Bandon Trip - September Single w/ Wife

[Lefty_89]

New to the forum (as a member) but wanted to start up a thread to get some knowledge, tips, and insight into Bandon since I just booked my first trip there in September! I had a trip planned in a couple weeks to SD to play Torrey and go to Disney Land, but since Disney doesn't open until a couple weeks after we get there, it made sense to cancel and use the credit towards another trip...why not Bandon?!

I'll be traveling with my non-golfing wife and we have a Golf Single booked at The Lodge; was preferring The Inn so that she could find a spot to relax/read if she doesn't join me for an AM or PM round, so I grabbed a room at The Lodge and waitlisted at The Inn: is there a preference on either for those that have been? Any issues "finding things to do"? I want to make sure she's enjoying the experience when she's not trekking the courses with me.

Here's how the schedule looks so far (kudos to "jackbauer" and threads on the forum for guidance"...)

 

Fly from Houston to Portland

2 hour drive down to Eugene

 

2:30pm Old Mac

Check-in to The Lodge

 

7:30am Sheep Ranch

2:00pm Bandon Trails

 

7:50am Pacific Dunes

1:40pm Bandon Dunes

Preserve?

 

Open if I feel up for a replay + they can squeeze in a single

 

 

Thoughts? Suggestions? Can't wait!!!! Thanks!

Edited September 1, 2020 by Lefty_89

[jackbauer]

Now that you've mentioned your age, play Old Mac after Trails on September 16, pick your favorite course and go there after Bandon on September 17, and play Preserve before you leave on September 18. Trails and Old Mac on the same day is hard but the trade-off is that you'll be able to pick your free holes on the second day after having played all or most of the other courses.

I should caution that Bandon isn't an ideal replacement for a couple's trip. There won't be much for your wife to do.

[kaschreiber]

I myself haven't stayed at the Inn, but have stayed at Chrome Lake and the Lodge and the Lodge is my preference, at least from a golf perspective. It's as centrally located as the lodging gets and has access to Tufted Puffin, Gallery and Bunker Bar. If you go to dinner at the Gallery, it can be a little on the spendy side, but know that you can still order off the Tufted Puffin menu and have it brought to you. That's a way some of the guys on our trip go to save money and the Tufted Puffin menu is still solid.

As far as your wife finding things to do, I imagine she'd still be able to access the Inn if she's just looking for somewhere to cozy up and read while you're out. There are also adirondack chairs on the patio outside of the Lodge that she could set up on if the weather permits and be in the sun, see people finish on 18, and hear the ocean. Your wife is also able to join you for a round if she'd have interest in that. I'd suggest Bandon so she can choose to do the front or back 9 if she doesn't want a full 18 and either way she'd get some of the dramatic cliff side holes depending on what she chooses.

Looks like you're staying there the 15th, which is the right call. You can check out the practice center, play a couple holes on Shorty's, get your bearings, and depending on your wife's feelings on golf, could spend the evening on the Punchbowl (who doesn't like putt putt?). Course scheduling looks good as well, saw your note in another thread about seeing if a loop on Old Mac works after 36 as well and that's a good idea to feel out while you're there in case your last morning doesn't work out.

 

[Lefty_89]

I like that game plan quite a bit; I don’t want to miss out on Preserve so playing there on the last day will be quick and a good way to leave Bandon. Also let’s me avoid the full green fee to play Old Mac if I get it in on the 16th instead.

My wife is actually pretty excited, not sure if it’s from being cooped up from COVID or what, but she’s already talking about taking a camera (she’s a graphic designer) and getting pictures of the course/scenery. Then when she’s not up for it, finding a spot to grab a drink and read a book. I think the fact we’re going to Portland afterwards and she’s looking at different excursions/activities to do there, it gives her some comfort knowing golf won’t be a part of every single day. She wants to get away for a little while and relax; I think the environment that Bandon provides may be perfect for that, without forcing her to walk 36 holes a day with me haha.

[Lefty_89]

Really appreciate the detailed info!

