Lou Rates the Local Golf Courses
There are two courses nearby that are open to the public: one in Thendara and the other in Inlet. But in reality there are four courses. Nine holes were added to each course in the 60s and 70s and these are completely different from the front nines. Cut through the woods, the newer fairways are narrower and longer and the holes are a much more difficult. For the most part the front nines are fairly open. If you cannot control your shots, stay on the front nines. Otherwise, bring a lot of golf balls and a good supply of your favorite beverage.
Practice Facilities: If you came to work on your game during your vacation, there are practice greens at both courses and you can chip to them as well. Thendara has a limited driving range (no drivers) and only mats to hit from. The mats always seem to be as old as the course. Both courses offer lessons.
Given the limited practice faculties I suggest you work on being accurate. If you have a slice or a pull hook, you will spend a lot of time in the forest. The other aspect of your game to work on is the pitch and run shot. Locals are masters of this shot using only a seven or eight iron for all their approach shots. The reason they are so successful (besides practice, of course, and local knowledge of the contours of the approaches) is that there are few bunkers and the front of the greens are flat and inviting. The pitch and run, if available, is the less risky shot to hit. It is good to have this shot in your repertoire.
Membership and amenities: Many 'out-of towners' do have membership in these two courses because the memberships are relatively cheap compared to 'city prices'. But you might have to be on a waiting list for a long time, so sign up when you're young. I have been on the Thendara waiting list for 8 years and I am not even close to being a member. The list is shorter at Inlet, about seven years.
Tee Times: Tee times are only available at Thendara. Inlet is like the grocery store checkout: you go right through if no one is front of you or you wait in line.
Each course has a restaurant and full bar. The Inlet course's facilities are run by the people at the Woods Hotel. The food is very good. There has been turnover at Thendara so I cannot really rate the quality. Both serve only breakfast and lunch.
Here is how I rate each of these 9 holes. Click on the link and read my reviews.