10th Hole – The Renaissance Club (Scotland)
Tom Doak’s modern masterpiece, The Renaissance Club, has quickly gained international recognition. The 10th is a short par-3 along the cliffline, with a green that slopes towards the sea and wind that changes daily. Small and sloping, it rewards thoughtful play and finesse over brute force, a Doak trademark. The routing and views make it one of the most memorable holes in the UK.
5th Hole – Yas Links (Abu Dhabi, UAE)
Yas Links, designed by Kyle Phillips, brought traditional links golf to the Middle East. The 5th is a stunning par-3 over the Arabian Gulf. Narrow green with treacherous bunkers and water hazards, club selection and trajectory control are key. The visual intimidation and clever green shaping make this one of the best modern par-3s.
8th Hole – Tara Iti Golf Club (New Zealand)
Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw designed Tara Iti to blend in with the New Zealand coastline. The 8th is a mid-length par-4 with a wide fairway but subtle manipulation of sight lines with native vegetation, bunkers, and contouring. The genius is in its playability: high handicappers can play it safely; low handicappers can take aggressive lines that carry more risk. It encourages creativity and adaptation to daily conditions.
17th Hole – TPC Sawgrass (Florida)
Love it or loathe it, the island green par-3 at TPC Sawgrass is one of the most iconic and nerve-wracking holes in modern golf. Designed by Pete and Alice Dye, the 17th is only 137 yards but has ruined many a championship. What makes it great isn’t just the water – it’s the mental challenge. The hole amplifies pressure and requires absolute commitment, a masterclass in psychological design.
18th Hole – Whistling Straits (Wisconsin)
Dye delivered again at Whistling Straits. The 18th, “Dyeabolical,” is a par-4 along Lake Michigan. Intimidation, beauty and decision-making all in one dramatic finish. Bunkers, fescue and water in play on every shot. Narrow and elevated green. The perfect blend of drama and detail that is Dye at his best.