantic, High-End Escape

If you’re looking for something even more exclusive and romantic, Banyan Tree Lang Co — located right next door — is a dream.

It’s a smaller property (around 70 villas) and offers a mix of beachfront and clifftop villas, each with private pools and stunning views over the South China Sea.

You can easily walk between the two resorts or hop on a charming little boat that cruises along the lagoon between them every 20 minutes — a simple but surprisingly fun detail that made the whole place feel even more magical.

We loved being able to pop over for dinner and drinks. The Library at Banyan Tree served up the best cocktails at Laguna Lang, while Moomba, right on the beach at Angsana, quickly became a favorite for sunset dining.

The Golf at Laguna Lang Co

Of course, no stop here would be complete without mentioning the golf.

As I said earlier, playing at Laguna Golf Lang Co feels like stepping onto the set of Jurassic Park. Massive jungle-clad mountains, ocean views, rice paddies — the landscape is absolutely surreal.

The clubhouse was the most impressive of any we visited in Vietnam, and the practice facilities are excellent.

Bonus: They’ve built their own version of the Himalayas putting green (inspired by the famous one at St. Andrews) called The Gongs. So even when you’re not on the course, there’s plenty to keep you entertained.

It was the perfect place to wrap up our golf adventure — blending a world-class resort, unforgettable golf, and a full-on tropical paradise.

Final Thoughts: Why Vietnam Should Be Your Next Golf Trip

Looking back, this trip to Vietnam was so much more than just a golf vacation.

Yes — the golf was incredible. We played some of the most scenic, well-designed, and memorable courses I’ve ever set foot on. From the wind-swept links at Hoiana Shores to the jungle-lined fairways at Laguna Golf Lang Co, it was a lineup of world-class experiences that rivaled any traditional golf destination out there.

But what made this trip truly special was everything around the golf: The energy of Hanoi. The peaceful charm of Hoi An. The historical weight of Hue. The unforgettable meals. The rooftop infinity pools. The sunrise views. The stories swapped over cocktails and coffee with my dad. It was a rare combination of adventure, luxury, connection, and culture — the kind of trip that reminds you why we travel in the first place.

Vietnam is still flying under the radar for most golfers.

But after nearly two weeks on the ground, I can confidently say it shouldn’t be. If you’re looking for your next big golf trip — one that’s equal parts exciting, relaxing, and completely unique — Vietnam delivers in every possible way.

And the best part? The secret’s still kind of safe… for now.

Vietnam Golf Trip Frequently Asked Questions

I feel like I covered a lot of these throughout this post, but just in case you’re thinking about visiting and looking for some quick hit answers to common questions, I figured I’d add this section in.

When is the best time to visit Vietnam for golf?

The ideal time is November through April. This avoids the hottest, wettest months and gives you cooler, drier weather — perfect for both golf and sightseeing.

Keep in mind: Northern Vietnam (Hanoi, Halong Bay) can get surprisingly cool in winter, while the Central and Southern regions (Danang, Hoi An, Ho Chi Minh City) stay warm year-round – but can be pretty wet at various times.

We got lucky with the weather. We didn’t have any rain during our trip which was mid-April. And while it was warm, we also didn’t have a single unbearably hot day. We did avoid Saigon for this trip, as traditionally you can expect it to be getting pretty warm by April.

Do I need a tour guide to plan a golf trip to Vietnam?

Not technically — but it helps a lot.

My previous two trips to Vietnam I did on my own, but I stayed in Saigon and didn’t leave the city or play any golf.

This go around, we went with Asia Golf Trips and am so glad we did. Having someone local to coordinate tee times, caddies, transport, and special experiences (like our private dinner with Chef Duc) made a huge difference. It turns a great trip into a seamless, unforgettable one.

What should I pack for a Vietnam golf trip?

• Breathable golf clothing (humidity is real!)
• Sun protection: hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
• Collared shirts – required at most courses
• Lightweight rain jacket (just in case)
• Swimsuit for hotel pools and lazy rivers
• Comfortable shoes for walking in cities
• Optional: Travel adapter, bug spray, and a couple of extra golf gloves (you’ll sweat through them)

Here’s my full guide on how to plan a golf trip.

What are the must-play golf courses in Vietnam?

Hanoi Area (North Vietnam)

These are perfect if you’re starting or ending your trip in the capital:

• BRG Kings Island (Kings Course) – Nicklaus-designed and scenic; the best of the three courses on site.
• Sky Lake Resort & Golf Club – Regularly ranked among the top in Vietnam, with beautiful views and strong shot variety.
• Van Tri Golf Club – A private club between the airport and downtown with great conditions and exclusivity.
• Silk Path Dong Trieu – A brand new Faldo design that is already garnering international attention and is on the way to another UNESCO World Heritage site: Halong Bay
• BRG Legend Hill Golf Resort – Unique “twin green” design by Jack Nicklaus, conveniently near the airport.

Danang / Hoi An Area (Central Vietnam)

This is the heart of Vietnam’s golf coast, with some of the best layouts in Asia:

• Hoiana Shores Golf Club – Robert Trent Jones Jr. links design; a true standout and must-play.
• Laguna Golf Lang Co – Sir Nick Faldo’s jungle-meets-ocean masterpiece with a wild, scenic layout.
• Ba Na Hills Golf Club – Mountain golf with cooler temps and great elevation; designed by Luke Donald in collaboration with IMG.
• Montgomerie Links Vietnam – A fun, well-designed track near the beach that plays well for all skill levels.
• Legend Danang Golf Resort (Norman Course) – Bold bunkering and tight fairways make it one of the more challenging — and visually impressive — rounds in the region.

Ho Chi Minh City / Saigon Area (South Vietnam)

Not as dense with top courses, but still has a few standouts — especially if you’re flying in or out of the south:

• The Bluffs Grand Ho Tram – Greg Norman’s coastal gem, often ranked among Asia’s best. An absolute must if you’re near Saigon.
• Tan Son Nhat Golf Course – Right in the city, close to the airport, and a convenient, well-maintained option.
• Long Thanh Golf Club – Large 36-hole facility with both hill and lake courses; great value and variety.
• Vietnam Golf & Country Club – Another 36-hole facility not far from downtown, whose East Course was designed by Lee Trevino and has hosted the Asian Tour.

Do I need a visa to visit Vietnam?

Depending on your nationality, you may need a visa, but many countries (including the U.S., UK, and much of Europe) are eligible for an e-visa, which is quick and easy to apply for online. Always double-check with your country’s travel site before booking.

This is one benefit of going with a tour operator. They handled our visa, and even got us expedited customs for once we landed.

Are caddies required in Vietnam?

At most courses, yes — but that’s a good thing!

Caddies are part of the experience and make the rounds feel more fun, relaxed, and efficient. Many are extremely knowledgeable and bring a lot of local personality to your round. But you can definitely expect a little bit of a language barrier at times.

Is Vietnam a good destination for non-golfers too?

Absolutely. With beaches, spas, incredible food, cultural tours, and vibrant cities, Vietnam is perfect for a couples or group trip — even if some of the crew doesn’t golf.

Any Questions? Drop a Comment!

There you go! I hope you enjoyed my recap of my time in Vietnam, and if you have any questions about our trip or planning one of your own, feel free to drop a comment!

The post Why Vietnam Might Be the Most Underrated Golf Destination in the World appeared first on Breaking Eighty | Best Golf Courses and Golf Product Reviews.

Sunriver is a resort destination in Central Oregon, about 15 minutes outside of Bend.

If you don’t live in the Pacific Northwest there’s a good chance you’ve never heard of Sunriver – and I think it’s about time we change that.

I’ve been to nearly every major golf resort in Oregon. Bandon, Pronghorn, Tetherow, Silvies – the list goes on.

Hands down, there simply isn’t a place with more to do than Sunriver Resort.

If you’re a diehard golfer, then obviously nothing is going to live up to the quality of courses at Bandon.

But if you’re looking for the one resort that can do it all, and do it all well? Sunriver is the place.

Buddies trip, romantic getaway, week with the family? Sunriver has you covered. 

How do I know this? Well, recently, I kind of did it all.

It started with a 4 day trip with my best college friends. We got a house in Sunriver, and played the pinnacle of Sunriver golf, Crosswater, as well as the fantastic Woodlands course. We also got in rounds at nearby Pronghorn and Aspen Lakes.

The following weekend I was set to also be in Sunriver with my wife’s family. Kids, grandparents, everyone.

Rather than head back to Portland, it seemed like the perfect opportunity to have some time with my wife.

So we got a room for two nights at the Sunriver Lodge, and then got a house for another two nights before meeting up with family.

Buddies? Check.

Romantic getaway? Check.

Family? Check.

And frankly, it was the highlight of my year.

Ok, so clearly you can tell I like Sunriver. But why? What makes it so great? 

Let’s get into it.

Sunriver Golf: Northwest Style Golf at Its Finest

Considering this is a golf blog, it makes sense to devote a large chunk of this review to the golf.

I’m not sure there’s a more “northwest” golf resort out there than Sunriver.

Towering pine trees, meandering rivers, snow-capped mountains – these are hallmarks of all 4 courses at Sunriver Resort.

The first two courses the Meadows and Woodlands have been around since 1969 and 1982, respectively.

In 1995, however, the Resort entered the big leagues when they built Crosswater. Crosswater is a semi-private club (play is available to resort guests and members), and was one of the first courses that put Oregon on the map as a golf destination.

More recently, the resort built Caldera Links a 9 hole par 3 course that is perfect for new and experienced golfers alike.

Together, the quartet makes up one of the most enjoyable stable of courses in the State and one of my favorite places in the world to visit.

Crosswater Golf Club at Sunriver Resort

Crosswater was one of the very first courses I played when I began my quest way back when to play the top 100 public courses in the country (a quest that has evolved quite a bit since then.)

At the time, Crosswater was the single best course I’d ever played, and it still ranks among my favorites.

Designed by Bob Cupp in 1995, it has played host to a Champions Tour Major, the NCAA Championships and many more tournaments. 

From the tips it stretches out to nearly 7700 yards, and it crosses the Deschutes River over half a dozen times (hence the name).

The course is always in immaculate condition, and is truly the best representation of NW golf there is.

In my mind, there’s a holy trinity of Central Oregon golf courses in Pronghorn, Tetherow, and Crosswater. All top 100 public in the country, yet the three could not be more different from each other.

The course has a little bit of everything, and has some truly interesting greens that reward accuracy on your approach.

Meadows Golf Course at Sunriver

The Meadows Course may be the most prominent course of the bunch, as the course begins right in the heart of the resort outside the Sunriver Lodge.

You’ll immediately understand where the course gets its name, as the opening holes meander through the meadow near the River, with green forests and mountains as the backdrop.

It was the first course built at the Resort and was designed by John Fought and opened in 1969.

