Read my review before you see 4 stars and expect Pinehurst…read more
I played my second round at Pinetuck today. I love it. It serves a purpose. I live 30 minutes away and both times I have gone there, I have rolled right in without a t time and have been on the 1st tbox in 5 minutes and have played 3 hour rounds, only because I have taken extra time and hit multiple shots on some holes. It's $30, not $75-80 like seemingly everywhere. Don't think it will look like a $75 greens fee course, it doesn't.
Now here's the thing....it's all about expectations. The course is not in good shape, in fact pretty bad in some spots but I know that and I'm personally ok with it. I feel about 50% of the course layout is actually spectacular. There are many beautiful holes and I can see the potential if it were maintained better. There are barely any houses on the course, most of the course is in the woods, but not super narrow, still some room to miss.
To me, it's perfect to relax, get away from life for a few hours, destress and get some thinking done. It's practice golf, get out there and hit it around a bit, hit a couple of tshots if you like, there is probably not going to be a rush. If your ball is in a bad lie, just move it. You can't be Johnny rule book here. You won't need your sand wedge either cause there isn't any sand left in the bunkers, funny to me there are still rakes though. Sure, it would be nice if the greens were a little more true and the t boxes were in a bit better shape but I'm not breaking par this year so for twice the price of an XL range bucket where I live, I can practice on the course without the pressure of having to worry about keeping up the pace. I'm sure there are days with more golfers but I have timed my rounds well I guess.
If I want the full golf experience with some buddies, we won't come here. For me, it's about trying to get better and I have an appreciation for a place that I can go to for 30 bucks. If you want a nicely manicured, bright green course, greens mowed daily, perfect tboxes, nice smooth carts and paths, food and beverage options, etc., then don't go here, this is not going to meet your expectations. Save yourself the disappointment. I like those places too but sometimes I find taking golf a little less serious is a nice change of pace. Your choice!