Hole 4 at PGA West (Nicklaus Tournament course)
- Par
- 5
- Yardage
- 549 yds
- Stroke index
- 13
- Hazards
- 7 bunkers
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 34 yds deep × 32 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 · 549 yards
The plan for No. 4
The fourth hole at PGA West's Nicklaus Tournament course presents a strategic par 5 that rewards thoughtful course management over pure distance. Stretching 549 yards through the desert landscape, this straight-away hole offers multiple route options to navigate its length. The absence of significant hazards creates a deceptively straightforward appearance, but the small green complex demands precision on the approach shot. Players can choose an aggressive two-shot strategy or lay up for a comfortable wedge into the compact target. The hole's 13 handicap ranking reflects its scoring potential, yet the diminutive green punishes wayward approaches. This classic risk-reward design epitomizes Jack Nicklaus's strategic philosophy, where smart play trumps raw power.
Off the tee
Launch your drive down the center-right portion of the fairway to set up the optimal angle for your second shot. A driver is typically the right choice here, as distance off the tee significantly impacts your approach options. Focus on finding the fairway rather than maximum distance - accuracy pays dividends on this hole. The generous landing area allows for an aggressive swing, but maintain good tempo to ensure solid contact.
Approach & recovery
Your second shot strategy depends entirely on your driving distance and comfort level with long approaches. Longer hitters may attempt to reach in two, requiring a precise long iron or fairway wood to a small target. Most players should lay up to their preferred wedge distance, typically leaving 100-120 yards to the pin. Position your layup shot in the center of the fairway to provide the best angle to attack any pin position on the small green.
On the green
The small green demands accuracy over aggression on approach shots. Aim for the center of the green unless the pin is easily accessible. Two-putting from anywhere on this green should be manageable given its size, but be aware that distance control becomes crucial - short putts can still break significantly. Focus on lag putting to avoid three-putts that can quickly turn a scoring opportunity into a disappointing result. ## RISK VS REWARD The risk/reward calculation centers on going for the green in two versus laying up. Players who can consistently carry 220+ yards with accuracy should consider the aggressive play, especially when conditions favor distance. However, the small green makes this a low-percentage shot for most golfers. The conservative approach of laying up typically yields more consistent scoring, as a well-positioned wedge shot offers excellent birdie opportunities. ## DIFFERENT SKILL LEVELS **Low Handicappers:** Consider going for the green in two if you're within 240 yards and have a clean lie. Your precision with long irons makes this a viable scoring strategy. Focus on hitting quality shots rather than forcing distance. **High Handicappers:** Play this as a three-shot hole. Use your second shot to advance the ball to a comfortable wedge distance, then attack the pin with your best scoring club. The lack of hazards means you can swing freely - just focus on solid contact and good course management. This hole exemplifies how strategic thinking trumps raw power in golf. Whether you choose the aggressive or conservative route, commit to your strategy and execute each shot with confidence.
Watch for
- Course conditioning and mapped hazards may affect line selection; confirm from the aerial.
Hole 4 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 4,391 sq ft
How did Hole 4 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Championship tees · 549 yards.
Can this par 5 be reached in two?
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At 549 yards, A true three-shot hole for most players. Position your layup to leave a comfortable wedge distance.
How difficult is hole 4?
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This hole is a good scoring opportunity for most golfers. Key challenges include: small green.
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.