The Meadows Course in many ways is the perfect resort course. If you play it from the whites, the course is manageable for all skill levels, while moving back will give you a pretty significant challenge.

I played with my father-in-law and my brother-in-law, the latter of which is still a beginning golfer – and he did great getting around the course.

There are a handful of forced carries, but overall you’re able to run the ball up the fairways and onto the green in most cases.

The course is beautiful, with the first 4 holes having water and mountain views before heading into the trees, and popping out again at 9.

The greens were more interesting than I remember, and the bunkering is also very well done – giving you plenty of options for risk/reward shots throughout the course.

The short par 4 5th, was one of my favorites, as well as the par 4, 15th.

Sunriver Resort: Woodlands Golf Course

The Woodlands Course opened in 1982, and was designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr.

When we got to the starter, he said “You’re in for a treat. A lot of the members find this to be the most enjoyable course to play because it’s the most user-friendly.”

I told him that’s great, because after playing Crosswater and the Nicklaus at Pronghorn, I could use some “user-friendly” in my life.

I’d only played Woodlands a couple times before, and one of those was for my bachelor party, so let’s just say my memory was a bit hazy.

Within the first few holes, I was pleasantly surprised.

Next to Crosswater and some of the other more high-profile courses in the region, you don’t hear as much about Meadows and Woodlands, but it has some excellent holes.

The 2nd, a dogleg right par 4 I thought was particularly interesting as it forced you to take on the water to the right to give yourself the best position for your approach.

The 9th is also a beautiful par 4 with a lake carry, and a second lake beyond the fairway. This forces you to hit a precise shot, or bail out right for a safer tee shot, but a longer approach.

There’s also a fantastic stretch of holes in 15-18 that are scenic, strategic, and very enjoyable.

While it’s still a residential resort course with homes on most of the holes, I found that I enjoyed the course more than I expected to and that it should get more recognition than it does.

Crosswater tends to be the course that gets the national love when you think about golf in Central Oregon (next to Pronghorn and Tetherow).

Each of those courses are beautiful, challenging, and world-class in every sense.

But the Meadows and Woodlands shouldn’t be overlooked. They are both fun courses, with good views, and nice greens. These two courses feel…comfortable. Meaning they feel super relaxed and unpretentious. Sunriver is a very chill place, with tons of families and lots going on. These courses emanate that vibe in a way you don’t necessarily get at many high-end courses, and the Crosswater members who are lucky enough to be able to play all of the courses as part of their membership should consider themselves very fortunate.

If I lived in the area, for as much as I love the other courses in the region, this is the membership and area I’d choose.

Caldera Links at Sunriver

Caldera Links was built in 2007 as part of the Caldera Springs development. Located across the street from Crosswater and about a mile from the main area of Sunriver, it’s the newer more high-end area of the resort.

The short par 3 course has interesting greens, and beautiful views of Mt. Bachelor in the background, and is exactly the type of course I think every resort should have.

The one where you can bring your kids out to play without worrying about it being too intimidating or holding up other golfers.

The one where you can grab 3 clubs and some beers and knock it around after 18 (or 36).

One of the great things about the Sunriver courses are the diversity among them. Crosswater is the crown jewel with a spectacular, beautiful setting for golf.

Woodlands is the course with the most elevation and is a nice journey through the high desert forests, while Meadows opens up a bit and has more holes out in the open and along the river.

If you stay at the resort you have to play Crosswater, but you’ll find the other tracks to be worthy siblings and well worth playing in their own right.

The Rooms at Sunriver Lodge

One of the fun things about this particular trip is the fact that despite coming here dozens of times in my life, this is one of the first times I’ve stayed at the Sunriver Lodge.

Most of the rooms at Sunriver Resort are spread out around parts of the Meadows golf course.

Each room has a patio or a balcony with rocking chairs, and some of the larger units have lofts and kitchenettes.

I’ve visited a lot of golf resorts that were built in a similar time period as Sunriver between the 60s and 80s.

A lot of them can feel dated and tired. 

One of the things I appreciated most about Sunriver, is the rooms actually felt very nice and quite up-to-date all things considered.

They’ve clearly been remodeled at some point recently, and the massive 55 (65?) inch tv, king-size bed, and fireplace in a standard King Room, were welcome amenities. 

We had a second-floor room which had high lofted ceilings. I’d personally recommend this, as it made the room feel bigger and the balcony felt more private than the first-floor patios.

For bigger groups, you can rent condos or houses through the Resort, or there are a plethora of options through other rental sites – but you’ll lose some access to resort amenities like the (wonderful) Cove Pool.

Dining in Sunriver

For a small community, there are quite a few dining options at Sunriver Resort, and within the village of Sunriver.

At the Lodge there are two nice options in Twisted River Tavern and Carson’s American Kitchen.  The latter of which is the more formal of the two (which still isn’t very formal), and the food there was fantastic.

The Backyard is a great spot for outdoor dining or having a drink after your round, and for Resort guests who are looking for more fine dining you can head over to Crosswater.

If you want to get outside of the resort, there’s a brewery, pizza spot, Italian restaurant, Mexican restaurant and more in Sunriver Village. So within 5 minutes of the Resort, you have over a dozen solid options for food.

The Cove Pool at Sunriver Resort

In 2021 Sunriver Resort got a brand new, and welcome amenity in its indoor/outdoor Cove Pool.

I had high hopes for the pool, but after getting to visit for the first time recently – it exceeded my expectations.

Sunriver is always known as one of the very best Summer destinations in the country.

But during Winter, if you’re not into snowsports then you might find yourself going a little stir crazy if you’re not on the mountain – especially if you have kids.

This is your answer.

The Cove Pool is a beautiful indoor/outdoor pool facility that has just about everything you could want. There’s a (fast) water slide, a little lazy river, a hot tub, a bar – and that’s just indoors.

Outdoors, there’s a stunning infinity pool on the edge of the river, that has views of Mt. Bachelor. During high season, there’s resort service with food and drinks delivered directly to your chair.

Another cool addition is a “polar plunge” waterslide. This was designed to mimic the experience of doing the natural rock water slides at nearby lakes, and is kept cool year round to simulate the experience.

I had no idea they added this until we showed up recently, and we all had a blast on it.

So whether you’re inside or outside during the Summer, Winter or shoulder seasons – this is definitely a spot you’ll want to make time for.

What Else is There to Do In Sunriver?

As I mentioned earlier, Sunriver is the kind of place you can go with anyone. Friends, family, a romantic getaway – I did all 3 over the course of 11 days and was reminded of just how much there is to do there.

With the family we floated the Deschutes River in tubes, before heading back to BBQ on the deck.

The next day we rented jet skis and spent the day at nearby Cultus Lake.

We rode bikes all over the place, went for a hike, and spent some time at the park.

With my wife, we had a couple nice dinners, strolls through wilderness, and shared cocktails at the Cove pool.

And we didn’t even scratch the surface of all the things you can do. 

Golf, tennis, pickleball, spa, pools, stables, marina, biking, hiking – I could literally go on like this for pages of the stuff there is to do here, and that is one of the reasons I love Sunriver as a destination. It truly is a Choose Your Own Adventure type place, and whether you’re there in the summer or winter, there are plenty of options.

Final Thoughts on Sunriver

I’m not even trying to hide how much I love this place. Yes, there’s some bias as I’ve been going there for years, but there’s a reason for that: it can be whatever you want it to be.

Relaxing retreat in nature? Done.

Hectic family holiday with each day fully planned? Yep.

Golf bender with the boys? Easy.

Bachelor or Bachelorette party? That’s where I had mine.

Romantic escape? Yep did that too.

Factor in the close proximity to Bend and the Redmond airport which is less than 45 minutes away? You have a flexible, accessible, and absolutely beautiful resort destination that features world-class golf, in a casual environment.

I’m not sure what else you could want in a week away than that.

This post was updated in February 2024 to add a video of Crosswater Golf Club and updated information about the Cove Pool.

The post Sunriver Resort Golf: The Ultimate Northwest Destination appeared first on Breaking Eighty | Best Golf Courses and Golf Product Reviews.

There’s a delicate balance right now of being respectful of the tragedy that’s happened, while also recognizing tourism dollars are one of the primary ways the region is going to recover. So when you visit any of the islands, please be considerate of the community. It doesn’t matter where you live, we are all connected.

There are very few resorts in the world that are as highly regarded as the Four Seasons Hualalai. 

For years I’ve been hearing about what a special place it is, and recently, I finally had a chance to visit.

Spoiler alert: It’s just as good as it’s billing.

From the eclectic variety of pools, recently refreshed rooms, to ocean views from basically everywhere on property – it truly is a special place.

But amidst the hype of the resort itself, there’s something that often gets lost in the commentary: the Hualalai Golf Course.

Despite hearing rave reviews about the resort itself, I honestly hadn’t heard a ton about the golf course over the years.

So when people ask me if it’s worth visiting on a golf trip, I haven’t really known what to tell them.

Because of this, I didn’t necessarily have overly high expectations for what the course and the experience would provide.

Honestly, I’m glad I didn’t know much about the golf course.

Why?

Because when you go in blind it makes every cool discovery about the course and experience that much better.

And after now playing Hualalai, I can safely say it was one of the very best resort golf experiences I’ve had.

What makes it so good? Let’s find out.

First Impressions of the Hualalai Golf Course at the Four Seasons

When you first roll up to the course at Hualalai, you probably won’t be surprised to learn that everything is immaculate.

The driving range, the brand new Golf Hale – everything is exactly how you’d expect it to be.

Over the last couple of years, they converted the course from Bermuda to Paspalum grass, and the result is fantastic.

One of the big differences you’ll notice with Paspalum vs Bermuda is the fact that it allows everything to be closely mowed. So instead of fluffy Bermuda rough (which always drives me crazy), you’ll find tighter lies across all aspects of the course. Not only does it add to playability, but it makes everything look fantastic as well.

They recently did this at Kohanaiki as well, and it’s the right move for this region of the world.

Walking up to the driving range and overlooking the first tee at Hualalai you notice how well-manicured everything is and know you’re in for a beautiful golf experience.

The second thing I noticed when I showed up was the Trackman Range. I wasn’t expecting this, and it’s actually the first course I’ve ever been to that had a Trackman Range system installed.

What this means is you can download the Trackman app, and get accurate Trackman data for every shot you hit. Obviously, it’s the members and regulars who get the most value out of this, but it’s a very high-end and unique feature to have. I didn’t have time to try it out, but it’s worth noting it’s an option.

The Golf Hale was new in 2020 and is very nice. I’ll talk more about what that is later on, but for now, let’s get into what you really want to hear about: the Hualalai Golf Course itself.

Related: Check out my full experience of the rest of the resort at the Four Seasons Hualalai.

Or watch my full Hualalai resort tour here:

The Front 9 at Hualalali Golf Course

Hualalai is a Four Seasons-managed resort course in Hawai’i, so let’s be real, I knew the experience would be nice.

