Hole 1 at Bandon Dunes Resort (Pacific Dunes Course)
- Par
- 4
- Yardage
- 370 yds
- Stroke index
- 9
- Hazards
- 4 bunkers
Hole 1 map
21 yd wide × 40 yd deep · 7.1 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 · 370 yards
The plan for No. 1
Pacific Dunes' opening hole presents a deceptively straightforward par 4 that embodies the course's rugged coastal character. This 370-yard challenge appears gentle from the elevated tee, offering golfers a generous fairway to find their rhythm on one of America's most celebrated links courses. The straight layout encourages an aggressive tee shot, but the small green demands precision on the approach. Without significant hazards to navigate, success hinges on distance control into the compact putting surface that can quickly punish wayward iron shots. Tom Doak's masterful design philosophy shines through this opener, where the absence of obvious trouble creates its own psychological pressure. Bandon Dunes Resort's Pacific Dunes Course hole 1 sets the tone perfectly, rewarding confident play while hinting at the strategic complexities that await throughout this world-renowned Oregon links experience.
Off the tee
The key off the tee is finding the optimal position for your approach shot rather than simply maximizing distance. Most players will benefit from a controlled tee shot that leaves a comfortable approach yardage - typically a driver or strong 3-wood depending on conditions and personal comfort level. The target line should favor the center of the fairway, as the straight layout provides a generous landing area. Wind conditions, which are ever-present at Bandon, will significantly influence club selection and aim point, so factor in the coastal breeze before committing to your shot.
Approach & recovery
The small green demands precision on the approach shot, making club selection critical. A well-struck mid-iron to short-iron (depending on your tee shot placement) should be the goal, prioritizing accuracy over aggressive pin-hunting. The green's compact size means that even slight misses can leave challenging recovery shots. Focus on the center of the green regardless of pin position, as the small target makes this a percentage play. Pay close attention to wind direction and green firmness, as these coastal conditions can dramatically affect ball flight and roll.
On the green
Pacific Dunes greens are known for their subtle breaks and firm conditions, and this opening green is no exception. Despite its small size, expect nuanced undulations that can catch unwary putters off guard. Read putts carefully from multiple angles, as the ocean influence can create deceptive breaks. The key is speed control - firm greens mean putts will travel farther than they appear, so err on the side of a dying ball at the hole rather than charging putts past.
Watch for
- Wind and firm turf change effective distances throughout the round.
Hole 1 Green Complex & Slope
USGS 3DEP terrain analysis
Green size: 5,140 sq ft
Course coverage
Tournament and creator videos about Bandon Dunes Resort (Pacific 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 (Pacific 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 1 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Championship tees · 370 yards.
What's the best strategy off the tee?
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For this 370-yard par 4, most players will hit 3-wood or 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.
How big is the green on hole 1?
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The green is medium-sized with moderate targets. The green is deeper than wide, so club selection is crucial. Pay attention to pin placement when selecting your approach club.
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.