Hole 18 at TPC San Antonio (Oaks Course)
- Par
- 5
- Yardage
- 591 yds
- Stroke index
- 6
- Hazards
- 6 bunkers · Water
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 40 yds deep × 24 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 · 591 yards
The plan for No. 18
The finishing hole at TPC San Antonio (Oaks Course) presents a commanding 591-yard par 5 that demands both power and precision to close out your round in style. This straight-away layout stretches before players with a generous fairway that invites an aggressive tee shot, though the small green complex awaits at the journey's end to test your approach strategy. The absence of major hazards allows golfers to open up their swings and chase distance, making this an excellent risk-reward opportunity for those seeking to finish strong. With its handicap rating of 6, this closing par 5 rewards bold play while punishing wayward shots around the compact putting surface, creating a memorable finale that separates the confident from the cautious.
Off the tee
Your tee shot strategy should focus on maximizing distance while maintaining control. With the straight layout, aim down the center of the fairway to give yourself the best angle for your second shot. Most players will benefit from using driver to gain maximum distance, setting up either a realistic chance to reach in two or a comfortable short iron third shot. The key is finding the optimal balance between distance and accuracy - you want to be in the fairway to have options on your approach.
Approach & recovery
Your approach strategy depends heavily on whether you're going for the green in two or laying up. If attempting to reach in regulation, target the center of the small green rather than chasing pins - the margin for error is minimal. For those laying up, position your second shot to leave a full wedge or short iron, as partial shots are more difficult to control into such a small target. The preferred distance for your third shot should be one where you're most confident with your yardage control.
On the green
The small green size means putting will be about precision rather than reading dramatic breaks. Focus on speed control and getting your first putt close to the hole. With limited green space, approach putts should prioritize leaving yourself an uphill putt when possible. Pay attention to any subtle slopes, as they'll be magnified on a smaller surface. ## RISK VS REWARD This hole epitomizes classic risk/reward golf strategy. The decision to go for the green in two versus laying up should be based on your lie, distance remaining, and current score situation. If you're in good position after your tee shot and need to make up ground, the aggressive play makes sense. However, if you're protecting a good score, the conservative approach of laying up to your favorite yardage is often the smarter play. ## DIFFERENT SKILL LEVELS **High-handicap players** should focus on three solid shots rather than trying to reach in two. Use the tee shot to get as far down the fairway as possible, lay up to a comfortable distance (typically 100-120 yards), and then attack the small green with a controlled wedge shot. **Low-handicap players** have more options and should base their decision on course conditions and match situation. These players can more realistically attempt to reach the green in two shots, but should still respect the small target and consider the percentage play based on their position and the day's pin location. The 18th at TPC San Antonio rewards smart golf course management while still offering opportunities for those willing to take calculated risks. Whether you play it aggressively or conservatively, execution on the approach shot to that small green will ultimately determine your success on this finishing hole.
Watch for
- Course conditioning and mapped hazards may affect line selection; confirm from the aerial.
Hole 18 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 4,184 sq ft
Course coverage
Tournament and creator videos about TPC San Antonio (Oaks Course) — shared course coverage, not hole-specific clips.
Tournament coverage
Valero Texas Open highlights
Valero Texas Open | Final Round Highlights
2025
How did Hole 18 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Championship tees · 591 yards.
Can this par 5 be reached in two?
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At 591 yards, A true three-shot hole for most players. Position your layup to leave a comfortable wedge distance.
How difficult is hole 18?
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This hole is one of the tougher holes on the course for most golfers. Key challenges include: long par 5, water in play, small green.
What hazards should I watch out for on hole 18?
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Key hazards include: water at 651.3 yards. Plan your shots to avoid these trouble spots.
How big is the green on hole 18?
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The green is small and requires precision. Expect challenging pin positions with limited room for error.
What's a good score on hole 18?
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This hole is a true three-shot hole where birdie requires execution. This longer par 5 demands patience. Two good shots set up the scoring opportunity.