Okay, so I finally pulled the trigger and booked that Bandon Dunes golf trip I’ve been dreaming about. Let me tell you, figuring out the cost was a whole project in itself, so I figured I’d share what I learned in case anyone else is planning a trip.
Getting Started – So Many Options!
First thing I did was, well, I started looking around. Bandon Dunes has, like, five different courses, plus a par-3 course. It’s kind of overwhelming! You’ve got Bandon Dunes, Pacific Dunes, Bandon Trails, Old Macdonald, Sheep Ranch, and then The Preserve (the par-3). So many choices!
The Actual Golf – Figuring out the Rates
The per-round price changes throughout the seasons, in my experince, it’s much more expensive to go during summer. So, to figure out the cost. I’d better check their official websites for their rate card, and also, i did checked some golf trip planners, just in case, for comparing.
- Green Fees: This is the big one. I’d say plan on this being the bulk of your cost.
- Caddies: From what I read, caddies are pretty much the way to go at Bandon. They know the courses inside and out. I needed to factor that into the budget. Figure in the fee, plus a tip.
- Replays: One great things is that if you go at certain times in year, at my experince, you get the same-day replays at a much lower price.
Lodging – Where to Stay?
Then there’s the whole lodging thing. You can stay on-site at Bandon Dunes, which is obviously super convenient, but it definitely comes at a premium. I did also find some information regarding hotels or rentals in the town of Bandon, which are might be cheaper.
- On-Site Lodging: There are different room types, from single rooms to bigger suites and even cottages. It depends on your group size and how fancy you want to get.
- Off-Site Options: I looked at some hotels and vacation rentals in the nearby town. This can save some money.
Don’t Forget the Extras!
Besides all that, I had to think about food, drinks, and getting there. I was checking out flights and rental cars, and that adds up quick! So I looked all those up and created a spreadsheet with all these.
- Flights: I had to find a good deal on flights to North Bend/Coos Bay (OTH), which is the closest airport.
- Rental Car:I checked the prices and found a good car rental website, booked it.
- Food and Drinks: There are restaurants at the resort, but I also budgeted for some meals and snacks elsewhere.
- Pro Shop: Okay, I know I’m going to want a Bandon Dunes hat or something, so I put a little extra in for souvenirs.
So, after doing all this research, creating a spreadsheet, playing around with dates, and finally pulling the trigger, I finally made it!
