What Is Links Golf? The Coastal Style That Shaped the Game
When thinking of golf, most non-players probably imagine lush green grass, perfectly manicured fairways, trees lining holes, and golf carts zooming around. But did you know that none of these characteristics were originally typical for golf? You may be surprised to learn that golf has been around for centuries and was born on Scotland’s links courses.
This article will answer what links golf is, the reasons for its iconic status among golf enthusiasts, and what you should know before playing links golf for the first time. If you live in the Coachella Valley, visiting a links course right away may not be feasible. In the meantime, we explain what makes Palm Desert Country Club Golf Course the best local alternative to book a tee time, take individual professional golf lessons, and dine and relax.
What is Links Golf?
Links golf is the style of golf closest to the game’s roots. It was originally played on Scottish coastal linksland courses, which are sandy, grassy strips between the sea and inland farmland. Since the sandy soil drains rainwater well, it’s ideal for golf, keeping the ground firm and playable.
Additionally, links courses look significantly different from most parkland-style golf courses: They are more natural, typically open and treeless, and offer wide views. Links courses also feature dunes, fescue grasses, deep pot bunkers, wispy rough, and sometimes small streams (burns). With run-up areas, slopes, varied shot options, and strategically placed hazards, links golf is known for encouraging a creative, ground-based style of play.
Why is Links Golf So Iconic?
While parkland-style golf is much more widely played, many golf enthusiasts aspire to play links golf one day. This not only allows them to feel closer to the game’s origins but also gives them a more dramatic and exciting experience, thanks to the unique landscape and ever-changing wind and weather. Links courses are also where creativity, imagination, and the ability to adapt and solve problems shine.
Besides this, one of the main reasons for links golf’s legendary reputation is that it’s the stage for the annual Open Championship, the oldest and most prestigious golf tournament in the world. Because of this, most golfers are familiar with links golf, at least in theory and would love to try it themselves. This makes it a classic bucket-list travel experience, especially since links courses are most common in the British Isles and many golfers don’t have true links courses nearby.
What You Should Know Before Playing Links Golf
No matter your years of golf experience, playing links golf for the first time can throw you off, and there are a few things you should know before you try it. First of all, expect the ball to bounce a lot more than you’re used to, which can affect your play significantly. For example, shots that look short in the air can finish perfectly, and vice versa. As with many activities in the British Isles, the weather can be a major challenge, particularly the wind. It can change from hole to hole, forcing you to continuously reassess your play, the playing conditions, and your surroundings.
Additionally, avoid short-siding and chasing flags, and try to stay out of pot bunkers, which are better treated as penalties rather than challenges. Finally, above all, do not expect perfection the first time you play links golf. Instead, have fun and enjoy playing the game you love, as it has been played for centuries.
About Palm Desert Country Club Golf Course
Now that you’ve learned what links golf is, what makes it so special, and what you should know before you go, you may be itching to try it yourself or at least play a round of golf. While there aren’t any true links courses in the Coachella Valley, the Palm Desert Country Club Golf Course is a fantastic alternative for your next play. The 18-hole, par-72 regulation course is surrounded by spectacular mountain views. Its double-wide, tree-lined fairways and well-maintained greens are among the features that make it one of the best public golf courses in the area.
After a successful round of golf, Palm Desert Country Club Golf Course offers pub-style food, drinks, and live entertainment at Palm Desert Country Club Bar & Grill. Explore our website to book your tee time or individual professional golf lessons today. To stay current with our upcoming events, follow us on social media and sign up for our newsletter.
