Golf Course Types

To be truly proficient at golf, one must not only play well but also understand every aspect of the game including the types of golf courses.  Golf courses are categorized by the type of vegetation and scenery they are set in.  The golf course setting lets the golfer know what to expect once he/she is out in the golf course.

Links golf courses are the most traditional type of golf courses.  They are located near the sea or ocean.  The terrain may vary from gently rolling to wildly undulating but is never entirely flat.  Links golf courses have sandy soil with fully functional drainage properties.  They do not necessarily run right up to the edge of the sea.  Many are bordered by beachside dunes or located further inland.  There are no trees and the winds influence the game. 

Parkland golf courses are typical inland courses characterized by trees on them.  Fairways are tree-lined whether naturally or through planned plantings.  Trees are used as strategic elements of play.

Hearthland golf courses are more open and less manicured inland courses often featuring gorse (a spreading thicket plant with dangerous vicious thorns) and heather (a beautiful plant that emits an intoxicating smell when in bloom in summer).  They are generally less wooded than parkland courses.

Desert golf courses are usually located in the arid regions of the southwest US.  They require heavy irrigation.

Snow golf courses are recent innovations.  Golf is played on snow using brightly colored balls.  They are located in the arctic or sub arctic regions.