What was your first impression?
It was raining, so I wanted the rain to go away so I didn't have to play PB in my rainsuit. After one hole, it did! Also, the first tee is almost totally surrounded by the pro shop, entry area to the lodge, and nearby houses, so you don't get out "into the course" until hole 2. That cross-hazard on #2 is also very cool, a hazard that seems much more original and untouched than others on the course.
What surprised you?
How nice the greens were, after everyone always making a big deal of how bad they were...even in the rain. I was amazed at the 14th green...I had a 3-footer for birdie, and didn't even scare the hole after my caddie and I looked at it for quite a while. My biggest surprise was that usually at these great layouts, I have trouble scoring on the first play. What makes them great is that they are tough before you get to know them. But, my caddie and I channeled, and I shot a 72 that easily could've been 68 or 69. It was probably a combination of lack of wind, drop-and-stop approach shots with the moisture, and me being used to small New England greens.
What disappointed you?
The fact that it was so wet, but that was not the course's fault. The moisture made the course easier I thought, even though it made me hit 5w into #9, and I'm not a short hitter. There were a few A to B holes that are not very memorable like 12-13 and 15, but that's not the end of the world.
How has it changed?
Won't know till I go back after a while. After seeing lots of historical photos, it seems like it may be approaching Augusta in the # of times its been tinkered with. Luckily it has such a definitive landscape (perhaps unlike an Augusta or Pinehurst amongst the southern pine trees), that it will always "look like Pebble."
What was your favorite hole?
I liked #7-10. Call me an ocean whore when it comes to Pebble. I will go for #8 if I have to pick one. I hit 3w and flushed a 4-iron to 20 feet, probably my best moment of the day considering difficulty of shot. I thought #11 was underrated as an uphill hole with a severely breaking green.
Any weak holes?
12-13, and 15. None of those are horrible, just pale in comparison to the others.
Worth the money?
I think so, if any course can charge $475 or whatever, it's PB. I would recommend doing it within a package though; a la carte you are plunking down the 475, but if you play a few rounds at SB and SH and stay at the lodge, it averages out to be less. Sometimes these "perfect moment" or "break the bank" rounds fail to deliver (I played with my Dad, my best man, and his dad), but this one did....we had a great time, I played well, took some great photos...and because of this, I would definately go back, even for the $$$.
Can you die in peace without playing it?
I think the GCA connoisseur needs to see it. But, it is understandable that it is expensive, and comparable experiences can be had for less at great courses, like at Bandon or Pinehurst.