Okay, here’s my experience playing at Coronado Golf Course in San Diego, California:
So, I finally got around to playing Coronado. Everyone’s always saying how great it is, and it’s right there, super visible when you cross the bridge. I’d been putting it off, thinking, “Eh, it’s probably just a tourist trap.” Boy, was I wrong.
Getting Started
First thing I did was check their website, you know, to scope out tee times and prices. Looked pretty straightforward. I booked a tee time online a few days in advance – highly recommend doing that, especially if you want a decent morning slot. Weekends? Forget about it, book way early. I noticed they had some packages, stay and plays, with some local hotels. I should think for my next trip.
The Course Itself
Pulled up to the course, and man, the views! You’re right there on the bay, looking at the downtown skyline, the bridge… it’s stunning. The staff were friendly. Checked in, grabbed a cart (you could walk, but it’s pretty flat, so carting is easy), and headed to the range.
The driving range was decent. Nothing fancy, but enough space to warm up. They had mats, which I’m not a huge fan of, but hey, it’s a busy course. I spent about 20 minutes hitting balls, just getting loose.
- Fairways: Super well-maintained. Green, lush, felt great underfoot.
- Greens: These were fast. Really fast. And pretty tricky. Lots of subtle breaks that I totally misread.
- Bunkers: I only ended up in one (thankfully!), but the sand was good quality. Not too fluffy, not too packed.
- Views: I know I keep mentioning this, but seriously, they’re a major part of the experience.
The Play-Through
I started off, try to get my bearings. The first few holes are pretty straightforward, giving you a chance to settle in. But then, things got a little more interesting. You have got to get a strategy for a good game. There’s some water that comes into play, and the wind can definitely be a factor, especially in the afternoon. It can really mess with your shots. I learned some, after a few holes.
I played with a couple of locals, which was cool. They gave me some tips on where to aim, which was super helpful. Apparently, there are some hidden hazards you wouldn’t know about unless you’d played there before. Team up with some locals if you get a chance.
Wrapping Up
Finished the round, and my score wasn’t amazing, but I had a blast. I grabbed a drink at the clubhouse afterward. They have a nice patio area overlooking the course and the bay. Perfect spot to relax and recap the game.
Overall, I’d say Coronado is definitely worth playing. It’s not the cheapest round you’ll find, but the views, the course condition, and the overall experience make it a solid choice. I will definitely be playing a round there again.
