Many people try to say that a Bandon trip in March is a crazy person's choice. Well, I am here to say they are crazy. We had beautiful weather 3 of 4 days, the gorse was in full bloom, the conditions were firm and fast, the resort and courses were not terribly crowded, and the NCAA tournament was in full stride.
Please do take the cadddies-- they are an essential part of the total "experience." The food was more than acceptable considering the low-key dining environment in the Gallery Restaurant, but the food and views at the Bandon Trails course were perfect each time we ate there. They have a great mix of course design features on each course that will really make you think yourself around the course. All three courses were truly world class. I cannot believe that the Trails course does not receive more acclaim. When the wind is up Pac Dunes can be every bit as intimidating and difficult as the Ocean Course in Kiawah Island, SC. If you are considering going, just go- you will never regret it.
Word to the wise, the driving trip down from Portland is only worth it if you can save the money. Otherwise, get as close to the resort as possible by flying into Eugene or North Bend Airport.
Ask for PK Devereaux as a very knowledgeable senior caddie.

If you are looking for a golf destination where golf is all that you want to do then Bandon is the place. Three great golf courses, i would rank Pacific Dunes the best, Bandon Trails second and Bandon Dunes third. The accomodations where fine, the restaurant choices where good and the pub was a fun place. If you are used to going to Pinehurst or Kiawah Island for golf then you will love this place but if you are going for anything luxurious outside of golf then you will be disappointed. Not a family place, no spa, no pool, just golf. Also be aware that all three courses are walking only, you can use a pull cart but I would suggest to get a caddy the first time you play each course. We got lucky with three out of four days being sunny, the other day was brutal, 30-45 mph winds with the rain blowing sideways, still had a great time blasting drives into the wind to have them go 150 yards. Overall, great time go with your golf buddies, unless you girlfriend/spouse is a diehard this may not be the place.

I traveled to Bandon Dunes with my son and his friend in July. I was excited about that trip and had been given the name of a top notch caddy. Rodney Young is a sr caddie who has been there for 10years. I couldn't have askd for a better caddy. Rodney knew all there was to know about all three courses, and had the personality to make the whole trip so much more rewarding. What was even more great was that when I asked for a caddy to help with my son and his friend, I was told that his daughter was a caddy as well, so I grabbed her. Not physically, but professionally. I was a bit weary though when I first met her at the tee box. She was an adorable 16 year old girl. I had two thoughts, one-my son and friend were going to be drooling over her, and two-she was going to be nothing but a burden and a waste of my money. I was very wrong, at least on one count. Brieana-her name, was much like her father. Very profesional, very knowledable and had a great personality. She was not intimated at all, working along side her father, and wasn't like most teens that I know. But my son and his friend, yes--they drooled alot, they are still talking about Breanna and their trip, but I don't think that remember much about the golf.

When I return, I plan on requesting Rodney Young, and although I probably won't bring my son (It was bit harder for him then we thought) I would also request Rodney's daughter Breanna Young for whomever I bring with me. Who knew that I would meet a Caddy Family-and never want to have anyone else.

If you want golf at the very best, Bandon Dunes is for you. If you want incredible views, as true as you can in the States links-style golf and very nice accomodations this is Heaven. I have been to many of the great Resorts, but for the money its the best. Not for the whole family, no pool, no spa, just great golf and great food.