staffduo

This track is going through some improvements (mainly the addition of a driving range) that I think actually detracts from the quality of the course...not really improving it. The real estate that is lost to the range makes for an odd re-routing of the course. Plus, you actually have to walk through the range to get from hole #6 to #7...awkward.
All in all the course is in decent shape; the fairways/greens are consistent for most of the course. Depending on the wind, it can be a really tough round if the wind picks up...otherwise, in calm conditions the course is pretty receptive.
My one complaint is that the clubhouse staff leaves much to be desired in the customer service department. They aren't rude, just always seem to be preoccupied with the previous nights festivities, if you get my meaning...
It might be just me, but when I put down my hard earned money, I expect to be the center of attention, at least for the amount of time it takes to run my card....I really don't appreciate having to wait for the night's re-canting to end...Just me venting...but I am sure others feel the same way.
Poplar Creek is on the lower end of my rotation, I will keep there until the guys behind the counter wake up. Kudos to the service/food staff at the 19th hole; they are always spot on helpful and attentive.

I pass by the Coyote Creek Golf Club everyday on my way to work; the standard green fees are towards my high limit, and I had heard that the Tournament Course is challenging, but I wanted to see where my game is on a first rate track. I found a good deal on Golf Now for $49.00 on a Saturday, so I booked the tee time as a single player. I was paired up with 3 other players.
The staff/facility is top notch for a public course. Great practice areas. The carts have a full screen GPS unit with the usual front/center/back yardages. The course is a great test of your skills to see what your strengths and weaknesses are. Every hole presents a challenge in some way, either right off the tee with your tee shot, or in your approaches to the undulating/hidden greens. Basically the course will shock you into reality of where you game plays (like it did for me) on a course that is really appropriate for 10 or better handicapper. The first 8 holes of the Tournament course will challenge you to bring your A-game. Every shot in your bag will be tested; not in a punishing/penal way, but more about forcing you to think about where you want to hit the ball, and having the skill to execute the shot (more practice rounds for me) All in all, Coyote Creek is a stiff challenge, but the quality of the facility and staff/food and beverage will more than make up for the bumps and bruises the course will give you.
The Valley Course is currently closed for repair. It is supposed to be more forgiving; I will give it a run on my next visit to Coyote Creek GC>

The best feature of the current Palo Alto GC is that a tee time can be had at virtually any day or time. But with that said, the pluses for the course are many. The overall course conditions are fair to good, the greens are in my opinion in very good shape. Some holes from tee to green are in pretty good condition, others are not so much. The track is basically flat, with very little slope, so it's a good place for the beginner to learn the game. The staff is courteous. Nice practice areas for putting/chipping/full shots. It's a great value compared to it's neighbors Shoreline and Sunnyvale GC at $39.00 to walk the course. My sense is that once the course is redesigned, it will certainly become a better track, but will cease to be a good option/value to cover the costs of the upgrade with increased green fees and more difficulty to get a tee time. Enjoy the current Palo Alto GC while you can before the closure and re-design.

Lake Chabot is a must for all Bay Area golfers. The course and staff are very welcoming and well maintained. The course affords great views of the SF Bay Area; especially from the 15th hole, and generally speaking; fantastic views and vistas of the East Bay hill.
The course is challenging for the 12-18 handicapper, but is not punishing in the sense that every hole feels like mission impossible.
Tee boxes and green are in good shape; lots of slope and break on the greens...
All in all I would highly recommend Lake Chabot for the courteous staff/challenging course lay out....and oh yeah...that 625 yard par 6 18th hole. I have played there 2 times, and I will surely be back for more.

The Ranch Golf Club is a love/hate proposition. It is a very challenging course for anyone who is looking to improve their game. Elevated tee boxes with many forced carries/barrancas. Very few flat lies challenge your alignment/set-up skills. Greens run pretty fast, and have challenging slope and pin placements.
The staff is top notch and pace of play for a cart path only facility is very good. Outstanding views of the Santa Clara valley and beyond make the Ranch a must visit for the avid duffer. You'll decide the love/hate thing after your round.

Sharp Park is a great place to play if your primary consideration is a great walk with great views of the ocean and the Pacifica hills. If your goal is to play a great course with groomed fairways/well maintained tee boxes/smooth greens you be a bit disappointed.
Sharp Park is a great place to play for the value and the atmosphere of locals "golf hangout".
Not the greatest conditions, but more than makes up for it with the views and atmosphere. A unique golf experience.