JES:
Very fair questions re #4. Let's take them in order.
Yes, the green is very very severe - quite a strong slope from back to front. When put up to Open speeds, it can mean 3jacks from 15 feet very easily if one gets above the hole (the Tom Kite example). Of course it's not kept that way routinely, but it must be respected.
And yes, I think it does coax one into an overly aggressive play off the tee, because you want to have a short shot into that green... or let's just say you want to have the shot you have the most confidence in. The target is small and you do not want to miss it - side bunkers are no bargain - nor be above the hole.
As you stand on the tee, the water is not completely in sight - trees block it, as does the presence of the yacht club - but you surely know it's there having come off 3 green where you can definitely see where the ocean is.
In fact NOT seeing it adds to the uncertainty and discomfort on the tee shot...
As for the ocean being in play, hell no it's not for great players. But it surely is for 99% of the golfing world - all it takes is a little slice. Gee, what's the average player's miss?
I have indeed hit it in the ocean off the tee (shameful but true). Seriously, all it does take is a bit of a push or a slice.
As for value approaching from any particular side, no I don't see that - as I say, the target is quite small. The strategic choice is more of a distance nature - and don't forget the central bunker that must be carried. Again no big deal for the skilled player, but a VERY big deal for all others.
Hell of a lot going on on a hole that some call mundane, no?
BUT... for a great player it is just a 220 yard shot followed by a pitch. That can be called mundane. But to me this also illustrates the weakness of relying on the great player for assessment purposes.