TPC Stonebrae, Hayward, CA

Recently played Stonebrae (TPC SF) from the silver tees (6500) and enjoyed only the views. However our foursome didn't enjoy the punishment on the course; wicked fast greens with multiple severe undulations, hard sloping fairways and pin positions that bordered on ridiculous. Many great drives and approaches from our group went unrewarded. The Bridges, Oakhurst, Poppy Ridge, Coyote Moon are tough but much more playable and a better test of true golf skill. If you like extreme punishment this is your course.

This is David Kidd's only Bay Area treasure! Have you played Bandon Dunes, Nanea, or the new course in St. Andrews (to name a few)? If not, his authentic touch to Scottish links style design is all over this place. With wide rolling fairways and wickedly deep bunkers, missing them will cost you a few strokes. The spectacular, panoramic views of the Bay distract you from the difficult large rolling greens with multiple tiers...true to authentic links design. It has a few risk reward par 5's, one impossible par 5, and one of the nicest, guarded par 3 in the West. With the massive clubhouse to begin construction soon, the temporary facility is nice, but not yet deserving of 5 stars under Amenities. Enjoy!