Hole 11 at Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club
- Par
- 5
- Yardage
- 633 yds
- Stroke index
- 12
- Hazards
- 3 bunkers
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 44 yds deep × 48 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 · 633 yards
The plan for No. 11
The signature 11th hole at Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club stands as perhaps the most wild and memorable par 5 on this acclaimed Michigan links-style layout. Stretching 633 yards along Lake Michigan's dramatic bluffs, this straight but challenging hole epitomizes the "extreme nature" that defines Rick Smith and Warren Henderson's masterpiece design. The tee shot demands precision into a generous fairway, but the real test begins with the approach shots to a small, elevated green complex perched dramatically above the surrounding terrain. With no significant hazards to navigate, golfers can focus purely on distance control and wind management—crucial elements at this "Whistling Straits East" venue. The hole's wild character comes from its exposed clifftop setting, where Lake Michigan winds can transform club selection in an instant, making this par 5 a true test of strategic thinking and shot execution.
Off the tee
Your opening shot sets the tone for the entire hole. Focus on finding the center of the fairway with your most reliable driver or strong 3-wood. The straight layout allows you to aim down the middle without concern for doglegs, but accuracy is paramount given the hole's length. Choose a club that gives you confidence over maximum distance—you'll need every yard of fairway to work with on this marathon hole. Pay close attention to wind direction, as Lake Michigan's influence can significantly affect ball flight and distance.
Approach & recovery
This hole typically requires two strong shots to reach the green in regulation, making your second shot crucial for scoring opportunities. Target the widest part of the fairway to set up the best angle for your third shot. If attempting to reach in two, ensure you have enough club to clear any trouble and still find the putting surface—the small green demands precision. Most players will benefit from laying up to their favorite wedge distance, creating a manageable third shot to the compact target. Consider the pin position when planning your approach angle.
On the green
The small green at the 11th requires precise putting and careful speed control. With limited real estate to work with, approach putts conservatively, focusing on lag putting to avoid three-putts. Pay attention to any subtle breaks that may be influenced by the coastal terrain. Missing the green in regulation isn't disastrous if you can get up and down from the surrounding area, but the compact putting surface rewards accuracy over aggression. ## RISK VS REWARD The primary risk/reward decision comes on the second shot: attempting to reach this par 5 in two versus laying up for a controlled third shot. Going for the green requires perfect execution with the wind and enough club to reach the small target. The reward of an eagle opportunity must be weighed against the potential for a big number if you miss. Most golfers will find better scoring opportunities by playing conservatively and setting up a manageable wedge shot. ## DIFFERENT SKILL LEVELS **High Handicappers:** Focus on three solid shots rather than trying to reach in two. Use your most reliable clubs off the tee and for the layup, then attack the green with your best short iron or wedge. The key is avoiding big numbers on this demanding hole. **Low Handicappers:** Consider your form and conditions before attempting to reach in two. If you're striking it well and have favorable wind, the small green becomes a legitimate target. However, don't let ego override smart course management—sometimes the best play is still laying up to ensure a scoring opportunity. This signature hole at "Whistling Straits East" embodies everything that makes Arcadia Bluffs special: dramatic length, strategic options, and the constant influence of Lake Michigan's winds. Success here comes from respecting the hole's reputation while playing within your abilities.
Watch for
- Course conditioning and mapped hazards may affect line selection; confirm from the aerial.
Hole 11 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 12,407 sq ft
Course coverage
Tournament and creator videos about Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club — shared course coverage, not hole-specific clips.
Featured by these creators
Creator videos about this course
YouTube creators who filmed or featured Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club. · Stats as of Oct 12, 2026 · 5d ago
Course Record - Arcadia Bluffs
How did Hole 11 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Championship tees · 633 yards.
Can this par 5 be reached in two?
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At 633 yards, A true three-shot hole for most players. Position your layup to leave a comfortable wedge distance.
How difficult is hole 11?
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This hole is a good scoring opportunity for most golfers. Key challenges include: long par 5, large green requiring good lag putting.
How big is the green on hole 11?
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The green is large and can play quite long. Three-putt territory if you don't manage your approach distance well.
What's a good score on hole 11?
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This hole is a true three-shot hole where birdie requires execution. This longer par 5 demands patience. Two good shots set up the scoring opportunity.