Realistically speaking, I think my wife will actually tag along for a round both days, so she’ll have options to choose from to relax and read a book and/or visit the spa. It’ll be our first time visiting the west coast so I’m sure she’ll bring our camera and take lots of pictures while soaking in the sounds of the Pacific and views.

I already told her I’d throw a righty putter in my bag so we can check out Punchbowl that first night, if it’s still daylight haha; so great idea!

How often in advance do you need to make reservations at Gallery? May get dressed up and go there one night for a little romantic dinner.

Although we had some other dates in mind, a couple weeks earlier in September, I’m surprised how quickly the reservation came together this morning and I’m already counting down the days until we fly out! I was able to play in Ireland and Scotland back in March and I have to admit, I’m looking forward to Bandon even moreso.

Truly appreciate all of the insight/info - keep it coming!

[kaschreiber]

I imagine with just two of you and fewer people travelling you may not even need reservations, but it wouldn't hurt to make them right now- there's no deposit or anything required if you wind up not showing up.

I lived in Portland for 4 years as well before moving home to the Seattle area. If you're looking for any recommendations for things to do in Pdx, shoot me a dm with some things you guys like to do and I might have a couple ideas to consider.

[Lefty_89]

I will absolutely be reaching out for recommendations; we should have 1-1/2 days in Portland and my wife already mentioned something about a “donut tour” haha. Thanks!

[mallrat]

Skip the Gallery and head in town to Alloro (I believe that’s spelled right).

[Slippin_Jimmy]

+1 on Alloro. Great place, went there last time and it was well worth the trip into town.

[Lefty_89]

Really glad y’all mentioned Alloro, menu looks great and it’ll be nice to get out and explore the city of Bandon for one night with the wife. Thanks guys!

[Lefty_89]

Probably already know the answer to this, but what are everyone's thoughts on getting a caddy? I figure I could get one for the rounds that my wife doesn't tag along, so I can focus on grabbing pictures and taking some weight off my shoulders. I'm thinking getting a caddy for the afternoon rounds on the days that I'm there.

Thoughts?

And another question...if I try and sneak in a 3rd round on one of the days, is it easy to get off as a single around 5:30-6pm? No tee time required in advance? Won't be able to get in 18 obviously, but wanted to ask.

Thanks!

[spud3]

Shouldn't be a problem at all to head out that late. Sunset in mid-September is going to be around 7:30, so you might get 9 holes in if you don't run into anybody.

 

I've never taken a caddie, but have played plenty of rounds with guys that have. Having someone to lighten the load is never a bad idea. Afternoon round make sense, especially if you have Trails in the afternoon.

 

I would recommend taking a half set out for your 'bonus' evening holes and skip the scorecard. The weight savings is really nice, and it will make you get creative with some shots. It's a blast to forget about the numbers and just remember why you like to play golf in the first place. Ask at the Preserve starter's shack if you can borrow one of their little carry bags.

[Lefty_89]

Changed up things a little...

Going to fly into PDX on Monday afternoon, spend the night in Eugene, then make the trip down mid-morning on Tuesday for a 2:30 tee time at OM. Leaves me open if I feel like grabbing a replay on the Friday that we head out, if something is open. Definitely want to make time to get a round in at Preserve also!

[2bGood]

I have been to Bandon about a dozen times, typically outside of high season (Feb or Oct). Outside of high season the resort is like a giant mens lounge. It is a super rare site to see a woman on the property that does not work there and the place is filled with guys on 'boys trips'. However I popped in for a round a few times in July and August when driving the coast with my wife. In the summer I did notice the resort has way more couples and a different vibe and more than a few non golfing spouse hanging and enjoy the property. Lots of great places for you wife to hang out and enjoy the property of the weather is to rough for her to walk the course with you.

Glad you already got the advice to reserve restaurants now as they do book up. There is no penalty for cancelling, but for places like the Pacific Grill can be tough to get reservation for if you leave it too long. (Take this advice with a bit of a grain of salt as we are typically 4-12). The gallery is my least favourite restaurant on site

As a single, I suspect you will be able to shift tee times a fair amount and change your schedule as needed.

[Lefty_89]

Thoughts on best day (night) to sneak in Preserve? Would it be best to grab a tee time now, or are they flexible day before / day of?

