Bandon Dunes Golf Resort - Pacific Dunes

Pacific Dunes was designed by Tom Doak and opened in 2001 as the second course at Bandon Dunes Golf Resort on the southern Oregon coast. Resort founder Mike Keiser gave Doak spectacular oceanfront land with coastal bluffs, native gorse, and rolling dune terrain. Doak routed the course to maximize ocean exposure, with multiple holes playing directly along the cliff edge.

The course rose quickly to claim the number-one public course ranking in America. Pacific Dunes is often cited as the layout that elevated Bandon Dunes from a remarkable resort to a pilgrimage destination. Unlike the original Bandon Dunes course by David McLay Kidd, Pacific Dunes maintains extended contact with the bluffs, creating a visual and strategic experience that rivals the great seaside links of the British Isles.

Pacific Dunes is a walking-only links course on the Oregon coast bluffs. The routing alternates between oceanfront holes with breathtaking Pacific views and interior holes through native gorse and dune terrain. At 6,633 yards, it is not long, but constant wind, firm conditions, and strategic greens create a demanding test.

The setting is wild and remote. Caddies are available and highly recommended. The walking-only policy adds to the links authenticity.

Wind is the defining feature. Expect constant ocean breezes of 20-30 mph and plan club selection accordingly. The course rewards ground-game creativity — bump-and-run approaches, low shots, and use of slopes around greens.

A caddie's local knowledge is invaluable for reading greens and managing the wind.