Hole 3 at Bandon Dunes Resort (Pacific Dunes Course)

Par 5 • 499 Yards • Bandon, Oregon

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Moderate

At 499 yards, Bandon Dunes Resort (Pacific Dunes Course) hole 3 presents a deceptively strategic par 5 that embodies the windswept character of Oregon's rugged coastline. This straight-away design invites aggressive play, with its generous fairway offering multiple route options for golfers seeking to reach the green in two. The absence of traditional hazards shifts focus to the Pacific winds and firm, fast conditions that define this Tom Doak masterpiece. The small green demands precision on approach shots, rewarding accurate iron play while punishing wayward attempts. With strategic bunkering and natural undulations framing the putting surface, this hole exemplifies Pacific Dunes' philosophy of strategic simplicity, where Mother Nature provides the primary defense in this acclaimed links-style layout.

Tees:

499y476y476y452y

Green:32y × 47y

Fairway @250y:12y wide

5 Bunkersleft dogleg

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Bandon Dunes Resort (Pacific Dunes Course)

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Hole Stats

Par: 5
Yardage: 499 yds
Green: 7462 sq ft
Bunkers: 5

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A dependable fairway wood can turn this par 5 into a real birdie chance.

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Strategy Tips

tee shot

With the fairway measuring just 12 yards wide at both 200 and 250 yards, accuracy is paramount off the tee. Consider hitting a controlled 3-wood or hybrid to stay in the short grass rather than risking driver into the narrow landing zone.

approach

At 499 yards, this par 5 is reachable in two for longer hitters, but the bunkers positioned at 477 yards guard the green approach. Calculate whether you can clear these hazards - if not, lay up to 150-160 yards for an optimal wedge into the green.

green

The large green measures 32 yards by 46 yards (7,462 square feet), providing a generous target for approach shots. Use this size to your advantage by aiming for the center of the green rather than attacking pin positions, especially on longer approaches.

hazard warning

The bunkers at 477 yards create a critical decision point - they're positioned just 22 yards short of this 499-yard hole. If attempting to reach in two, ensure you have enough club to clear them comfortably, as a plugged lie this close to the green can lead to bogey or worse.

train this shot at home

This 499-yard par 5 is ideal for working on your driver accuracy. Launch monitors from $600 let you practice this exact shot with real course data from home.

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Scoring Tip

Scoring on par 5s starts with a smart second shot. Laying up to your favorite wedge distance gives you the best birdie chance.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can this par 5 be reached in two?

At 499 yards, Reachable in two for longer hitters. Consider laying up short of hazards if going for it is risky.

How difficult is hole 3?

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 3?

The green is fairly large with multiple pin positions. The green is deeper than wide, so club selection is crucial. Lag putting becomes important on longer putts.

What's a good score on hole 3?

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.

Can I practice hole 3 on a golf simulator at home?

Yes — many modern launch monitors and simulators include real course data for Bandon Dunes Resort (Pacific Dunes Course). You can play this exact par 5 shot-by-shot at home. Entry-level options like the SkyTrak+ (around $2,500) and Garmin Approach R10 (around $600) support course play, while premium systems from Trackman and Foresight offer tour-level accuracy. Most systems pay for themselves in a season or two versus green fees and range balls. Shop home golf simulators →