Hole 4 – Gulf Breeze
Momentum builds on this reachable par-5, where the natural airflow across the fairway becomes part of the decision-making. Players can take advantage of favorable wind conditions, but smart placement is key when navigating the approach to a green that slopes gently from back to front with subtle movement.
Hole Information
Handicap: 3
Blue Tees: 531 yards
White Tees: 507 yards
Red Tees: 468 yards
Origins of Gulf Breeze
Gulf Breeze takes full advantage of the natural winds that sweep across the open portion of the property. The original architects routed this par-5 to maximize wind influence without making the hole overwhelming. Gentle fairway movement and a green complex protected by modest slopes were designed to balance reward and risk. Modern refinements have improved transitions but preserved its breezy, strategic character.
How to Play the Hole
Gulf Breeze challenges golfers with a reachable but wind-affected par-5 that blends natural contours, open terrain, and strategic decision-making. The hole rewards players who adapt to shifting breezes and plan their shots thoughtfully from tee to green. While aggressive play can yield eagle looks, conservative navigation of the fairway’s movement can be equally effective. The key to success lies in balancing ambition with patience—using the wind, slopes, and angles to your advantage while avoiding the hazards that guard the final approach.
A solid drive aimed at the right-center of the fairway gives you the best opportunity to use the contours for additional roll and sets up a clean second shot. Coastal winds can influence ball flight dramatically here, so choosing a stable, penetrating trajectory is often more valuable than swinging for maximum distance. Drives that drift too far left can leave uneven lies and obstructed angles due to natural mounding. A confident but controlled tee shot establishes the foundation for your strategy on this engaging par-5.
Your second shot presents a pivotal decision: advance aggressively toward the green in two or lay up to your preferred wedge distance. For players attempting the green, judging the effect of crosswinds on longer clubs is critical, as the green complex slopes subtly and punishes approaches that fail to hold the surface. Those choosing to lay up should aim toward the right half of the fairway, where the angle into the green is far more welcoming and eliminates the risk of being blocked by the front contours. Regardless of strategy, smooth rhythm and thoughtful club selection are essential to avoid trouble near the green.
The green surrounds offer a mix of gentle slopes and tight collection areas, demanding creativity and confidence in your short game. Approaches that come up short may roll down the false front, requiring crisp chips that land softly. Misses to the right typically provide the easiest recoveries, offering plenty of green to work with and predictable uphill lies. Shots that sail long face the greatest difficulty, as downhill chips require delicate touch and exact control of speed.