Hole 12 at PGA WEST (Norman course)

Par 5 • 566 Yards • La Quinta, California

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Tough

The 566-yard 12th hole at PGA WEST's Norman course presents a deceptive scoring opportunity that demands precision over power. This straight par 5 stretches across the desert landscape with a generous fairway that invites aggressive play from the tee, but the real challenge emerges as golfers approach the small, well-protected green complex.

With minimal hazards flanking the fairway, length becomes the primary consideration, as reaching this green in two requires both distance and accuracy. The compact putting surface punishes wayward approach shots, making course management crucial for birdie opportunities. Smart players will favor position over distance on their second shot, setting up a comfortable wedge to attack the pin. Despite its relatively low handicap ranking, this hole rewards strategic thinking and precise execution around the green.

Tees:

566y521y507y457y425y

Green:39y × 22y

Fairway @250y:36y wide

14 BunkersWater dogleg

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PGA WEST (Norman course)

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Hole Stats

Par: 5
Yardage: 566 yds
Green: 5199 sq ft
Bunkers: 14
Water: Yes
Course Slope: 139
Course Rating: 75.1

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Recommended Gear

A dependable fairway wood can turn this par 5 into a real birdie chance.

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Strategy Tips

tee shot

With the fairway maintaining a consistent 36 yards width at both 200 and 250 yards, focus on accuracy over distance off the tee. A controlled driver or 3-wood keeping the ball in the short grass is more valuable than maximum distance.

hazard warning

Bunkers positioned at 228 yards from the tee create a critical decision point. Conservative players should lay up short of this distance, while longer hitters must ensure they carry well beyond to avoid trouble.

approach

At 566 yards, most golfers will face a lengthy approach shot for their second or third. The key is positioning your ball in the fairway's 36-yard corridor to give yourself the best angle and lie for your next shot.

green

The green measures 39 yards long by 22 yards wide (5,199 sq ft), making it a relatively narrow target. Club selection and accuracy are crucial, especially if pin position favors the green's shorter 22-yard dimension.

tee shot

With no immediate landing zone restrictions from the tee, you have flexibility in your tee shot strategy. However, the bunkers at 228 yards mean your drive distance will determine your second shot options on this long par 5.

train this shot at home

This 566-yard par 5 is ideal for working on your driver accuracy. Launch monitors from $600 let you practice this exact shot with real course data from home.

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Scoring Tip

Scoring on par 5s starts with a smart second shot. Laying up to your favorite wedge distance gives you the best birdie chance.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can this par 5 be reached in two?

At 566 yards, A true three-shot hole for most players. Position your layup to leave a comfortable wedge distance.

How difficult is hole 12?

This hole is a moderate challenge for most golfers. Key challenges include: long par 5, water in play.

What hazards should I watch out for on hole 12?

Key hazards include: water at 102.0 yards. Plan your shots to avoid these trouble spots.

How big is the green on hole 12?

The green is medium-sized with moderate targets. The green is wider than it is deep, rewarding shots that find the correct tier. Pay attention to pin placement when selecting your approach club.

What's a good score on hole 12?

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.

Can I practice hole 12 on a golf simulator at home?

Yes — many modern launch monitors and simulators include real course data for PGA WEST (Norman course). You can play this exact par 5 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 →