But what I wasn’t sure about was the how the quality of the golf itself would be.

Taking a look down the opening hole, well, it doesn’t necessarily do much to assuage my concerns.

It’s a perfectly fine par 5 with bunkers down either side, and the aforementioned beautifully maintained turf.

But for a course where I was expecting views, drama, and some of that famous black lava rock – the opening hole doesn’t give you much of that.

Donald Ross’ favorite quote is that the opening hole of a course should be a “firm handshake.” 

This has sparked offshoots of this quote over the years, such as a “friendly” or “gentle handshake.”

I’d describe the 1st at Hualalai as the latter. Wide fairways and a receptive green give you a chance to score early on, and I always prefer that over an overly brutal start, like you might see at Mr. Ross’ Aronimink.

But once you cross the road and get to the second hole everything changes.

This is one of those moments where I’m glad I didn’t know much about the course beforehand. I got to the first tee and audibly said “Whoa, this is cool.”

The fairways are still generous, but everything about this hole spoke to me. Fairway bunkers across the left of the fairway, and a giant mound of lava rock through the fairway make you feel like the landing area is smaller than it really is. But aim and club selection are important, as both of these could prove to be hazards if you’re not thoughtful about your shot.

The 8th hole at the private Ke’Olu course to the right of the hole also adds visual interest.

The green is perched up in an amphitheater and the uphill approach shot can be tricky if you don’t pull the right club.

Oh and did I mention all of this is happening right at the base of Hualalai Mountain? 

I feel like this hole likely gets overlooked because it happens so early in the round, but it was one of my favorites on the course.

And fortunately, things continue to get even better from here.

The 3rd has one of my favorite green complexes on the course, and the elevated tee shot gives you options to play aggressively over the fairway bunker on the right, or to bail out left. If you do the latter, there’s another bunker waiting to swallow up your ball if you’re not thoughtful about your distance.

The way the greenside bunker fades into the lava rock is a recurring theme and makes for stunning aesthetics.

One of the things you’ll hear me talk about throughout this review is the fact I think Hualalai represents the epitome of what I think resort golf course should be.

I’ll talk about some of the elements that make me say that, but a big one is the unique contrast of views and colors.

Sure you’ve got some beautiful ocean vistas, but the contrast of black lava, white bunkers, green fairways, and the ocean in the background? It’s a delight to your senses and truly enhances the enjoyment of the round. 

Playing golf in a beautiful place is exactly what you want in a resort vacation, and Hualalai delivers this in spades.

The 4th is a reachable par 5, with another wide fairway that gives you the confidence to really go for it on your tee shot for a chance to get home in 2.

Across the Hualalai course is a very nice quartet of par 3s that each bring something different to the table. 

The 5th is a mid-length par 3 with water on the right and a giant ridge down the left.

Here’s another area element of what makes a good resort course in my mind.

With a resort course where the primary goal is enjoyment and playability, you want the golf course to be on your side.

Bunkers should be raised to kick balls back into the fairway, rather than funnel into the sand – for instance.

On 5, a lot of higher handicaps will be scared of the water right, so they’ll bail out left.

The big hill along the left side will take those errant, or safe shots away from the water and funnel them back into the center of the fairway.

They might not quite make it on the green, but the course is giving you a helping hand if you decide to play it safe, which I love.

The 6th is a shorter par 4 with another wonderful green complex. You’ll likely have a wedge in your hand, and a shot at a 3. Just don’t go long.

The 7th is the highest point on the course and provides some stunning views. 

It’s a wonderful par 5 that requires thoughtful club selection off the tee. For longer drivers, the lava rock juts into the fairway forming a bit of a gate that’s only about 20 yards wide. It might be safer to lay back to avoid getting blocked out, as getting home in 2 will require a pretty big poke.

That said, once again the course is on your side, as balls that land a little short of the green will likely roll on.

8 is an elevated par 3 with great views and is also the longest par 3 on the course, reaching over 200 yards on 3 of the 4 tee boxes.

Commensurate with that, it features a large green, that’s actually a double green with hole #4.

9 finishes up with a perfectly fine par 4, but similar to the opening hole, it lacks some of the wow factor of the rest of the front.

All that to say holes 2 through 8 is a wonderful stretch of golf that I found to be as fun as it is scenic. It doesn’t beat you up, but if you move back to play from the tips at 7100 yards, things change completely – especially when the wind is up.

The Back 9 at Hualalai Golf Course

Off the tee on 10 you might be lulled into thinking this is a pedestrian golf hole. But once you get up to the middle of the fairway, you find out that it’s anything but.

10 is a fantastic risk-reward par 5.

Short and left of the green is a large swath of lava and bunker. A well-struck drive will give you a chance to go for the green in two – but if you’re short, the unpredictable nature of a lava-bounce could be punishing.

And if that feels like too much risk for you? You can layup down the right side of the fairway and actually have a better angle into the green which is wider than it is deep.

At 556 from the tips, it’s the longest par 5 on the course, so the direction of the wind will likely dictate how feasible it is to get home in 2.

11 is a nice par 4 with a semi-blind elevated green. Again, you see great contrast in textures with the grass, lava, and bunkering.

12 is one of my favorite holes on the course, and is also one of the most polarizing.

It’s the shortest par 3 at just 167 yards from the tips, but it has a large green with a bunker directly in the middle of it – ala the 6th at Riviera. 

Part of the reason I may like it is that I hit a solid tee ball to 10 feet. Had I found myself on the other side of that bunker, without the guts (or talent) to chip it over from a lie on the green, I might have felt differently. 

But this is a resort course. It’s meant to be fun, and in my opinion, should have some novelty to it as well – which this hole provides. There are some fun pin positions here, that while I might suspect rarely get used, definitely help keep things interesting.

13 is a par 4 that requires a smart tee shot. Lava all down the right with fairway bunkers across the middle. There’s a blind fairway landing area on the right-hand side that will give you the best approach angle. But playing short and left is the safer bet if you’re concerned about getting into too much trouble off the tee.

14 feels like the crescendo for lava features on the course, as there’s a massive lava field running the length of the hole to the left of the fairway. There’s plenty of fairway to work with, and if you play 3 conservative shots, par should be relatively easy.

But as soon as you start thinking about going for it in 2, all of a sudden what could be an easy par has the potential to rack you up a big number if you’re not careful.

15 brings you back to the resort side of the course for the first time since the opening hole. A big dogleg left that isn’t nearly as difficult as it looks with imposing lava sitting in the middle of the fairway.

Hualalai has an excellent set of closing holes.

The 16th isn’t quite a “Cape” hole but it feels like one off the tee.

Go further right for the more aggressive line, and the chance to be closer to the green. But if you take on the right bunkers and don’t get there, there’s a good chance you’ll be pitching out and hoping to one-putt your way to par.

The final par 3 17th is the signature hole on the course. 

There are some beautiful ocean views across Hualalali, but 17 is the only one that sits right on the water – and it truly makes for a memorable hole.

This hole is where everything we’ve talked about comes together to create one of the best par 3s in Hawaii. The colors and textures are beautiful. The proximity to the ocean is mesmerizing. The bunkers that flow directly into the lava are unique. And the large green is welcoming, making par possible, but far from a sure thing.

I always enjoy it when the “signature hole” comes late in the round. Having something to look forward to throughout is always fun – especially for a resort course.

One thing I think is so cool about Hualalai having played it, is that yes, the 17th is a great hole, and one to be excited about, but there are memorable moments throughout the entire round. So as I’ve pointed out, there are a handful of holes that felt a little benign, but overall the vast majority of the golf holes at Hualalai give you something unique and memorable to get excited about.

The drive through the lava field from 17 to 18 is fun, and 18 is a great finishing hole. Framed with hotel rooms and condos, it makes the hole feel big and dramatic, which I love.

An aggressive line will aim to carry the innermost bunker on the left, providing a shorter approach. But there’s plenty of fairway to work with. But if you find yourself in any of the bunkers along the left side, you could have a tricky time making your par.

One of the Best Parts About Hualalai Golf Course

Let me be very clear on this, I really enjoyed Hualalai. I thought it was one of the best resort courses I’ve ever played, and it’s a course I would be very excited to play again (and again.)

But the course doesn’t get that much play.

If it’s so good, then why is this?

There are a few reasons.

One, the Four Seasons Hualalai is very expensive. Even the cheapest room rates during the time I was there crept up over $2k/night.

So it’s not exactly going to be a hotspot for a buddies golf trip. 

Speaking of that, if you were to tell your significant other you were taking a golf trip with your boys to Bandon Dunes, Whistling Straits, or even Pebble Beach – they might say, “Ok, honey, have fun.”

But if you try and pull a “I’m going to a Four Seasons in Hawaii” the response is more likely to be “Not without me you aren’t!”

That being said, if you do find yourself at Hualalai, there are some really cool aspects of the golf experience that make it very worthwhile.

At first glance, you’ll get sticker shock from the $380 greens fee.

That’s a lot of money for a round of golf, even if it has been on Golf Digest’s Top 100 Public Golf Courses list.

But it’s actually a really good value. 

No seriously.

First off, it’s a day rate. So if you want to play 36? Hell, want to squeeze in 54? Go for it. It’s all included for one price. Essentially every hole you play after that first 18 is free.

But it gets even better.

All food and beverages at the Golf Hale or on the beverage cart is included with your daily fee.

So you could play 36 holes and have all of your snacks and beers covered for the day for $380. 

If you take full advantage, all of a sudden that price tag feels far more reasonable.

The Four Seasons always does a good job with experiences and the golf experience here is second to none.

It was friendly, welcoming, and while yes, expensive, I’ve paid a lot more for a whole lot less.

The Golf Hale

I’ve mentioned the Golf Hale a number of times in this post. Located right off the range the Golf Hale does double duty. It’s loaded with snacks and drinks for your pre and post-round pleasure, but it also features 2 Trackman bays that spill right out onto the range, as well as Hawai’i’s first Top Golf Swing Suite.

The latter I think is especially fitting for the location. If you’re golf obsessed, but maybe your kids and family, well aren’t? You can bring them to the Swing Suite in lieu of a full round of golf, and make it fun for them.

While also making sure they have all the snacks they need to have a good time

Regardless of whether you’re looking for instruction, practice, a simulator etc. the golf program at Hualalai is incredibly robust for a resort course.

And that doesn’t even include the membership component or the private Ke’olu course, but we’ll save that for another post.

Final Thoughts on Hualalai Golf Course

I knew my stay at the Four Seasons Hualalai was going to be special.

But I wasn’t prepared for just how memorable and special the golf would be as well.

I played the course by myself in just over 3 hours. 

That might not sound like the most enjoyable experience, but it really was.

I didn’t have any groups around me at all. I could take all the time I wanted on each hole. But most importantly, this round allowed me to truly enjoy where I was and be thankful for all that has transpired to bring me to this location.

