Hole 17 at La Costa Resort and Spa (South course)
- Par
- 5
- Yardage
- 575 yds
- Hazards
- 12 bunkers · Water
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 31 yds deep × 26 yds wide
Scorecard yardage is for Championship tees. The aerial shows its labeled reference position; distance rings measure to the green.
Championship tees · Par 5 · 575 yards
The plan for No. 17
The signature hole at La Costa Resort and Spa (South course), this 575-yard par 5 serves as the ultimate test before the home stretch. As the number one handicap hole, it demands precision and power from the championship tees where PGA Tour professionals have battled during the Tournament of Champions. The straight layout may appear forgiving, but the small green creates a challenging target for approach shots, requiring golfers to carefully manage their positioning throughout the hole. With minimal hazards to navigate, success hinges on course management and execution rather than avoiding trouble. This strategic par 5 rewards aggressive play while punishing poor decisions, making it a memorable climax to La Costa's renowned South course challenge.
Off the tee
Your opening shot should prioritize finding the center of the fairway with a controlled swing. Given the hole's 575-yard length, there's no need to force extra distance off the tee. A well-struck driver or strong 3-wood that finds the short grass sets up the ideal second shot. Focus on a target line down the middle of the fairway, as the straight layout provides a clear visual reference. Avoid the temptation to aim for the edges to gain a few extra yards - the center of the fairway is your friend on this lengthy par-5.
Approach & recovery
Your second shot strategy depends entirely on your tee shot execution. From a good drive, most players will face a layup decision, positioning the ball in an optimal spot for the third shot. Target an area that leaves you with a comfortable wedge or short iron distance to the pin. The small green demands precision on your approach, so prioritize leaving yourself a full swing rather than an awkward in-between distance. If you're long enough to consider going for the green in two, the small target makes this a high-risk proposition that's rarely worth attempting.
On the green
The small green size makes your approach shot accuracy paramount, but once you're on the putting surface, focus on lag putting to ensure you don't leave yourself with challenging comeback putts. Without specific knowledge of the green's contours, play conservatively and aim for the center of the green on your approach. Two-putting from anywhere on this small surface should be manageable with good distance control. ## RISK VS REWARD This hole's risk/reward calculation is relatively straightforward - the reward for aggressive play is minimal given the small green target, while the risks of missing the green entirely are significant. The smart play is conservative positioning throughout, building toward a manageable third shot. The only real risk/reward decision comes on the second shot for longer hitters considering going for the green, but the small target makes this a poor percentage play for most golfers. ## DIFFERENT SKILL LEVELS **High Handicappers:** Focus on three solid shots rather than trying to reach in two. Use a 3-wood or hybrid off the tee for accuracy, then advance the ball with your second shot to a comfortable third-shot distance. Aim for the center of the green on your approach and accept par as an excellent score. **Low Handicappers:** While you may have the length to reach in two, the small green makes this a questionable strategic decision unless conditions are perfect. Consider laying up to your favorite wedge distance and attacking the pin with a controlled third shot. Your short game skills give you the best chance to capitalize on a well-positioned approach shot. The 17th at La Costa South rewards patience and precision over power - stick to conservative course management and you'll give yourself the best opportunity to post a good number on this challenging closer to your round.
Watch for
- Course conditioning and mapped hazards may affect line selection; confirm from the aerial.
Hole 17 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 4,258 sq ft
How did Hole 17 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Championship tees · 575 yards.
Can this par 5 be reached in two?
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At 575 yards, A true three-shot hole for most players. Position your layup to leave a comfortable wedge distance.
How difficult is hole 17?
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This hole is a good scoring opportunity for most golfers. Key challenges include: long par 5.
What's a good score on hole 17?
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This hole is a true three-shot hole where birdie requires execution. This longer par 5 demands patience. Two good shots set up the scoring opportunity.