Hole 3 at Southern Highlands Golf Club
- Par
- 5
- Yardage
- 620 yds
- Stroke index
- 2
- Hazards
- 13 bunkers · Water
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 37 yds deep × 22 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 · 620 yards
The plan for No. 3
The second-most challenging hole at Southern Highlands Golf Club, this 620-yard par 5 demands both power and precision from the championship tees. With its arrow-straight layout stretching across the Las Vegas desert landscape, the hole appears deceptively simple but rewards strategic thinking over brute force. The generous fairway invites aggressive driving, yet positioning becomes crucial for the lengthy approach shots that follow. What makes this Southern Highlands Golf Club hole 3 truly memorable is its small, well-defended green complex that transforms what seems like a straightforward par 5 into a genuine three-shot challenge. Smart course management and accurate iron play separate the contenders from the pretenders on this desert test.
Off the tee
The opening shot sets the tone for the entire hole. With 620 yards ahead, distance is crucial, but accuracy remains paramount. Aim for the center of the fairway to maximize your options for the second shot. Driver is the obvious choice for most players, though shorter hitters might consider a 3-wood if accuracy concerns outweigh distance needs. The straight layout eliminates directional confusion, allowing you to focus purely on solid contact and finding the short grass.
Approach & recovery
Your second shot strategy depends entirely on your distance capabilities and comfort level with long approaches. Longer players may attempt to reach the green in two, but the small target demands exceptional precision. Most golfers should focus on advancing the ball into an optimal position for a manageable third shot - ideally within 100-120 yards of the green. A well-struck fairway wood or long iron that finds the fairway trumps an aggressive shot that misses its target.
On the green
The small green demands surgical precision on your approach shot. Pin hunting becomes extremely risky given the limited target area. Aim for the center of the green regardless of pin position, as two-putting from anywhere on this surface beats missing the green entirely. The putting surface likely features subtle breaks that become more pronounced on longer putts, so lag putting skills prove essential. ## RISK VS REWARD The primary risk/reward decision comes on the second shot. Attempting to reach this green in two offers the chance for eagle but risks leaving a difficult up-and-down from short of the green. The conservative play - laying up to your favorite wedge distance - virtually guarantees a reasonable birdie opportunity. Weather conditions, match situation, and personal confidence levels should all factor into this decision. ## DIFFERENT SKILL LEVELS **Low Handicappers:** Can consider going for the green in two when conditions favor it, but should resist the urge when positioned poorly after the tee shot. Focus on creating the best possible angle for the third shot when laying up. **High Handicappers:** Should embrace the three-shot strategy without hesitation. Use the second shot to advance into comfortable wedge range, prioritizing accuracy over distance. The goal is avoiding big numbers while giving yourself a realistic chance at birdie. **Course Management Tip:** Regardless of skill level, respect the small green size. Even tour professionals would aim for the center of this green rather than attack pins. The scoring opportunity comes from solid execution of a conservative strategy rather than heroic shot-making.
Watch for
- Course conditioning and mapped hazards may affect line selection; confirm from the aerial.
Hole 3 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 3,941 sq ft
How did Hole 3 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Championship tees · 620 yards.
Can this par 5 be reached in two?
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At 620 yards, A true three-shot hole for most players. Position your layup to leave a comfortable wedge distance.
How difficult is hole 3?
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This hole is one of the tougher holes on the course for most golfers. Key challenges include: long par 5, water in play, heavily bunkered, small green.
How big is the green on hole 3?
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The green is small and requires precision. The green is wider than it is deep, rewarding shots that find the correct tier. Expect challenging pin positions with limited room for error.
Which side of the fairway is safer on hole 3?
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Aim for the left side of the fairway when possible. Missing right brings more trouble into play.
What's a good score on hole 3?
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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.