TwoWire

I had not heard much about the courses, but the online reviews are on target. The course is tough, but fair, and the conditions were perfect. I wouldn't hesitate to return.

I'd like to play Waldorf Astoria when it's in better condition. I suspect that it was punched about two weeks before we played, and it showed. Conditions notwithstanding, the bunkering of the course makes it very tight, which is a little unusual for this area.

Of the three courses we played during our Memorial Day golf weekend, Shingle Creek was, by far, the most enjoyable. The conditions were excellent, the course is challenging, but not overly so, and the facility is top-notch. I look forward to playing it again.

The more recent reviews of the course were telling. It was burned up in spots, although they took care to put the pins in areas where the greens were in better shape. Play management is an issue, as our 10:00 a.m. tee time was more than 40 minutes late, for no reason other than the course was trying to get more players on the course.

The clubhouse is spectacular and the setting is extraordinary. There were holes on the front nine that reminded me of Colorado courses, except for the ocean breeze and humidity. However, the course is transitioning from lush throughout to an environment that will tolerate the ongoing drought, so there were places on the course where the weeds have taken over. The greens were terrific, however.

I know that it's a municipal golf course, but with such an exquisite location, it's hard to pass up, even for the out-of-town prices. The back 9 is very tough, especially when the ball doesn't carry because of the damp air. All the golf course you want.

This is the second time that I've played Aviara, but the first time was so long ago that I'd forgotten how beautiful the course is. The landscaping, beds, and water treatments are off the charts. And, the golf is pretty good too. The greens (early May) were perfect, and very, very fast. The course is not tricked up, but is straight forward and challenging, depending on the tee boxes.