The Bandon Vibe

Most golfers ponder every element of their dream golf retreat to Bandon Dunes, trying to encompass all of the smallest details that create an unforgettable experience.

Josh Sens, Senior Writer for GOLF Magazine, said it eloquently when he wrote, “Bandon is a place where the game’s past rushes up to meet its present, even as it points to the promise of its future.” And while in the past, the search for the perfect Bandon itinerary included finding the best way to tackle all five of the resort’s courses, visitors must now find a way to sneak in a sixth, with the introduction of the Sheep Ranch.

As we’ve witnessed over the years, there’s no perfect itinerary for visiting Bandon—just iterations of what your perfect visit looks like. But that doesn’t mean there aren’t some essentials that can elevate your stay, whether it is your first escape to Bandon, or simply the latest. We’ve combined a number of itinerary philosophies from past guests and media experts, as well as some key basics that Bandon’s own staff ambassadors feel are essential to fully embracing your trip.

DAY 1

Arrival

3:00 pm — Arrival
4:00 pm — Links golf acclimation on Bandon Dunes
9:00 pm — McKee’s Pub dinner: build the foundation for a great week with a hearty meal

Bandon Tip: “When you first get to the resort, check-in quick and leave your bags with guest services if timing is tight to make your first round. There is no better way to shake off the travel than to stretch your legs with a walk while enjoying a fresh deep breath of the Pacific Ocean air.”
—Patrick Sims, Guest

“I was struggling to explain Bandon’s appeal to friends until I saw one of Shoe’s daily Twitter posts and said to myself, ‘What other course has a Director of Outside Happiness?’ Take notice of the small details the staff recognizes; it will make you appreciate the experience so much more.”
—Matt Satternus, Plugged in Golf

DAY 2

Anticipation settles into reality

6:30 am — Breakfast at the Tufted Puffin in the Lodge
7:30 am — Warm up at the Practice Center
8:30 am — Tee off at Old Macdonald
1:00 pm — Lunch at Pacific Grill
2:00 pm — Afternoon round on Pacific Dunes
7:30 pm — Dinner at Trails End

Bandon Tip: “I love an early morning round on Old Macdonald not only because you’re typically guaranteed a calmer start, but as the sun rises over the Ghost Tree you feel as if you’re also rising to the golf heavens.”
—Joe Ciombor, Guest

DAY 3

Become one with the bounce

8:00 am — Exercise your mind with a hike to the Labyrinth
8:30 am — Breakfast at Pacific Grill
9:30 am — Morning Group Links Lesson with Bandon’s PGA Master Teaching Professional and local Jedi, Grant Rogers
11:00 am — Lunch at Trails End
12:00 pm — Afternoon round on Bandon Trails
5:30 pm — 60-minute massage at the Massage Center
7:30 pm — Dinner at The Forge in the Main Lodge

Trails End Head Chef: “If you’ve built up an appetite, get a couple plates of pot stickers for the table at lunch. You won't be disappointed.”

“The best decision we made all week was taking a links lesson led by Master PGA Professional Grant Rogers and PGA Pro Jake Sestero.”
—Ashley Mayo, Golf Magazine

DAY 4

Finish in harmony

7:30 am — Breakfast at the Tufted Puffin in the Main Lodge
9:00 am — Early tour around the Sheep Ranch
2:30 pm — Lunch at Tufted Puffin
4:00 pm — Bandon Preserve, if you’re a larger group, inquire about playing as an eight-some
7:00 pm — Punchbowl Putting Competition: settle any bets now or forever hold your peace
8:00 pm — Dinner at Pacific Grill
9:30 pm — Bunker Bar Night Cap

Bandon Preserve Tip: Eight-somes are celebrated on the Bandon Preserve. Bring your group together to either catch up on life upon arrival or have it be one of your last rounds to relive all of the best moments from the trip. You’re bound to have plenty to laugh about!

DAY 5

Departure day

7:00 am — Are your dogs barking? Did you stay out too late at the Bunker Bar? If not, play an early morning 18 on your favorite course or pack the bags and set sail for home.

“Departure day can be a real drag. I’ve often noticed groups gathering near the shuttles looking bummed, myself included. Luckily, the download of photos and thread in your work inbox helps make the transition back to reality easier.”
—Dave Rabil, Guest

FARE-WAYS

The Pub Burger at McKee's is a must-try dish when dining at Bandon

Key ingredients: Irish cheddar, bacon, egg, malt vinegar onions, grain mustard, mayo, on a pretzel roll.

A better burger: One of the favorite dishes at McKee's is the Pub burger! Exceptional brisket and chuck patty with aged, sharp Irish cheddar and freshly pickled onions on a soft pretzel bun and topped with a fried egg. It's the perfect choice for a hearty meal after walking one of Bandon’s six courses.