Hole 5 at National Golf Links of America
- Par
- 5
- Yardage
- 478 yds
- Hazards
- 12 bunkers
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 33 yds deep × 31 yds wide
Scorecard yardage is for Pro tees. The aerial shows its labeled reference position; distance rings measure to the green.
Pro tees · Par 5 · 478 yards
The plan for No. 5
At National Golf Links of America hole 5, this 478-yard par 5 presents a deceptively straightforward challenge that embodies C.B. Macdonald's architectural philosophy of strategic golf. The straight layout invites aggressive play from the tee, with a generous fairway that encourages golfers to unleash their driver toward the distant green complex. Without significant hazards guarding the route, this hole becomes a pure test of distance control and precision, particularly on the approach shot to the small, subtly contoured green. The absence of major trouble allows players to focus entirely on course management and club selection, making it a refreshing change of pace on this legendary Southampton course. What makes this hole memorable is its emphasis on execution over navigation—a classic risk-reward scenario where going for the green in two requires both power and pinpoint accuracy to find the compact target.
Off the tee
The tee shot strategy centers on maximizing distance while staying in the fairway center. With a straight layout, aim down the middle and let your driver work. The absence of major hazards means you can be aggressive off the tee - longer hitters should consider this hole reachable in two shots. Focus on a smooth, controlled swing rather than trying to overpower the shot. The target line should be straight down the fairway center, giving yourself the best angle for either going for the green in two or setting up an ideal layup position.
Approach & recovery
Your approach strategy depends entirely on your tee shot distance and skill level. Stronger players within range should consider going for the green in two, but remember that the small green demands precision - a miss here could leave a difficult up-and-down. If laying up, position yourself in the optimal wedge range, typically leaving a full swing with a comfortable club. The small green means your approach shot accuracy is crucial regardless of the shot number. Choose a club that ensures you won't short-side yourself and always err on the side of the center of the green.
On the green
The small green size makes putting relatively straightforward in terms of distance control, but also means there's less room for error on approach shots. Focus on lag putting to ensure you don't three-putt away a scoring opportunity. With the green's compact size, most putts will be manageable distances, making this an excellent hole to be aggressive with birdie attempts. Pay attention to the grain and any subtle slopes, as even small greens can have tricky breaks. ## RISK VS REWARD This hole presents an excellent risk/reward scenario. The reward is significant - eagle or birdie opportunities abound on this short par 5. The risk is minimal given the lack of major hazards, making aggressive play the smart choice for most golfers. Going for the green in two offers high reward with manageable risk, while laying up virtually guarantees a birdie opportunity with a wedge in hand. The key is honest self-assessment of your abilities and current form. ## DIFFERENT SKILL LEVELS **Low Handicappers**: Should view this as a birdie hole minimum. Consider going for the green in two if you can carry your second shot the required distance with a mid to long iron. The small green demands precision, so only attempt it if you're confident in your iron play. **High Handicappers**: Take the safe route with three well-positioned shots. Focus on keeping your tee shot in play, then lay up to your most comfortable wedge distance. The small green means your third shot needs to be accurate, so choose a distance where you're most confident. This approach virtually guarantees avoiding big numbers while still providing birdie opportunities. The absence of major trouble makes this hole forgiving for aggressive play, but the small green keeps it honest. Smart course management combined with confident execution should yield one of your better scoring opportunities on the round.
Watch for
- Course conditioning and mapped hazards may affect line selection; confirm from the aerial.
Hole 5 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 6,736 sq ft
Course coverage
Tournament and creator videos about National Golf Links of America — shared course coverage, not hole-specific clips.
Official & tour
Tour & network videos
Official coverage mentioning National Golf Links of America.
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How did Hole 5 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Pro tees · 478 yards.
Can this par 5 be reached in two?
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At 478 yards, Reachable in two for longer hitters. Consider laying up short of hazards if going for it is risky.
How difficult is hole 5?
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This hole is a good scoring opportunity for most golfers.
How big is the green on hole 5?
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The green is fairly large with multiple pin positions. Lag putting becomes important on longer putts.
What's a good score on hole 5?
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This hole is a reachable par 5 with eagle chances for longer hitters. Birdie is very much in play here if you can set up a good approach.