Hole 16 at Bandon Dunes Resort (Bandon Dunes Course)
- Par
- 5
- Yardage
- 363 yds
- Stroke index
- 10
- Hazards
- 3 bunkers
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 36 yds deep × 38 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 · 363 yards
The plan for No. 16
This signature coastal hole at Bandon Dunes presents a deceptively challenging strategic puzzle despite its modest 363-yard length. The dramatic gorge and barranca ledge create natural hazards that demand careful course management and precise execution to capitalize on this prime scoring opportunity. The 16th hole is renowned as one of the most visually stunning and strategically interesting holes at Bandon Dunes. While the yardage suggests an easy par, the natural terrain features - including a gorge near the tee and a barranca ledge in the driving zone - transform this into a thinking player's hole. The coastal setting adds wind considerations that can dramatically affect club selection and strategy.
Off the tee
The tee shot strategy centers on navigating the gorge and positioning for the optimal approach angle. Most players should focus on a controlled tee shot that carries the gorge comfortably while staying short of the barranca ledge that cuts across the fairway in the landing zone. A mid-iron or hybrid often proves more valuable than driver here, prioritizing accuracy over distance. The target line should favor the center-right portion of the fairway, giving yourself the best angle into the small green while avoiding the most severe portions of the natural hazards.
Approach & recovery
With the tee shot successfully positioned, the approach becomes about precision to a small green. The elevated nature of many coastal holes at Bandon Dunes means club selection must account for wind conditions, which can be particularly tricky during late-afternoon rounds. Focus on the center of the green rather than attacking pins, as the small target leaves little margin for error. A smooth, committed swing with a mid to short iron will typically serve you better than trying to manufacture a perfect shot.
On the green
The small green demands respect with your putting approach. Coastal greens often feature subtle breaks influenced by the natural terrain, so take time to read the slope carefully. Given the hole's signature status and dramatic setting, expect the green to have character - likely with some undulation that can catch the unwary. Focus on getting your first putt close rather than being overly aggressive, as three-putting from long range can quickly turn a birdie opportunity into bogey.
Watch for
- Mapped bunkers (3) shape the preferred lines; use the aerial map for front/side position rather than a single yardage.
- Native scrub/wooded areas (4 mapped zone(s)) pinch the corridor; favor the open side off the tee.
Hole 16 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 8,448 sq ft
Course coverage
Tournament and creator videos about Bandon Dunes Resort (Bandon Dunes Course) — shared course coverage, not hole-specific clips.
Featured by these creators
Creator videos about this course
YouTube creators who filmed or featured Bandon Dunes Resort (Bandon Dunes Course). · Stats as of Oct 12, 2026 · 5d ago
Our Stroke Play Competition At Bandon Dunes Got Off To A Hot Start! (Bandon Belt Episode 1)
Maintaining Bandon Dunes: Oregon's Links Golf Mecca | All Grass Is Local | Pres. by Toro
The Evolution of Maintaining Bandon Dunes Resort | All Grass Is Local
PGA Professional Championship 2026 at Bandon Dunes.
PGA Professional Championship 2026 at Bandon Dunes
PGA Professional Championship 2026 at Bandon Dunes.
How did Hole 16 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Championship tees · 363 yards.
Can this par 5 be reached in two?
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At 363 yards, Reachable in two for longer hitters. Consider laying up short of hazards if going for it is risky.
How difficult is hole 16?
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This hole is a good scoring opportunity for most golfers. Key challenges include: large green requiring good lag putting.
How big is the green on hole 16?
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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 16?
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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.