Hole 3 at Bandon Dunes Resort (Pacific Dunes Course)
- Par
- 5
- Yardage
- 499 yds
- Stroke index
- 7
- Hazards
- 5 bunkers
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 42 yds deep × 38 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 · 499 yards
The plan for No. 3
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.
Off the tee
The tee shot strategy centers on finding the optimal position for your second shot rather than simply bombing it as far as possible. With the prevailing coastal winds, club selection becomes crucial - into the wind, consider a 3-wood or hybrid to ensure you stay in the fairway, while downwing conditions might allow for driver with confidence. Aim for the center-left portion of the fairway to open up the best angle to the small green. The key is avoiding the rough, which can significantly complicate your approach options on this reachable par 5.
Approach & recovery
Your approach strategy depends heavily on whether you're going for the green in two or laying up. For those attempting to reach in two, the small green demands pinpoint accuracy - favor the center of the green regardless of pin position, as the margin for error is minimal. If laying up, position your second shot in the 80-100 yard range where you'll have full control with a wedge. The ideal lay-up spot is center-right of the fairway, providing the best angle to attack any pin position on the small putting surface.
On the green
The small green at Pacific Dunes' 3rd hole requires committed putting strokes and careful speed control. With limited real estate, most putts will be relatively straight, but the coastal location means grain and wind can affect ball roll significantly. Focus on getting your approach shots below the hole when possible, as uphill putts are more manageable on this compact surface. Pay attention to the wind direction when reading putts, especially on longer attempts across the green.
Watch for
- Wind and firm turf change effective distances throughout the round.
Hole 3 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 7,462 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 · 6d 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 3 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Championship tees · 499 yards.
Can this par 5 be reached in two?
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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?
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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 3?
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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?
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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.