When Size Doesn’t Matter: The Allure of the Short Hole

For many golfers, there’s a thrill in smashing a drive down a 600-yard par-5—but some of the most memorable holes in golf history are less than 100 yards long. These pint-sized challenges demand more than brute strength. They require finesse, strategy, and nerves of steel. Whether you’re an amateur looking for a hole-in-one opportunity or a seasoned pro aiming to conquer a notorious island green, short holes bring drama in a compact package.

Let’s take a swing at some of the shortest (and quirkiest) golf holes found on courses around the world.

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1. Extreme Miniature: The 19th Hole at Legends Golf & Safari Resort (South Africa)

    •    Length: 113 yards (vertical!)

    •    Type: Bonus hole, par 3

    •    Why it’s famous: This isn’t your typical short hole—it’s a vertical drop of over 400 feet off a cliff. Golfers are helicoptered to the tee. It might be longer than others on this list in raw distance, but it plays far shorter due to the extreme elevation change.

    •    Fun Fact: Every tee shot must carry over the shape of Africa carved into the fairway below.

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2. The Postage Stamp – Royal Troon Golf Club (Scotland)

    •    Length: ~123 yards

    •    Type: Par 3

    •    Why it’s iconic: Known as “The Postage Stamp,” Troon’s 8th hole is one of the shortest in Open Championship history but also one of the most intimidating. The green is tiny, the wind unpredictable, and the bunkers brutal.

    •    Fun Fact: Tiger Woods once triple-bogeyed it in the Open. Proof that even the pros aren’t immune.

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3. Pebble Beach Golf Links – Hole 7 (California, USA)

    •    Length: ~106 yards

    •    Type: Par 3

    •    Why it’s notable: A breathtaking ocean backdrop paired with ever-changing winds makes this hole as treacherous as it is beautiful.

    •    Pro Tip: Club selection changes constantly—sometimes a sand wedge, sometimes a 6-iron.

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4. Kursaal Golf Club – Hole 8 (Switzerland)

    •    Length: 64 yards

    •    Type: Par 3

    •    Why it’s unique: Nestled in the Alps, this hole is scenic and strange. The green is barely larger than a putting mat, requiring surgical precision.

    •    Bonus: You can play it with a wedge, a putter, or even a hybrid if you’re feeling weird.

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5. The Himalayas Putting Course – St Andrews (Scotland)

    •    Length: Varies (20–100 yards)

    •    Type: Not technically a full golf course—but still legendary

    •    Why it matters: Managed by the St Andrews Ladies’ Putting Club, this short-game playground has delighted players since 1867. It’s proof that fun golf doesn’t need to be long.

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7. Coober Pedy Opal Fields Golf Club – Hole 6 (Australia)

    •    Length: ~90 yards

    •    Type: Par 3

    •    Why it’s different: Located in a desert mining town, this hole has a “scrape” instead of a green and is surrounded by rocks and dust—not grass. It’s raw and rugged.

    •    Weird but true: You carry your own artificial turf to tee off on.

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Why Short Holes Matter

Short holes flip golf on its head. They level the playing field, making a birdie (or ace) possible for nearly anyone—but they can punish overconfidence in a heartbeat. They’re proof that good golf design isn’t about distance. It’s about drama, beauty, and brainpower.

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Next Time You Hit the Course…

Try not to overlook that little par-3 on the scorecard. It might be the hole that makes or breaks your round—or better yet, the one that leaves you talking about it for years.

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Want a Cart to Match Your Short Game Strategy?

At Lake Erie Golf Cars, we’ve got E-Z-GO carts tailored for par-3 courses, short loops, or long drives. Whether you’re heading to a local 9-hole or planning a trip to a legendary course, we’ll help you get there in style.

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