It was similar to my experience playing by myself at the Bahia Course at the Four Seasons Punta Mita (minus the hangover).

Given the remote location and cost associated with visiting the resort, I have no idea when or if I’ll ever make it back to Hualalai. 

But I really hope that I do. This golf course spoke to me and impressed me more than I expected it to. And now a week removed from the trip, I’m still thinking about it.

That doesn’t happen very often, but it’s a true testament to the entire package that golfing at Hualalai provides. And it’s for this reason I think the Hualalai Golf Course at the Four Seasons is among the best resort golf experiences in the world.

Want to know how the rest of the resort stacks up? Check out my detailed Four Seasons Hualalai review.

The post Hualalai Golf Course: This is Resort Golf at its Finest appeared first on Breaking Eighty | Best Golf Courses and Golf Product Reviews.

Dream Golf Resorts has just announced the latest resort in their portfolio: Rodeo Dunes.

This marks one of the largest-scale golf resorts to be announced and built in the last decade, and it’s made all the more interesting by its remote location outside of Denver, Colorado.

Trying to learn more about Rodeo Dunes? Let’s jump into everything we know.

What is Rodeo Dunes Golf Resort?

Rodeo Dunes is the latest golf project from Bandon Dunes founder Mike Keiser, and his Dream Golf Resorts portfolio.

Mike’s brother Chris Keiser and his son Michael Keiser will both be heavily involved, and the resort is being built in partnership with their Dream Golf Resorts portfolio which includes Bandon, Sand Valley, and Cabot among others.

The resort will be built on 2,000 acres of land outside Roggen, Colorado within the Front Range to the Northeast of the city.

Keiser acquired the land from the Cervi family who is the largest producer of rodeos in the United States. This land forms just a fraction of their overall holdings, and the resort was named Rodeo Dunes as an homage to the heritage of the land.

How Many Courses Will Be Built at Rodeo Dunes?

There is room for up to six courses at Rodeo Dunes, and as of now the first two have rough routings completed and are ready to enter the construction phase.

Assuming the first 36 holes go well, there will likely be a large Himalayas-style putting green, as well as a par 3 course – following a similar development schedule as some of Dream Golf’s other properties.

Who is the Architect of Rodeo Dunes?

The first course to be built at Rodeo Dunes will be designed by Jim Craig.

This is notable because it’s going back to the early days of Bandon Dunes Resort when Keiser hired, the then-unknown architect David McLay Kidd to build the first course there.

Jim has been working with Coore and Crenshaw for years and has had his hand in a number of their courses like Friar’s Head, Old Sandwich, and more recently Sheep Ranch.

Everything I’ve heard about Jim points to the fact he’s very talented and tends to see things in a way that others don’t – which could lead to a really unique and interesting course.

The second course has been routed and laid out by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, so we’re also seeing more of a household name attached to the project as well.

This feels like a smart move, since Mr. Craig already has a very established relationship with the Coore and Crenshaw team. Having both on the property at the same time, there will be an abundance of resources to help build out the course.

When Will the Rodeo Dunes Courses Open?

With the routings of the first two courses already laid out, construction should begin this year. There is potential for preview play of the first course to be ready by late 2024, with a full opening slated for 2025. 

We’ll be updating this page over the following months as more details are released about the course. Having traveled extensively for golf, this is the most excited I’ve been for a new resort opening in a long time.

With the Lido scheduled to open this year at Sand Valley, it’s a pretty exciting time over at Dream Golf Resorts, and that makes it even more exciting for golfers willing to venture a little bit out of the way to experience all that they have to offer.

You can learn more about the Rodeo Dunes project over at the Dream Golf website.

The post Rodeo Dunes: Everything You Need to Know About the Latest Dream Golf Resort appeared first on Breaking Eighty | Best Golf Courses and Golf Product Reviews.

Like, a lot of options.

With dozens of resorts to choose from, it can be difficult to decide which one is right for you.

Do you go adults only?

Do you choose a family destination?

Are you hoping to golf every day? Or would you prefer to just sit by the pool?

Do you want to be close to all the action and party scene of Cabo San Lucas? Or do you want to just chill out and relax?

These are all things you need to consider when choosing the right Cabo resort for you? And if you choose the wrong one?

Then you could, unfortunately, end up with more frustration than anything else on your Mexican vacation.

But it’s for all of these reasons why I’m such a huge fan of Pueblo Bonito Resorts.

Because no matter which camp you fall into, there’s a great option for you.

In this ultimate guide to Pueblo Bonito we’re going to look at each of the five Pueblo Bonito Resorts in Cabo San Lucas, and help you figure out the right one for you.

We’re also going to look at some of the highlights of staying at any of these resorts, so that you can begin to formulate a plan for your vacation, and ensure you’re making the most of your time in Mexico.

So, you ready to do this? Let’s go.

The Best Part About Staying at Any Pueblo Bonito Resort

Before we go any further, I want to talk about my absolute favorite aspect of staying at any Pueblo Bonito resort.

And that’s the fact that if you stay at one, you get access to other Pueblo Bonito resorts (which ones depends on where you stay).

So for instance, the Pueblo Bonito Pacifica is the “adults only” resort, and this is where I stayed on my most recent trip.

Guests of the Pacifica are able to use the pools and dine at any of the other Pueblo Bonito resorts in Cabo. 

One of the biggest complaints I have with all-inclusive resorts is that after a couple days things can get a little monotonous. The food starts to taste the same and afternoons at the pool can feel like Groundhog’s Day.

But a Pueblo Bonito vacation allows you to have access to a couple of dozen restaurants and close to a dozen different pools, each with very different vibes.

So you get the benefits of an all-inclusive, while still being able to keep things fresh, new, and exciting each day that you’re there.

One caveat here is that guests of Pacifica can use the facilities at any of the other resorts, however, not vice versa.

So if you stay at Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach, you’re not able to bring the family over to the Pacifica for the day. Although you can go to Rose or Los Cabos.

There may be other limitations, but that is the big one as I understand it.

Pueblo Bonito Cabo: Choosing the Right Resort for You

So with the above in mind, how do you choose the best Pueblo Bonito Cabo resort for you?

The good news is that each of the resorts are pretty unique and distinct. So I’m willing to bet there’s going to be an obvious one that jumps out for you.

Let’s take a quick look at each of them, and what sets them each apart. 

I’ll then do a more thorough review of pools, dining, and the rooms at the Pacifica – as that’s where we stayed on the trip.

First off, you should know that there are Pueblo Bonito resorts in two different areas of Cabo San Lucas.

The first is within the Quivira Los Cabos community. This is about 10 minutes from downtown on the west side of the peninsula. Here you’ll find Sunset Beach, Pacifica, and Montecristo.

Rose and Los Cabos are side by side and located in downtown Cabo San Lucas close to all the action.

So which one is best for you? Let’s find out.

Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach: The Best Family Resort

Sunset Beach is the largest of the Pueblo Bonito Cabo resorts, by quite a large margin with 749 rooms.

It opened in 2002 and is within the Pueblo Bonito/Quivira community.

Being that it’s so large, it’s very easy to spread out with your family or friends.

There are six(!) different pools and 9(!) different dining options that can be included in an all-inclusive package.

However, one of those 9 is the phenomenal Market at Quivira Food Hall which has close to a dozen options there alone.

We’ll cover that more in the dining section below.

Pueblo Bonito Sunset Beach is for you if:

• You’re traveling with a family or kids
• You want to have as many options for food and entertainment on property as possible
• You want a little extra space to spread out at the resort.
• You prefer the sunset over the sunrise
• You’d generally prefer to stay on property 
• You’re not as interested in bars or clubs

Pueblo Bonito Pacifica: The Most Luxurious Resort

Pueblo Bonito Pacifica was originally built in 2005, and features 154 rooms.

However, it received an addition in 2016 in the form of the The Towers at Pacifica. These 47 rooms are among the nicest on the property and feature their own private butler and access to the VIP “Whale Watching” lounge.

There are 7 dining/drinking options on property, and it’s an adults-only resort.

While it’s the most remote of all of the Pueblo Bonito Cabo properties, it also has its own beach steps away from the pool area.

Pueblo Bonito Pacifica is for you if: 

• You want the most relaxing experience possible
• You’re not traveling with kids (or don’t want to be around people who are traveling with kids)
• You’re looking for the most luxurious Pueblo Bonito experience (The Towers rooms)
• You want to be near a beach….but don’t want to swim in the ocean (riptides at the property are intense, so it’s advised not to swim here).
• You want to be closest to the golf course. It’s just a very short shuttle over to Quivira.

Pueblo Bonito Montecristo: A Private Villa Experience

Montecristo is different than the other 4 resorts at Pueblo Bonito in that they’re private villas as opposed to hotel-style rooms.

There are 151 villas on property, and if you’re looking for more of a “family vacation rental” this is going to be the best option for you.

Most of the villas have 3 bedrooms, wonderful panoramic views, and access to facilities at Sunset Beach and Rose – on top of the dining options on property at Montecristo.

I should have probably caveated my statement that The Towers at Pacifica is the most luxurious hotel property. Because the rooms at Montecristo are very nice.

Pueblo Bonito Montecristo is for you if:

• You want as much privacy as possible
• You’re more interested in a family vacation home than a hotel experience
• You don’t mind not being near all the action
• You don’t mind being a little ways from the ocean. Montecristo sits at the top of the hill, providing spectacular views, but it doesn’t have the convenient beach access of the downtown properties or Pacifica.

Pueblo Bonito Rose and Los Cabos: The Most Vibrant Resorts

Rose and Los Cabos Resort are the two Pueblo Bonito resorts in Downtown Cabo San Lucas. Because of this, they definitely have a different vibe.

During the time I spent there it felt like there was more energy and a younger crowd.

Rose has 250 rooms and Los Cabos 148.

They were built in 1997 and 1991 respectively, so I will say they do feel slightly dated compared to the other three properties within the Pueblo Bonito community.

That said, if you’re looking to be near all the action, these are the resorts to consider.

Oh, and the sunrise over the water? Pretty unbelievable.

Pueblo Bonito Rose or Los Cabos are for you if:

• You want to be near all the excitement and nightlife of downtown Cabo
• You prefer sunrises to sunsets
• You’re traveling with younger friends and you’re looking to party
• Proximity and amenities are more important than staying at the newest and nicest property.

So there you go, in my mind it’s pretty clear:

• If you’re looking for a party? Stay at one of the two downtown properties.
• If you’re looking to relax and get away from the kids? Pacifica.
• Looking for a family resort experience with easy access to pools, restaurants and entertainment all in one place? Sunset Beach.
• And if you want a private family experience without constantly being near the crowds, get a villa at Montecristo.

My Experience at the Pueblo Bonito Pacifica

While I was there I experienced a little bit of everything, so I’ll share more about my experience at each in the appropriate section below.

