Hole 16 at Doral Golf Resort and Spa 'The Blue monster'
- Par
- 4
- Yardage
- 372 yds
- Stroke index
- 14
- Hazards
- 8 bunkers
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 26 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 4 · 372 yards
The plan for No. 16
The 16th hole at Doral Golf Resort and Spa 'The Blue monster' stands as one of Gil Hanse's most dramatic renovations, transforming into a thrilling risk-reward par 4 at 372 yards. This reachable dogleg left tempts aggressive players with water hazards expanded down the left side, while strategic palm trees guard the right corner to punish wayward tee shots. The hole's genius lies in rewarding precise shot-making—a well-executed draw from the tee opens up the green complex, while conservative players must navigate the repositioned fairway bunkers that actually provide more room for average golfers. The compact green demands accuracy on approach shots, making this shortened hole a perfect example of strategic architecture where length reduction amplified excitement and decision-making.
Off the tee
The key to this hole is playing a right-to-left shot shape from the tee, as recommended by course strategists. This draw allows you to work the ball away from the water hazard on the left while positioning yourself for the best approach angle. For those attempting to reach the green, aim for the right side of the fairway to create the safest angle, as palm trees at the right-hand corner can block poorly positioned drives. Conservative players should consider a fairway wood or long iron to position themselves in the optimal landing zone, leaving a comfortable wedge approach. The fairway bunkers are positioned to give average golfers more room to drive the ball, so don't be overly cautious about distance control off the tee.
Approach & recovery
For those laying up, the approach shot becomes critical to scoring. Target the center-right portion of the small green to avoid the water hazard that extends along the left side. The green's compact size demands precision, making club selection crucial - err on the side of taking enough club rather than leaving yourself short. Players going for the green in one must commit fully to their line and club selection. The water hazard is unforgiving, so only attempt this shot when you're confident in your execution and the conditions are favorable.
On the green
The small green size makes two-putting paramount to good scoring. Focus on getting your first putt to the correct tier and leaving yourself an uphill putt when possible. With the green's compact nature, speed control becomes more important than reading complex breaks. Practice your lag putting before attempting this hole, as three-putts can quickly turn a birdie opportunity into a bogey. ## RISK VS REWARD This is the classic risk/reward hole on the Blue Monster. The potential for eagle or birdie is real, but so is the possibility of a big number if you find the water. Consider your current round situation - if you need to make up ground, the aggressive play makes sense. If you're protecting a good score, the conservative approach of laying up and playing for par is often the smarter choice. ## DIFFERENT SKILL LEVELS **Low Handicappers:** Can realistically consider going for the green with a long iron or fairway wood, especially with favorable wind conditions. Focus on committing to your target line and swing tempo. If laying up, be aggressive with your wedge approach to create birdie opportunities. **High Handicappers:** Should almost always lay up with a fairway wood or hybrid, positioning themselves for a comfortable wedge shot. The scoring opportunity comes from executing a solid approach shot and two-putting for par. Avoid the temptation to go for the green unless you're having an exceptional ball-striking day. The 16th hole rewards smart course management and confident execution. Whether you choose the aggressive or conservative route, commit fully to your strategy and trust your club selection.
Watch for
- Mapped bunkers guard landing areas and greenside recovery lines.
Hole 16 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 3,985 sq ft
How did Hole 16 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Championship tees · 372 yards.
What's the best strategy off the tee?
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For this 372-yard par 4, most players will hit 3-wood or driver to set up a comfortable approach.
How difficult is hole 16?
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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 16?
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The green is small and requires precision. Expect challenging pin positions with limited room for error.
What's a good score on hole 16?
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This hole is a medium-length test where par is a solid result. A straightforward par 4 where course management pays off.