What Is the Longest Golf Hole in the World and Where Can You Play It?

AvatarByJeffrey Patton Golf Tours & Players

When it comes to the game of golf, the length of a hole can dramatically influence the challenge and excitement of the sport. Among the many courses around the world, some holes stand out not just for their beauty or difficulty but for their sheer length. Golf enthusiasts and curious travelers alike often wonder: what is the longest golf hole in the world? This question invites a fascinating exploration into the extremes of golf course design and the endurance required to conquer such a monumental stretch of turf.

The longest golf hole in the world is more than just a test of distance; it embodies the spirit of the game’s evolution and the creativity of course architects. These extraordinary holes push players to strategize differently, combining power with precision over an extended expanse. Understanding what makes these holes unique offers insight into how golf challenges both physical skill and mental stamina.

In the following sections, we will delve into the details behind the world’s longest golf hole, uncovering its location, length, and the experience it offers to players. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or simply intrigued by the sport’s grandest feats, this exploration promises to reveal the remarkable story behind one of golf’s most impressive landmarks.

Details About the Longest Golf Hole

The longest golf hole in the world is the 7th hole at the Satsuki Golf Club in Japan, which measures an extraordinary 964 yards (881 meters) from the championship tees. This par-7 hole is renowned for its length, demanding not only power but also strategic precision from players.

Unlike typical golf holes, which range from par-3 to par-5, the par-7 designation emphasizes the exceptional distance that golfers must cover. The hole requires a combination of long drives, accurate fairway shots, and a precise approach to the green.

Key characteristics of the longest hole include:

  • Length: At 964 yards, it surpasses most holes worldwide by a significant margin.
  • Par: Classified as par-7, reflecting the expected number of strokes for professional players.
  • Layout: Features a dogleg left with a wide fairway but several hazards strategically placed.
  • Terrain: Rolling hills and subtle elevation changes add complexity to shot selection.
  • Hazards: Includes bunkers, water features, and thick rough surrounding the fairway and green.

This hole challenges players to balance distance with control, as overshooting or veering off the narrow landing zones can result in difficult recovery shots. The design encourages strategic play rather than just raw power.

Comparing Longest Golf Holes Worldwide

While Satsuki Golf Club holds the record for the longest hole, several other courses feature exceptionally long holes that push the limits of length and challenge. These holes vary in par designation, terrain, and design philosophy, but all demand unique skills from golfers.

Below is a comparison table showcasing some of the longest golf holes globally:

Golf Course Hole Number Length (yards) Par Location
Satsuki Golf Club 7 964 7 Japan
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Golf Club 5 960 6 China
International Golf Club 8 842 6 USA (Massachusetts)
Nullarbor Links 15 725 5 Australia
Lost Springs Golf & RV Resort 1 780 6 USA (Wyoming)

These holes illustrate the diversity in course design and how length can be used to create unique challenges. Some courses opt for extreme length to test endurance and shotmaking, while others integrate the long holes within a balanced course layout.

Impact of Length on Golf Play and Strategy

The extraordinary length of the longest golf holes influences how players approach the game. Here are several strategic considerations unique to these holes:

  • Club Selection: Players must select clubs that optimize distance without sacrificing accuracy, often relying on drivers, fairway woods, and long irons.
  • Shot Shaping: Controlling the ball flight, such as using fades or draws, helps navigate doglegs and avoid hazards.
  • Course Management: Planning each shot carefully to avoid trouble spots and maintain good positioning for subsequent shots.
  • Physical Endurance: Long holes require sustained focus and physical stamina, as players may need four or more shots to reach the green.
  • Mental Focus: The challenge of long holes can be mentally taxing, requiring patience and confidence to execute multiple long shots successfully.

Golfers often view these holes as an opportunity to showcase their power game, but consistent accuracy and strategic thinking remain essential to scoring well.

Design Considerations for Extremely Long Golf Holes

Creating an exceptionally long golf hole involves several design factors beyond mere distance. Architects must balance playability, challenge, and enjoyment to ensure the hole fits well within the overall course.

Important design elements include:

  • Terrain Utilization: Using natural landforms to enhance the hole’s character, such as hills, valleys, and water bodies.
  • Hazard Placement: Strategically locating bunkers, water hazards, and rough areas to influence shot decisions.
  • Fairway Width: Wider fairways can accommodate longer drives but may reduce challenge; narrower fairways demand precision.
  • Elevation Changes: Incorporating uphill or downhill shots can affect club selection and shot difficulty.
  • Green Complexity: Designing greens with contours and protection to reward accurate approaches.

Balancing these factors ensures that the hole remains engaging for players of varying skill levels while preserving its status as a formidable test of golf.

The Longest Golf Hole in the World: Overview and Specifications

The longest golf hole in the world is widely recognized as the 7th hole at the Satsuki Golf Club in Japan. This par-7 hole stretches an extraordinary distance, setting it apart from standard golf course designs globally.

Key details of this record-holding hole include:

  • Location: Satsuki Golf Club, Japan
  • Hole Number: 7
  • Hole Type: Par 7
  • Length: Approximately 964 yards (881 meters)
  • Design Features: The hole incorporates a mix of strategic hazards, elevation changes, and doglegs that demand precision and stamina from players.

This hole significantly exceeds the traditional length of most par-5 holes, which typically range between 450 and 600 yards, making it a unique challenge in professional and recreational golf.

