Reviewed by: Carl , Shoots in the 90s

Summary:
Two new owners since the last review and major upgrades contributed by each one along the way. Exactly as described by "www.golfcalifornia.com/reviews/mareisland1.htm".

Customer Service:
helpful, friendly staff

Reviewed by: David, Shoot in the 90s, from Martinez, CA

Summary:
Mare Island recently opened up their new 9 holes, making 18. I was interested and looking forward to see where they found the land and how they would mix the old with the new. And while I wasn't disppointed, there are 2 distint parts of the course.

Looks like the new management is going for customer service and they didn't fail (more on this later). After parking at the course, I had 2 different employees drive and offer me a ride to the clubhouse. (I'm usually slow to get ready).

They have opened up a new driving range for irons only. While I didn't get a chance to use it, the mats and range area looked great.

There a few holes they didn't change on the course including the first one. A nice par 4 dogleg right onto a small green. After that, you jump into the new holes. The 2nd hole is a another par 4 dogleg with a well bunkered green. After driving up the hill for the par 3 third, you can enjoy the view of San Pablo Bay. Unfortunatly, when we played, it was fogged in pretty tight. The third hole is a narrow downhill shot onto a long green. But don't worry if you come up short, there's plenty of landing room in front and left.

The 4th hole is the old 2nd hole, but longer. They've taken tee boxes back and moved the green to make a longer hole. While it is a short par 4, make sure you know your yardage in the fairway. The 5th hole, the old 3rd, is still a great straight, long par 5 onto a tiny green.

Once you get to 7th tee box, you're mouth will water as you see a couple of the new holes on the back nine. Up and down, across the hill, they've done a great job using the hill for these holes.

I won't spoil the back nine, go there for yourself and find out.

You could really tell the differences in the new nine and the old nine. Nothing bad, but there are differences in the fairways and greens.

Similar Courses Played:
Snack bar served the standard fair.

Pro shop was scarce on clubs and bags, but had plenty of balls and Mare Island clothing.

Reviewed by: Greg, Shoot in the 70s, from Benicia

Summary:
I've played this course on and off for over 15 years...and the original course is now in the best shape ever. New management has the greens in excellent condition.

There are 9 new holes that look interesting, but I've yet to get on them.

As to playing characteristics, I love this type of course. The original 9 was designed in the 1800's and includes small greens and the occasional blind shot. Water rarely comes in play and a real premium is placed on a strong short game. Not a long course, but scenic. Decent views of the Bay.

Main weather condition for most of the year is the wind. The breeze through the carquinez straights can have a decided effect on how the course plays.

The old 9 has some drainage problems and the old fairways are particlary soft during the rainy season. I do avoid this course during rough weather and head out to play Blue Rock East course in foul weather.

Customer Service:
Must wear a collared shirt to play here. I was turned away one day while wearing a Greg Norman golf shirt (no collar) that I'd bought at the pro shop...now thats just silly.

Similar Courses Played:
None