5 Golf Etiquette Tips Every Golfer Should Know

Proper etiquette is the equivalent of good manners – or “the golden rule,” meaning “Do unto others as you would have them do unto you.” It’s no different on the golf course. To truly enjoy golf, every player should demonstrate courtesy, honesty, and good sportsmanship. Here are five golf etiquette tips that will help make the game better for everyone:

Check your pace of play

All golfers have a responsibility to keep things moving on the course. Be ready to play at the beginning of your round to ensure a good pace of play. And while some players (especially novices) have struggles, those issues shouldn’t impact the pace of play. Here’s the rule: four over par should be the max score on any hole. Once a player has reached the limit, it’s time to pick up and move on.

When to let a group play through

Be aware of who is playing behind you. A foursome typically plays slower than a single or twosome. If no groups are playing right in front of you, and you’re holding up players behind you, move to the side of the hole and wave to let them play through. If this happens more than once in a round, especially if the groups behind you are multiple players, you likely need to pick up the pace.

Respect the course

Whenever a repair is required, go ahead and fix it. For example, anytime you make a divot in the fairway, replace it. If you make a mark or indentation on the green, fix it. Rake the sand after tramping through it. Be careful with practice swings to avoid tearing up the turf. And please throw all trash in the proper bins so that the wooded areas remain clean. 

Respect other players

Stay quiet and stand still when players are teeing off or preparing to putt. Don’t walk in a player’s line before or after the hole on the green. And be sure to have your phone in silent mode. Better yet, leave your (silenced) cell phone in your golf bag. Loud laughter, sneezing, coughing, phone ringers, or unnecessary activity make it more challenging for fellow players to prepare for a tricky swing.

Be kind

Keep frustrations under control and always show decorum while playing golf. To avoid an awkward conversation, refrain from bringing any outside coolers into the course. Also, be kind and respectful to all golf course employees. Be sure to tip your hardworking cart staff, beverage cart girl, and restaurant servers. And no matter what, when you finish your round, congratulate the winner, shake hands with each player, and thank each for participating. 

Everyone knows that a bit of courtesy goes a long way toward gaining respect from other golfers, maintaining good conditions, and enhancing your pace of play. So why not enjoy a fantastic golf experience here at Harbor Club? We strive to make it the best it can be. Book your tee time today – we look forward to seeing you soon.