But for my trip, I stayed at The Towers at Pacifica. 

And I’ve gotta say. After being home with an infant for the entirety of 2021, this truly was a welcome escape.

Arriving at the Pueblo Bonito Pacifica

I won’t say it was relaxing, because my 3 day trip was a bit of a whirlwind. But having numerous places I could go and find a little peace and quiet was a delightful change of pace.

Unfortunately, my short trip was made even shorter by a canceled flight and a missed connection. So instead of arriving around 3:30 like planned, I didn’t make it to my room until close to 11pm.

But this is where you really see the benefit of staying in the Towers.

You have your own butler.

I met Leopoldo in the lobby and he escorted me up to my room to complete my check-in.

He’d already ordered some chips and guac, which was exactly what I needed at that moment.

“What else can I get you?” We have 24 hour room service.”

“Tacos and a margarita sounds fantastic.”

15 minutes later, he was back with my late night meal. 

Let’s just say my wife was at home with the aforementioned infant in a torrential rainstorm, so she didn’t appreciate me sending her this photo much:

The Rooms at The Towers at Pacifica 

The rooms at The Towers at Pacifica are very nice, and frankly, probably a step above what I was expecting.

I haven’t done a ton of all-inclusive style resorts, but my room was arguably notch above what I experienced at Secrets Cap Cana a couple years back.

It’s not quite 5 star St. Regis or Four Seasons territory, but a very comfortable 4 star hotel room.

I was treated to a wonderful charcuterie board when I arrived, and The Towers also have my favorite luxury hotel room feature: the Nespresso machine.

I don’t know a coffee pod that costs 50 cents brings me so much joy – but alas, here we are.

The bathroom was a nice size, and the shower was huge.

My balcony overlooked the pool and had a nice ocean view.

The only real critique, and for me what sets it apart from being true 5 star territory, is the bed.

It was certainly passable, but it’s not on the same level as, say, a Ritz Carlton.

Overall for a Mexico all-inclusive, I doubt anyone will be disappointed in the room experience when staying at The Towers at Pacifica.

The Pool at Pueblo Bonito Pacifica

As with most resorts of this style, the hotel towers wrap around the pool, with most if not all rooms looking out over the pool area and ocean.

The pool area is fantastic, and this is where you notice the “adults only” part of Pacifica the most.

I was told they were over 80% capacity while we were there and the pool actually seemed quiet and relaxing! There was no shortage of chairs, or space to get comfortable.

There was a bar nearby serving whatever you needed from tropical pool drinks to tequila shots. 

There were outdoor firepits in the evening, and a row of 20 or so beachside Cabanas available to rent.

Sunset Beach has six pools of various sizes, and the can’t miss Sky Pool with some insane views of the ocean.

We did a breakfast outdoors poolside at Pueblo Bonito Los Cabos, and it seemed fantastic. It was early, so there weren’t a ton of people yet, but the location right by the water was something special.

The Armonia Spa at Pacifica: A Phenomenal Treatment

As I understand it, each of the five Pueblo Bonito Cabo properties has their own outpost of the Armonia Spa (which means harmony).

I spent an afternoon in the Spa and getting a massage at the Pacifica, and it was wonderful.

After a long day of travel the day before, and an early morning round of golf at Quivira Golf Club, a couple hours of taking care of my body felt great.

I had a 50-minute massage which was one of the better I’ve ever had. The massage therapist was friendly, knowledgeable, and used great pressure for a resort – where often they take it easy on you.

The day spa part of it was perfectly adequate with a nice men’s locker room, a whirlpool, a steam room, and a cold plunge. Oddly enough, it didn’t have a dry sauna – but I guess when you’re in a desert in Mexico, you just go outside.

The spa itself certainly wasn’t among the most high-end I’ve been to, but it still provided a wonderful place to relax, and the cold plunge was very nice to see – as often that’s the feature that gets left out.

Dining at Pueblo Bonito Cabo

If you factor in all of the dining options at Pueblo Bonito Cabo, there are a lot.

Far more than I’d ever be able to visit in a short 3 night trip. But we did our best to get around and try as many options as possible.

Siempre at Pacifica

Siempre is located right by the pool at Pacifica. In fact, the pool is kind of built around it. It’s a large space with both indoor and outdoor seating, and serves as the primary “all day” dining option at Pacifica.

I had breakfast there, and they had a very nice buffet with plenty of options and a good omelet bar.

It was a little weird that I was charged a few bucks when I asked for a coffee to go on my way out, considering I was in the all-inclusive package – but I just let it go…

LaFrida at Sunset Beach

For our “fancy dinner” of the trip we ventured over to LaFrida at Sunset Beach. This was the only time I spent there, but you could definitely feel that there was a little bit more action happening at Sunset Beach, as opposed to the very chill and relaxed vibe at Pacifica.

Leading up to the meal, I was told by numerous people it was not just the best restaurant at Pueblo Bonito, but one of the best in all of Cabo.

And after an evening there, I wouldn’t argue that fact.

Their current executive chef hails from Oaxaca, and the flavors on the menu show. 

The squash blossom soup was as beautiful as it was delicious, and made for an excellent starter.

I couldn’t decide between the Sinaloa style barbacoa or the Enchiladas with Duck Carnitas and 2 year mole – so I convinced a friend to split it with me.

Although, I suppose being an all-inclusive I should have just gone for broke and ordered both

Worth noting, there is a $30/pp upcharge for eating here if you’re on the all-inclusive package.

Whale Watching VIP Lounge at The Towers

If you stay at The Towers at Pacifica one of the benefits beyond your personal butler and updated rooms, is access to their VIP lounge.

It’s a nice open room, with a very spacious outdoor balcony and wonderful panoramic ocean views. Perfect for, you guessed it, whale watching.

We actually did see a couple spouting off during our time in Cabo, which was nice considering we were still a little early for whale season.

The Market at Quivira Food Hall

This may have been one of the most pleasant surprises of the trip. We visited here for pre-dinner drinks on my first full night in Cabo (since my flight delays caused a late arrival the night before).

Everything at Pacifica feels pretty chill. So when we walked into the Food Hall and it was bustling I was kind of surprised.

If you’ve ever been to a place like Eataly, the Italian market and food hall, it reminded me of that.

Except instead of just Italian food you had everything from sushi, to tacos, to a high-end chocolatier. 

There were close to a dozen different dining options there, and a fantastic courtyard for outdoor dining as well.

This is one place I’d highly recommend anyone visit if you’re staying at a Pueblo Bonito resort.

The good news is that most of the stuff in the Food Hall is also included in an all-inclusive package. There were a few upcharges (for say, the boutique chocolate truffles), but that was to be expected.

Final Thoughts on Pueblo Bonito Food and Dining

Overall I thought the food was very good across the board at all of the dining spots we hit on the trip.

There was also always a bar close by, eager to serve me whatever I wanted.

Is it the kind of place I’d order an old fashioned and expect it served over a big clear ice cube? Obviously not.

But for margaritas, tequila sunrises, or any drink you’d expect to order at an all-inclusive resort in Mexico – they’ve got you covered.

The free mini-bar in our room with an assortment of beers and sodas was also a welcome touch.

Is it Worth it to Go All-Inclusive at Pueblo Bonito?

One of the big questions you might have is whether or not it’s worth it to splurge for the all-inclusive package when staying at a Pueblo Bonito resort.

The short answer is you know best what kind of traveler you are, and what you’re looking for.

For me personally, I’ve always had the “season pass” mindset when it comes to this kind of thing.

As a kid growing up skiing, I had a season pass to the mountain. The money was already spent, so I could go up every single day and ski all day, or I could go up for just an hour or two.

Same with a golf membership. Because what I’m paying is set, I could play 36, or just go out for 4 holes and not feel guilty if I walk off due to rain.

When you’re on vacation, especially in a place like Cabo, there’s a certain freedom you get from going all-inclusive.

You don’t have to worry about anything.

Little things like “how much is this room service going to cost me?” or “Pool drinks are so expensive, maybe I’ll just wait for dinner.” – don’t matter.

There are different levels of all-inclusive plans at Pueblo Bonito, depending on if you’re an “owner” and the length of your stay.

The cost for my plan in late 2021 was around $150 per person per day.

Did I eat and drink that much during my time there? Probably not. But I’ve found it to be worth paying a little more to simply not have to worry about it. That’s just me though, you know yourself and your budget best.

Check with the resort when you book to see current rates and options.

Golfing at Quivira

Well now that I’m 3,000 words into this resort review, you might be saying…what about the golf?!

Glad you asked. 

One of the unique things I’ve found about golf in Cabo is that access is becoming more and more difficult.

Cabo is a world-class golf destination: but it should be even more so.

The issue with golf in Cabo is that all of the best courses generally have private memberships, with resort play access.

Meaning in order to play a course, you have to be staying at the resort.

So if you want to head down and play 5 rounds at 5 of the best spots? 

Well, then you either need to prepare to move hotels a lot, or have some solid connections with members.

That gripe aside, the golf course associated with Pueblo Bonito is Quivira Golf Club.

And it’s phenomenal.

To the point where if you’re a golfer? Forget everything else I’ve said above, and know that it’s worth staying at a Pueblo Bonito resort just for access to Quivira.

Just be prepared for the fact this isn’t your traditional golf course.

It’s over the top in nearly every way.

Views? Insane.

Holes built into the side of a cliff? Yep.

Comfort stations with free food and drinks? The station at hole 8 had the best tacos of the trip.

If you’re an architecture purist? There will be things you don’t like.

But what struck me after two rounds there was how much better of a course it was than I’d expected.

I expected a couple “wow” holes, and then some run-of-the-mill resort golf.

What I got were 18 holes where I very clearly remember every hole.

With the possible exception of 17 (which was under construction), and 18 which was a bit underwhelming given the craziness of the rest of the course – I enjoyed every hole immensely. 

Few places will have golf as memorable as Quivira. Its neighbor Diamante may have the better golf course by traditional standards, but it honestly won’t be as memorable as the experiences you’ll have at Quivira. And for most people? That’s what is most important.

I liked the course so much that I included it among my favorite courses I’ve ever played.

If you’re thinking of going just for the golf, definitely take a look at my full Quivira Golf Club review.

Final Thoughts on Pueblo Bonito Resorts

Overall, thought Pueblo Bonito was fantastic.

The sheer number of options you have for how you want to spend your days is pretty much unrivaled within Cabo.

Being able to spend one day at the Sky Pool with panoramic vistas at Sunset Beach and the next downtown poolside with your own private beach? That’s pretty killer.

Throw in a world-class meal at LaFrida, world-class golf at Quivira, and end your trip doing nothing but relaxing by the pool and getting a treatment at the Armonia Spa?

I don’t care who you are, that’s a fantastic week right there.