 

Edited September 1, 2020 by Lefty_89

[puttnforthe8]

 

After Trails is the most logical - you can grab a bite at Trails and then head out across the road. Usually there is plenty of flexibility....I would call and see how many times are booked for that day and go off that.

[spud3]

Agree with puttn above, as long as you have the energy for it. Depending on the weather, you may be pretty beat after a (likely) windy morning on SR followed by a challenging walk on Trails. And all bets are off if it is raining and windy. That can really sap your strength.

 

You'll have the most energy after OM on the first day, but frankly any of the three where you feel up to it would work. Depending on how full the resort is, the Preserve can take on a bit of a circus atmosphere, especially in the evenings. It can get a little dangerous in some spots...

 

Really the best time to play the Preserve is in the morning, before your first round. It's a great warm-up, and there are less people (and they're sober)

[Lefty_89]

Thanks guys! I may try and play Preserve before Old Mac that first day, around Noon or so. I’ve seen Preserve can take 60-90 minutes to get around, is that the general consensus? May be a good way to get acclimated to the terrain without lugging around my full set of clubs before OM.

 

Also - how does the green fee work with Preserve if you loop it in with 18 or 36?

 

Thanks as always!

[puttnforthe8]

AH HA - Preserve would be free after the 2 rounds! If you play it first, then it is $100. I actually do not know if it counts towards the replay rates of the other courses...never have done it that way.

That being said...Preserve fee is for net funding goes to the Wild Rivers Alliance which protects the southern oregon coast environment, So your money goes to a good cause regardless!

[Lefty_89]

Haha just my luck!

No worries, $100 won’t be breaking the bank and the more I think about it, it may be a nice loop around before heading over to OM. Depending on sunset and how exhausted I am after the 36 days I may try and sneak back on for 9 somewhere. Doubtful that will happen, but nice to leave options open!

I keep hearing how epic Preserve is, so it may be nice to make it the first stop.

[spud3]

We had a nice long thread about that very subject not too long ago.

 

There were those on here who said they have done the Preserve first thing, then gotten their round on a big course for half off, and third round for free. There are others who said they tried that and were told that is not the way it works. I am, personally, skeptical that the resort would allow it, but I could be wrong. Even if there was a loophole like that, I can't imagine they would allow it to go on very long, as they could lose some serious coin if word gets out about that (and it would).

 

Still, I may give it a try on my next solo trip, just for yucks.

 

The Preserve is free if you've played a full price round and a replay on the same day. That I know.

[Lefty_89]

Thanks spud3 - great insight

I just called Reservations and got a tee time on the 15th at 11:30am; hopefully a nice intro to Bandon and warmup before OM.

They said the last spot they book on Preserve is at 5:30pm, so it made sense to go ahead and grab a spot now while I can.

[Lefty_89]

Only a few weeks away and have a couple of thoughts/questions!

 

We changed things up a little...we'll be making the trip down from Portland on Monday afternoon and staying overnight in Coquille; got a good deal on an air-b-n-b.

• We're hoping to take the "coastal route" down from Portland; are there any spots or scenic areas where the wife and I should make note to stop?
• Take in mind we're from Houston where things are very...flat, so the trees/ocean views will means lots to us!

Since we'll be in Coquille and I am slated for Preserve at 11:30 then Old Mac at 2:30, I was thinking of moving Preserve to the morning we check out (last day) and doing 36 the first day instead of 31. 

• Is this a good idea and best for the value? 36 / 36 / 36 / 13
• If so, should I leave OM at 2:30 and try for BD or BT in the morning?
• Switch OM to morning and BD in the afternoon?

Thanks!

[bcc69]

On 6/15/2020 at 12:37 PM, Lefty_89 said:

Really appreciate the detailed info!

Realistically speaking, I think my wife will actually tag along for a round both days, so she’ll have options to choose from to relax and read a book and/or visit the spa. It’ll be our first time visiting the west coast so I’m sure she’ll bring our camera and take lots of pictures while soaking in the sounds of the Pacific and views.

I already told her I’d throw a righty putter in my bag so we can check out Punchbowl that first night, if it’s still daylight haha; so great idea!

