Hole 11 at Doral Golf Resort and Spa 'The Blue monster'
- Par
- 4
- Yardage
- 406 yds
- Stroke index
- 18
- Hazards
- 7 bunkers
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 30 yds deep × 22 yds wide
Scorecard yardage is for Championship tees. The aerial shows its labeled reference position; distance rings measure to the green.
Championship tees · Par 4 · 406 yards
The plan for No. 11
The 11th hole at Doral Golf Resort and Spa 'The Blue Monster' presents a deceptively challenging par 4 that plays 406 yards through the heart of this legendary South Florida layout. While appearing straightforward from the tee, this hole's true test lies in its elevated green complex that creates visual uncertainty for approaching players. The raised front portion of the green conceals pin positions, demanding precise distance control and committed shot-making on the approach. Strategic bunkering along the left side tightens the second-shot landing area, forcing golfers to carefully consider their angle of attack. Despite being the lowest handicap hole on the course, the 11th rewards aggressive play while punishing indecision, embodying the Blue Monster's reputation for testing even the most skilled professionals who have competed here over the decades.
Off the tee
Focus on finding the center-right portion of the fairway to set up the optimal approach angle. A well-struck driver should leave most golfers with a short iron into the green, but accuracy trumps distance here. The fairway is generous enough to accommodate a confident swing, but avoid drifting too far left as this can create a more challenging approach angle. Consider a 3-wood or hybrid if you're struggling with driver accuracy, as leaving yourself 120-140 yards out is perfectly acceptable on this hole.
Approach & recovery
The raised green front is the defining feature of your approach shot strategy. This elevation change can make front pin positions nearly invisible and creates an unsettling feeling over the ball. Aim for the center or back portion of the green rather than attacking front pins aggressively. Club selection should account for the uphill nature of the shot - take one extra club and make a smooth swing rather than forcing a shorter iron. The small green size demands precision, so prioritize hitting the putting surface over getting close to challenging pin positions.
On the green
With the green's raised front, expect subtle breaks that flow away from the elevated area. Putts from below the hole will play slower than they appear due to the uphill nature, while downhill putts can be tricky to judge. Focus on getting your first putt to the correct level rather than hunting for the hole location. Two-putt pars are excellent scores here, especially when the pin is tucked in a front location. ## RISK VS REWARD The primary risk/reward decision comes with approach shot aggression. While the hole's length suggests birdie opportunities, the raised green and small target punish overly aggressive play. The reward for conservative, center-green approaches is consistent pars with occasional birdie putts. Attacking tight pins, especially front locations, risks short-sided chips from awkward lies below the green. ## DIFFERENT SKILL LEVELS **High-Handicap Players:** Play conservatively with a fairway wood or hybrid off the tee, aiming for the center of the fairway. Take an extra club on your approach and aim for the middle of the green, accepting any putt you have for birdie. Avoid the temptation to attack front pins. **Low-Handicap Players:** Use driver confidently but focus on the center-right fairway position. Be more aggressive with back pin positions but show restraint with front locations. Your superior short game skills allow for slightly more aggressive approaches, but respect the green's elevated front section. The 11th hole rewards smart, patient golf over heroic shots, making it an excellent scoring opportunity for players who embrace course management principles.
Watch for
- Mapped bunkers guard landing areas and greenside recovery lines.
Hole 11 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 3,776 sq ft
How did Hole 11 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Championship tees · 406 yards.
What's the best strategy off the tee?
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For this 406-yard par 4, most players will hit driver to set up a comfortable approach.
How difficult is hole 11?
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This hole is a moderate challenge for most golfers. Key challenges include: heavily bunkered, small green.
How big is the green on hole 11?
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The green is small and requires precision. Expect challenging pin positions with limited room for error.