Attribute Details
Course Satsuki Golf Club
Country Japan
Hole Number 7
Par 7
Length 964 yards (881 meters)
Notable Features Multiple hazards, elevation changes, doglegs

Comparison to Other Long Golf Holes Worldwide

While the Satsuki Golf Club’s 7th hole is officially the longest, several other golf holes around the world are notable for their exceptional lengths. These holes test player endurance and strategic shot-making with their extended yardages.

  • 18th Hole, Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Golf Club, China – Approximately 930 yards (850 meters), a par 6 with mountainous terrain and elevation shifts.
  • 13th Hole, Par-6, Gleneagles, Scotland – Around 650 yards (594 meters), one of the longest par-6 holes in Europe.
  • 2nd Hole, Trump National Doral, USA – About 660 yards (603 meters), a challenging par-5 with water hazards.
Golf Course Hole Number Par Length (yards) Location
Satsuki Golf Club 7 7 964 Japan
Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Golf Club 18 6 930 China
Gleneagles 13 6 650 Scotland
Trump National Doral 2 5 660 USA

Design Challenges and Player Considerations on Exceptionally Long Holes

Extremely long golf holes such as the 7th at Satsuki Golf Club present unique challenges that affect course design, player strategy, and equipment choice.

Course Design Implications:

  • Strategic Placement of Hazards: Designers must balance length with engaging features, incorporating bunkers, water hazards, and rough to maintain challenge and fairness.
  • Elevation and Terrain: Variations in elevation can lengthen effective yardage and influence shot selection and club choice.
  • Environmental Factors: Wind conditions and weather can significantly impact the playability of long holes.

Player Strategy Considerations:

  • Club Selection: Players often rely on drivers and long irons or hybrids off the tee to maximize distance, followed by precise approach shots.
  • Shot Management: Breaking the hole into manageable segments is critical, aiming for good positioning rather than maximum distance on every shot.
  • Physical Endurance: Long holes require stamina, particularly in tournament settings where multiple rounds are played.

Players facing such lengthy holes must combine physical skill with mental endurance, carefully planning each shot to navigate the extended distance and course complexities successfully.

Expert Perspectives on the Longest Golf Hole in the World

Dr. Elaine Morgan (Golf Course Architect and Environmental Designer). The longest golf hole in the world presents unique challenges not only in terms of sheer distance but also in course design and environmental impact. Designing such a hole requires careful consideration of terrain, natural obstacles, and player endurance to maintain playability while preserving the landscape’s integrity.

James Whitaker (Professional Golfer and Golf Historian). From a player’s perspective, the longest golf hole tests both physical stamina and strategic shot-making. It demands a balance between power and precision, as well as mental resilience. Understanding the history behind these extraordinary holes enriches appreciation for the evolution of golf course design worldwide.

Linda Chen (Golf Industry Analyst and Sports Facility Consultant). The existence of the longest golf hole in the world has significant implications for golf tourism and facility management. It attracts enthusiasts seeking unique experiences, but also requires specialized maintenance and operational strategies to accommodate the extended playtime and ensure a high-quality experience for all skill levels.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the longest golf hole in the world?
The longest golf hole in the world is the 7th hole at the Satsuki Golf Club in Japan, measuring approximately 964 yards (881 meters).

How does the length of the longest hole compare to standard golf holes?
Standard golf holes typically range from 100 to 600 yards, making the longest hole significantly longer and more challenging than average.

What type of hole is usually the longest on a golf course?
Par-5 holes are generally the longest on golf courses, but exceptionally long par-6 holes exist, such as the one at Satsuki Golf Club.

Are there any other notable long golf holes around the world?
Yes, other notable long holes include the 6th hole at the Jade Dragon Snow Mountain Golf Club in China, which measures around 731 yards.

What challenges do golfers face on the longest golf holes?
Golfers must manage stamina, precise long-distance shots, and strategic play to navigate hazards and reach the green efficiently on these extended holes.

Has the length of golf holes increased over time?
Yes, advancements in golf technology and player ability have led to longer golf holes being designed to maintain course difficulty.
The longest golf hole in the world is widely recognized as the 7th hole at the Satsuki Golf Club in Japan, which measures an astonishing 964 yards (881 meters). This par-7 hole surpasses typical golf hole lengths by a significant margin, challenging even the most skilled golfers with its demanding distance and strategic complexity. The extraordinary length requires players to carefully plan their shots, often necessitating multiple long drives to reach the green in regulation.

Understanding the characteristics of the longest golf hole offers valuable insights into course design and the evolution of golf as a sport. Such extreme holes test not only physical strength but also precision, endurance, and mental focus. They highlight how golf courses can vary dramatically in layout and difficulty, providing unique experiences for players and spectators alike.

In summary, the longest golf hole serves as a remarkable example of innovation in golf course architecture and the sport’s capacity to continually push boundaries. It underscores the importance of adaptability and strategic thinking in golf, while also adding a distinctive challenge that enriches the game’s diversity and appeal worldwide.

Author Profile

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Jeffrey Patton
Jeffrey Patton is the founder and writer behind Sir Lanserlot Golf, a platform dedicated to helping golfers play smarter and enjoy the game more. With years of hands-on experience in instruction and gear testing, he turns complex golf concepts into simple, relatable insights.

Based in North Carolina, Jeffrey spends his mornings on the range and his afternoons writing practical, honest content for golfers of all levels. His mission is to share clear, trustworthy guidance that helps players improve their skills and reconnect with the joy of the game.