How much to tip Caddies at Bandon Dunes

[st1800e]

I just checked, the advertised/recommended caddie fee at Bandon is $100.

https://www.bandondunesgolf.com/golf/golf-services/bandon-dunes-caddies/
 

Don’t know how this gets up to $200 with tip etc.  as some suggested.  
 

$130-150 seems very reasonable. Is the “going rate” for tips 30-50% for other services , such as in a restaurant ? 
 

I’ve been to many courses in N America and overseas with caddies, and 30-50% tip is generous.  
 

When in doubt ask the pro shop, caddiemaster or the caddie him/herself.
I’ve never had a caddie provide an “inflated” answer.  
 

 

 

 

[Lions1988]

This is just a money grab for the caddies. I will not fund their life style because they choose to be a caddie and they think 

it should be 200 a bag. I'm not playing professionally, I'm going for fun. I'll take the bag myself and figure it out. 

[monty09]

On 12/16/2023 at 11:13 AM, BG5 said:

 

No $130-$150 for each 18 holes is on par with what they expect.  I know alot of the guys out there and thats totally acceptable.  I paid about $150-$160 a round and I still get a few texts a year asking when my group is coming back.  They double bagged so making $600 a day is big money and they were all very thankful and want us back.  If you are able to tip more that is fantastic but $130-$150 it totally acceptable and they will be happy

 

 

good info.. thank you

[RobS]

I was out there late summer.  Paid $300 a day for 36 ($150 a round) plus some food and drinks. Gave a small bonus at the end of the trip.  Having been around several caddies out there on multiple trips, the experience varies widely.  You can get a great caddie that helps your game, hustles and is fun to be around. You can get a great caddie that helps your game, hustles and otherwise keeps to himself. You can also get a caddie that hustles and is fun to be around but doesn't help your game much but not for lack of trying.  I obviously prefer the great caddie who's fun to be around but I'm ok with any of those types.  The guys I try to avoid were great caddies at one point but are jaded now and think they're doing you a favor.  Some are showing up hungover and asking you to buy them drinks at every station.  They're the right caddies for the hard drinking groups that enjoy the trash talk but if you're really there for the golf and save the drinks for post round, these caddies aren't worth the premium they expect (and usually verbalize) you to pay.

[RobS]

On 12/13/2023 at 10:55 AM, monty09 said:

 

 

naturally... anyone worth requesting?

Neil Leeser is one I'd recommend based on my last trip.  Knows the courses, is good with strategy and shot selection.  Good dude, laid back and fun but professional at the same time.

Edited December 24, 2023 by RobS

[RobS]

On 12/16/2023 at 12:13 PM, BG5 said:

 

No $130-$150 for each 18 holes is on par with what they expect.  I know alot of the guys out there and thats totally acceptable.  I paid about $150-$160 a round and I still get a few texts a year asking when my group is coming back.  They double bagged so making $600 a day is big money and they were all very thankful and want us back.  If you are able to tip more that is fantastic but $130-$150 it totally acceptable and they will be happy

As of a few months ago, I was paying $150-$160 plus some food and drinks for good, experienced caddies who were taking doubles.  I had no complaints and guys were asking me to request them again.  If you're a good guy to caddie for, most guys are going to be happy with $150.  By good guy, I don't necessarily mean good player.  Pack your bag light and treat the caddie like you would treat a fellow golfer, not a rented mule, and most will be happy to be in your group for an entire trip.  Some of the guys asking for $200 up front may be hedging against that occasional group that treats them like they're 2nd class.