Best Par 3 Holes in the World

The Waste Management Phoenix Open and THE PLAYERS Championship feature two of the most famous tournament holes in the golf.

The 16th hole on the Stadium Course at TPC Scottsdale is the only fully enclosed hole on the PGA Tour, it can be challenging to define what makes a great par 3 hole, given the wide range of preferences among golfers.

The island green on the 17th hole at TPC Sawgrass is arguably the most famous hole in golf, those playing here are sure to enjoy life long memories.

Each of these par 3 holes offers a unique and memorable golfing experience, showcasing the diversity and beauty of golf courses around the world. Whether you prefer a short and sweet par 3 or a long and challenging one, there is something for every golfer on our list of the top ten par 3 holes worldwide.

The 16th hole at TPC Scottsdale is the most iconic hole on the Stadium Course when it comes to the Waste Management Phoenix Open. The grandstand for the tournament completely surrounds the 163 yard par 3 and so it has been nicknamed “The Coliseum”.

With or without the raucous fans, this hole will test your nerves. The tee has a slight elevation and the green is dutifully guarded by three bunkers.

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No par 3 golf hole guide would be complete without a picture of the famous 17th hole at Sawgrass. If it weren’t for an intrepid group of divers the lake would surely be overflowing with golf balls by now!

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Royal Troon's 8th hole, the "Postage Stamp," is one of the most iconic and intimidating short holes in golf. Measuring a mere 123 yards, it demands absolute precision due to its minuscule green. This green is fiercely protected by cavernous bunkers, punishing rough, and the ever-present coastal winds.

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The 12th hole on the world famous Augusta is widely regarded as one of the finest par 3s in golf. The green is unbelievably shallow and those slopes that lead to the water are deceptively steep…club selection is important then!

The Sandy Lane Green Monkey Course in Barbados is home to some stunning holes; least of which is this par 3 with a ‘you know what’ in the greenside bunker. Monkeys can be mischievous at times and this one is no different if you find the wrong part of this vast bunker.

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The seventh hole at Pebble Beach is only 107 yards, sometimes under 100 during the US Open, with a drop of 40 feet from tee to green. Wind conditions along the Pacific coastline mean that everything from lob wedges to 3-irons and putters have been used to try and find the green.

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Rugged bunkering, towering pines and a stunning backdrop await golfers who visit Bear Mountain in Canada. As the name would suggest there are probably some hazardous critters nearby as well!

As with many links courses the weather is a constant factor at Kingsbarns. When the wind is howling the par 3 15th can play from anything from a wedge to a long iron and the crashing waves can be quite intimidating!

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Throughout its more than one hundred years of existence, Royal County Down has built an impressive legacy and is often regards as the finest golf course in the world.

The elevated tee on the 4th hole presents awe-inspiring vistas that may divert golfers' attention from the demanding tee shot they encounter. Featuring substantial precipices on both sides of the green and at the back, amidst a vast expanse of gorse and numerous bunkers.

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Turnberry’s star attraction has long been recognised as one of the world’s most spectacular courses as well as one of the best the UK has to offer.

The recent upgrades to the 9th hole have enhanced its status as a truly breathtaking par 3, with golfers taking on the challenge of playing across the Ayrshire bay, providing an exciting test of skill. The iconic Turnberry Lighthouse can be seen clearly from the Ailsa course, along with the ruins of Robert the Bruce’s Castle, creating a picturesque and dramatic par 3.

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The 16th hole on the Royal Course at Vale do Lobo is arguably one of the most captured holes in Europe, owing to its renowned tee shot over the majestic, orange cliffs. Experiencing this hole during sunset promises a delightful experience.

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Designed by Gil Hanse and opened by golf course developer Mark Parsinen who had also created Kingsbarns Golf Links, Cabot Highlands is a course that utilises modern design with the traditional links experiences you'll get at some of the best links courses.

The short 11th hole is quite challenging. If you hit your tee shot too long or to the left, your ball will end up in the water. On the other hand, if you hit it too long and to the right, your ball will find itself in thick rough or possibly in the large bunker that lies ahead.

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You don’t have to go to an exotic paradise to come across a great par 3. Here in England, we have gems like the 10th at Old Thorns. Water... check... towering pines... check... minuscule green... check... bogey... check!

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The daunting 14th hole at the magnificent Doonbeg proves that par 3s dont have to stretch to silly lengths to provide a challenge to low handicappers. Despite the yardage of 138 yards this is a scary tee shot; especially when the wind is rolling in from the Atlantic.

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Hole 3B on the Pacifico Course at Punta Mita is one of the world’s greatest par 3s and a hole that Jack Nicklaus says is the best he has ever designed.