What Is a Links Golf Course?
Links: A coastal course style built on sandy terrain with firm conditions, deep bunkers, and wind.
Links — full definition
A style of golf course built on sandy coastal terrain, characterized by firm and fast conditions, deep pot bunkers, minimal trees, tall fescue grasses, and strong wind exposure. True links courses are found along coastlines (Scotland, Ireland, England). The term comes from the Old English “hlinc” meaning ridge. American courses marketed as “links-style” typically share some design elements but are built on inland terrain.
Links — frequently asked
What defines a links course?
- Sandy coastal terrain with firm and fast conditions
- Deep pot bunkers and minimal trees
- Tall fescue grasses and strong wind exposure
- The term comes from Old English “hlinc” meaning ridge
Where are true links courses?
- Scotland, Ireland, and England — along the coastline
- American “links-style” courses share some design elements but are usually built on inland terrain
More on Links
True links terrain is rare in the US, but the design language and the grasses travel.
- FescueThe grass that gives links courses their golden, unplayable rough.
- Golf courses in OregonThe closest thing the US mainland has to links coastline.
- Golf course architectsWho built what, and in which tradition.
Other course features
Parkland
The most common American course style — lush fairways, tree-lined holes, and soft conditions.
Dogleg
A hole that bends left or right between the tee and the green.
Elevation Change
The height difference across a course or hole — directly affects club selection.
Green Complex
The entire area in and around the putting surface — green, bunkers, chipping areas, and slopes.
Forced Carry
A shot that must carry over a hazard — no option to play around it.
Risk-Reward
A hole offering a choice: play safe for a modest result, or go aggressive for a bigger reward.
Pin Position
Where the flagstick is placed on the green on a given day — changes daily.