Links golf
What Defines Links Golf?
Understand the terrain, weather, design, and playing style that give links golf its distinctive character.
The land shapes the game
Links golf is traditionally played on sandy, coastal ground where the turf drains quickly and the wind has room to work. The fairways are often firm, the lies uneven, and the greens may accept a running shot as happily as a high one. That combination changes the way you see every hole.
Instead of asking, “What yardage do I carry it?” links golf often asks, “Where can I land it, and what will it do from there?”
The common ingredients
Links courses vary, but you will usually find:
- Firm fairways that add bounce and roll.
- Wind that changes club selection and shot shape.
- Bunkers that punish poor angles, not just poor strikes.
- Open approaches where putter, hybrid, or low iron can be sensible.
- Subtle ground contours that feed balls toward or away from targets.
Why it feels different
On a soft parkland course, a towering iron can stop near its pitch mark. On links turf, the same shot may release hard, kick sideways, or ride the wind into trouble. The better play is often lower, wider, and more patient.
Coach’s tip: When the ground is firm, landing spot matters as much as carry distance. Pick where the ball should first hit, not only where you hope it finishes.
Summary
Links golf is defined by firm ground, coastal weather, strategic angles, and imagination. Once you stop fighting the bounce and start using it, the style becomes less intimidating and much more fun.