Twilight golf means teeing off in the late afternoon or evening, usually at a discounted rate, with the understanding that you may not finish all 18 holes before dark. It's one of the best ways to save money on golf, and summer evenings on a quiet course can be some of the most enjoyable rounds of the year. Here's how it works.
How twilight rates work
- Start times: twilight usually begins in the afternoon, varying by season and course.
- Discounts: typically lower than peak rates.
- Super-twilight: some courses offer even cheaper rates later in the evening.
- Carts: sometimes included or discounted.
Read how to book tee times.
How many holes can you play?
| Season | Typical holes before dark |
|---|---|
| Midsummer | Often 18 |
| Late spring and early autumn | 12 to 18 |
| Early spring and late autumn | 9 to 12 |
| Winter | Often only a few holes |
Check sunset times and your group's pace. Read nine-hole golf.
Benefits
- Value: lower green fees. Read how to play golf on a budget.
- Quieter courses and faster play.
- Cooler temperatures in hot weather. Read hot weather golf.
- Beautiful light and wildlife. Read golf courses and wildlife.
- Fits around work. Read fitting golf into a busy life.
Tips for twilight golf
- Arrive warmed up or do a quick warm-up.
- Play ready golf. Read pace of play.
- Bring a layer: evenings cool quickly.
- Use insect repellent near water.
- Brightly coloured balls help in fading light.
- Know when to stop: don't play in unsafe darkness.
Things to watch
- Greens may be wet late in the day as dew forms. Read putting on fast and slow greens.
- Maintenance: sprinklers and greenkeepers may start work.
- Course closing times for carts and facilities.
- Wind often drops in the evening.
Twilight times through the year
Twilight rates usually begin a set number of hours before sunset, so the start time moves with the seasons. As a rough guide in mid-latitude countries:
| Season | Typical twilight start | Holes you can usually play |
|---|---|---|
| Midsummer | Mid to late afternoon | 18 holes, sometimes with time to spare |
| Spring and autumn | Early to mid afternoon | 9–14 holes |
| Winter | Late morning to early afternoon | 9 holes or fewer |
Check your course's exact times, which are often listed on the booking page.
How to play more holes in the time available
- Book the first twilight slot to maximise daylight.
- Play ready golf and keep moving. Read pace of play.
- Walk with a light bag or take a cart if the course is long.
- Play nine-hole loops on courses that have them.
- Skip the long warm-up: a few minutes on the putting green is enough. Read pre-round warm-up routine.
Who benefits most
- Workers: play after work in summer.
- Beginners: quieter courses and less pressure from groups behind. Read golf for beginners: the complete guide.
- Budget golfers: much lower fees. Read how to play golf on a budget.
- Families and couples: relaxed evening golf. Read golf for couples.
- Practice-focused golfers: quiet courses make it easier to play an extra ball (where allowed) or practise course management.
Super twilight and other deals
Many courses have more than one evening rate: a twilight rate and a cheaper "super twilight" or sunset rate later still. Some also offer twilight memberships, evening leagues or season passes valid after a certain time. Read golf leagues.
Safety in fading light
- Stop when you can't follow the ball; it's dangerous for you and others.
- Watch for maintenance staff starting evening work, such as irrigation.
- Return carts on time, as many have lights only for the return trip, if at all.
- Know the route back to the clubhouse.
Frequently asked questions
What is twilight golf?
Discounted golf for late-afternoon and evening tee times, when you may not complete 18 holes before dark.
What time does twilight golf start?
It varies by course and season, typically in the afternoon.
Can I play 18 holes at twilight?
Often in midsummer; less often in spring and autumn.
Is twilight golf good for beginners?
Yes. Courses are quieter and cheaper, so there's less pressure.
Can I post a handicap score from a twilight round?
Yes, if you complete enough holes under the handicap rules, such as nine or 18 holes.
Are twilight rounds quieter?
Usually, though some courses get busy with after-work golfers in summer.
The bottom line
Twilight golf offers cheaper, quieter and often beautiful rounds. Check sunset times, play efficiently and enjoy the evening. For more ways to play affordably, read how much does golf cost?.