Hole 1 at Doral Golf Resort and Spa 'The Blue monster'
- Par
- 5
- Yardage
- 529 yds
- Stroke index
- 11
- Hazards
- 8 bunkers
Hole 1 map
29 yd wide × 32 yd deep · 5.7 ft total elevation range
Light = gentler slope · Red = steeper slope
White lines: 1 foot of elevation. Arrows: downhill. General terrain, not a pin read.
Approach from bottom
Contour source
USGS 1 Meter 17 x56y286 FL_MiamiDade_D23 · collection 2023–2024
Map source & reference
Mapbox Satellite composite · capture date not provided. Green at the top; the labeled map reference is below.
Scorecard yardage is for Championship tees. The aerial shows its labeled reference position; distance rings measure to the green.
Championship tees · Par 5 · 529 yards
The plan for No. 1
The opening hole at Doral Golf Resort and Spa 'The Blue monster' sets an immediate tone for the championship test ahead. This straight par 5 stretches 529 yards and offers players an inviting start with a generous fairway that encourages an aggressive tee shot. The absence of major hazards allows golfers to swing freely, but the Blue Monster's trademark undulating terrain begins to reveal itself as players navigate toward the green. The approach shot demands precision to a compact, elevated green complex that hints at the course's notorious putting surfaces. While seemingly straightforward, this opening hole establishes the strategic mindset required for Doral's legendary layout, where length and accuracy must work in harmony throughout the round.
Off the tee
Your tee shot strategy should prioritize finding the fairway over maximum distance. With the Blue Monster's reputation for punishing wayward shots with deep rough, a controlled drive with your most reliable club is essential. Target the center of the fairway, as the straight layout provides no strategic advantage to either side. Consider using a 3-wood or hybrid if your driver has been inconsistent, as position trumps distance on this opening hole. The key is getting your round started with a solid foundation rather than chasing extra yardage that could lead to trouble.
Approach & recovery
After a good drive, you'll face a crucial decision on your second shot. The small green demands pinpoint accuracy, making club selection critical for distance control. Most players will have a long iron or fairway wood into this green, where the undulating surface can quickly turn a well-struck shot into a difficult two-putt. Focus on the center of the green regardless of pin position, as the small target leaves little margin for error. If you're not confident about reaching the green in two, consider laying up to your favorite wedge distance to ensure a controlled third shot.
On the green
The small, undulating green at the first hole requires careful attention to speed control. Like most greens at Doral, expect subtle breaks that can be deceiving in the South Florida conditions. Read putts conservatively and focus on getting your first putt close rather than being aggressive with longer attempts. The green's size means three-putts can happen quickly if you're not careful with speed, so err on the side of leaving uphill putts when possible. ## RISK VS REWARD This hole offers a classic risk/reward scenario for longer hitters who can reach the green in two. However, the small green size significantly increases the penalty for missing your target. The reward of a potential eagle or easy birdie must be weighed against the risk of missing the green entirely and facing a difficult up-and-down. Conservative play with three well-executed shots often produces better scoring results than aggressive attempts to reach in two. ## DIFFERENT SKILL LEVELS **High Handicappers:** Focus entirely on three conservative shots to reach the green. Use your most reliable club off the tee, even if it's a hybrid or 5-wood. Plan for three shots to the green and don't attempt to force distance you don't have. The small green rewards accuracy over power. **Low Handicappers:** You have the option to go for the green in two, but carefully assess conditions and your confidence level. If you're hitting your long clubs well, the risk may be worth it. However, don't hesitate to lay up if you're between clubs or the pin position is particularly challenging. Course management on the opening hole can set a positive tone for the entire round. The first hole at the Blue Monster serves as an early test of your decision-making abilities. Success here comes from playing within your capabilities while respecting the course's demanding nature that has challenged the world's best players for decades.
Watch for
- Mapped bunkers guard landing areas and greenside recovery lines.
Hole 1 Green Complex & Slope
USGS 3DEP terrain analysis
Green size: 4,558 sq ft
How did Hole 1 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Championship tees · 529 yards.
Can this par 5 be reached in two?
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At 529 yards, A true three-shot hole for most players. Position your layup to leave a comfortable wedge distance.
How difficult is hole 1?
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This hole is a good scoring opportunity for most golfers. Key challenges include: heavily bunkered.
How big is the green on hole 1?
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The green is medium-sized with moderate targets. Pay attention to pin placement when selecting your approach club.
What's a good score on hole 1?
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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.