Hole 3 at Cypress Point Club
- Par
- 3
- Yardage
- 162 yds
- Stroke index
- 17
- Hazards
- 5 bunkers
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 27 yds deep × 31 yds wide
Scorecard yardage is for Pro tees. The aerial shows its labeled reference position; distance rings measure to the green.
Pro tees · Par 3 · 162 yards
The plan for No. 3
Cypress Point Club hole 3 presents a deceptively challenging par 3 that epitomizes the subtle brilliance of this legendary Monterey Peninsula masterpiece. At 162 yards, this seemingly straightforward tee shot demands precision to a small, well-guarded green nestled among the coastal terrain. The hole's understated design belies its strategic complexity, as the compact putting surface offers little margin for error despite the absence of obvious hazards. Wind conditions off Carmel Bay can dramatically alter club selection, making distance control paramount. What appears routine from the tee becomes a test of accuracy and course management, rewarding players who respect the green's modest dimensions and punishing those who take this classic short iron for granted.
Off the tee
Your primary focus should be committing fully to your club selection after carefully reading the wind conditions. The prevailing winds off Carmel Bay can dramatically affect ball flight, so take extra time to feel the breeze and observe how it's affecting the flag. For most golfers, this will play anywhere from a 7-iron to a 5-iron depending on wind direction and strength. The key is selecting enough club to reach the green comfortably even if you catch the shot slightly thin. With the small green, your margin for error is limited, so favor the center of the putting surface over any aggressive pin-hunting unless you're feeling particularly confident with your iron play.
Approach & recovery
Since this is a par 3, your tee shot IS your approach shot. The straight layout means you can play directly at your target without worrying about doglegs or hidden trouble. However, the small green size means precision is paramount. Focus on a smooth, controlled swing rather than trying to muscle the shot. The coastal environment can make the ball travel differently than expected, so trust your club selection and make a confident pass at the ball. Aim for the heart of the green and let your putting handle the rest.
On the green
The small green means you'll likely have a reasonable putt regardless of where you land on the putting surface. However, coastal greens often have subtle breaks that can be deceiving, particularly with the ocean influence affecting grain direction. Take time to read your putt from multiple angles, paying special attention to any slope that runs toward or away from the ocean. The grain may run toward the water, so factor this into your read. With the relatively short nature of most putts you'll face here, focus on solid contact and smooth tempo rather than trying to be overly aggressive.
Watch for
- Crossing center (center)
Hole 3 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 4,163 sq ft
Course coverage
Tournament and creator videos about Cypress Point Club — shared course coverage, not hole-specific clips.
Featured by these creators
Creator videos about this course
YouTube creators who filmed or featured Cypress Point Club. · Stats as of Oct 12, 2026 · 5d ago
NLU Film Room: Randy Plays Cypress Point Club
How did Hole 3 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Pro tees · 162 yards.
What club should I use on this par 3?
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At 162 yards, most golfers will need a mid-iron (7-iron to 8-iron) to reach this green. Adjust for elevation, wind, and pin position.
How difficult is hole 3?
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This hole is a good scoring opportunity for most golfers. Key challenges include: small green.
How big is the green on hole 3?
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The green is small and requires precision. Expect challenging pin positions with limited room for error.
What's a good score on hole 3?
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This hole is a solid par with birdie chances for precise approach shots. Making par is a good result here. Focus on hitting the green and avoiding three-putts.