Hole 5 at Bandon Dunes Resort (Bandon Trails Course)
- Par
- 3
- Yardage
- 133 yds
- Stroke index
- 15
- Hazards
- 4 bunkers
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 46 yds deep × 30 yds wide
Scorecard yardage is for Championship tees. The aerial shows its labeled reference position; distance rings measure to the green.
Championship tees · Par 3 · 133 yards
The plan for No. 5
At 133 yards, Hole 5 at Bandon Dunes Resort's Bandon Trails Course presents a deceptively challenging par 3 that embodies the course's reputation for strategic subtlety. This short iron test features a small, well-protected green that demands precision over power. The straight-forward layout might suggest simplicity, but the compact target and elevated position create an optical illusion that can fool even seasoned players. With minimal hazards surrounding the putting surface, the primary challenge lies in club selection and distance control on this exposed site where coastal winds can dramatically alter ball flight. The unforgiving green size leaves little margin for error, making this seemingly straightforward hole a true test of accuracy that perfectly captures Bandon Trails' philosophy of strategic golf design.
Off the tee
Club selection is paramount on this hole - most players will be hitting anywhere from a pitching wedge to a 7-iron depending on wind conditions and pin position. Take extra time to assess the wind, as it can significantly affect club choice on shorter holes. Aim for the center of the green unless the pin is accessible, and focus on a smooth, controlled swing rather than trying to attack every pin. The small green size means even slight misses can leave challenging up-and-down opportunities.
Approach & recovery
Since this is a par 3, your tee shot IS your approach shot. The key is committing to your club selection and target line. With the green's small size, precision trumps distance - it's better to be pin-high in the center of the green than short or long in the rough. Pay attention to the firmness of the green, as shots can release more than expected on firm conditions, while soft conditions will allow for more aggressive pin-hunting.
On the green
The small green means you're likely to have relatively short putts, but don't underestimate the importance of lag putting. Focus on getting your first putt close rather than being overly aggressive, as three-putts can quickly turn a scoring opportunity into a bogey. Read the green carefully from multiple angles, as subtle breaks can be deceiving on shorter putts. ## RISK VS REWARD The primary risk/reward decision comes with pin position - when the flag is in an accessible location, this hole offers an excellent birdie opportunity. However, when pins are tucked in corners or on slopes, playing to the center of the green and taking your par is often the smart play. The lack of major hazards means the biggest risk is simply missing the small target and leaving yourself a difficult chip shot. ## DIFFERENT SKILL LEVELS **High-handicap players** should focus on getting the ball somewhere on the green rather than attacking pins. Choose a club that you're confident will carry the distance and aim for the largest part of the green. A bogey here isn't disastrous given the hole's difficulty ranking. **Low-handicap players** can be more aggressive with pin positions, especially when conditions are favorable. This is a hole where you should expect to make birdie, so don't be overly conservative. However, course management still applies - if the pin is in a difficult location, take your par and move on to the next scoring opportunity. The 15 handicap ranking suggests this hole plays easier than most, making it a crucial scoring opportunity that can positively impact your overall round.
Watch for
- Greenside bunker (greenside)
Hole 5 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 7,545 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 5 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Championship tees · 133 yards.
What club should I use on this par 3?
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At 133 yards, most golfers will need a short iron (9-iron to PW) to reach this green. Adjust for elevation, wind, and pin position.
How difficult is hole 5?
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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 5?
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The green is large and can play quite long. The green is wider than it is deep, rewarding shots that find the correct tier. Three-putt territory if you don't manage your approach distance well.
What's a good score on hole 5?
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This hole is a legitimate birdie opportunity for accurate iron players. Most golfers should target par, with birdie chances if you hit the green in regulation.