The Ultimate Guide to Visiting Bandon Dunes

[@neilhefty2999]

I've been to Bandon 6 times, and this Guide is 100% spot on. Nice work.

[@neilhefty2999]

Although, I totally disagree with the Course Rankings... ;) but that's also part of the fun.

[@breakingeighty]

Thanks Neil! And absolutely, the best part in talking about Bandon is debating course rankings :)

[@darrinquillen]

Bandon native here. A lot of good information and I'll just add a few things. Don't be afraid to stay in the town of Bandon, the resort is north of town and easy to get to. Bandon has spectacular beaches, something you don't really see from the resort. Summer play is the roughest time of year. You'll either have wind (if the sun is shining) or fog (if it is hot in the valley). November to February usually has some of the very best weather. If you can plan a quick trip then, it could definitely be worth it. If you think a caddy is a splurge, just do it. Your scorecard will thank you for it!

[@LOHO8682]

Having a spouse from Oregon, Bandon has always been a destination for me when we visit from Texas. I'll add to the food/drink; drink Oregon Pinot 🍷and after one round go down to the pier, rent a crab trap and bait (frozen chicken), then go crabbing off the dock/pier and fill up a 5 gal bucket (probably 90 min. adventure) with a few participants, then have them steamed (local shop will do it for you), return to your stay, have crab/wine/local beer with fresh bread, and watch the Oregon version of a sunset. A fond father memory at Bandon was my boys calling me after I had played 18 and asking if we could go crabbing, reluctantly I put the clubs down and headed to the pier. What a blast and memory for two young boys and their parents. Just Do It!

[@shaenesbitt]

This video is extremely informational! I’ve definitely been to Bandon Dunes a lot of times but I love how detailed this is for people that haven’t been to the resort. The only thing I’m really surprised that you didn’t mention was caddies and if they’re worth it or not, in my opinion they definitely are worth it!

[@carleverts5520]

As a Bandon Dunes Looper I was a little disappointed in no mention. Its definitely worth it with. It's at least worth a mention. We are here to enhance and great a great memories for you. We love every single person coming and returning to Bandon Dunes. If you you haven't been it just may change your life. Come Links golf a try.

[@DaveShaves44]

great video! i went to bandon about 5 years ago now and didnt even realize they had a worldclass golf facility.... im going back next summer with bunch of immediate and extended family and now i cannot wait to play a few of these courses! this video helped me out IMMENSELY because i was definitely overwhelmed looking at their website and trying to figure out where to stay and play lol. cheers mate!

[@breakingeighty]

You're in for a treat!

[@johncorman8715]

Really good primer on Bandon. I may have missed the mention but everyone should know the courses are walking only and that caddies are available (minimum of $100). Pull carts are $5. I live in Oregon, but those having costly and complex travel to get to the resort might look at seasonal rainfall averages to figure if it is worth the risk to come in the winter in order to save money. I don't think you mentioned the Chrome Lake lodging: Nice and roomy (same price as Lily Pond) plus most downstairs rooms have a jacuzzi tub. Upstairs rooms have two BR's and are more expensive. Visitors generally have to make reservations for the resort well in advance. Very good video, thanks!

[@LocationRebel]

Thanks for adding a few things that got left out! Yes, Chrome Lake lofts are actually some of my favorite lodging options n property, and the downstairs ones are great as well.

[@bradfordkidd4037]

Holy hell... an video that is actually helpful. Great work!

[@breakingeighty]

Ha we all get lucky every one in awhile. Glad it was useful!

[@matt_ski05]

At 14:30 you say that other resorts you have to drive to your round away from the main clubhouse. At Pinehurst, they have shuttles that take you to each course and restaurant they own and operate, and your clubs will already be at the course if you do not take them yourself. Will be experiencing whistling straits soon so I can report back later, but just wanted to add clarification to a claim you made. Great video and hope to experience bandon soon!

