Golf is a precision, patient, and strategic sport. Perhaps one of the most popular questions for novice and seasoned golfers alike is: How long does 18 holes of golf take?
The answer to this will vary based on several factors, such as player skill, course style, and whether or not one walks or rides in a golf cart. Knowing how long it takes to play a full round is important to organizing your game, scheduling, and having a good experience on the course.
In this article, we will discuss how long does it take to golf 18 holes. We will also take a look at factors affecting it, the history of 18 golf-hole courses, and some tips on speeding things up.
How Long Does 18 Holes of Golf Take?
On average, playing 18 holes of golf takes around 4 to 5 hours for a foursome. If you are an individual player or a twosome, it can finish in 3 to 4 hours.
There are many factors at play when talking about the duration of playing 18 holes on a golf course. These factors include course difficulty, weather conditions, and player experience.
So, whether you are scheduling a casual weekend game or competing in a tournament, knowing all the details sets the right expectations. Still asking how long to play 18 holes of golf, the correct answer is 4 to five hours. We will discuss the timings in detail, but first, let’s look at the factors that impact the duration of an 18-hole golf round.
Factors That Impact the Duration of an 18-Hole Golf Round
The duration of time required to play a round of 18 holes varies based on many factors. Some are under the control of a golfer, while others are subject to outside factors like course traffic and weather.
Here is the list of key aspects of golf that influence the pace of play.
Player Skill Level
The skill level of a player significantly impacts the speed of play. Beginners in golf often take more time than the pros as they require more shots or spend more time searching for lost balls.
On the other hand, experienced golf players are more efficient through a round due to better shot accuracy and quick decision-making.
- Beginners may take 5 to 6 hours due to extra practice shots and frequent ball searches.
- Intermediate players can finish relatively quickly with fewer delays.
- Professional players often complete their round of golf in 3 to 4 hours especially when playing solo or in a small group.
Walking vs. Using a Golf Cart
Golf courses are very big and traversing them is a challenge. The mode of transportation is also a significant factor that can impact the playing time of a golf round. Walking the course tends to slow down the play, especially if you are playing with a large group.
On the other hand, using a golf cart significantly speeds things up by reaching the next hole in a jiffy. So, how long to play 18 holes with carts?
- For pro players, walking takes around 4 to 5.5 hours, depending on the terrain and distance between holes.
- The golf cart can significantly reduce the total time to around 3.5 to 4.5 hours.
Course Type and Layout
How long do 18 holes of golf take? The answer to this depends significantly on the course type and layout. Different golf courses have unique designs, which can impact the time to complete the course. Some courses have shorter holes, while some feature long fairways, challenging terrain, and extensive water hazards. All these things can slow down the pace.
- Par-3 courses are generally quicker to complete.
- Some executive courses are designed for faster play that is completed usually in 3-4 hours.
- Championship courses usually feature long fairways and more hazards. It requires 4-5 hours of time for golfers.
Group Size and Playing Speed
How long does it take to play 18 holes? The group size is also a factor when thinking about the time it takes to complete a golf round. A solo player can move swiftly, while a full foursome may require extra time due to increased shots and the discussion between the players as well.
- A pro solo player can complete the course of 18 holes in 2.5 to 3.5 hours.
- A group of two players typically takes around 3 to four hours.
- Three players may need 3.5 to 4.5 hours.
- While a group of four players takes the longest to play 18 holes of golf. It takes around 4-5 hours.
Weather Conditions
Weather is an important aspect of a golf tournament or solo event. It determines “How long to play 18 holes of golf”. Wind, rain, and extreme heat can impact the performance of golfers significantly and hamper their ability to navigate the course efficiently.
- In windy conditions, golfers may require extra time to adjust their shots.
- Rainy conditions can also slow the pace down due to wet course conditions.
- Extreme heat can cause fatigue and may require players to take extra hydration breaks, significantly slowing down the pace of play.
Also Read: What is a Scratch Golfer? A Guide and Tips to Improve
How Long Should It Take to Play Each Hole?
On an average golf course, there are three categories of holes—par-3s, par-4s, and par-5s. But the question is, how long should it take to play each hole? If a four-player group wants to complete a golf round in four hours, they should follow a strict timeline.
- Par-3 Hole: 10 minutes (4 par-3s = 40 minutes)
- Par-4 Hole: 13 minutes (10 par-4s = 2 hours and 10 minutes)
- Par-5 Hole: 16 minutes (4 par-5s = 1 hour and 4 minutes)
Total Target Time: 4 Hours
- Playing time: 3 hours and 54 minutes
- Travel time between holes: 6 minutes
Average Time to Play 18 Holes of Golf
How long does 18 holes of golf take? If we are talking about average time, here is what you need to know.
On average, a group of amateur golfers takes about 4 hours to complete 18 golf holes. However, it’s not set in stone and may vary depending on the number of players in the group, the layout of the course, and the skill level of individual players.
When talking about professional golfers, they can complete their round of golf in under four hours. They are skilled players who are more efficient in their gameplay. Most of the time, professional golf tournaments have regulations to ensure players maintain a steady pace of play.
Why Are There 18 Holes in Golf?
Why are there 18 holes of golf? The traditional 18-hole course design has its roots in history. Golf initially began with different hole counts, but the St. Andrews Old Course in Scotland established the norm of 18-hole courses in 1764. Eventually, this became the norm in professional and amateur golf. Presently, 18 holes continue to be the norm in most courses, offering a harmony of challenge and fun.
Tips to Speed Up Your Golf Round
Now that we’ve looked at how long does it take to golf 18 holes, let’s look at tips you need to know to speed things up in your golf round.
Here are some of the key tips you need to consider.
- You should plan your next shot while walking or riding to the ball.
- Don’t take too many practice swings to speed things up.
- Play when ready rather than adhering to customary turn-based golf.
- You should also keep up with the group ahead.
- Choose the best tee boxes that match your skills.
- Use the balls with high visibility to minimize ball searches.
- Use the golf cart more efficiently to save some time.
Conclusion
So, how long does 18 holes of golf take? The time required to play 18 holes of golf varies by many factors including course type, player skills, and weather conditions.
On average, it takes about four and half hours for a foursome riding a golf cart to complete the 18 holes of a golf round. It is essential for each beginner, who is dreaming of being an experienced player of golf. Be sure to check each factor of the game from the number of dimples on the golf ball to the number of golf clubs that a player can carry.
By using simple tactics and a little foresight, you can make sure that you have a fun experience on the course.
FAQs
1: How long does it take to play 18 holes with carts?
Ans: Playing 18 holes of golf with carts typically takes around 4 to 4.5 hours. However, this can vary depending on course difficulty, player skill, group size, and course traffic..
2: Can you play 18 holes in 2 hours?
Ans: Yes, it’s possible to play 18 holes of golf in 2 hours, especially if you are playing solo or as a twosome on a relatively short and easy course.
3: How long does it take 4 people to play 9 holes of golf?
Ans: On average, a group of four golfers takes around 2 hours to play 9 holes of golf but this can vary depending on factors like course difficulty and player skill.
4: Can you finish 18 holes in 3 hours?
Ans: Yes, a solo golfer can potentially complete 18 holes in 3 hours or less. It also depends on the crowds on the golf course.
