Picking up golf is an excellent way to get exercise and enjoy the outdoors while developing new skills. As a beginner, you might be intimidated by unfamiliar territory, but golf has simple etiquette like any sport or hobby. Follow the tips below to remain respectful to your fellow golfers and the course. 

5 Rules of Good Golf Etiquette

1. Keep up the Pace

Proper pacing allows golfers to get through the course on schedule. It is important to respect other people’s time—the last thing you want to do is back up the groups behind you. A standard round of 18 holes should take around 4 hours, so your group should limit your time at each hole to 12–15 minutes.

2. Avoid Causing Distractions

Even if you come to a golf course with close friends or family, the game itself should be relatively quiet. This allows players to focus on the ball. When it is someone else’s turn, do your best not to be a distraction. Remain a good distance away, for safety and respect for their concentration, and out of their line of sight. Keep silent and turn your cell phone off.

3. Never Walk on Someone’s Line

A player's putting line refers to the path between ball and the cup on the green. Stepping on this imaginary line creates footprints and indentations, which can affect the way the ball rolls down the path. Walk around golf balls or markers, and if you must go through another golfer’s line, carefully step over it. You should also avoid stepping within a 1-foot radius of the hole when retrieving your ball for the same reason.

4. Leave the Course How You Found It

It's fine for golfers to make divots or marks, but be sure to repair them before moving on to the next hole. If you left a divot when hitting your shot, replace the grass that came loose or sprinkle on some seed mixture, which may be located on the side of your cart or next to the tee box marker. After a bunker shot, rake the sand until it’s smooth.

5. Practice Good Sportsmanship

Being a beginner in any sport can be tough, and your rounds will likely be filled with ups and downs. No matter how it goes, be a good sport. Avoid getting worked up or airing your frustrations. Be positive and encourage others. When you do well, be humble. After you finish up, shake hands with your team and thank them for a great round.

When you’re ready to play a scenic and exciting round of golf, come to The Village Course at Waikoloa on the Big Island of Hawaii. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., this course offers incredible views of the Kohala Coast and nearby volcanoes. Those new to the sport can take advantage of private or group golf lessons, a fully stocked pro shop, and free fitting sessions. Visit their website or call (808) 883-9621 to reserve a tee time.