hazelkp

In fairness, it’s been raining nearly every day in Orlando. And in prior visits we found the staff and conditions very acceptable. And things have been tough for courses during Covid.
But today, it wasn’t until we checked in at 6:35 am for our 7:20 am tee time that we were told that the front nine was closed for aeration and that it was cart path only. We were supposed be the 2 group out, but another group was slotted in unexpectedly. It looked that the greens had been recently cut, but not blown off so putts were unusually slow and balls covered in grass after putts. With the front nine closed, we had to play the back twice. We made the turn in less than 2 hours only to find a 3 group backup - meaning at least new groups were inserted while knowing that early groups would be making the turn. Another twosome was added behind us and ahead of those playing the first side behind us. All this (minus the cart path only) seems avoidable.

Played Boca Royale early this morning. The course was in great shape, the greens held and ran true, and the sand was wet and firm. There were greens keeping staff actively at work on many holes. They politely stopped machinery as I played through and one even clapped after a rare, pin seeking approach shot.
This is a shorter, tight layout with smallish, undulating greens. I played the Platinum tees at 5720, but it can be stretched to 6357 at the tips. Water on some holes is strategically placed as are a few large gators that traversed two fairways during my round. Wayward approaches often find bunkers that can be a challenge.
Folks were nice, check in was easy, carts were clean and sanitized. Looking forward to my next visit!

I visit Heron Creek somewhat regularly, often using GolNow and the Big Summer Card. Even with corona virus precautions in full effect, the experience today was no different - always a pleasure! I was paired with 2 excellent gentlemen. Course conditions are great thanks to a caring and hard working superintendent and crew. Cart guys are always helpful and pleasant as is the Pro Shop staff. Rangers keep the pace at just around 4 hours - which I love. Warm up and practice facilities are top notch as well.
About my only complaint today was the sand being overly firm in the traps I unfortunately visited. And I did miss the cold beverage and tasty sandwich at the closed restaurant (due to the virus).

Playing Heron Creek is always a pleasure. Folks on the staff are friendly and professional, folks in the playing group are good company and respect the game, and the course is presented fairly and in great shape.

There are few things better in life than being first out on a well maintained course, on a beautiful Florida morning, and with the swing you hoped would carry over from your dream last night.
Check-in was friendly and efficient. A restaurant worker wished me a good day as she was setting up for the day. Carts are clean and with GPS. The course features changes in elevation, several sets of tees, strategic water and sand to add character and challenge. Maintenance staff were active at several places on both nines. Clubs were cleaned as I was putting out on 18, a nice touch. And speaking of putting, the greens were fast and tough.
On the downside, some areas from tee to green are bare, bumpy and/or weedy. All in all, a really pleasant morning!

First time to thisncourse and really enjoyed it. Elevation changes reminded me of western PA courses. Greens were in good shape; fairways less so, traps needed attention. Folks were friendly and pace was excellent. Some tee shots are a bit blind, so advise you to drive up and get a line and check if the fairway is clear before hitting.