Hole 12 at Bethpage State Oark (Red Course)

Par 3208 Yards • Farmingdale, New York

Enhanced Content
Brutal

Hole 12 on Bethpage Red presents a classic mid-length par 3 that exemplifies the challenging character found throughout this storied Long Island public golf destination. Part of the five-course complex that includes the world-renowned Black Course, this hole demands precision and proper club selection in the tradition of Bethpage's reputation for testing golfers of all skill levels.

Tees:
208y179y165y
Green:32y × 34y
3 Bunkers dogleg

Play This Course at Home

Practice Bethpage State Oark (Red Course) Year-Round

Launch monitors from $600 and simulators from $2,500 include real course data. Play every hole without leaving home.

Browse Launch Monitors & Simulators

Amazon · Top brands compared · Free returns on most items

We may earn a commission when you buy through links on this page, at no extra cost to you.

Hole Stats

Par
3
Yardage
208 yds
Green
6220 sq ft
Bunkers
3
Course Slope
130
Course Rating
75.1

Recommended Gear

A hybrid or long iron makes this long par 3 far more manageable off the tee.

Shop Hybrids

Strategy Tips

tee shot

This 208-yard par 3 demands precision as there's no fairway landing area - it's all carry to the green or trouble, making club selection and accuracy absolutely critical.

green

Target the center of this generous 6,220 square foot green (32y x 34y) rather than pin-hunting, as the size gives you room for error and eliminates short-sided situations.

hazard warning

Avoid the greenside bunkers positioned at 182, 165, and 137 yards from the tee - these create significant recovery challenges and can easily turn par into bogey or worse.

approach

With no landing zone available, commit fully to carrying the ball all 208 yards to the green - any shot that comes up short will find trouble rather than a safe bailout area.

train this shot at home

This par 3 is ideal for working on your long iron or hybrid. Launch monitors from $600 let you practice this exact shot with real course data from home.

See launch monitors & simulators
Scoring Tip

On long par 3s, hitting the green is a win — don't be afraid to take one extra club and aim center.

Play Bethpage State Oark (Red Course) from Your Living Room

Launch monitors and simulators now include real course data. Practice your strategy on every hole before your round — or just for fun.

Compare Systems

Frequently Asked Questions

What club should I use on this par 3?

At 208 yards, most golfers will need a long iron or hybrid (5-iron to 6-iron) to reach this green. Adjust for elevation, wind, and pin position.

How difficult is hole 12?

This hole is a moderate challenge for most golfers. Key challenges include: long par 3.

What hazards should I watch out for on hole 12?

Key hazards include: 2 greenside bunkers. Plan your shots to avoid these trouble spots.

How big is the green on hole 12?

The green is fairly large with multiple pin positions. Lag putting becomes important on longer putts.

What's a good score on hole 12?

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.

Can I practice hole 12 on a golf simulator at home?

Yes — many modern launch monitors and simulators include real course data for Bethpage State Oark (Red Course). You can play this exact par 3 shot-by-shot at home. Entry-level options like the SkyTrak+ (around $2,500) and Garmin Approach R10 (around $600) support course play, while premium systems from Trackman and Foresight offer tour-level accuracy. Most systems pay for themselves in a season or two versus green fees and range balls. Shop home golf simulators

Reviews & Tips

Only signed in users can add reviews.

Sign in to Review

Be the First to Review

Played this hole? Share your thoughts and help other golfers know what to expect.

Content like this — for all 18 holes, customized for your course. Delivered in 48 hours. See pricing →

For course operators and clubs

Get the Free Strategy Guide

All Bethpage State Oark (Red Course) holes — tips, yardages, and pro strategies delivered to your inbox.