Hole 14 at Links at Spanish Bay, The
- Par
- 5
- Yardage
- 576 yds
- Stroke index
- 2
- Hazards
- 5 bunkers
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 33 yds deep × 23 yds wide
Scorecard yardage is for Pro tees. The aerial shows its labeled reference position; distance rings measure to the green.
Pro tees · Par 5 · 576 yards
The plan for No. 14
Recognized by Golf magazine as one of the world's best 500 holes, the 14th at Links at Spanish Bay stands as a magnificent 576-yard par 5 that epitomizes championship links golf along the Monterey Peninsula. This straight, demanding hole requires strategic precision from tee to green, with the ever-present coastal winds adding complexity to every shot. The generous fairway invites aggressive tee shots, but the real challenge emerges in the approach to a deceptively small green that demands pinpoint accuracy. As the second-hardest hole on the course, this par 5 rewards bold play while punishing the careless. The stunning Pacific backdrop creates a visual masterpiece that perfectly captures why Spanish Bay offers some of golf's most breathtaking scenery, making every shot both challenging and memorable.
Off the tee
The tee shot strategy centers on finding the optimal position for your second shot while accounting for coastal wind conditions. Given the straight layout, aim down the center of the fairway with your most reliable driver or strong fairway wood. The key is achieving maximum distance while maintaining accuracy - this hole rewards length off the tee but not at the expense of finding the short grass. Pay careful attention to wind direction and strength, as coastal conditions can dramatically affect ball flight. When facing headwinds, consider taking an extra club and making a controlled swing rather than trying to overpower the conditions. The absence of significant hazards allows for aggressive play off the tee, but accuracy remains paramount for setting up the approach shots.
Approach & recovery
Your approach strategy will largely depend on whether you can realistically reach the green in two shots or need to lay up for a wedge third shot. For longer hitters in favorable conditions, the decision to go for the green in two becomes a critical risk-reward calculation. The small green size makes this an extremely demanding target, requiring precise distance control and accuracy. If laying up, position your second shot to leave a comfortable wedge distance - typically between 80-120 yards for most players. This strategy becomes even more important when wind conditions are challenging. The small green demands a high, soft-landing approach shot, so ensure your lay-up position allows for optimal angle and distance control on your third shot.
On the green
The small green at the 14th requires exceptional precision with your approach shots and careful attention to putting strategy. With limited green surface area, there's little margin for error on approach shots - focus on hitting the center of the green rather than attacking pins. Once on the putting surface, the compact size means most putts will be relatively short, but don't underestimate the subtle breaks that can exist. Take time to read the green carefully, as the coastal location may create grain patterns that affect ball roll. Conservative putting strategy often pays dividends here - aim for the center of the cup rather than trying to make aggressive putts that could leave difficult comeback attempts.
Watch for
- Bunkers and waste areas influence line selection; use mapped hazard edges for the selected tee.
Hole 14 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 4,650 sq ft
How did Hole 14 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Pro tees · 576 yards.
Can this par 5 be reached in two?
↓
At 576 yards, A true three-shot hole for most players. Position your layup to leave a comfortable wedge distance.
How difficult is hole 14?
↓
This hole is a moderate challenge for most golfers. Key challenges include: long par 5, heavily bunkered.
How big is the green on hole 14?
↓
The green is medium-sized with moderate targets. Pay attention to pin placement when selecting your approach club.
What's a good score on hole 14?
↓
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.