Golf Course Types – Choosing By Size

Golf courses across the world are usually categorized in three ways. When looking for the best golf courses, you can choose by design and ambiance, by rights of entry, or by size, i.e. by the types and number of holes. Every course is different from the other. The most important aspect of golfing is to choose a course by size and ascertain the difference it makes when you play in an 18-hole, a 9-hole, an executive or a par-3 course. How well you play in any of these golf courses is part of the golfing adventure.

As far as the number of holes is concerned, 18 is standard. In a regular golf link though, a combination of par-3, par-4 and par-5 holes are usually found.

Here is a deeper insight into the different types of golf courses by size:

9-hole Course

If you are looking for a 9-hole course, expect to find more of par-4 holes and some par 5s and par 3s. In any case, you won’t find more than nine holes. These are ideal for shorter rounds of the game and aptly fit into the hectic routines of corporate professionals. During the weekends, a quick round of golf will help you unwind in a 9-hole course. You will find 9-hole friendly golf courses in Arizona, Alabama, California, Texas and Florida.

18-hole Course

When it comes to 18-hole courses, you will find maximum par-4 holes apart from a mix of par-5 and par-3 holes. Eighteen-hole courses are not very popular among high-flying professionals because playing here means longer rounds of golf. This is not a feasible option for many battling hectic work schedules of modern urban lifestyles. Recent data reveals that average US citizens end up spending 500 to 1,400 more hours annually in their workplaces. Leisure time is therefore extremely valuable for Americans, and most of them simply can’t afford to spend the chunk of the day golfing in an 18-hole course. These are perfect for golfers whose livelihood is this sport and hence need rigorous and long practice sessions. They are found in Texas, Michigan, San Diego and North Reading.

Par-3 Course

You will find all par-3 holes in the golf links of California, Florida, Michigan, Texas and Alabama. It is shorter in terms of length and you can also enjoy faster rounds of the game. However, it is shorter than executive courses.

Executive Course

It may have nine to 18 holes, and are shorter than any regular golf course having equal number of holes. An executive course will have more par-3 holes and less par-5 and par-4 holes. These links have been developed to help golfers finish their game in less time. You can find them in Texas and California.

Approach Course

These are shorter in length than a par-3 course and are ideal for seasoned players for practicing chipping and pitching. As far as holes are concerned, you may find some holes that are 100 yards in terms of length. However, most are shorter. A few holes are not more than 30 or 40 yards in length. Players can drop a golf ball, pitch the same to the green, and putt out. That’s why these are popularly known as pitch-and-putt courses. Find these courses in Arizona and Alabama.

When it comes to choosing the best golf courses by size, consider how much time you can take out of your busy lifestyle. Choose the size that will not only suit your expertise but also challenge you as a player with just the optimum amount of thrill.

Tour18 Dallas is a US-based golf instructor associated with some of the stay and play resorts. He has a penchant for writing informative articles on golf tips, advice, help and golf swing fitness.