Sand Valley is considered one of the fastest-growing golf resorts globally, featuring four regulation courses, a 17-hole par 3 course, and the upcoming Commons, a 12-hole course set to open in 2026. Each course has its unique charm, and while every hole is special, here are standout holes from each course that showcase exceptional architectural design.
Sand Valley
Hole 9, par 4, 305 yards
This enticing par 4 allows players to drive the green as it descends towards a green adjacent to a dune. The hole offers various options for golfers of all skill levels. A mid to long iron off the tee minimizes risk and sets up a straightforward wedge shot to the green. Players can also choose to lay up, as the fairway is nearly 60 yards wide but narrows to 35 yards near the green, protected by deep bunkers. Designed by Coore and Crenshaw, this hole exemplifies a risk-reward strategy.
Mammoth Dunes
Hole 9, par 4, 450 yards
The ninth hole at Mammoth Dunes presents strategic play with two possible routes from the tee. Aiming towards the centerline bunker or slightly left provides a clear view of the green and the best angle for approach shots. There’s also a speed slot in this fairway section that can give drives an extra boost. Players who veer right will encounter a lower fairway and a blind approach, with a small pot bunker guarding the right side of the green.
The Lido
Hole 4, par 5, 550 yards
This hole boasts both grandeur and historical significance. Originally designed by C.B. Macdonald in 1917 on Long Island, it was once heralded as one of the finest golf courses in the U.S. After its closure in 1942, Tom Doak and Renaissance Golf Design recreated it in central Wisconsin in 2023. This robust par 5 presents a thrilling risk-reward scenario: players can opt for a risky shot to a small fairway near the lagoon or play it safe around the water. Even if players land on the small fairway, they must successfully navigate over a deep bunker to reach the green.
Sedge Valley
Hole 18, par 4, 318 yards
After a series of challenging holes, Sedge Valley offers a dramatic finale. The fairway features a prominent diagonal ridgeline, inviting players to try to carry over the slope to access the upper fairway for better approach angles. Those choosing a cautious line might avoid the bunkers but will face a blind or semi-blind wedge shot into a spectacular punchbowl green.
The Commons
Hole 10, par 4, ~350 yards (Coming 2026)
The newest addition to Sand Valley is full of intriguing short par-4s, with the 10th hole standing out. This dogleg hole curves around an expansive lake and is adorned with layered bunkering. Golfers can choose from three lines of play off the tee, from conservative to risky. Aiming further left increases risk but shortens the hole. Driving directly to the green requires navigating a challenging small green while keeping the ball from rolling off.
Sandbox
Hole 13, par 3, 62 yards
While numerous holes in the Sandbox are noteworthy, the 13th, known as the “Lion’s Mouth,” stands out due to its intricate green shapes. Holes with front pin placements allow for creative putts around the central bunker. My favorite position is the back left pin, which sits lower than the surrounding green and challenges players to gauge distance accurately. The Sandbox is filled with fun and engaging holes, but this one is particularly exceptional.