While my trip was abbreviated, I look forward to visiting again and spending a few extra days soaking it all in and experiencing more of what Pueblo Bonito has to offer. Because well, it offers a lot.

The post Pueblo Bonito Cabo: The Ultimate Guide to Your Trip appeared first on Breaking Eighty | Best Golf Courses and Golf Product Reviews.

“Where??”

I’ll forgive you if you’ve never thought of PEI as a golfing mecca, but after you read about my experience there, you might just change your mind.

When most people think of Prince Edwards Island they think of their world famous mussels (of which they provide 70% of North America’s), or if you’re like my wife: “you’re going to Anne of Green Gables?!?”

Yes, PEI is the home to every teenage girl’s favorite red head.

But I’m here to tell you, it’s not all just seafood and musicals, the golf and experience as a whole is truly world class, as you’ll see in this recap.

Where is Prince Edward Island?

Before we dig into the specifics on the golf, we should probably do a quick geography refresher, because unless you’re from Canada or the Northeast I’m willing to bet you might not be super familiar with where PEI is or even what it is.

Prince Edward Island is a Canadian island that is located a few hundred miles due east of Northern Main, and is surrounded by Nova Scotia to the South and East, and New Brunswick to the west.

Getting there is actually relatively easy from the east coast, as they have numerous daily direct flights from both Toronto and Montreal. I flew directly to Toronto from Portland, but due to a few scheduling issues had to also pop over to Montreal.

The airport is just a 10 minute drive from the main city of Charlottetown, which is where stayed and is an excellent hub for all of your golf. Although there are other spots on the island that may be a better fit if you’re looking for a more relaxing or secluded experience – but we’ll cover those later.

PEI Golf Courses: Where to Play on Prince Edward Island

Prince Edward Island is essentially the golf capital of Canada. There are more courses per capita than any other place in the country, with 28 courses for a small island of 150k or so residents.

I think the thing that surprised me the most about golfing in PEI was just how diverse the courses are. They have hills, they have ocean, they have history, they have parkland, links – just about any type of golf you could want, you’ll find on PEI.

And it makes it a truly unique destination in the world of golf.

But of those 28 or so courses, where should you, play?

Of the 28, there are 10 or so that would be more well known for the traveling golfer.

• The Links at Crowbush Cove
• Green Gables Golf Club
• Brudenell River Course
• Dundarave
• Glasgow Hills
• Anderson’s Creek
• Mill River
• Fox Meadow
• Eagle’s Glenn

That isn’t to say the other’s aren’t worth playing by any means, but we’ve gotta draw the line somewhere here!

Of those listed above I personally played 4 of them: Crowbush, Green Gables, Glasgow Hills and Dundarave – which I’ll cover more below.

These were a fantastic introduction to golf in PEI because they varied in both style and location on the island, so we were able to see a lot of what PEI golf was all about.

Crowbush Golf Course: Championship Course with Spectacular Views

The first course we played was Crowbush Cove, and man we came out of the gate hot. Crowbush is probably the most well known course on Prince Edward Island, as it’s ranked 39 in the country by Score Golf. The only two other rounds I’ve played in Canada (Stewart Creek and Banff Springs) were also on this list.

It also hosted a PGA skins game with John Daly, Mike Weir, Mark O’Meara, and Fred Couples – so it’s received some international attention.

It was designed by Tom McBroom in 1992, and set the stage for a golf building boom on the island over the course of the next decade.

The course routing reminds me a bit of Bandon Dunes in that you start inland, work your way out towards the water, back inland, back out towards the water and so on.

Once you hit the 5th, the course really starts to get going, with some really fun holes. In particular I liked the short par 4, 7th – which lets you hit any club off the tee, while giving you a nice ocean view as a backdrop.

The signature stretch is when it heads back out to the water on 15, and then gets right up against the beach on 16.

I also was particularly fond of the uphill par 3, 17th (which I’ve been told many locals actually hate), but I thought it was full of character and was one of the most fun holes on the course.

Play Crowbush If: You want a challenge, excellent conditioning and some of the best golf views on the island.

Green Gables Golf Club: The Island’s Second Oldest Course

Obviously PEI is known as the home of Anne of Green Gables, but I really hadn’t heard much about Green Gables Golf Club.

Built in 1939 it’s the second oldest course on the island, and was designed by none other than, famous Canadian architect Stanley Thompson.

Unfortunately over the years the holes and routings have changed relatively drastically, due to a variety of reasons (not the least of which were all the tourists getting hit by balls while viewing Anne’s House!).

The good news however, is the course doesn’t feel like it’s been rebuilt. It feels natural, and especially with about 5 million dollars of work done a few years back, it still feels like Thompson with high bunker caps that were reminiscent of my time at Banff Springs.

I found this to be the most underrated course we played, and frankly, my favorite. It had a fun routing that occasionally gave you peeks of the ocean, but it was the only course we played that felt Golden Age and had some of the features you might see from a hundred year old course in the northeast.

The 13th which ran down to the water was a favorite, as well as the par 3 16th which had a massive scale to it.

Play Green Gables If: You want a historic course that feels different than anything else on the island. And if you (or your significant other) wants to visit the home of Anne

Glasgow Hills Golf Club: Quirk, Hills, and a Whole Lot of Fun

I’m going to come right out and say it, Glasgow Hills is a blast to play. It’s only a few minute from Green Gables, so if you’re staying near there, it would make for an excellent second round.

The view from the Clubhouse at Glasgow Hills may be the best on the island as it overlooks the course, rolling hills with golden fields, and on a clear day you can see the ocean in the backdrop. Unfortunately, as you can see we did not have a clear day.

Despite being on the side of a hill, it never felt like a chore to play. Sometimes you play courses and feel like all you’re doing is going up. And this course never really felt that way to me.

Well, with the exception of the par 5, 17th hole. This is the single most uphill hole I’ve ever played: and I loved it.

It’s quirky, it’s odd, but there’s still some strategy involved and both your first and second shots are fun.

Glasgow Hills is one of the newest courses on the island, and it definitely feels like more of a modern course. There are some seriously undulating greens, and we’ll just say it’s probably not a course you’d want to walk (at least not the back 9).

On a personal note, after piping my drive down the middle on 18 I committed the ultimate golf faux pas: I added up my score when I knew I had a pretty good round going.

I turned to Woody (the GM who I was playing with) and said “If I birdie this, I shoot a 79.”

“What are you doing! I’ve known you were on track since 15, you don’t ever say that out loud!”

Alas, I faded a perfect 7 iron from the left side of the green and watched it roll to about 3 feet. Made the putt, and redeemed myself from missing a 6 footer at Crowbush for my 79.

Watch this video I shot while on PEI for Location Rebel. Scroll to 7:05 to see the putts:

Play Glasgow Hills If: You like fun golf. You want unique golf holes, hilltop views, and something different than the linksy feel many of the other courses have.

Dundarave Golf Course: A Modern Challenge

The final course I played on my trip was Dundarave, and as far as I’m concerned, it was the most difficult.

Dundarave is a true championship test of golf, stretching all the way out to 7400 yards from the tips.

It’s claim to fame was it hosted a head to head match back in 2006 between Tom Watson and Jack Nicklaus – with Nicklaus taking the victory.

Dundarave has kind of a unique feel in that it often intersects with Brudenell River which has been there for decades. I found it interesting there was so much intersecting land still available to build a course all these years later.

Apparently the land it sits on used to be a campground.

The two courses could not be more different though. Brudenell is more of a vintage parkland, where Dundarave is a big and bold modern course.

Dundarave probably has my favorite hole I played on the island in its par 4, 8th. It’s a spectacular dogleg left that you could almost call a Cape hole, although not quite.

The green could be drivable for long hitters playing down wind, but the real choice to make is how much bunker you want to take on with the tee shot.

The hole is scenic, fun, and it sets up a wonderful stretch of holes.

I found this to be the most difficult of all the courses we played, with a few very long par 4s and a lot of bunkering – but the more I look back on it, the more I realize how much I enjoyed it.

Play Dundarave If: You’re staying at Rodd’s Brudenell River Resort, you want a real challenge, and if you want to experience some of the best holes on the island.

Best Golf Courses in PEI: My thoughts

It’s hard to say which courses are “better” than others when looking at the courses on PEI – because honestly, I’d say they were all at a similar level. All 4 of them were good golf courses. They all had some world class holes, and a handful of more pedestrian holes – but it just kind of comes down to what type of golf you like to play.

Usually when I do trips like this, I have no trouble ranking in order my favorites – but right now, I’m really struggling.

I’d say pretty clearly that I liked Green Gables the best, but the other 3 are almost in a 3 way tie.

Crowbush and Dundarave would definitely be the “better” golf courses if you’re looking at say a Golf Digest ranking, but Glasgow Hills was straight up just a fun course to play, with cool holes, and lots of fun shots.

If you put a gun to my head, the rankings of my favorites (not necessarily what I think the “best” courses are would be:

1. Green Gables
2. Crowbush
3. Dundarave
4. Glasgow Hills

Where to Stay in Prince Edward Island

There are no shortage of options for where to stay when you’re on the island – it really comes down to what you’re looking to do.

If you want a central hub, and like to be close to the action (including bars and nightlife), then I’d recommend you stay in Charlottetown.

We stayed at the Hillhurst Inn (which has a sister property called the Fairholm next door), which was a 2 minute walk to everything, had a wonderful staff, and was extremely quaint.

The rooms were good sized, the beds were comfortable, and the breakfast delicious.

Many of the golf courses mentioned have a resort on site or nearby, so I’d recommend taking a look at a map of the island and lay out what you want to do.

There are Rodd Resorts at both Crowbush and Brudenell/Dundarave, as well as in Charlottetown that may be good options. But you can get a much more thorough look at options at Golf PEI.

Food on Prince Edward Island: Yes, it Really is That Good

If there’s one thing Prince Edward Island is known for more than golf or a red headed girl named Anne, it’s food.

And for good reason.

The food on the island is fantastic, and the seafood is world class. You can get unbelievable mussels just about anywhere, and if there are oysters, lobster or any other seafood on the menu – it’s best to go for it.

There are no shortage of opportunities to get your fix, but a few places I’d recommend you check out are:

Sims Corner Steakhouse PEI

If you’re looking for a nice steak dinner, look no further.

My meal at Sims Corner was one of the best meals I’ve had in recent memory. The Beef, Bacon, Bleu starter was phenomenal, and well, exactly what it sounds like.

My filet was cooked to a perfect medium rare, and the lobster that accompanied it was buttery and moist.

We sampled everything from the oysters, to the wedge salad, to bone marrow – the list goes on, and everything was good. So if you’re looking for a nice meal in Charlottetown, look no further.

Chef Michael Smith: The Fireworks Feast

I’m going to go on about this for probably longer than I should, but you know what? I don’t care, because this was hands down one of the best culinary experiences I’ve ever had.

