14th Hole, 218 Yards, Par-3
When it comes to island greens, most of them are connected to land by a walkway or bridge. However, the 14th hole at Coeur d’Alene takes it to another level. This stunning par-3 features an expansive putting surface, surrounded by beautiful flowers and towering pines. But what sets it apart is that it is truly an island, floating in a glistening crystalline lake. To reach this green, golfers must board a six-passenger boat, adding an extra touch of adventure to the game.
11th Hole, 195 Yards, Par-3
While Pete Dye may have popularized the idea of an island green, C.B. Macdonald and Seth Raynor had already experimented with this concept. At a high-end private club, they created a masterpiece named “Island,” which features a captivating Biarritz green. This unique green is surrounded by marshland and waters that ebb and flow with the tide, making it a true test of skill and strategy.
16th Hole, 169 Yards, Par-3
Designed by the legendary Robert Trent Jones Sr., the 16th hole showcases one of the early island greens of the modern era. While surgical precision may not be required, it certainly helps to be on point when approaching this challenging par-3. The putting surface is large and subtly contoured, demanding accuracy and finesse to secure a favorable birdie opportunity.
3rd Hole, 167 Yards, Par-3
Unlike most island greens where a wayward shot lands in the water, the 3rd hole offers a different twist. Designed by William Flynn, missing the green here may result in finding yourself in the sand. The entire green is fringed by a sandy beach, creating a unique island effect that adds both beauty and challenge to the hole.
9th Hole, 144 Yards, Par-3
Credit for the idea of an island green at Sawgrass goes to Pete Dye’s wife, Alice. Allegedly inspired by the Ocean Course’s island green, designed by Herbert Strong in 1928, Alice suggested incorporating a similar feature into the renowned TPC Sawgrass layout.
17th Hole, 168 Yards, Par-3
While the 17th hole at TPC Sawgrass may be the most famous island green in golf, its sibling at another Dye-designed course holds its own. Hosting a prestigious PGA Tour event, this island green is longer than its counterpart in Ponte Vedra and provides a thrilling downhill approach to a rock-ringed putting surface. Its nickname, “Alcatraz,” reflects the challenge and excitement it brings to the game.
Hole 3B, 194 Yards, Par-3
Dubbed the “Tail of the Whale,” this par-3 stands out as the only island green situated in the vast Pacific Ocean. Set at an optional hole, players must take a motorboat to reach the green if they wish to finish the hole. The allure and uniqueness of this experience create an unforgettable round of golf.
15th Hole, 558 Yards, Par-5
While island greens are commonly associated with par-3s, this year’s WM Phoenix Open featured a fascinating exception. During his victorious journey, Nick Taylor faced the water-guarded 15th hole, a par-5 that demanded three well-executed shots to conquer the island green. This delightful twist adds an extra layer of excitement and strategy to the game.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Are all island greens on par-3s?
Although island greens are commonly found on par-3 holes, there are exceptions, as demonstrated by the 15th hole at the WM Phoenix Open.
How do I reach the 14th hole at Coeur d’Alene?
To play the 14th hole at Coeur d’Alene, you must board a six-passenger boat, which will transport you to this unique floating island green.
What makes the 17th hole at TPC Sawgrass special?
The 17th hole at TPC Sawgrass is renowned for its island green, which requires golfers to hit a precise shot onto a green surrounded by water, adding an exhilarating challenge to the game.
Can you tell me more about the “Tail of the Whale” hole?
The “Tail of the Whale” is a par-3 located in the Pacific Ocean. Accessible only by a motorboat, this hole offers a one-of-a-kind experience for golfers looking to test their skills on an island green.
Who designed the island green at TPC Sawgrass?
The iconic island green at TPC Sawgrass was designed by renowned golf course architect Pete Dye, with inspiration from his wife, Alice.
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