I never saw the fourteenth green prior to flattening it, but it is without one of the best green sites I've ever played to, in the same category as 13, 15, and 16 at Cypress and perhaps the seventh at Pebble.
And how about the new bridge to the sixteenth tee along the bluff? Amazing!
The stretch of 14-18 at Friars is as good as it gets, anywhere.
I thought the first hole was awesome - very original for an opening hole and one of my favorite uphill holes I've ever played. The second through seventh are very good, with the fifth being great, and I love eight and nine. The green on nine is wild, and I love how it corresponds with the practice putting green. The tenth is as unique of a hole as you will find in the world, a good thing, and 11-13 are all very good but go underrated due to the amazing finish.
Aside from the course, the showers are as good as it gets, as is the food. I had the best six course meal I've ever had, and perhaps the only six course meal on earth that ends with a side of french fries (I asked the chef to give me a college food side). The other day my friend was texting me, telling me about the World Series game he was watching in the cottages with Ben Crenshaw. I think it quite a testament that the designers go back to cherish what they made. Friars Head is certainly an exceptional place, on and off the golf course.
I recommend Matty as a caddie for those who get to play, by the way. A great guy who will certainly put a smile on your face throughout the entire round.