1. TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra Beach
Designed by Pete Dye, the par-3, 132-yard 17th of TPC Sawgrass, known simply as the “Island Green” is one of the most intimidating holes on the PGA tour. In addition to being almost entirely surrounded by water, the undulating green has earned the badge of ruining rounds for many of the best golfers on the tour (In 2007, a record 50 shots fell into the water in one round).
2. Apple Tree Resort in Yakima, WA
Everything is apple in Yakima. The Apple Tree Golf Course set in a former apple orchard is no exception. Designed by John Steidel, the par-3 17th has an island green shaped like an apple with a sand trap for a “leaf” and a bridge for the “stem”. It has been named “Best Par Three” by the Seattle Times, and “One of Washington’s Top 18 Holes”.
3. Coeur d’Alene Resort, Idaho
Located on the north shore of Lake Coeur d’Alene, the Coeur d’ Alene luxury resort features a marina, convention facilities, spa, as well as a notable 18-hole golf course. Designed by Scott Miller, the course’s main claim to fame is its par-3 14th hole green which floats, like a boat. In fact, it sails around Lake, never staying in one place. Because of that movement, there’s no bridge – If you actually hit the green, you’ll need to sail yourself there, in a boat aptly named the “Putter”.
4. Kings North at Myrtle Beach National
For over twenty five years, the North Course at Myrtle Beach National has been one of the most requested and best recognized courses in the area. The par-3, 12th hole (originally the 3rd hole) with its island green and ‘SC’ shaped sandtraps is the signature hole for the Arnold Palmer designed course.
5. Golf Club Santa Ponsa II, Spain
Designed by José Gancedo, and inaugurated in December 1991, Golf Santa Ponsa II is a ~6,000 yard, par 72 course. The finishing hole has been created in the shape of the island of Mallorca. Unfortunately Santa Ponsa II is exclusively reserved for the shareholders of the society and not for the public.