Bay Area Golf Courses.

Before selecting a course to play, it's a good idea to call the clubhouse to get any details about any coupons and specials which may affect your opportunity to play the game. Also are there any renovations taking place? Are greens being aerated? What's the average time to play the entire round on weekdays? weekends? Do they sell golf clubs, and clothing. Are refreshments available from a cart or at a stand? Is water available around the course? How do you accommodate the handicapped?

Ask about twilight and super twilight tee times. You start playing later in the day at reduced rates. The times will vary from course to course and from season to season.

Some courses offer early bird specials too. This is an especially good time to play if you'd like to try a course alone or with just a few people around.

A beginner to golf usually starts out playing on a 9 hole course. The holes are shorter than on an 18 and you'll start improving your game quicker than if you try 18 holes. If 18 hole courses is all that's available in your area, ask if you can just play 9 holes. Most courses are accommodating and will let you do so. You'll pay a less expensive price too. As you gain more confidence, start venturing out playing 18 holes. You can always quit early if things aren't going well. Just be prepared to play 18 holes in 4-5 hours rather than the 2-2 1/2 hours for 9.

Reservations are preferred on most courses when you have a twosome, threesome, or foursome. Singles are handled on a first-come, first-served basis and when there is an opening with a group going out, you will be called to join them. "Walk-ons" are allowed but there may be a wait to get on. If you have a fivesome, some courses will allow all of you to go out if you rent powered carts. Many places will split your group as a threesome and twosome and allow a single "walk-on" or another twosome to join your groups.

Welcome to SF bay area golf courses.