15 Fun Golf Hole Ideas for Your Outing

Golf may be a game of tradition and precision, but who says we can't inject a little bit of whimsy and wonder onto those pristine fairways? Step aside, dull and ordinary holes – it's time for some hole-in-fun inspiration that'll have you swinging, laughing, and celebrating like never before!

We have rounded up 15 fun golf tournament ideas to keep your guests entertained, excited, and engaged throughout the outing.

So, get inspired and find the perfect fun golf outing ideas for your event!

1. Longest Drive Contest

A truly classic contest in more or less every golf tournament, The Longest Drive is the perfect challenge for players who relish displaying power and, of course, pinpoint accuracy.

This is one of those contests that is a huge hit among the people, simply because it takes the skill of a golfer and adds one of those entertaining spectacles at which anyone can look with wry amusement.

Equipment Needed

• Golf Balls
• Golf Clubs
• Measuring Tools

How to Set Up

• Select a Hole: Use a long, straight Par 4 or 5 hole for clear visibility and ample driving space.

• Tee Box: Set a tee marker for all players. Optional: mark different positions for varied angles.

• Define Boundaries: Clearly mark fairway boundaries to measure drives accurately and prevent disputes.

How to Play

• Order of Play: Players take turns driving their ball from the tee box. Allow time for setup and execution.

• Measurement: Measure drives from the tee after everyone plays, ensuring accuracy within the fairway.

• Scoring: The furthest drive within the fairway bounds wins.

Prizes

Reward the winner and notable participants with prizes such as golf apparel, customized glassware, golf clubs, and other special items.

The Longest Drive contest is a great one to add some competitive fun to your next golf tournament game.

Our sales manager, George, can help you with your golf outing, golf trip, or custom logos and artwork.

Call George at (203) 307-5399 or email george@groovygolfer.com.

2. Closest to the Pin Challenge

This golf outing challenge represents the admired event of almost every charity golf tournament, testing precision and control, not power.

Not only that, but it gives the best chance to every level of golfer to show finesse and precision wielding those irons.

Equipment Needed

• Golf Balls
• Golf Clubs (Typically, irons or wedges, depending on the hole’s distance).
• Measuring Tape

How to Set Up

• Choose a Par 3 Hole: Pick an entire hole with a clear view from tee to pin and minimal obstacles.

• Designate the Tee Area: All players hit from the same tee box.

• Determine Shots: Decide the number of shots each golfer gets to approach the pin.

How to Play

• Taking Turns: Players alternately hit shots toward the pin. Measure each shot's distance to the pin.

• Scoring System: Points are awarded based on proximity to the pin, with fewer points for closer shots.

• Cumulative Scoring: After three shots, total the points. The player with the lowest score (closest overall shots) wins.

Prizes:

• Winner's Prize: Award a prize, such as a sleeve of premium golf balls or a small trophy, to the winner.

• Runner-Up Prizes: Consider giving smaller consolation prizes to second and third-place finishers to keep the competition engaging for everyone.

This contest comprises not only fun and competition but also challenges the precision of players in their play.

3. Beat the Pro Challenge

This "Beat the Pro" challenge is the opportunity given to amateur golfers to measure their ability at your next golf tournament against that of a professional.

Equipment Needed

• Golf Balls
• Golf Clubs

How to Set Up

• Choose a Suitable Hole: Select a challenging yet fair par 3 or short par 4 for both amateurs and professionals.

• Professional's Tee Shot: Have the professional golfer tee off first to set a benchmark for the contestants.

How To Play

• Contestant Shots: After the pro's shot, each contestant tries to match or beat the pro's score on that hole.

• Scoring: Simply aim to score lower than the pro. Points can be awarded for shots that land closer to the hole than the pro's.

Prizes

• Beat the Pro: Present prizes to any contestant that has beaten the pro. This can be free lessons from the pro, golf equipment, or even gift vouchers.

• Participation prizes: Consider small participation gifts for all the guys who are going to be part of the challenge.

This best golf tournament challenge gives a regular golfer the chance to face one of the greats in direct, exciting competition.

4. Cigar Rolling Hole

A cigar rolling station is one of those unique touches that turns an ordinary golf tournament into a memorable golf outing. 

Having a professional cigar roller on-site adds a sense of tradition and luxury, creating a social hub where players can relax during the golf event and enjoy something special between shots.

