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Really tough to pick the better course, original Bandon or Pacific. Pacific is a fun walk and a bit quirky with 4xpar 3 and 3x par 5s on the back. The views are spectacular. It was almost disappointing to play with virtually no wind the second time we played it. But heck I'll take one good score while there.

Don't forget to grab breakfast -- terrific breakfast sandwiches in the restaurant or to go. Don't forget a double order of peppered bacon!

First, get to the course early and try the breakfast sandwiches -- I ordered a chicken and rice breakfast wrap that was unbeatable. The next day a different breakfast sandwich but just as winning. And they make them to go! Just what you need before walking 18 on Bandon's hilliest walk. Loved the core-Crenshaw layout, particularly the picturesque par 3s. If it's a windy day at Bandon, your best bet is sheltered Trails. You'll run into caddies playing Trails-- it's many of their favorites, too.

Yeah, the 11th hole is funky and unfair in that no matter where you drive the ball it is near impossible to hold the green but it's a fun conversation except when you walk off with an unwelcome 5 or 6. Take a mental snapshot at 14.... looks like a lakeside hole in the mountains.

I finally got to Bandon. My husband had been telling me it's mystical and magical. And it is. The question is whether Bandon Dunes is the best course of 4 18-hole layouts. You have to play the original and if you get a late afternoon tee time and see 16 around sunset...it makes it even though you'll battle the winds. Don't forget to check for the irrigation box underneath the tree near 10 tee. Open it up, sign the book, leave a memento and take a slug of whiskey. Little traditions like this make Bandon Dunes as a resort unbeatable for the golf purist. If you can play each course twice plus Punchbowl plus par - 3 preserve you will have an animated conversations among guests and caddies about their favorite course. I'm going with the original.