Hole 1 at Bandon Dunes Resort (Bandon Trails Course)
- Par
- 4
- Yardage
- 392 yds
- Stroke index
- 13
- Hazards
- 3 bunkers
Hole 1 map
34 yd wide × 49 yd deep · 6.7 ft total elevation range
Light = gentler slope · Red = steeper slope
White lines: 1 foot of elevation. Arrows: downhill. General terrain, not a pin read.
Approach from bottom
Contour source
USGS NED ned19_n43x25_w124x50_or_southcoast_2008 1/9 arc-second 2010 15 x 15 minute IMG · collection 2008
Map source & reference
Mapbox Satellite composite · capture date not provided. Green at the top; the labeled map reference is below.
Scorecard yardage is for Championship tees. The aerial shows its labeled reference position; distance rings measure to the green.
Championship tees · Par 4 · 392 yards
The plan for No. 1
The opening hole at Bandon Dunes Resort's Bandon Trails Course sets an inviting yet strategic tone for the round ahead. This 392-yard par 4 presents a straightforward challenge that rewards precision over power, featuring a generous fairway that welcomes golfers into the unique inland terrain that distinguishes Bandon Trails from its coastal siblings. The absence of significant hazards allows players to focus on course management and club selection, making it an ideal confidence-builder to start the round. The approach shot demands accuracy to a small green complex that requires thoughtful pin placement consideration. While seemingly benign, this opener establishes the course's emphasis on strategic thinking and shot placement that defines the Bandon Trails experience throughout the round.
Off the tee
The tee shot strategy centers on positioning yourself for the best possible approach angle. With no major hazards threatening the landing area, you can be more aggressive with your driver or fairway wood selection. Aim for the center-left portion of the fairway to open up the best angle to the small green. The straight layout means you won't need to worry about dogleg considerations, allowing you to focus purely on distance and accuracy. A well-struck drive should leave you with a short iron or wedge into the green.
Approach & recovery
The approach shot is where this hole shows its teeth. The small green size makes precision paramount - you'll want to take one more club than you think you need and swing smoothly rather than trying to muscle a shorter iron. Target the center of the green regardless of pin position, as the compact putting surface leaves little margin for error. Pay attention to wind conditions, which can be significant at Bandon, and don't be afraid to bail out to the fat part of the green even if it means a longer putt.
On the green
The small green means most putts will be relatively short, but don't underestimate the subtle breaks that can catch you off guard. Focus on speed control rather than trying to be too aggressive with line - two-putting from anywhere on this green should be your primary goal. Morning rounds may find the greens slightly softer, while afternoon play typically sees firmer, faster conditions that require a more delicate touch. ## RISK VS REWARD This opening hole offers limited risk/reward scenarios, which is actually its strategic beauty. The main decision point comes with club selection on the approach - do you take dead aim at a tucked pin with a precise wedge, or play to the center with a comfortable short iron? The smart play almost always favors the conservative approach, especially early in the round when you're still finding your rhythm. ## DIFFERENT SKILL LEVELS **High Handicappers:** Focus on getting your tee shot in play with whatever club gives you confidence - even a 3-wood or hybrid off the tee leaves a manageable approach. On your second shot, aim for the center of the green with a club that ensures you won't come up short. A bogey here isn't devastating, and avoiding big numbers sets a positive tone. **Low Handicappers:** This hole presents a clear birdie opportunity that you should capitalize on. Be aggressive with your driver to leave the shortest possible approach, then trust your short iron accuracy to attack pins when conditions allow. The key is not forcing anything - let the hole's manageable length work in your favor rather than trying to overpower it.
Watch for
- Fairway bunker crossing the landing zone
Hole 1 Green Complex & Slope
USGS 3DEP terrain analysis
Green size: 9,881 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 1 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Championship tees · 392 yards.
What's the best strategy off the tee?
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For this 392-yard par 4, most players will hit driver to set up a comfortable approach.
How difficult is hole 1?
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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 1?
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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 1?
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This hole is a medium-length test where par is a solid result. A straightforward par 4 where course management pays off.