If you’re from the States you may or may not know who Chef Michael Smith is. He’s a celebrity chef who has had numerous shows on the Food Network in Canada and resides on PEI.

Every night he and his team host what is called the Fireworks Feast. It’s a 5 course meal, that is so much more than that.

He’s built an inn on his property called the Inn at Fortune Bay, which is a stone’s throw from the water, and features a phenomenal collection of gardens.

Your evening starts by grabbing a sangria, gin and tonic or another beverage of your choice and takes you out to the back part of the property where there are stations setup for appetizers.

All of the food for the evening is prepared over an open flame (hence the Fireworks name), and you leisurely stroll among the gardens and sample some of the finest appetizers you’ll ever have in your life.

The menu changes every week based on what ingredients are available, but our night we were treated to smoked salmon, sausage with three different sauces, lamb tacos, an unbelievably tender beef tongue, and the coupe de gras: an unlimited oyster bar.

Yes as you peruse the garden for an hour sampling delicacies for the island, you can visit the oyster bar which featured 2 different types of oysters and their own bloody mary topping, making for some of the very best oysters I’ve ever had. Second, only to Madre in NYC.

At 7pm Chef Michael comes out and gives a champagne toast, announced that we were a “500 oyster crowd”, before we all headed in for a family style 5 course dinner.

I could have walked away after the Oyster Hour and been thrilled. But no, it only gets better.

From the 100 year old bread that was so dense (in a good way) it felt like a shot put ball, to the freshest and most delicious seafood chowder I’ve ever had – the dinner was on point.

It ventured from straight ahead classics like the wagyu beef grilled to a perfect medium rare, to a salad that came in two parts: above the ground and below the ground.

You took the “above the ground” veggies like lettuce, corn, tomatoes and such and mixed them with your plate of “below the ground” items like carrot and beat purees.

It’s a unique ideas that tasted unbelievably fresh.

The wine pairing was excellent, and the Malbec served with the steak was unreal – I’m still looking for bottles to buy here in Portland.

And to top the night off, there were homemade marshmallows by the fire pit.

The dinner is about an hour from Charlottetown, but oh so worth it, and one I’ll be talking about for years to come.

You can see more of the dinner in the video above, scroll to 56 seconds to see it.

Final Thoughts on Prince Edward Island Golf

My golf trip to PEI was even more than I expected to be. From the local hospitality, the world class food, and a great variety of golf – it was unlike any golf destination I’ve been to in the best way possible.

Whether you’re looking for a romantic golf getaway, or something a little more off the beaten path for your next buddies trip, I can’t recommend Prince Edward Island highly enough.

I only wish I’d had the chance to play more of the golf courses on the island, but you know what that means: I’m just going to have to come back next year

My good friend Patrick Koenig, also did a nice write up of our trip as well – so go check it out!

Golf PEI: Everything You Need to Plan Your Trip

I was part of a trip brought in from Golf PEI to experience the island, but all thoughts and commentary are entirely my own.

Go check out their website where you’ll be able to learn everything you could possibly want to know about the island, the golf, the accommodations, and how to plan the perfect golf trip to the island.

Learn more about golf on Prince Edward Island

The post Prince Edward Island Golf: Yes, You Should Go Golf PEI appeared first on Breaking Eighty | Best Golf Courses and Golf Product Reviews.

I know what you’re thinking right now: Philly? Golf? Huh?

It’s totally a sleeper city with dozens of good golf courses. The reason the general public has little knowledge of the city as a golf destination is for two reasons in my mind.

1) Most of the good stuff is private. Philadelphia is one of those super old school cities with lots of private clubs, so access is difficult there.

2) Aside from the US Open at Merion in 2013, the BMW Championship in 2018l, and a handful of other events there hasn’t been a huge Tour presence.

That said, my buddy Patrick had a friend who was a member at Merion that invited him out – and he was kind enough to extend an invitation to me.

See his recap of the trip here.

What transpired was a phenomenal golf trip where we got to play some of the city’s best courses and meet some incredible people along the way.

Here was the itinerary, click for an individual recap of each course:

• Merion Golf Club (East)  – Top 5 in the country, top 15 in the world depending on the list
• Gulph Mills Golf Club –  The toughest tee time in Pennsylvania
• Philadelphia Cricket Club – Host of the 2016 Senior Players
• Rolling Green Golf Club – A fantastic William Flynn design, and host of 2016 US Women’s Amateur
• Aronimink Golf Club  – Donald Ross course ranked #100 in America

While officially, Merion was the only major course I crossed off my quest to play the Top 100 in the world, this is a lineup I’ll gladly fly across the country for, list or no list.

This post shares some of my favorites from the trip, and you can click above to read about the individual courses.

Best of Philadelphia Golf

I should preface this by saying, there was nothing bad on this trip. All of the courses we played were first rate, and Philly lived up to it’s billing as a city with phenomenal golf.

But I get asked a lot about my favorites, so I figured I’d put together a little list for your enjoyment.

Again, this isn’t necessarily a list of what I think is actually architecturally better, but rather what I personally enjoyed the most.

Favorite Philadelphia Golf Courses:

1. Merion
2. Philly Cricket
3. Rolling Green
4. Aronimink
5. Gulph Mills

Best Philadelphia Par 3s:

1. Merion
2. Aronimink
3. Rolling Green
4. Gulph Mills
5. Philly Cricket

Best Philadelphia Set of Par 4s

1. Merion
2. Philly Cricket
3. Rolling Green
4. Aronimink
5. Gulph Mills

Best Philadelphia Set of Par 5s

1. Philly Cricket Club
2. Merion
3. Rolling Green
4. Gulph Mills
5. Aronimink

Best Caddies: Merion

Favorite Par 3s

#13 Philadelphia had some of the very best par 3s I’ve ever played. Choosing favorites was pretty tough

1. #13 at Merion
2. #14 at Rolling Green
3. #17 Aronimink
4. #9 at Merion
5. #4 at Gulph Mills
6. #3 at Philly Cricket Club

Favorite Par 4s

Merion probably had the best collection of par 4s I’ve ever played. It had such a good variety between short/strategic, and long/challenging it kept the round really interesting.

1. #16 Merion
2. #11 Merion
3. #12 Rolling Green
4. #8 Philly Cricket
5. #16 Gulph Mills

Favorite Par 5s

It’s worth noting that we didn’t play a single par 72 course, so there were fewer par 5s to choose from, as compared to your typical golf trip.

1. #7 Philly Cricket
2. #7 Gulph Mills
3. #4 Merion
4. #7 Rolling Green
5. #2 Merion

Best Showers in Philly:

1. Merion
2. Aronimink

As much as I’d love to post a photo of them, the last thing I want to do is make enemies at any of these clubs for posting photos of the inside of the clubhouses or locker rooms

Best Opening Hole at Philadelphia Courses:

The opening hole at Aronimink was a total beast.

1. Aronimink
2. Merion
3. Philly Cricket
4. Gulph Mills
5. Rolling Green

Best Closing Hole in Philadelphia:

There were a lot of good closing holes on this trip. But I’ve gotta give Philly Cricket the nod.

1. Philly Cricket Club
2. Merion
3. Aronimink
4. Gulph Mills (Really cool hole though)
5. Rolling Green

Most Unique Experience: Touring the Archives at Merion

By the Numbers

Holes played: 99 (9 Extra at Rolling Green)
Birdies: 1
Pars: 46
Photos taken: 863
Super touristy things done: 3 (Rocky statue, cheesesteaks, Phillies game)

So that’s it in a nutshell! That was our Philadelphia golf trip, and what a trip it was.

I’d like to give a special thanks to all of the people who helped make my time in Philadelphia so special: Patrick, Deb, Mary, Jill, Mark, John, Jeff, Mike, and Bill.

Be sure to go check out the recaps of all of the courses we played!

• Merion Golf Club
• Philly Cricket Club
• Rolling Green Golf Club
• Aronimink Golf Club
• Gulph Mills Golf Club 

The post Philadelphia Golf: Playing 5 of the Best Golf Courses in Philly appeared first on Breaking Eighty | Best Golf Courses and Golf Product Reviews.

I certainly do. Places like the Maldives, Bali, or Scotland are high on a lot of people’s lists.

And last week I was fortunate enough to cross another bucket list destination off of my list.

Where was it?

The wild, and exotic state of….

Ohio.

OHIO?!

Yes, Ohio.

I had a follow up appointment from a recent surgery and the doctor asked if I had any trips lined up.

“Yep, I’m going to Ohio in a couple weeks.”

“Oh, do you have family there.”

“Nope.”

“Oh. Usually that’s the only reason anybody visits Ohio.”

That might be true, unless, of course, you’re a diehard golfer.

You have to be a bit of a golf nerd to know that Ohio is a hot bed of world class golf.

It boasts 6 courses that you’ll find on top 100 in America lists – and 4 of those are on the Top 100 in the world.

Pretty remarkable.

So after years of pining over a trip to the promised land which is the Home of Jack Nicklaus, Cedar Point, and unfortunately “The Hulk” (more on that in a minute), my good friend Patrick Koenig and I embarked on a golf trip of epic proportions.

You can check out Patrick’s recap here.

Ok, maybe it wasn’t THAT epic, but it was a pretty solid lineup.

For the golf traveler, historian, and purist, a trip to Ohio is a pilgrimage in a similar vein to that of St. Andrews, Pebble Beach, or Bandon Dunes.

It holds an important place in the history of modern golf, and offers you world class courses from many different eras and styles – making it a truly unique and enjoyable destination.

Next time I hope to work in rounds at Double Eagle and Inverness, while skipping the unfortunate bout of food poisoning – but overall the trip was a roaring success.

You can catch all the details of the trip on my reviews of the courses below:

• Day 1: Scioto Country Club
• Day 2: Muirfield Village Golf Club
• Day 3: The Golf Club
• Day 4: Valhalla Golf Club
• Day 5: Camargo Club

A Few Favorites from our Ohio Golf Rounds

People always love hearing about favorites from trips like this, so here are some of mine:

Favorite Courses:

1. Muirfield Village
2. The Golf Club
3. Camargo Club
4. Valhalla
5. Scioto

Favorite Par 3s:

1. #3 The Golf Club
2. #11 Camargo
3. #12 Muirfield Village
4. #8 Camargo
5. #17 Scioto

Favorite Par 4s:

1. #2 Muirfield Village
2. #5 The Golf Club
3. #2 Scioto
4. #14 Muirfield Village
5. #4 Valhalla
6. #7 Camargo
7. #15 Valhalla

Favorite Par 5s:

1. #5 Muirfield Village
2. #8 Scioto
3. #2 Camargo Club
4. #11 Muirfield Village
5. #14 The Golf Club
6. #7 Valhalla

Best Example of Old vs. New

The elegant, traditional, and understated Camargo Club with a million dollar Porsche 918 Spyder parked behind the 18th green.

