The 19th hole in golf is not a physical hole on the course. It is an expression used to refer to the clubhouse or a nearby bar or restaurant at a golf course.

The expression the 19th hole is spoken in reference to a place where golfers gather after a round of golf to socialize, relax and enjoy food and drinks.

The 19th hole is often a focal point for post-game discussions, camaraderie and the continuation of the social aspect of the game.

While the game of golf itself typically consists of 18 holes, the 19th hole is all about the social experience that comes after those rounds.

There are actual examples of courses have a unique 19th hole that can be played, but in the main it is all about enjoying a pint and a bite to eat after a round.

Origins Of The 19th Hole Expression In Golf

The exact origins of the phrase “the 19th hole” are not well-documented, but it is a widely recognised term in modern golf culture regardless.

There are a few theories and possible explanations for how the term originated and how the concept of the 19th hole likely evolved over time.

Golf has a long history of being a social sport, and the 19th hole may have simply emerged as a natural extension of this social tradition, a place where golfers would continue to socialize and enjoy each other’s company after their rounds.

Some theories suggest that the 19th hole originally referred to the nearest bar or pub located near a golf course. Golfers would head to this establishment after their rounds for refreshments and camaraderie.

Another theory is that the term “19th hole” is a lighthearted and humorous nod with golfers saying “We’ve played 18 holes; now, let’s enjoy one more hole at the clubhouse.”

Do Any Golf Courses Have An Actual 19th Hole?

Yes. Some golf courses have additional holes that can come into play when one hole in unplayable due to weather conditions or maintenance.

The Old Course at St. Andrews has a short extra hole known as the Tom Morris or the 19th hole. It has been used for tiebreakers in match play and is not part of the regular scorecard.

Carnoustie also features a 19th hole known as Burn, and Prestwick has a 19th hole known as the Cardinal.

Those three are just some examples of extra holes, while there are two famous 19th hole or extra hole at Payne’s Valley in the United States and at Legend Golf and Safari Resort in South Africa.

Tiger Woods’ Payne Valley features a stunning extra par-3, while the 19th hole at Legend Golf and Safari Resort is only accessible by a helicopter and is one of the world’s most outrageous golf holes.

The 19th Hole at Payne’s Valley

Payne’s Valley, designed by Tiger Woods at Big Cedar Lodge in Missouri, features 19 holes in your round in a unique creation.

The additional hole, known as The Big Rock at Payne’s Valley, serves a special purpose with the short par-3 played after completing the standard 18 holes.

It is a bonus hole designed for fun and entertainment, allowing golfers to go head to head one last time on a unique and picturesque setting with the island green surrounded by rocks.

The 19th Hole at Legend Golf and Safari Resort

Even more unique is the 19th hole at Legend Golf and Safari Resort, which is in Limpopo, South Africa, close to the border with Zimbabwe.

Known as the “Extreme 19th” hole, it is located on the top of Hanglip Mountain and is only accessible by helicopter.

Golfers take a helicopter ride to the top of Hanglip Mountain, which offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape including the Waterberg Mountains.

From the top, golfers tee off towards a green located 400 meters (approximately 1,312 feet) below. The tee box is situated at an altitude of 1,410 meters (4,626 feet), making it the world’s highest and longest par-3 hole.

After hitting their shots, golfers descend in the helicopter to the green to complete the hole in what is the most unique golf hole in the world.