How often in advance do you need to make reservations at Gallery? May get dressed up and go there one night for a little romantic dinner.

Although we had some other dates in mind, a couple weeks earlier in September, I’m surprised how quickly the reservation came together this morning and I’m already counting down the days until we fly out! I was able to play in Ireland and Scotland back in March and I have to admit, I’m looking forward to Bandon even moreso.

Truly appreciate all of the insight/info - keep it coming!

My reservation agent recommended making dinner reservations in advance.  I'll be there the 2nd week of September.  Can't wait!!

 

[Lefty_89]

1 minute ago, bcc69 said:

My reservation agent recommended making dinner reservations in advance.  I'll be there the 2nd week of September.  Can't wait!!

 

Nice! I'll be there the 15th to 18th and keep thinking of ways to move around my tee times haha.

 

What does your schedule look like on your trip?

[bcc69]

7 minutes ago, Lefty_89 said:

Nice! I'll be there the 15th to 18th and keep thinking of ways to move around my tee times haha.

 

What does your schedule look like on your trip?

Sep 7: Arrive.  Relax and Short practice.  Maybe the Preserve

Sep 8: Sheep Ranch AM

Sep 9: Sheep Ranch AM/Pac Dunes PM

Sep 10: Pac Dunes AM/Bandon Trails PM

Sep 11: Bandon Dunes

Sep 12: Pac Dunes

Sep 13: Bandon Dunes 

 

This will be my 5th time, and I know my limitations as to how many days I can play 36 holes.  I just realized I forgot Old Mac somewhere.  I'll have to call and see what they can do.

Have a great time!

[Lefty_89]

2 minutes ago, bcc69 said:

Sep 7: Arrive.  Relax and Short practice.  Maybe the Preserve

Sep 8: Sheep Ranch AM

Sep 9: Sheep Ranch AM/Pac Dunes PM

Sep 10: Pac Dunes AM/Bandon Trails PM

Sep 11: Bandon Dunes

Sep 12: Pac Dunes

Sep 13: Bandon Dunes 

 

This will be my 5th time, and I know my limitations as to how many days I can play 36 holes.  I just realized I forgot Old Mac somewhere.  I'll have to call and see what they can do.

Have a great time!

Looks solid!!!

 

Just based off the threads I've read and extensive "research" I've done since this will be my first time, I think I am looking forward to Sheep the most but know that can definitely change once the trip is over.

 

I really think I may try to sneak in Preserve either on the last day or after 36 one night; it would be cool to play BD the morning I arrive then OM in the afternoon. Depending on some of the feedback I get, I may have to give reservations another call!

 

Safe travels and hit 'em well!

[spud3]

I think your plan is fine, as is.  The Preserve is a great intro to the kinds of turf and shots you'll need to familiarize yourself with for the big courses.  Plus, that leaves you time for a nice relaxed breakfast in Coquille (or at the resort, as Coquille is a sleepy little logging town) and some quality time with the wife.  Gotta keep Headquarters happy...

 

If your wife likes walking, there is a decent system of trails at the resort, including both dunes and forest routes.  Right next door to the resort is Bullards Beach State Park, where there is good beach walking.  She will absolutely be able to camp out with a book at the Inn if she likes.  As has been mentioned, there's not a ton for non-golfers to do, but if you have a rental car, she has more options for exploring the area and Bandon (a sleepy little fishing town).  It's worth mentioning that all beaches in Oregon are public spaces - there are no private beaches anywhere in the state.  And no sales tax, either.

 

As for the trip down from Portland, driving 101 along the coast is a kind of long endeavor, however breathtaking the scenery can be. I'd suggest taking OR 99W and OR 18 through McMinnville to Lincoln City, then south to Coquille.  That would be about a 5 hour drive if you just went straight through, but you would have plenty of time to stop at some of the numerous state parks and lookouts along the coast.  That route goes through the heart of the Willamette Valley wine country, so you can stop at a winery or two if you're into that.  Once you get to 101, you can explore the old town sections of Newport and/or Florence (skip Lincoln City, there's not much there) both of which have thriving art communities.  Good seafood can be had in a lot of places, but my favorites are in Yachats (pronounced YAH-hots; Luna Sea or the Drift Inn)  and Newport (South Beach Fish Market) or if you make it to Coos Bay, Shark Bite Cafe.

