Not every round of golf needs to be 18 holes over four or five hours on a 7,000-yard course. Short courses, including par-3 courses, pitch-and-putt, executive courses and nine-hole layouts, offer a quicker, cheaper and often more relaxed way to play. They are perfect for beginners, juniors, families and anyone short on time, and they are one of the best ways for experienced golfers to sharpen their short game. Here is what they are and how to make the most of them.
Types of short course
| Type | Hole lengths | Typical round time | Clubs needed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Pitch-and-putt | Up to about 70 to 90 yards | 1 to 1.5 hours | A wedge or two and a putter |
| Par-3 course | About 80 to 250 yards | 1.5 to 2.5 hours | Irons, hybrid, wedges, putter |
| Executive course | Mostly par 3s with some par 4s | 2 to 3 hours | Half set |
| Nine-hole course | Full-length holes | About 2 hours | Full or half set |
Some resorts and clubs also have short "academy" courses or floodlit short courses for evening play.
Why short courses are great
For beginners
- Less intimidating than a full course.
- Fewer clubs to carry and learn.
- Faster progress: you hit many short-iron and wedge shots, which are easier to learn than drivers.
- Relaxed atmosphere: fewer experienced golfers waiting behind you.
- Lower cost than a full round.
Read golf for beginners: the complete guide.
For families and juniors
Short courses are ideal for children, who can play real golf holes without long carries. A family can play a short course in an hour or two, followed by lunch. Read getting kids into golf and teaching kids golf at home.
For busy golfers
You can play a short course before or after work, or in a lunch break. Read fitting golf into a busy life.
For seniors and returning golfers
Short courses involve less walking and less physical demand, while keeping you active and sociable. Read golf for seniors.
For improving golfers
- Iron and wedge practice on real holes, with real lies and pressure.
- Lots of short-game and putting practice. Around half of all strokes are on or around the green.
- Course management: choosing the right club and target on every tee.
Read how to lower your golf handicap.
How to use a short course to improve
- Play with a limited set. Take a 7-iron, a wedge and a putter. You will learn to play different shots with each club.
- Play two balls when the course is quiet, comparing different shots.
- Keep statistics: greens hit, up-and-downs and putts. Read golf statistics to track.
- Practise your routine on every tee. Read golf pre-shot routine.
- Work on your short game: after missing a green, play the shot you would choose on the full course. Read chip or putt? How to choose.
- Play games: count up-and-downs or try to beat par with a single club. Read golf practice games.
Short courses and handicaps
Under the World Handicap System, nine-hole scores can count towards your handicap on rated nine-hole courses. Some countries also have handicap systems for short courses, or "par-3" handicaps. Check with your national golf association. Read the World Handicap System explained.
Etiquette on short courses
The same basic etiquette applies:
- Keep up with the group in front.
- Repair pitch marks and divots. Short courses get lots of iron play, so divot care is important.
- Wait until the green is clear before playing.
- Shout "fore" if your ball heads towards anyone.
Read golf etiquette 101.
What to bring
- Pitch-and-putt: a wedge, a putter and a few balls. Many courses hire clubs.
- Par-3 course: a few irons from about 5-iron to wedge, a hybrid, a putter and tees.
- Comfortable clothing and shoes. Dress codes are often relaxed, but check before you go. Read what to wear on the golf course.
Other ways to play shorter golf
- Nine holes on a full course.
- Six-hole loops, offered by some clubs.
- Forward tees on a full course. Read which tees should I play?.
- Golf entertainment venues and mini golf for a fun introduction. Read golf entertainment venues.
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between pitch-and-putt and a par-3 course?
Pitch-and-putt holes are very short, usually under about 90 yards, and need only a wedge and a putter. Par-3 courses have longer holes and need several irons.
Is a par-3 course good for beginners?
Yes. It is one of the best places to learn, with less pressure, fewer clubs and plenty of practice on real holes.
How long does it take to play a par-3 course?
Usually 1.5 to 2.5 hours for 18 holes, depending on the course and how busy it is.
Will playing short courses help my full game?
Yes. You will practise the iron, wedge and putting shots that make up most of your score.
The bottom line
Short courses make golf quicker, cheaper and more accessible, and they are great for beginners, families, busy golfers and anyone wanting to sharpen their scoring game. Grab a few clubs, play a quick round and enjoy the game. For more ways to play affordably, read how to play golf on a budget.