Golf is unusual among sports because the playing field changes completely from one venue to the next. Knowing the main types of course helps you prepare and choose the right shots.
Links
Links courses are the original form of golf, built on sandy coastal land in Scotland, Ireland and England. They have few trees, firm and fast fairways, deep pot bunkers and a lot of wind. The ball runs much farther on landing, so low shots and bump-and-run chips are often better than high approaches. Famous examples include St Andrews and Royal Portrush. Wind play is essential; see golf in windy conditions.
Parkland
The most common type in North America and inland Europe: tree-lined fairways, softer turf, lush grass and water hazards. Soft greens let you fly the ball to the flag and stop it quickly. Accuracy off the tee matters because of the trees.
Heathland
Inland courses on sandy soil with heather, gorse and pine, common around London. They play firm like links but are more sheltered.
Desert
Found in Arizona, Nevada, the Middle East and similar climates. Green fairways cut through desert terrain that is often treated as a penalty area. The key is target golf: keep the ball in play and take the safe line.
Resort courses
Built for visitors, often with spectacular views and wide fairways, but sometimes with dramatic hazards and tricky greens. Expect higher green fees and a range of tee options.
Course lengths
- Championship courses: usually par 70 to 72, well over 6,500 yards from the back tees.
- Executive courses: shorter, with more par 3s, often par 60 to 66.
- Par-3 courses: all short holes; ideal for beginners and short-game practice.
Choosing tees that match your driving distance makes any course more enjoyable. Shorter courses are a great place to learn the game, as explained in getting started in golf. Each course type also suits different tournament formats.