 

You have a great trip planned.  Not much else to do but go and enjoy it!

[Lefty_89]

14 hours ago, spud3 said:

I think your plan is fine, as is.  The Preserve is a great intro to the kinds of turf and shots you'll need to familiarize yourself with for the big courses.  Plus, that leaves you time for a nice relaxed breakfast in Coquille (or at the resort, as Coquille is a sleepy little logging town) and some quality time with the wife.  Gotta keep Headquarters happy...

 

If your wife likes walking, there is a decent system of trails at the resort, including both dunes and forest routes.  Right next door to the resort is Bullards Beach State Park, where there is good beach walking.  She will absolutely be able to camp out with a book at the Inn if she likes.  As has been mentioned, there's not a ton for non-golfers to do, but if you have a rental car, she has more options for exploring the area and Bandon (a sleepy little fishing town).  It's worth mentioning that all beaches in Oregon are public spaces - there are no private beaches anywhere in the state.  And no sales tax, either.

 

As for the trip down from Portland, driving 101 along the coast is a kind of long endeavor, however breathtaking the scenery can be. I'd suggest taking OR 99W and OR 18 through McMinnville to Lincoln City, then south to Coquille.  That would be about a 5 hour drive if you just went straight through, but you would have plenty of time to stop at some of the numerous state parks and lookouts along the coast.  That route goes through the heart of the Willamette Valley wine country, so you can stop at a winery or two if you're into that.  Once you get to 101, you can explore the old town sections of Newport and/or Florence (skip Lincoln City, there's not much there) both of which have thriving art communities.  Good seafood can be had in a lot of places, but my favorites are in Yachats (pronounced YAH-hots; Luna Sea or the Drift Inn)  and Newport (South Beach Fish Market) or if you make it to Coos Bay, Shark Bite Cafe.

 

You have a great trip planned.  Not much else to do but go and enjoy it!

 

Thanks as always, spud!!!

 

Some great stuff here...wife and I are definitely now interested in making a stop at a winery (or two) on the trip down; will be fun to grab a couple of bottles to stock up our room at Bandon! She's art-minded too, so swinging by Newport and/or Florence sounds like a blast. You pretty much hit the nail on the head with things that are geared more towards her (and me) so I am very appreciative!

 

I actually called Reservations yesterday and switched my 11:30am Preserve round over to BD at 9am, but after sleeping on it, I'll probably call them back today and get it reversed haha! Certainly don't want to upset the person at Headquarters...!

 

I was thinking about perhaps staying in town at Bandon or somewhere along the coast after my last round on that Thursday evening; would save us a little bit of money and might not make much sense to stay at the Lodge if I don't have a round planned that next morning. What are your thoughts? Is that something that I can change a week before the trip? Don't want to lose out on my rounds that I already have booked!

[bcc69]

28 minutes ago, Lefty_89 said:

 

Thanks as always, spud!!!

 

Some great stuff here...wife and I are definitely now interested in making a stop at a winery (or two) on the trip down; will be fun to grab a couple of bottles to stock up our room at Bandon! She's art-minded too, so swinging by Newport and/or Florence sounds like a blast. You pretty much hit the nail on the head with things that are geared more towards her (and me) so I am very appreciative!

 

I actually called Reservations yesterday and switched my 11:30am Preserve round over to BD at 9am, but after sleeping on it, I'll probably call them back today and get it reversed haha! Certainly don't want to upset the person at Headquarters...!

 

I was thinking about perhaps staying in town at Bandon or somewhere along the coast after my last round on that Thursday evening; would save us a little bit of money and might not make much sense to stay at the Lodge if I don't have a round planned that next morning. What are your thoughts? Is that something that I can change a week before the trip? Don't want to lose out on my rounds that I already have booked!

They have a 30 day cancellation/reduction policy, so you might incur some sort of penalty if you reduce the number of nights you're staying at this time.  It's worth a try to call and ask though.