Course review: Delaware’s Baywood takes all challengers

Par/Yardage/Rating/Slope

72/6983/73.4/135

Description » Calling the course picturesque doesn’t do Baywood Greens justice. The front nine winds through a slightly wooded area, mixing water, trees and sand. But this is just a warm-up for the incredibly challenging back nine that sports a ton of water. The property is beautifully landscaped and feels like walking or riding through a park. Also, another nine holes are under construction, but they won’t be open until 2013 at the earliest.

Best hole » No. 18, par 4, 425 yards
The signature hole combines everything the course has to offer: a slight carry over water, a bit of bunkering to contend with and a large green. The water continues down the right and wraps around the putting surface, while a huge bunker awaits any shot that rolls just off the back. Sculpted planting beds line the closing hole as well, making this the most photographed hole.

Tough putts » The slope of the greens becomes a major factor on the back nine. If the approach shot doesn’t stop very close and below the hole, be prepared to face putts with huge breaks — a five-foot sidehiller will swing a ton. However, putts do roll quick and true, so if you hit the right line there is a good chance it will drop.

Trip to the beach » Bunkers are tough to get right. Baywood has some of the nicest in the region. They are large, manicured and intimidating, but have the best sand, making it hard to get too frustrated if you knock a ball into one.

Reasons to play » Baywood nicely combines the need for accuracy and offering the ability to just swing away. The course will challenge any range of skill level, offering a wide range of tee selections, with the shortest playing like an executive course (fantastic for beginners). The course is just a short drive from many of Delaware’s beach towns, so it is easy to stop by on a weekend trip. Just remember to bring a camera and an empty memory card.

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