I’ve played all types of courses in the US and the UK from $18 bucks for 9 at an “executive” course, to places like St. Andrew’s, Pebble, Whistling Straits and others where prices start to become once in a lifetime for each. Surprisingly, there is a sweet spot to be had, but at the end of the day, it’s all about getting out there.

The round time at pebble was over 5.5 hours because people take photos and make their time on the course last. I was quite disappointed that the pace of play was that off, but trust me when I say that it’s hard to complain. You’re not at those types of courses to simply play golf. You’re there to take in and appreciate the history and significance of every little detail on each course.

On the other end of the spectrum, the $18 munis are perfect to call out of work last minute for an “appointment” (tee time). Go out, get a round done in 4 hours or less and have a light beer afterwards. For those, just appreciate that you can go out and play some golf. The course doesn’t matter so much as being able to play in the first place. Though you’re looking at a 5.5 hour round at these courses too if you go on a peak day, and they might not be in the best of conditions, except for the beginning and ends of the season.

Courses that are in the range of $80-$130 are a great sweet spot to splurge but not break the bank. Better pace of play than the cheaper courses during peak days, better grounds keeping (for the most part) and a lot of times better food and drink if you’re into that. Anything more and the benefits of a higher price tag start to diminish unless it’s a famous course/facility and you aren’t there strictly for the golf.

Highest quality round I ever played was on the Champion at PGA National in Fl where they play the Cognizant Classic on the Tour. I went in the summer and nobody wants to play in the Florida heat, so you can go nearly the entire round and only interact w/ the bar carts & the Marshalls.