Hole 13 at Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club
- Par
- 3
- Yardage
- 240 yds
- Stroke index
- 8
- Hazards
- 2 bunkers · Water
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 45 yds deep × 41 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 · 240 yards
The plan for No. 13
The par-3 13th at Arcadia Bluffs Golf Club stands as one of Michigan's most breathtaking golf holes, perched dramatically above Lake Michigan's pristine waters. This 240-yard test demands both precision and nerve as golfers navigate the exposed clifftop setting where lake winds can dramatically alter club selection. The small green sits like an emerald jewel against the backdrop of endless blue, creating one of golf's most photographed moments. With the rugged bluffs falling away toward the shoreline, this signature hole embodies the raw beauty and strategic challenge that has earned Arcadia Bluffs comparisons to Ireland's greatest links courses. Missing the putting surface here means facing a recovery shot few golfers ever forget.
Off the tee
Your tee shot strategy must account for the prevailing winds off Lake Michigan, which can dramatically affect ball flight. The target line should favor the center of the small green, as missing short or long leaves extremely difficult recovery shots. Club selection becomes critical - most players will need anywhere from a long iron to a hybrid depending on wind conditions and pin position. Take an extra club when the wind is against you, as coming up short on this hole is particularly penal. The elevated tee provides a spectacular view but can be deceiving regarding distance, so trust your yardage and account for the downhill trajectory.
Approach & recovery
Since this is a par-3, your tee shot IS your approach shot, making precision even more crucial. The small green demands accuracy over power, so focus on a smooth, controlled swing rather than trying to muscle the ball. Aim for the center of the green regardless of pin position - the margin for error is simply too small to get aggressive with pin hunting. Watch for wind gusts that can suddenly pick up off the lake, and don't be afraid to wait for calmer conditions if the wind is particularly strong.
On the green
The small green at the 13th creates challenging putting scenarios, as most approach shots that find the putting surface will leave longer putts than ideal. Focus on lag putting to avoid three-putts, as the elevated, exposed position can create tricky wind-affected putts. Pin positions near the edges of this small green are particularly treacherous, making two-putt pars feel like birdies. Read the subtle breaks carefully, as the lakeside setting can create optical illusions that affect green reading. ## RISK VS REWARD The primary risk/reward decision centers on club selection and target selection. The reward of attacking pins is minimal given the small green size, while the risk of missing the green entirely is severe. The smart play is always center green, accepting longer putts in exchange for avoiding big numbers. In calm conditions, more aggressive players might consider going after back pins, but the penalty for missing is too severe to justify pin hunting in windy conditions. ## DIFFERENT SKILL LEVELS **High-handicap players** should focus entirely on finding the green, using whatever club gives them confidence to make solid contact. Don't worry about pin position - aim for the middle and be thrilled with any putt for birdie. Consider taking one or even two extra clubs to ensure you clear any trouble short of the green. **Low-handicap players** can be more precise with their target line and club selection, but should still prioritize the center of the green in windy conditions. These players can take advantage of calm conditions to attack certain pin positions, but must have the discipline to play conservatively when Lake Michigan's winds are howling. The 13th hole at Arcadia Bluffs exemplifies championship golf course design, where the spectacular setting creates both beauty and challenge. Success here comes from respecting the conditions, making smart club selections, and having the patience to play for the center of the green rather than chasing pins on this unforgiving par-3.
Watch for
- Course conditioning and mapped hazards may affect line selection; confirm from the aerial.
Hole 13 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 9,583 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 13 play?
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Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Championship tees · 240 yards.
What club should I use on this par 3?
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At 240 yards, most golfers will need a fairway wood or hybrid to reach this green. Adjust for elevation, wind, and pin position.
How difficult is hole 13?
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This hole is one of the tougher holes on the course for most golfers. Key challenges include: long par 3, water in play, large green requiring good lag putting.
What hazards should I watch out for on hole 13?
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Key hazards include: 2 greenside bunkers; water at 185.0 yards. Plan your shots to avoid these trouble spots.
How big is the green on hole 13?
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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 13?
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This hole is a challenging par where bogey is acceptable. This longer par 3 will test your long iron or hybrid game. Par is a good score.