Golf is more than a game; it’s a blend of skill, patience, and respect for others. As a high handicapper with less than three years of experience, I’ve learned that good golf etiquette is essential for making the game enjoyable—especially when playing with strangers.
Golf is a game of respect, integrity, and etiquette. You can’t just focus on the game; you have to respect your fellow golfers and the course.
Jack Nicklaus
Here are the 12 tips essential golf etiquette tips I follow to ensure everyone has a great round:
1. Arrive Early and Be On Time
Showing up late to your tee time disrupts the group and can throw off the schedule for everyone behind you. Plan to arrive 15–20 minutes early to warm up, introduce yourself, and prepare for the round.
2. Introduce Yourself and Share Ball Details
A quick introduction sets the tone. When you meet your group, mention the type and number of your golf ball. For instance, “I’m playing a Titleist Pro V1, #3.” This helps avoid confusion if multiple balls end up in the same area.
3. Stand Behind and Stay Visible
When someone is teeing off, position yourself behind the ball and in their line of sight—not directly behind them. If you’re playing in bright direct sunlight, staying slightly behind the golfer can also help you track the ball’s flight better against the glare. This ensures safety, avoids distractions, and helps spot errant shots.
4. Ready Golf or Traditional Rules
When it comes to deciding who tees off first, you can follow the traditional rule of “honors,” where the player with the lowest score on the previous hole tees first. However, many groups now prefer “ready golf,” where the player who is prepared to hit goes first. Ready golf helps keep the game moving, especially during casual rounds. Always agree on this with your group at the start of the round.
5. Stay Quiet and Respectful
Silence is golden when someone is addressing their shot. Avoid speaking, rustling through your bag, or making any noise until after they’ve played.
6. Replace Divots and Fix Pitch Marks
Respect the course by replacing your divots and repairing pitch marks on the green. If you notice other unrepaired marks nearby, fix those too—it’s a small gesture that shows care for the game and your group.
7. Be Ready Without Distracting Others
While someone else is taking their shot, use the time to prepare for yours. Choose your club and line up, but make sure you’re not in their field of vision or creating a distraction.
8. Help Look for Lost Balls
If a playing partner’s ball goes astray, help them search. It’s a courtesy that builds camaraderie and speeds up the game. Remember to stick to the three-minute rule for searching.
9. Keep Your Bag Close
Always have your bag or pushcart near you. This minimizes walking back and forth, keeping the pace steady.
10. Bunker Etiquette
When entering a bunker, take the shortest path to your ball. After your shot, rake the area and leave it as you found it. Proper bunker care shows respect for the next player.
11. Green Etiquette
– Furthest Putts First: Let the player furthest from the hole putt first unless you’ve agreed on a different order.
– Watch Your Step: Never walk across another player’s putting line. Be mindful of where your shadow falls as well.
– Flagstick Consideration: Ask your partners if they prefer the flag in or out before removing it.
12. Thank and Compliment Your Partners
At the end of the round, thank your playing partners and share a kind word about their game. A simple, “It was great playing with you—your approach shots were fantastic!” leaves a positive impression.
Final Thoughts
Playing with strangers might seem daunting, but following these golf etiquette tips makes the experience enjoyable for everyone. Golf is about respect—for the course, the game, and each other. So, next time you step onto the course, remember: good golf etiquette is just as important as a good swing.
Enjoy your round, and happy golfing!
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