[@uwhaku]

Was just there in May and his overview in general is great! Here are a few tips I would recommend based on our time there. *Play Preserve when you arrive. It is a great introduction to the style of golf you will experience for the rest of your stay. Because its a Par 3 course it also takes some of the pressure off from feeling like you need to play your best and allows you to ease into the week. *If you are doing 36 per day, play Trails in the afternoon. It is the most protected from the wind *Play Bandon Dunes in the afternoon/evening. The sunset views are worth the slightly more difficult playing conditions with the wind. *Play Sheep Ranch in the morning. The views are amazing and it tends to be most exposed to the wind *Take at least one caddy with your group on every course.

[@DaveShaves44]

do you have to take a caddy? i suck too much to even warrant one lol

[@uwhaku]

@@DaveShaves44 You don't have to, but it made my round far more enjoyable.

[@JorgePortaMirave]

Superb work Sean!! Can't wait until one day I will travel from Spain to visit my dream resort!

[@breakingeighty]

Thanks Jorge!

[@jschneid4905]

Fantastic video as always I cant wait for your next one because you always give great detail on what to expect For people who havent subscribed what are you waiting for Im glad I did

[@breakingeighty]

Really appreciate the kind words!!

[@larrywhalen]

Thanks for a great guide! We are headed to Bandon in August 24' and I'm too excited!

[@breakingeighty]

Glad you enjoyed it! You've got a lot to look forward to!

[@bhbayley1640]

Sheep Ranch does not have the sand base that the others have. It is the lesser course at the resort. Last time I was there they were saying it was the most popular course at the resort. That is fine by me as it leaves the other courses for the real golf aficionados. PS Old MacDonald is a real blast in the summer!

[@ThicckieFowler]

Can't wait to get up there. Currently, looks like it's a 12+ month wait to get a large group out there

[@breakingeighty]

Yeah I edited a part in this video for time reasons, but I mentioned I booked a group of 20 in January of 2022, and the earliest we could get in is November 2023.

[@jeffreyestes6602]

So, one of my great-grandparents was a course designer in the 1920's so anytime I ever get the chance to play a course modeled after that golden era design I don't think I could skip it. Bandon Dunes, Old Macdonald and Sheep ranch would probably be my choices.

[@breakingeighty]

The good news is there isn't a bad choice. All of the courses are phenomenal. And they're different enough that it gets a little bit easier to choose based on your personal preferences.

[@tiger1701]

Glad to see Trails getting some shine!

[@breakingeighty]

It's my favorite course there!

[@joshuaolmsted2865]

What a delightful guide! I wish I had had this prior to my first trip to Bandon in 2020.

[@kevinsmithDKS]

Found your channel through your Garmin review and I know this channel is going to do well. You’re producing quality content and I’m excited for your future in the space. Cheers!

[@breakingeighty]

Really appreciate the kind words! Been a fun process getting into video after so many years of blogging on the website.

[@dalaiw4498]

Ok, this is very well done. I live in Oregon and have played all well over 20 times. Lodging recommendations are spot on. If you are a mid teens handicapper then I basically agree with his course order recommendation. However, if you are a better golfer or are more into the views then do Old Mac and /or SR then Bandon trails but please finish with Bandon Dunes or Pacific Dunes. All the better golfers like PD but BD and PD are the jewels of the property. I love BT but it is hard to rank it higher due to views…especially if the wales are migrating! Very well done video. Grove is excellent loading especially if you have 4 some. I just stayed in BT new lodging and it was great too. I would not worry too much about time of year…you will be bringing your rain gear no matter what but agree Aug and Sep are beautiful. Interestingly, the best conversations and atmosphere in restaurants and bar is when it was not such a good weather day! Enjoy. Also, please visit Bandon and Coos Bay as they have some nice eateries too and you can support the local communities!

[@deweyhorstman8114]

Great review. Added this to the bucket list.

[@chuckgarduno9798]

I played Bandon crossings(not in the same tract” but it sounds like Bandon trails. Super course. I’d love to play some of these as my bro live in CoosBay. Can’t wait

[@andrewzacks]

Well played from another “Trails is my fave” guy.

[@Dubbification]

Well done review! Been hoping to plan a trip with the fellas, but didn't know where to start. This was everything I wanted to know! Instant sub. Keep it coming!

