Hole 16 at Wilshire Country Club
- Par
- 5
- Yardage
- 555 yds
- Stroke index
- 6
- Hazards
- 13 bunkers · Water
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 29 yds deep × 35 yds wide
Scorecard yardage is for Pro tees. The aerial shows its labeled reference position; distance rings measure to the green.
Pro tees · Par 5 · 555 yards
The plan for No. 16
The 16th hole at Wilshire Country Club presents a deceptively challenging par 5 that demands both power and precision across its 555 yards. This straight-away layout appears generous from the tee, but strategic positioning becomes crucial as players navigate toward a small, well-protected green complex. The absence of major hazards might suggest an easy birdie opportunity, but the diminutive putting surface requires pinpoint accuracy on the approach shot. Length alone won't conquer this hole – players must resist the temptation to overpower their way to the green, instead focusing on setting up the ideal angle for their final approach. The compact target makes club selection and distance control paramount for scoring success.
Off the tee
The opening shot should focus on finding the optimal position in the landing zone around 250-280 yards out. Driver is the preferred club for most players, as the lack of hazards allows you to take an aggressive line down the center of the fairway. Longer hitters might consider the risk/reward of trying to cut significant distance off the hole by bombing one down the middle, potentially setting up a mid-iron second shot. The key target line runs straight down the fairway's center, giving you the best angle for your layup or aggressive second shot.
Approach & recovery
Your strategy here depends entirely on your tee shot distance and skill level. Players who crushed their drive may have a legitimate chance to reach the green in two with a long iron or hybrid, though the small green size demands precision. Most golfers should focus on a smart layup to around 100-120 yards, setting up a comfortable wedge distance to attack pins. When laying up, favor the center-right side of the fairway to open up the best angle to the green and avoid any potential trouble that might lurk on the left side.
On the green
The small green size makes accuracy paramount on your approach shot, whether it's your second or third shot. Focus on hitting the center of the green rather than chasing pins, as the compact putting surface means you'll rarely have an extremely long putt. Pay attention to the grain and subtle breaks that are common on Los Angeles-area greens, and remember that putting from the correct tier or section of the green is crucial on smaller targets like this one. ## RISK VS REWARD This hole offers a classic risk/reward scenario for longer hitters. Going for the green in two can yield eagle opportunities, but the small target means mishits could leave difficult up-and-downs. The conservative play of laying up to a comfortable wedge distance almost guarantees a reasonable birdie look. Weather conditions, pin position, and your confidence level should all factor into this decision. ## DIFFERENT SKILL LEVELS **Low Handicappers:** Consider the aggressive line, especially if you've hit a quality drive. The small green rewards precision, so only attempt to reach in two if you're striking the ball well. Focus on wedge distance control for your third shot. **High Handicappers:** Play this as a true three-shot par 5. Use the lack of hazards to your advantage by playing aggressively off the tee, then laying up to your most comfortable scoring distance. A bogey here isn't disastrous, but the hole's design gives you every chance to make par or better with smart course management. The key to success on this hole is recognizing it as a legitimate scoring opportunity while respecting the precision required around the green. Take advantage of the hazard-free layout to play aggressively when it makes sense, but always keep that small green size in mind when making your final approach.
Watch for
- Course conditioning and mapped hazards may affect line selection; confirm from the aerial.
Hole 16 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 5,171 sq ft
How did Hole 16 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Pro tees · 555 yards.
Can this par 5 be reached in two?
↓
At 555 yards, A true three-shot hole for most players. Position your layup to leave a comfortable wedge distance.
What hazards should I watch out for on hole 16?
↓
Key hazards include: water at 519.9 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.