Hole 15 at Doral Golf Resort and Spa 'The Blue monster'
- Par
- 3
- Yardage
- 175 yds
- Stroke index
- 16
- Hazards
- 3 bunkers
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 20 yds deep × 35 yds wide
Scorecard yardage is for Championship tees. The aerial shows its labeled reference position; distance rings measure to the green.
Championship tees · Par 3 · 175 yards
The plan for No. 15
The 15th hole at Doral Golf Resort and Spa 'The Blue Monster' presents a deceptively challenging par 3 that demands precision over power. At 175 yards, this straight shot to a compact green requires golfers to commit fully to their club selection, as the small target leaves little margin for error. The hole's understated appearance can lull players into complacency, but accurate distance control becomes paramount when attacking the pin. With minimal hazards to distract the eye, mental focus shifts entirely to execution and green reading. Wind conditions typical of South Florida can significantly influence club choice, making this seemingly straightforward one-shotter a true test of course management. The hole exemplifies the Blue Monster's reputation for punishing imprecise shots, where even minor miscalculations can lead to difficult recovery situations around the putting surface.
Off the tee
Your tee shot strategy centers on committing to the right club for the conditions. At 175 yards, expect to hit anything from a 6-iron to an 8-iron depending on wind, pin position, and your personal yardages. The key target line is straight at the flag, but consider aiming for the center of the green when the pin is tucked near edges. Miami's notorious wind can dramatically affect club selection - take an extra club when facing headwinds and don't be afraid to club down with a helping breeze. Focus on a smooth, controlled swing rather than forcing distance, as the small green will punish any shot that comes in too hot or off-line.
Approach & recovery
Since this is a par 3, your tee shot IS your approach shot. The straight layout simplifies target selection, but the small green demands pinpoint accuracy. Aim for the fat part of the green when in doubt - even a 30-foot putt is preferable to a chip shot from the rough. Pay close attention to the pin sheet or on-course yardages, as the difference between front and back pin positions on a small green can be significant for club selection. When the flag is positioned toward the edges, resist the temptation to attack directly and instead play to the center of the green.
On the green
The small green size means most putts will be makeable, but don't underestimate the subtle breaks that can exist on championship-caliber greens. Take time to read the putt carefully, as the Blue Monster's greens are known for their quality and can have deceptive slopes. With the green's compact dimensions, speed control becomes paramount - you don't want to putt off the surface. Focus on getting your first putt close rather than being overly aggressive, especially on longer putts across the green. ## RISK VS REWARD This hole offers a clear risk/reward scenario: the reward of a potential birdie or easy par is there for the taking, but the risk lies in missing the small target entirely. The smart play is always to err on the side of caution with club selection and aim for the center of the green. The biggest risk is being short - ensure you take enough club to reach the putting surface even if you don't catch it perfectly. A putt from anywhere on the green gives you a legitimate chance at birdie. ## DIFFERENT SKILL LEVELS **High-Handicap Players:** Focus entirely on finding the green with your most reliable mid-iron. Don't worry about pin hunting - aim dead center and be thrilled with any putt for birdie. Club up to ensure you reach the green, as short shots into rough make par much more difficult. **Low-Handicap Players:** This is a hole where you can be more aggressive with pin positions, especially when the flag is in the middle third of the green. Use your yardage book to dial in exact distances and don't be afraid to attack when conditions are favorable. Still respect the small target - even skilled players should favor the center when pins are tucked tight to edges. The 15th hole at the Blue Monster rewards patience and precision over aggression, making it a perfect example of strategic course management on one of golf's most storied championship venues.
Watch for
- Mapped bunkers guard landing areas and greenside recovery lines.
Hole 15 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 3,449 sq ft
How did Hole 15 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Championship tees · 175 yards.
What club should I use on this par 3?
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At 175 yards, most golfers will need a mid-iron (7-iron to 8-iron) to reach this green. Adjust for elevation, wind, and pin position.
How difficult is hole 15?
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This hole is a moderate challenge for most golfers. Key challenges include: small green.
What hazards should I watch out for on hole 15?
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Key hazards include: 3 greenside bunkers. Plan your shots to avoid these trouble spots.
How big is the green on hole 15?
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The green is small and requires precision. The green is wider than it is deep, rewarding shots that find the correct tier. Expect challenging pin positions with limited room for error.
What's a good score on hole 15?
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This hole is a solid par with birdie chances for precise approach shots. Making par is a good result here. Focus on hitting the green and avoiding three-putts.