Hole 17 at Monarch Beach Golf Links

Par 3 • 172 Yards • Dana Point, California

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Challenging

The signature par 3 17th at Monarch Beach Golf Links presents a deceptively challenging test despite its modest 172.0 yards. This coastal gem demands precision over power, with the small green serving as the primary defense against scoring. The straightforward layout might appear simple, but the intimate green complex requires golfers to commit fully to their club selection and trust their swing. Ocean breezes add an extra layer of complexity, often turning what seems like a comfortable mid-iron into a strategic puzzle. With the handicap rating of 18, this hole proves that length isn't everything in golf design. The elevated tee provides stunning Pacific views, but smart players keep their focus on the flag, knowing that anything short of the putting surface leaves a difficult up-and-down for par.

Tees:

172y150y128y110y

Green:24y × 32y

4 Bunkers dogleg

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Monarch Beach Golf Links

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Hole Stats

Par: 3
Yardage: 172 yds
Green: 4159 sq ft
Bunkers: 4
Course Slope: 138
Course Rating: 72.8

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Dial in your mid-irons — accuracy is everything on a short par 3.

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Strategy Tips

tee shot

At 172 yards, this par 3 demands precision over power. Select a club that gives you comfortable distance control to avoid coming up short or flying the green.

hazard warning

Bunkers positioned at 171.9 yards create a significant threat just short of the green. Take one extra club to ensure you clear the sand and reach the putting surface.

green

The compact 4,159 square foot green (24x32 yards) requires accurate approach shots. Focus on the center of the green rather than pin-hunting to avoid short-sided situations.

approach

With no fairway landing zones available, this is a direct shot to the green. Commit fully to your club selection and swing with confidence.

green

The green's rectangular shape (24 yards wide by 32 yards deep) offers different strategies - aim for the wider dimension if pin position allows for better margin of error.

train this shot at home

This par 3 is ideal for working on your mid-iron. Launch monitors from $600 let you practice this exact shot with real course data from home.

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Scoring Tip

Short par 3s reward precision. Pick the right club for the front-center of the green and trust your swing.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What club should I use on this par 3?

At 172 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 17?

This hole is a moderate challenge for most golfers. Key challenges include: small green.

How big is the green on hole 17?

The green is small and requires precision. Expect challenging pin positions with limited room for error.

What's a good score on hole 17?

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.

Can I practice hole 17 on a golf simulator at home?

Yes — many modern launch monitors and simulators include real course data for Monarch Beach Golf Links. You can play this exact par 3 shot-by-shot at home. Entry-level options like the SkyTrak+ (around $2,500) and Garmin Approach R10 (around $600) support course play, while premium systems from Trackman and Foresight offer tour-level accuracy. Most systems pay for themselves in a season or two versus green fees and range balls. Shop home golf simulators →