Hole 8 at Balboa Park Executive Golf Course

Par 3 • 198 Yards • San Diego, California

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Brutal

The eighth hole at Balboa Park represents a classic test of precision on this historic municipal layout, where Sam Snead once fired a course-record 60 back in 1943. This demanding par-3 requires golfers to navigate the challenges that have made this downtown San Diego gem a favorite among locals for over a century.

Tees:

198y198y

Green:17y × 24y

1 Bunker dogleg

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Balboa Park Executive Golf Course

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Hole Stats

Par: 3
Yardage: 198 yds
Green: 2328 sq ft
Bunkers: 1

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Dial in your mid-irons — accuracy is everything on a short par 3.

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Strategy Tips

tee shot

This 198-yard par 3 demands precise club selection and commitment to your target. With no fairway to bail out to, you must carry your shot all the way to the green or face challenging recovery shots from surrounding areas.

green

The compact green measuring just 2,328 square feet (17 yards by 24 yards) requires pinpoint accuracy. This small target area leaves little margin for error, so focus on smooth tempo and solid contact rather than trying to overpower the shot.

hazard warning

Bunkers positioned at 176 yards create a significant challenge just short of the green. These traps are strategically placed to catch shots that come up short, so ensure you take enough club to clear them and reach the putting surface.

approach

With the green dimensions of 17 by 24 yards, pin position becomes critical for approach strategy. Aim for the center of the green when the pin is tucked, and only attack pins when they're in accessible locations given the tight landing area.

tee shot

The 22-yard difference between the bunkers at 176 yards and the total hole length of 198 yards means you have limited room for error. Club up to ensure you clear the sand and don't leave yourself short on this demanding one-shot hole.

train this shot at home

This par 3 is ideal for working on your mid-iron. Launch monitors from $600 let you practice this exact shot with real course data from home.

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Scoring Tip

Short par 3s reward precision. Pick the right club for the front-center of the green and trust your swing.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What club should I use on this par 3?

At 198 yards, most golfers will need a long iron or hybrid (5-iron to 6-iron) to reach this green. Adjust for elevation, wind, and pin position.

How difficult is hole 8?

This hole is a moderate challenge for most golfers. Key challenges include: small green.

What hazards should I watch out for on hole 8?

Key hazards include: 1 greenside bunker. Plan your shots to avoid these trouble spots.

How big is the green on hole 8?

The green is small and requires precision. Expect challenging pin positions with limited room for error.

What's a good score on hole 8?

This hole is a challenging par where bogey is acceptable. This longer par 3 will test your long iron or hybrid game. Par is a good score.

Can I practice hole 8 on a golf simulator at home?

Yes — many modern launch monitors and simulators include real course data for Balboa Park Executive Golf Course. You can play this exact par 3 shot-by-shot at home. Entry-level options like the SkyTrak+ (around $2,500) and Garmin Approach R10 (around $600) support course play, while premium systems from Trackman and Foresight offer tour-level accuracy. Most systems pay for themselves in a season or two versus green fees and range balls. Shop home golf simulators →