What a relief to find that Atlantic Beach’s “Hell Bunker” has been removed! A deep pit of sand built into a mound in the middle of the fairway of the challenging par-4 17th, it was the bane of those who couldn’t hit a tee shot long enough to clear it. There’s still a bunker in that spot, but the mound has been lowered, and it’s an easier recovery shot from the sand. The course has seen a bunker renovation project in 2022, with some modified for playability, others removed or due to be removed, like the pot bunkers in front of the ninth green. Atlantic Beach is one of our best coastal courses (those close to the shoreline) principally due to the interesting variety of the holes and excellent design and contouring of the greens. It has a number of memorable holes which makes it not only a strong challenge but a wonderful visual experience even though it’s part of a residential estate. That’s due to the attractive fynbos that frames the holes, notably on the back nine.
