Hole 3 at Seminole Golf Club
- Par
- 5
- Yardage
- 501 yds
- Hazards
- 13 bunkers
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 42 yds deep × 25 yds wide
Scorecard yardage is for Championship tees. The aerial shows its labeled reference position; distance rings measure to the green.
Championship tees · Par 5 · 501 yards
The plan for No. 3
Seminole Golf Club's third hole presents a deceptively straightforward par 5 that embodies the understated elegance of this legendary Donald Ross masterpiece. Stretching 501 yards along the Florida coastline, this straight-away hole demands precision over power, with its relatively compact small green serving as the primary defense. The absence of major hazards allows golfers to open up their swings, but the diminutive putting surface punishes wayward approach shots with challenging recovery situations. What makes this hole memorable is its strategic simplicity—longer hitters can reach in two, but the premium target requires surgical accuracy. The green's subtle contours, typical of Ross's genius, transform seemingly straightforward putts into delicate reads that separate good rounds from great ones at this storied North Palm Beach venue.
Off the tee
The opening shot should focus on finding the optimal position for your second shot rather than maximum distance. A well-struck driver or 3-wood down the center gives you the best angle and lie for whatever follows. The straight layout removes directional concerns, allowing you to commit fully to your swing. Consider the wind conditions carefully, as the exposed Florida coastline can significantly impact ball flight.
Approach & recovery
Your strategy for the second shot depends entirely on your distance control and confidence level. The small green demands pinpoint accuracy, making club selection critical. If you're within comfortable range for a precise long iron or hybrid, an aggressive approach to set up an eagle putt can pay dividends. However, laying up to your favorite wedge distance often proves the smarter play, especially when pin positions are tucked or conditions are challenging.
On the green
The small putting surface at Seminole's 3rd creates premium value on approach accuracy. Even well-struck shots can leave challenging putts due to the green's compact nature. Focus on getting your ball below the hole when possible, as uphill putts are generally more makeable on these subtly contoured Ross greens. The exposed location means wind can affect even short putts, so read the conditions carefully. ## RISK VS REWARD This hole epitomizes risk/reward golf strategy. Going for the green in two offers genuine eagle potential, but the small target increases the likelihood of missing the putting surface entirely. The conservative approach of laying up virtually guarantees a good birdie look, while the aggressive line could result in anything from eagle to bogey. Weather conditions and your current round momentum should heavily influence this decision. ## DIFFERENT SKILL LEVELS **Higher Handicap Players:** Treat this as a three-shot hole and focus on two solid strikes to reach comfortable wedge range. The absence of major hazards allows you to swing freely, but don't let the scoring opportunity create pressure. A well-managed par here is excellent. **Lower Handicap Players:** Your decision point comes at the second shot. If you're hitting it well and conditions favor precision, the small green is certainly reachable. However, even scratch players often choose the layup when pin positions are challenging, as the short iron approach typically provides better scoring chances than a difficult two-putt from the fringe. The key to mastering Seminole's 3rd lies in honest self-assessment and smart course management rather than raw distance. This hole rewards patience and precision over power.
Watch for
- Mapped sand (crossing) roughly 225 yards from the tee reference.
- Mapped sand (greenside) roughly 402 yards from the tee reference.
- Mapped sand (greenside) roughly 408 yards from the tee reference.
- Mapped sand (greenside) roughly 436 yards from the tee reference.
- Mapped sand (crossing forced carry) roughly 193 yards from the tee reference.
Hole 3 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 5,171 sq ft
Course coverage
Tournament and creator videos about Seminole Golf Club — shared course coverage, not hole-specific clips.
Featured by these creators
Creator videos about this course
YouTube creators who filmed or featured Seminole Golf Club. · Stats as of Oct 12, 2026 · 5d ago
Restoring Donald Ross's Seminole Golf Club
How did Hole 3 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Championship tees · 501 yards.
Can this par 5 be reached in two?
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At 501 yards, Reachable in two for longer hitters. Consider laying up short of hazards if going for it is risky.
How difficult is hole 3?
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This hole is a good scoring opportunity for most golfers.
How big is the green on hole 3?
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The green is medium-sized with moderate targets. The green is deeper than wide, so club selection is crucial. Pay attention to pin placement when selecting your approach club.
What's a good score on hole 3?
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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.