Hole 13 at Links at Spanish Bay, The
- Par
- 3
- Yardage
- 126 yds
- Stroke index
- 18
- Hazards
- 2 bunkers
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 32 yds deep × 20 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 · 126 yards
The plan for No. 13
The 13th hole at Links at Spanish Bay presents a deceptively challenging par 3 that epitomizes coastal golf's unpredictable nature. At 126 yards, this short iron appears straightforward until the Pacific winds assert their influence over your tee shot. The small green demands precision, particularly when swirling breezes can turn a routine wedge into a club selection puzzle. Seasoned players know to club up significantly here - what feels like a sand wedge day often requires a 9-iron or more to combat the coastal elements. The green's compact target and firm conditions typical of links golf reward committed swings over tentative approaches. Despite minimal hazards, this hole's reputation for humbling golfers makes it a memorable test of wind reading and club selection on the Monterey Peninsula.
Off the tee
Your primary consideration is wind assessment and club selection. Multiple experienced players emphasize the critical importance of clubbing up - often by two full clubs rather than one. What might normally be a pitching wedge or 9-iron in calm conditions could easily become a 7-iron or even 6-iron when facing the prevailing coastal winds. Take extra time on the tee to feel the wind direction and intensity, looking at flag movement and nearby vegetation. Aim for the center of the small green rather than attacking pins, as the margin for error is limited with the compact target.
Approach & recovery
Since this is a par 3, your tee shot is your approach shot. The key strategic element is committing fully to your club selection after accounting for wind conditions. The small green size means you cannot afford to be short - better to be long and putting back than short and chipping up. Focus on a smooth, controlled swing rather than trying to muscle a shorter club. The green's compact size rewards accuracy, so prioritize solid contact and proper trajectory over aggressive pin-hunting.
On the green
The greens at Spanish Bay are known to be "tough but fair" with consistent speed throughout the round. Expect firm, fast conditions that reward precise approach shots. The small green size means most putts will be relatively short, but don't underestimate the subtle breaks that can affect even short putts. Pay attention to the coastal influence on green conditions - they may play faster later in the day as they firm up, and wind can affect longer putts.
Watch for
- Bunkers and waste areas influence line selection; use mapped hazard edges for the selected tee.
Hole 13 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 2,761 sq ft
Course and tournament history
Historical context for the course and venue. Each entry identifies the event or course it describes.
1974 · Tom Watson
Responding to player complaints from the 1974 U.S. Open, Tatum famously defended the U.S. Open course set-up, stating, “We had no intention of confounding the best players in the world. We just wanted
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How did Hole 13 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Pro tees · 126 yards.
What club should I use on this par 3?
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At 126 yards, most golfers will need a short iron (9-iron to PW) to reach this green. Adjust for elevation, wind, and pin position.
How difficult is hole 13?
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This hole is a good scoring opportunity for most golfers. Key challenges include: small green.
What hazards should I watch out for on hole 13?
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Key hazards include: 2 greenside bunkers. Plan your shots to avoid these trouble spots.
How big is the green on hole 13?
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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 13?
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This hole is a legitimate birdie opportunity for accurate iron players. Most golfers should target par, with birdie chances if you hit the green in regulation.