• Best Addition to a Club: The “Man Cave” at Valhalla.
• Best Bunkering: Camargo Club
• Most Well Maintained Course: Muirfield Village
• Best Getaway: The Golf Club
• Best Social Scene: Scioto Country Club
• Best Halfway House: Muirfield Village with dozens of koi fish in the pond
• Biggest Missed Opportunity: Missing the milkshake at Muirfield Village

Thank You!

Thanks for reading and following along on our trip!

Make sure to give me a follow in Instagram if you haven’t already, and if you’re a member of a private club who likes to travel and experience new courses, make sure to check out The Eighty Club.

The post Ohio Golf: America’s Best Under the Radar Golf Destination? appeared first on Breaking Eighty | Best Golf Courses and Golf Product Reviews.

We’ve had more snow and rain this winter than any in recent memory.

I’ve had landslides on the hill by by my house that have closed roads and have almost caused me to miss a flight.

We also even ran out of heating oil (we’re in an old house), upon our return from London over New Years – which wasn’t able to be refilled for over a week due to snow.

It got down to 44 degrees…in our house. 

Sorry, just needed to vent for a second to set the stage.

So amidst all of this, it was clear it was time to get out for a few days, and more importantly, go some place where golf was a more feasible option.

Enter Los Angeles!

LA in January, how could that be a bad idea?

We lined up rounds at some of our dream golf courses (Riviera Country Club, Wilshire Country Club, Valley Club of Montecito, and Los Angeles Country Club), and proceeded to book an AirBnB in Santa Monica.

All was looking right in the world.

Until, we found out about the torrential rain the area has been seeing.

Global warming strikes again – this time in the destination that was supposed to be my savior from weeks of horrible weather.

This sounds like a lot of bitching, and maybe it is, but I have absolutely no doubt none of you will feel sorry for me by the end of this post – and I’m ok with that

Day 1: Riviera Golf Club

On this trip with me were golf photographer extraordinaire Patrick Koenig, as well as Mr. Hole-in-One, Ben Garrett.

When we landed at LAX on Thursday morning we honestly, weren’t sure if we’d be playing golf.

It had been pouring down rain the day before, and it was supposed to be pouring again on Friday.

Our round at Riviera was originally supposed to be on Friday, but in order to escape weather we’d been trying to change it. But due to the fact there were five of us (long story), we were unsure if we’d be able to make it happen.

Fortunately my friend Tal, and our host Mayumi, are two of the most generous and flexible people in the world, so at 1:30 on Thursday afternoon we headed out as a fivesome – can’t say I expected that.

When you show up at Riviera, you truly feel important for the afternoon. Whether it’s the unbelievably expensive homes surrounding the property, or the beautiful clubhouse itself – you know you’re in for a treat.

Riv was one of those courses that has always been ranked highly, but I didn’t fully understand why.

More than most of the other courses I’ve played in my life, it’s one that really needs to be experienced to properly see why it’s so special, and such a well designed course.

It’s not going to awe you with giant elevation changes (save for the first tee shot), or shock you with crazy green undulations.

What I did find, was that out of all the difficult, truly championship golf courses I’ve played (think Medinah, Olympic, Oakland Hills etc) this was by far my favorite.

It was the first George C. Thomas design I’ve played, and I love his design philosophy of starting with a benign par 5 to get you going.

Right after the starter announced my name, and proceeded to tell us “in the spirit of the game, no mulligans are given on the first tee” I topped one that barely made it 100 yards.

But then was still able to save bogey.

The bunkering on the course is world class. From the wrap around green side bunker at 3, to the bunker in the middle of the green at 6, to the all-world short par 4, 10th – it’s all there for a reason, and it makes you think about every shot.

The kikuyu grass that covers the property took some getting used to, as it grabs your club in the rough and makes hitting balls out extremely difficult.

The setting of the course deep in a canyon, with the clubhouse perched atop a hill watching over you, is one of the best settings for golf I’ve experienced – and I can’t wait to relive it when the pros play the Genesis Open this week.

Day 2: Rained Out

On day two we were supposed to play Wilshire Country Club, which d

espite not knowing a ton about it, aside from that Kyle Phillips did a great renovation, it was one we were excited for.

Despite a torrential downpour, and the fact no one at the proshop was answering their phone, we decided to make the 40 minute drive to the course to see if they’d let a few crazy north-westerners out on the course anyway.

Nope.  Absolutely not.

Ben and Patrick, being much more diehard than me, found the only course that was open in the city (Griffith Park) and played what might have been the wettest 18 holes I’ve ever seen.

I was the prudent one and got work done in the clubhouse.

Day 3: Golf in Santa Barbara

After 3-4 inches of rain fell on Friday, we made the drive up to Santa Barbara in beautiful weather to go experience a truly special club.

Out of respect for the club and our host, I’m not going to post any photos of the course, and I’m simply going to say it’s the kind of club you’d want to be a member at, and if this were the only place in the world where you could spend the rest of your golfing days, you’d count yourself a lucky person.

Day 4: Rustic Canyon Golf Club

After what we were told was the wettest day in LA’s history, we weren’t sure how the public Rustic Canyon track was going to hold up.

But we decided to drive an hour an a half north to Moorpark to find out.

An original Hanse design, it was one we’d all heard good things about, but didn’t necessarily know a whole lot about.

And holy crap, what a surprise.

Rustic Canyon was awesome.

There was a fantastic variety in holes, great scenery, and while the fairways were in pretty rough shape, the greens were well maintained and rolled true.

And considering we paid $32 each for the round, I’d say it is up there with Machrihanish as the best value course I’ve ever played.

The highlight of the day was when we stepped up to the #8 tee box. 8 is a shorter par 3, but with a stiff headwind, was playing about 130.

Ben walks up to the teebox first, and as he is putting his peg in the ground he says, “Watch this, Ace-Cam.”

He hits the ball up into the wind and says it again “ACE-CAM!”

The ball landed about 15 feet beyond the hole on a ridge, and proceeded to trickle all the way back to the hole, and drop in.

The celebration that ensued was unlike anything I’ve experienced on a golf course – despite the fact this was not his first rodeo.

In fact, it wasn’t his second, third, or even fourth.

This was his SEVENTH hole in one.

And his FOURTH in the last 6 months.

Let the hate commence.

The only downside was that because of all the rain, we were literally the only ones out there, so the restaurant was closed.

He wasn’t even able to by a celebratory round of beers.

In & Out had to suffice.

Wrapping Up Our Los Angeles Golf Trip

After that we headed to the airport were I hopped a red eye to Orlando for the 2017 PGA Show and they took off back north to Seattle.

Despite the weather, the trip was everything we hoped it would be.

While we were bummed about Wilshire, we got to play all of the main courses we’d set out to experience and 2 of the 3 we had perfect weather days.

I’m slowly making progress on my top 100 quest with the numbers now at:

• Golf Magazine America – 37/100
• Golf Magazine World – 32/100
• Golf Digest America – 31/100
• Golf Digest World – 23/100

Here’s to the next trip, which will be Atlanta in April!

Also, member of a private club and like to geek out about golf with other likeminded people? Check out The Eighty Club.

The post Los Angeles Golf: 2017 Trip Recap and Photo Tour appeared first on Breaking Eighty | Best Golf Courses and Golf Product Reviews.

Unfortunately with summer obligations, a conference for 3,000 people, a wedding to plan, and a business to run – my time has been (and will continue to be) relatively limited to put together the full course reviews.

That said June has probably been the best month of golf I’ve ever had.

I realized I hadn’t made much progress in my Top 100 goals over the past 6 months – so I went all out and planned two trips nearly back to back.

I was going to write about both of them here, but in order to get this post out the door, I’m just going to focus on the first trip. Then soon I’ll do a post on my second trip, and the more in depth reviews.

The First Trip: New York City

I go to New York a couple times a year, and as I’ve been getting more and more connections in the golf industry – there’s even more reason to go back, since there are so many great courses in the area.

Round 1: The Course at Yale

How this isn’t on Golf Digest’s Top 100 list is beyond me. Quite simply, it’s one of the best courses I’ve played. Period.

It’s 9th hole, biarittz, is one of the best par 3’s in the world:

But the rest of the course is no slouch. Tons of elevation changes, interesting holes, completely wild greens, and a unique redan:

Round 2: Mountain Ridge Country Club

This is the very definition of a hidden gem. An old Ross design that had the best rolling greens of my entire Northeast trip.

The 18th is a monster par 4 finishing hole. Here is the approach:

Round 3: Somerset Hills Country Club

Wow, what a course. This is probably my favorite of all the NYC courses I’ve played. Designed by Tillinghast, it features a wide open front 9 and a back 9 that is a little more secluded through the trees.

What ensues is an adventure of a golf course, with fun holes, excellent design, and a phenomenal golfing experience.

Round 4: Maidstone

I finally got an in at one of the fortress clubs of the Hamptons – and it didn’t disappoint. This was one of the most fun days I had, and I found the course to be vastly underrated on Golf Digest’s list.

Golf Magazine has it as #68 in the world – and for me, I think that’s closer to where it should lie, despite being shorter than many of the courses on the list.

It was also a fun course, and if you know me, you know that I place fun paramount to anything else on a golf course.

The 14th in particular was an absolutely world class golf hole:

The 9th was no slouch either:

Round 5: Atlantic Country Club

We finished our round around 1 at Maidstone, and here I was hanging out in the Hamptons with numerous world class golf courses just minutes away.

There had to be a way to get another round in.

Luckily, I’ve recently had the good fortune to become a rater for Golfweek Magazine. I’d heard good things about Atlantic for years, and it was the first modern course to lead to a resurgence in building in this part of New York (paving the way for clubs like Friars Head and Sebonack.)

My buddy Cam and I headed over to the club after getting the ok, and were treated to a spectacular sunset round, with the entire course to ourselves. Neither of us played all that well, but hey, there were absolutely zero complains on this day.

Round 6: Plainfield Country Club

My final round of the NYC trip was one I was really excited about – and let me tell you, I had to have been, because getting there was a bit of a process:

• 2.5 hour bus ride from East Hampton
• 45 minute taxi back to my place in Chelsea (traffic was horrendous)
• After a 30 minute break to shower and change, I had an hour long train ride to Jersey
• A 20 minute city bus ride
• And then a 3/4 mile walk with my clubs up to the course in 90+ degree weather

And you know what? None of it mattered, as I was treated to an unbelievable round with my host John and his son Johnny.

The course had recovered well from the rough winter, and I’m really excited to see what the pros do at this year’s Barclays.

This is heading into the 9th hole:

10 days later I took off for my next trip to San Francisco, where I got 6 more rounds in, including what might be the most famous course I’ve played to date: Pebble Beach.

I was going to write about those here, but I think I might save that for another day.

I’m looking forward to getting back to more regular posts and reviews on the site – so I appreciate you’re patience while I’ve been focusing on other business stuff!

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