[@Miyagiclan1]

Awesome - been going for years. I agree with your rankings - Trails is a must to golf

[@nldmaster]

Just got back from Bandon for my first time. This is the only video I watched and it was spot on, except for the course ranking. I think you have them backwards.

[@breakingeighty]

That's the best part about Bandon, everyone has a different opinion. And everyone is right :)

[@maxvannostrand9196]

Thanks for this Sean. Excellent info!!

[@michaelriddell2881]

This is an incredible guide! Thank you!

[@bradshores9617]

Fantastic video

[@juiceqc7716]

Great work. One thing though. Is the best golf bar anywhere not the Jigger Inn?

[@johnjacobson2010]

thanks - I am heading over to bandon this august - this is a very timely awesome review. Are there any places (budget or otherwise) to stay that are a little bit further out ? Will the shuttles go to those places like the town of bandon or you are left to your own devices? I see some options like best western inn and other places especially if you cannot get any reservations for stay in the resort itself.

[@breakingeighty]

Unfortunately the shuttles only go between areas within the resort itself, so if you stay in the town of Bandon you'll need to arrange your own transportation. And yes, there are a handful of motels like the Best Western within 20 minutes or so. There's also an Airbnb called The Bandon Manor which could be a great option, but is probably not that much cheaper than staying at the resort - depends on how many people you have staying.

[@dakotastone130]

I'm going in August too! This was an awesome video to get me (if you can believe it) more excited than I already am. Sean, did you by chance find the labyrinth in the woods and do you think it's worth checking out?

[@dylanoneill4775]

prefer Trails for a morning round or afternoon?

[@breakingeighty]

Personally? Afternoon. A sunset on 16 at Bandon Dunes is about as good as it gets, but hitting the back 9 in the late afternoon with the sun shining down at Trails is a very close second. Plus, it's less windy on Trails in the afternoon compared to other more exposed courses.

[@shiggy1991]

Allergy sufferer here, would April be a rough time to go to Bandon?

[@breakingeighty]

To be honest? I have no idea. I've generally had allergies myself, but I haven't heard about this being an issue for anyone else. I suppose there might be a slight increase with the gorse in bloom. But I'd guess you'd be fine since it's all links golf out on the ocean. Only issue I see is potentially playing Trails.

[@VimMitt]

What is the average temp all year around?

[@patrickwillyard4729]

What was the room name at the Inn?

[@standardh_]

$450 this summer!

[@jamesgewalt2571]

The rates have went up. Its now $110 for the cheapest

[@seanfitzgerald8191]

Calling any golf bar in the US the best golf bar in the world is crazy… coming from an American

[@dh3279]

Soooooo glad I clicked on this! Fantastic review! I’ve never been to Bandon, but I always assumed it was just a single overrated golf course in the middle of nothing. I had no idea it was a full resort with so many beautiful challenging courses and impressive amenities. Your detailed review opened my eyes! Not sure I’ll ever be able to afford it, but I’m definitely adding Bandon to my bucket list! Thanks, Sean!

[@moonlanding-69]

Chambers Bay was better. And Langdon Farms.

[@thomasrichardson-ev1wp]

Bandon Dunes is overrated especially for the cost. You can fly to Ireland and play 5-7 rounds cheaper than you can at Bandon Dunes. Don’t waste your money.

[@Wangchung405]

Weird way of saying you’re a poor 32 handicap

[@CallOnColin]

Tough look on this take. Even the cheaper offseason is the greatest golfing in the word.

[@steveparkin2366]

This is true if you look at it purely from a $ standpoint. Nowhere are you able to play 5 elite links courses in Ireland without any travel. The food and lodging at Bandon makes it all simpler. I’ve taken a trip to the West of Ireland and played from Carne to Dooks. While it costs less $ than Bandon (prices of Irish golf has exploded however) the time and effort in the travel from A to B to C to D costs way more in Ireland from a non $ standpoint. Do you want to spend your time on a golf course or in a car?

[@yeetymcyeetersson1639]

Ireland is overrated especially for the cost. You can fly to Afghanistan and play 5-7 rounds cheaper than you can in Ireland. Don’t waste your money.

[@thomasrichardson-ev1wp]

@@yeetymcyeetersson1639 stupid reply