Hole 16 at Bandon Dunes Resort (Bandon Trails Course)
- Par
- 5
- Yardage
- 530 yds
- Stroke index
- 2
- Hazards
- 6 bunkers
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 41 yds deep × 24 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 · 530 yards
The plan for No. 16
The penultimate hole at Bandon Dunes Resort's Bandon Trails Course presents a deceptively challenging par 5 that demands precision over power. At 530 yards, this straight-away hole appears inviting from the tee, but its small green complex becomes the defining feature as players navigate their approach strategy. The absence of major hazards allows golfers to open up their swings, yet the compact target requires careful club selection and distance control on the final shot. As the second-hardest hole on the course, this strategic par 5 rewards thoughtful course management over aggressive play, setting up a dramatic finish to one of Oregon's most celebrated golf experiences.
Off the tee
Launch your opening shot with controlled aggression, focusing on finding the fairway center rather than maximum distance. A well-struck driver or strong 3-wood should be your weapon of choice, depending on wind conditions. The straight layout allows you to aim directly down the middle, but pay attention to the coastal winds that can dramatically affect ball flight at Bandon. Position your tee shot in the fairway's heart to provide maximum options for your second shot, whether you're going for the green in two or laying up strategically.
Approach & recovery
Your approach strategy hinges on whether you're attempting to reach in two or playing for position. For those going for the green, a long iron or fairway wood from the fairway center gives you the best angle of attack into that small green. The key is committing fully to your club selection - the small green punishes tentative swings. If laying up, position your second shot in the 80-100 yard range where you're most comfortable with your wedge distances. This conservative approach often proves wise given the green's diminutive size and the scoring pressure of a par 5.
On the green
The small green demands precision with both approach shots and putting. Expect subtle breaks influenced by the coastal terrain, and remember that Bandon's greens typically run true but can be affected by afternoon winds. Focus on getting below the hole when possible, as uphill putts are more manageable on smaller surfaces. The compact putting surface means distance control is crucial - a putt that would be a comfortable lag on a larger green could easily run off this target. ## RISK VS REWARD This hole presents a classic risk/reward scenario for longer hitters. Going for the green in two offers birdie and eagle opportunities, but the small green severely punishes misses. The safe play - driver, layup, wedge - typically yields more consistent scoring over time. Consider your current round momentum, pin position, and wind conditions when making this crucial decision. Remember, a well-executed three-shot strategy often produces better results than a poorly executed two-shot attempt. ## DIFFERENT SKILL LEVELS **High Handicappers:** Embrace the three-shot strategy without hesitation. Focus on two solid shots to reach comfortable wedge distance, then attack the pin with your most reliable scoring club. This approach removes the pressure of a risky long approach while still providing excellent birdie opportunities. **Low Handicappers:** Your decision should be situational. In calm conditions with a favorable pin position, the green-in-two attempt can pay dividends. However, don't let ego override strategy - even scratch players often score better with patient course management on this hole. Consider your current round situation and choose the strategy that best serves your overall scoring goals. The 16th at Bandon Trails rewards golfers who can balance aggression with wisdom, making it a true test of strategic thinking in one of golf's most spectacular settings.
Watch for
- Greenside bunker (greenside)
Hole 16 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 6,417 sq ft
Course coverage
Tournament and creator videos about Bandon Dunes Resort (Bandon Trails 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 Trails 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 · 530 yards.
Can this par 5 be reached in two?
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At 530 yards, A true three-shot hole for most players. Position your layup to leave a comfortable wedge distance.
How difficult is hole 16?
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This hole is a good scoring opportunity for most golfers.
How big is the green on hole 16?
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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 16?
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This hole is a solid birdie opportunity with smart layup strategy. Most golfers can reach in three. Position your layup to leave a comfortable wedge.