Bandon Preserve – Where the Rugged Oregon Coastline Meets 13 World-Class Par 3 Holes
As a golf enthusiast, you’re likely familiar with the world-renowned Bandon Dunes Golf Resort situated on the stunning Oregon Coast. The resort features five championship courses, each with its own unique challenges and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. In addition to golf, the resort offers luxurious accommodations, fine dining, and a variety of outdoor activities. But you might not be aware of Bandon Preserve…a 13-hole par-3 course that rivals the quality of the championship courses at Bandon Dunes.
Opened in 2012 and designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, Bandon Preserve begins high atop a sand dune and rolls down toward the beach, with the Pacific Ocean as the backdrop. With stunning vistas of the Pacific Ocean from every hole, the serene atmosphere is complemented by the natural splendor of Bandon. The journey through the unique terrain of the links is truly an unparalleled experience.
Many think there is an underlying reason for the 13 holes. But superstition or anything else had no part in the decision. Thirteen just happened to be the number of holes that fit the 22-acre site perfectly.
The holes range in length from 60 to 160 yards, each offering a unique challenge. Don’t let the shorter distances of Bandon Preserve fool you – the course is still challenging and requires precision shots. Beginners will appreciate the shorter distances, while experienced golfers will enjoy the challenge of maneuvering through the demanding coastal topography and unpredictable wind patterns. Throughout the course, native grasses and plants are used to minimize the impact on the surrounding ecosystem, making it environmentally friendly.
Bandon Preserve Favorite Holes
Every hole at the Preserve is special, but these are the ones that are etched in my memory forever.
Bandon Preserve #13 – Putter off the Tee
HOLE 1 – The opening hole puts a short iron in your hands with the prevailing wind at your back. It’s important to take note of the hole’s location, as this green has a significant depth from the front to the back. Avoid the front bunker; a shot hit to the right will release onto the green.
HOLE 5 – Number 5 boasts the most significant elevation change with spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean. The prevailing wind will challenge a high ball flight. Avoid the left as it slopes severely away from the green.
HOLE 9 – One of the most stunning holes at The Preserve boasts breathtaking vistas of the Pacific Ocean and the back 9 of Bandon Dunes, making for an intimidating tee shot. Pay attention to the elevation change, as distance control is essential. The mound left of the green can provide forgiveness. Stay focused on the task at hand and avoid getting distracted by the surrounding scenery. (Easier said than done.)
HOLE 10 – The last blind tee shot on the course, as you can only see the top of the flag from the tee. The hole’s incline is uphill, albeit slightly, and bunkers on the front surround the green, left, and back. It’s important to note that the green extends further to the right than you may have initially expected.
HOLE 13 – Playing two balls on the 109-yard 13th has become customary. Play the first ball with your wedge, then putt your second ball from the tee. All downhill and fronted by a rolling downslope leading to the mouth of the green, a putt down the left side of the approach, funneling onto the green, will give you a birdie opportunity and the rare opportunity to 2-putt from 100 yards!
For more information, visit bandondunesgolf.com
Photos courtesy of Bandon Dunes Golf Resort
