Hole 4 at Links at Spanish Bay, The
- Par
- 3
- Yardage
- 190 yds
- Stroke index
- 15
- Hazards
- 1 bunker
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 26 yds deep × 18 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 · 190 yards
The plan for No. 4
Aptly named "Blind Pew" after the menacing pirate character, Links at Spanish Bay hole 4 presents a deceptively challenging par 3 that embodies the course's links heritage. At 190 yards, this straight shot demands precision over a small green that can quickly punish wayward tee shots. The coastal winds off Monterey Bay add another layer of complexity, often requiring golfers to club up significantly from their initial instinct. Despite appearing relatively benign without major hezards, the hole's reputation among professionals speaks to its subtle difficulties. The compact green complex rewards accurate iron play while penalizing anything short or long, making distance control paramount in the ever-present Pebble Beach winds.
Off the tee
Your tee shot is everything on this par 3, requiring committed club selection based on current wind conditions. The 190-yard distance typically calls for a mid to long iron, but coastal winds can easily turn this into anything from a 6-iron to a 4-iron depending on conditions. Take extra time to assess wind direction and strength before committing to your club choice. The target line is straightforward down the middle, but focus on making a smooth, controlled swing rather than trying to muscle the ball through the wind. A three-quarter swing with one more club often produces better results than a full swing with less club in windy conditions.
Approach & recovery
Since this is a par 3, your tee shot serves as your approach. The small green demands accuracy over distance, so prioritize hitting the center of the green regardless of pin position. With no major hazards protecting the green, missing short or long won't result in penalty strokes, but the small target makes recovery shots challenging. Pay special attention to the general advice for Spanish Bay's front nine: club up significantly. If you're debating between two clubs, the consensus from experienced players suggests going with the longer option, especially at sea level where the ball may not carry as far as expected.
On the green
The small green size means putting distances will generally be manageable, but don't underestimate the subtleties of the surface. Links-style greens often feature undulations that aren't immediately apparent, so take time to read the green from multiple angles. The coastal location may create grain patterns that affect ball roll, particularly later in the day. Focus on lag putting to the center of the green if facing a long putt, as the small surface means even modest approach putts can run off the edge if struck too firmly.
Watch for
- Bunkers and waste areas influence line selection; use mapped hazard edges for the selected tee.
Hole 4 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 2,835 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 4 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Pro tees · 190 yards.
What club should I use on this par 3?
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At 190 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 4?
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This hole is a moderate challenge for most golfers. Key challenges include: small green.
What hazards should I watch out for on hole 4?
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Key hazards include: 1 greenside bunker. Plan your shots to avoid these trouble spots.
How big is the green on hole 4?
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The green is small and requires precision. Expect challenging pin positions with limited room for error.