Hole 16 at PGA WEST (Norman course)

Par 5 • 537 Yards • La Quinta, California

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Challenging

The 16th hole at PGA WEST's Norman course presents a classic risk-reward par 5 that epitomizes Greg Norman's strategic design philosophy. At 537 yards, this straight-away hole appears deceptively straightforward, but the small green complex demands precision on every shot. The generous fairway invites aggressive tee shots, allowing longer hitters to contemplate reaching in two, while the compact target green punishes wayward approach shots with challenging recovery situations. Without significant hazards cluttering the landscape, success hinges purely on execution and distance control. The hole's understated elegance lies in its simplicity – a true test of shot-making ability where par feels like a victory and birdie opportunities reward calculated aggression.

Tees:

537y513y491y476y442y

Green:29y × 41y

Fairway @250y:12y wide

8 BunkersWaterright dogleg

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PGA WEST (Norman course)

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Hole Stats

Par: 5
Yardage: 537 yds
Green: 5048 sq ft
Bunkers: 8
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

Focus on accuracy over distance on your tee shot. The fairway maintains a consistent 12-yard width at both the 200 and 250-yard marks, making precise placement crucial for setting up your second shot on this 537-yard par 5.

approach

Consider laying up short of the bunkers positioned at 529.5 yards if you can't carry them comfortably. This leaves a manageable wedge approach to the green rather than risking a difficult bunker shot.

green

The green measures 29 yards by 41 yards with 5,048 square feet of putting surface, providing a generous target. Aim for the center of the green to avoid trouble and give yourself the best chance for birdie.

hazard warning

Be extremely cautious with your second shot placement. The bunkers at 529.5 yards are positioned dangerously close to the green on this 537-yard hole, leaving minimal margin for error on aggressive approaches.

approach

With the narrow 12-yard fairway width continuing through the landing zones, consider using a fairway wood or hybrid for your second shot to maintain accuracy while advancing the ball toward the green complex.

train this shot at home

This 537-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 537 yards, A true three-shot hole for most players. Position your layup to leave a comfortable wedge distance.

How difficult is hole 16?

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

What hazards should I watch out for on hole 16?

Key hazards include: water at 238.3 yards. Plan your shots to avoid these trouble spots.

How big is the green on hole 16?

The green is medium-sized with moderate targets. Pay attention to pin placement when selecting your approach club.

Which side of the fairway is safer on hole 16?

Aim for the right side of the fairway when possible. Missing left (water) brings more trouble into play.

What's a good score on hole 16?

This hole is a solid birdie opportunity with smart layup strategy. Most golfers can reach in three. Position your layup to leave a comfortable wedge.

Can I practice hole 16 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 →