Congratulations to Pelican Hills for winning the GK Best Playing Conditions in Orange County!

When you first drive into the Resort you're greeted by the Romanesque 'Aqueduct' and the anticipation b... Continue »

Congratulations to Pelican Hills for winning the GK Best Playing Conditions in Orange County!

When you first drive into the Resort you're greeted by the Romanesque 'Aqueduct' and the anticipation builds from there. The attendants are friendly and very helpful. The pro shop is nothing short of spectacular. You have a choice of self parking or valet.

As you walk outside to the starter desk you're privy to an opulent practice facility complete with colored flags at various distances and elevations. The practice area uses a synthetic surface but feels as close to Bermuda grass without the divots, so much so you can stick a tee into the synthetic turf. There are two practice greens on either side of the practice area.

Spoke to one of the Fore Caddies prior to our tee time and found out a few tips for would-be visitors. Fore Caddies will spot the ball, help read greens, locate errant shots, fix divots and generally help maintain the course so that the golfing experience can be best savored by their guests. They are not required but a great benefit to have for first time and repeat visitors. Recommended tip is $20+ per player. They are an invaluable resource and should be tipped accordingly. From what I saw of the group ahead and behind us, the Fore Caddies really earn their tips.

The course conditions were spectacular. Drive up to the first tee box and there is an additional putting green. These greens here best show what to expect on the golf course. Great time to check your speed and get that pace down. According to the Fore Caddie and starter the greens here usually run around an 11 on the Stimp (That means fast!) Tour pros usually deal with a 10 on the Stimp.

The tee boxes were luxurious. They really take pains to ensure good rotation of tee boxes. All the markers are in plain sight and the signage is very obvious and helpful. The fairways were a bit dormant but very playable. Come May, I figure it will be nothing short of spectacular. That is not to say that it wasn't spectacular during our round -- it was, but I can only imagine what it will be in the next few months.

The greens roll TRUE. Pick a line and trust your speed because the ball will do exactly what you expect it to do. The sand in the bunkers was fluffy and well stocked.

One thing I did notice about the course and this echos what the GM Steve said, both courses are very fair. Good shots are rewarded. Spray a shot and suffer the consequences. Play smart, trust your swing and you will be rewarded.

I have been lucky enough to play at Pebble and Spanish Hills and those are two fine tracts, but after playing here at Pelican I can say in my humble opinion that this resort really takes customer service to a new level. Course conditions, facilities, customer service are equal if not better here. If you have the opportunity to play Pelican, do it without hesitation. It will be an experience you will not soon forget, and perhaps want to repeat.