How to say a place is great, and yet I left with a sour taste in my mouth and no intent to ever play there again?

Service staff such as starter, concessions, bag drop, were incredibly friendly and welcoming. Cannot take anything away from the course conditions, as the grounds staff has that place as consistent as you could ever ask for. A beautiful course with beautiful views makes it easy to understand why the rates are what they are.

With all the great things I just listed, things were off from the arrival. Intimidating enough traveling through Ranchos Palos Verdes to get there; this round was a rare splurge, and it took some extra hours to make sure I could cover the round, so the moment of paying for the round is slightly tense in general. I was told the round would cost 150 (twilight) over the phone, so I was super excited to get a great deal. When I was there to pay however, the rate had spiked to 175. Ignoring the automatic additional taxes that made my total 188, it then becomes a bit embarrassing to even ask why the rate is up.. playing there should supposedly mean “I’m not worried about the extra 25 bucks” but hey, that’s a big deal. Their explanation was some sort of sliding rate where they decide to change it day of... has anyone ever heard of this? Just felt cheated as soon as I walked in the door, despite how nice everyone outside the golf shop was.

And finally, it is a tough lay out. I’m a 12.1, so there’s still a decent lack of nuance to my game, but even shots that should find a safe lie could be brutal side hills or in one of many bunkers or low drain areas.. topography leaves no forgiveness or room. The layout is what it is, but after being in such a beautiful setting all day, still left upset after getting knocked around by the course all day. This is obviously a test for the better golfer with the patented penal Pete Dye design, so if you’re someone who needs to keep the golf budget under control, and want to HAVE FUN while also getting challenged, this might not be the best place. If Golf has a blank check signed by you, and you don’t care where the ball goes as you stare at the ocean, you’ll love it!