A well-designed golf course presents a series of unique challenges with each new hole. Knowing the basic obstacles you’ll face, no matter what the layout, will effectively prepare you for any course. Here are the main features every golfer should know.

A Beginner’s Guide to Golf Course Features

1. Tee

You’ll begin each hole at the tee, positioned in one of several boxes. These allow players of different skill levels to choose where they wish to start. Beginners may feel more comfortable hitting closer to the fairway. Once you gain more experience, you’ll likely prefer the tees further back.

2. Fairway

The large field of well-manicured grass resting between the tee box and the green is known as the fairway. Finding and hitting this area provides a good bounce and consistent direction for the ball. The type of grass used can affect how easy it will be to hit shots out of the fairway.

3. Hazard

All water features and sand traps, also referred to as bunkers, are considered hazards. Bunkers are typically situated near the fairway. If a ball ends up in the sand, it’s difficult to get out. Water features such as lakes, ponds, and creeks result in a penalty if golfers are unable to retrieve their ball. Each hazard is designed to make the hole more challenging.

4. Green

Sometimes called the putting green, the green is the area of the golf course where the hole is located. The grass is mowed shortest here, so golfers who reach this area will switch to putters. Greens can vary widely in shape, size, and elevation, which will contribute to the difficulty of the hole.

5. Rough

Golfers want to avoid the rough. Consisting of long grass that makes hitting the ball especially difficult, the rough surrounds the fairway and green. The further from the fairway and green you get, the longer the grass is allowed to grow.

For new golfers looking for a beautifully crafted public golf course, Royal Kunia Country Club is the perfect place to build your skills. Located in Waipahu, HI, and designed by renowned architect Robin Nelson, it’s often described as the most picturesque course on Oahu. With a peaceful atmosphere, fully stocked golf shop, and delicious on-site restaurant, they have everything a golfer needs to enjoy a quiet day of recreation and satisfying challenges. Learn more about the golf course online, and follow them on Instagram for updates. To book your tee time, call (808) 688-9222.