Famous golf holes around the world are known for their challenging design, stunning scenery, and historic significance. Here are some of the most iconic golf holes that every golf enthusiast should know about:
1. The 17th Hole at TPC Sawgrass (The Players Stadium Course)
- Location: Ponte Vedra Beach, Florida, USA
- Par: 3
- Features: Known as the "Island Green," this hole is famous for its challenging tee shot to a small, almost completely surrounded by water, green. It's a nerve-wracking hole even for the pros, especially during The Players Championship.
2. The 12th Hole at Augusta National Golf Club
- Location: Augusta, Georgia, USA
- Par: 3
- Features: Part of the iconic "Amen Corner," the 12th hole, called "Golden Bell," is known for its beautiful but treacherous layout. The green is protected by Rae’s Creek and bunkers, requiring precision and nerve.
3. The 7th Hole at Pebble Beach Golf Links
- Location: Pebble Beach, California, USA
- Par: 3
- Features: This hole is one of the shortest in major championship golf but also one of the most picturesque. It plays directly towards the Pacific Ocean, and the wind conditions can make club selection difficult.
4. The 17th Hole at St Andrews (The Old Course)
- Location: St Andrews, Scotland
- Par: 4
- Features: Known as the "Road Hole," this hole is legendary for its challenging drive over the "Old Course Hotel" and the difficult approach to a small green guarded by the Road Hole Bunker and a road behind it.
5. The 13th Hole at Augusta National Golf Club
- Location: Augusta, Georgia, USA
- Par: 5
- Features: Named "Azalea," this hole is part of "Amen Corner." The dogleg left design, with Rae’s Creek in front of the green, presents a risk-reward challenge for those attempting to reach the green in two shots.
6. The 8th Hole at Royal Troon Golf Club (The Old Course)
- Location: Troon, Scotland
- Par: 3
- Features: Known as the "Postage Stamp," this hole is famous for its tiny green and deep bunkers. Despite its short length, it is one of the most feared holes in golf.
7. The 18th Hole at Pebble Beach Golf Links
- Location: Pebble Beach, California, USA
- Par: 5
- Features: This finishing hole is one of the most scenic in golf, running along the Pacific Ocean. The tee shot and second shot are framed by the coastline, making it both beautiful and challenging.
8. The 16th Hole at Cypress Point Club
- Location: Pebble Beach, California, USA
- Par: 3
- Features: This famous hole requires a tee shot over the ocean to a green perched on a cliff, with the Pacific waves crashing below. It’s one of the most breathtaking and dramatic holes in golf.
9. The 5th Hole at Royal Melbourne Golf Club (West Course)
- Location: Black Rock, Victoria, Australia
- Par: 4
- Features: Designed by Alister MacKenzie, this hole is known for its strategic design and beautiful bunkering. The approach shot to the green is particularly challenging due to the well-placed bunkers and undulating green.
10. The 10th Hole at Pine Valley Golf Club
- Location: Pine Valley, New Jersey, USA
- Par: 3
- Features: Considered one of the best par 3s in the world, this hole features a dramatic drop in elevation and a well-protected green surrounded by sand and scrub.
11. The 18th Hole at St Andrews (The Old Course)
- Location: St Andrews, Scotland
- Par: 4
- Features: The famous finishing hole at the "Home of Golf" features the Swilcan Bridge and a wide fairway that leads up to a large green situated in front of the R&A Clubhouse, providing a grandstand finish.
12. The 18th Hole at Harbour Town Golf Links
- Location: Hilton Head Island, South Carolina, USA
- Par: 4
- Features: Known for its iconic lighthouse backdrop, this hole plays along the Calibogue Sound and requires a precise approach shot to a narrow green.
These famous golf holes are known not only for their beauty and difficulty but also for the memorable moments and historic events that have taken place on them. They are must-visit destinations for any serious golfer.