Golf courses around the world follow a time-honoured tradition, the standard 18-hole layout. Whether it’s Augusta National, St. Andrews, or The Mines Resort & Golf Club, this format defines the modern game. But have you ever wondered why golf courses have 18 holes and not 20, 22, or even 15? The answer lies deep in the history of the sport, shaped by tradition, practicality, and a little bit of Scottish ingenuity.
The Origins: From 22 to 18 Holes
In the early days of golf, courses didn’t have a fixed number of holes. Some had 10, 12, or even 22, whichever the landscape allowed. The legendary St. Andrews Links in Scotland, widely regarded as the “Home of Golf,” originally had 22 holes.
In 1764, the club decided that some of these holes were too short, leading to a revision of the layout, combining a few holes to form the now-iconic 18-hole format. Over time, other clubs followed suit, and by the 19th century, the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews (R&A) had solidified this standard.
Once St. Andrews set the precedent, other courses around the world adapted to the 18-hole layout, particularly as the sport spread across Europe, America, and Asia.
Some Odd Cases: When 18 Holes Isn’t the Rule
While 18 holes is the gold standard, there have always been exceptions:
6-Hole Course:
La Jenny Golf Course, France: Unique not only for its 6-hole course but also as a naturist (clothing-optional) resort. Golfers can play three loops to complete a full 18 holes.
10-Hole Course:
Kukio Golf Club, Hawaii: This private club features a 10-hole short course designed by Tom Fazio, complementing its 18-hole championship course.
11-Hole Course:
Gilroy Golf Course, California: Established in 1923, this public course offers an 11-hole layout, providing a unique golfing experience.
12-Hole Course:
Shiskine Golf & Tennis Club, Scotland: Located on the Isle of Arran, Shiskine is renowned for its 12-hole course, celebrated for its scenic beauty and challenging play.
The Challenge Course at Monarch Dunes, California: This course offers a 12-hole, par-3 layout, designed to provide a quick yet challenging round for golfers.
13-Hole Course:
Bandon Preserve, Oregon: Part of the Bandon Dunes Golf Resort, Bandon Preserve is a 13-hole, par-3 course designed by Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw, known for its stunning coastal views.
14-Hole Course:
Country Meadows Golf Course, New York: Located near Lake George, this course offers a 14-hole layout, providing a unique alternative to the traditional 18-hole round.
19-Hole Course:
Sebonack Golf Club, New York: This private club features a 19th "bye" hole, often used to settle ties or wagers among golfers.
Forest Dunes Golf Club, Michigan: Known for its innovative design, Forest Dunes includes a 19th hole, inspired by the famous 6th hole at Riviera Country Club, featuring a bunker in the middle of the green.
20-Hole Course:
The European Club, Ireland: Located in County Wicklow, The European Club offers 20 holes, with two extra par-3s integrated into the traditional 18-hole layout.
The Mines Golf: Keeping the Tradition
At The Mines Resort & Golf Club, we embrace the heritage of the 18-hole format, offering a course designed to challenge and inspire golfers of all skill levels. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., our par-72 championship course seamlessly integrates the natural beauty of a reclaimed mining site into a world-class golfing experience.
So, the next time you tee off on our lush fairways, know that you’re part of a legacy that dates back centuries, a tradition that began at St. Andrews, evolved across the world, and continues here at The Mines Golf.
Book your round today and experience the legacy of 18 holes at The Mines Golf.
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