Equipment Needed

• Golf balls
• Golf clubs
• Measuring tools
• Scorecards and pencils
• Professional cigar roller with tobacco leaves and rolling tools
• Small tent or shaded lounge area

How to Set Up

Place the cigar station near an entire hole that naturally encourages a pause in play, such as a par 3 or near the clubhouse. Provide shaded seating so the playing field feels more like a lounge. Add sponsor branding to make it an easy way to cover costs and enhance the guest experience.

How to Play

Instead of a competitive golf tournament game, this is a social stop. Players take a break, chat, and enjoy watching cigars being hand-rolled before continuing. It’s a great spot for networking and photos.

Prizes

Offer cigar gift packs, engraved cutters, or branded lighters. For a fun twist, you can even reward a team that gets closer to the hole on a nearby par 3 with a cigar-themed prize.

5. Hall of Fortune

Hall of Fortune transforms the classic golf event into something novel and thrilling—blended with a smack of chance.

This game, surely, does not only test the players' driving skills; instead, it tests their luck, as it includes a lot of chance that can make a 360-degree turn. This makes it a game to remember for your event.

Equipment Needed

• Golf balls
• Golf Clubs (Mostly drivers).

How to Set Up

• Designated Driving Area: Choose a long, open hole ideal for maximum distance drives.

• Hall of Fortune Area: Mark specific challenging spots like sand bunkers or water hazards as "Hall of Fortune" areas, making them high-risk, high-reward targets.

How to Play

• Driving Contest: Players take turns driving the ball as far as possible down the fairway.

• Fortune Zones: A drive landing in any "Hall of Fortune" area immediately wins the contest, regardless of distance.

• Additional Incentives: Offer extra rewards for landing near the flag or making the longest putt.

Prizes:

• Main Prize: There will be one grand prize winner for hitting either the space of the Hall of Fortune or the player who drives the farthest.

The Hall of Fortune challenge adds an element of strategic decision-making to the game.

6. Golf Pong

Golf pong introduces a playful twist on the classic beer pong, tailored for golf enthusiasts.

This game adds an element of light-hearted competition to your golf tournament game and will bring laughs and camaraderie among participants.

Equipment Needed:

• 12 Plastic Cups
• Golf Ball
• Golf clubs (putters recommended)
• Favorite drinks

How to Set Up:

• Arrange six cups in a triangle shape at each end of a flat surface, similar to the setup in traditional beer pong.

How to Play

• Gameplay: Players or teams alternate chipping golf balls into the cups using a putter or similar club.

• Drinking Rule: If a ball lands in a cup, the opposing player or team drinks from that cup. The game can be played one-on-one or in teams, making it adaptable for different group sizes.

At Golf Pong family game night, Golf Pong supplies a fun, competitive game, perfect for use during golf outings, charity events, or casual time on the golf course. A good idea to increase enjoyment in the game is to use golf tumblers instead of plastic cups as prizes. Check out these here to add to your game! 

7. Flagstick Tournament

The Flag Tournament is another form of golf purely adopted to help players work on their accuracy and strategy.

One can adopt the format of individual players or divided into teams, which makes it suitable for various events like charity golf tournaments.

Equipment Needed

• Golf Balls
• Golf Clubs
• Measuring Device
• Flagsticks

How to Set Up

• Objective: Complete designated holes with the fewest shots possible. Aim to place the ball as close to the flagstick as possible without it going in.

• Scoring System: Points are awarded based on proximity to the flagstick rather than the number of strokes.

• Team Play: Team members compete to land their shots closest to the flagstick, with the nearest ball earning the team a point.

How to Play:

• Take Turns: Players hit their shots toward the green, aiming to get close to the flagstick.

• Measuring Proximity: After all shots, measure which ball is nearest to the flagstick.

• Cumulative Scoring: Play through all designated holes, accumulating points. The player or team with the most points wins.

Prizes

• Top Winners' Rewards: A gift certificate for the highest winner, or golf equipment.

• Special Categories: Optionally, special categories of prizes could be made, such as "Most Accurate Shot" or "Best Strategy Play".

This golf tournament idea not only adds another level of competition and fun with the icing on the cake to a round of golf but encourages control and precision rather than just raw power.

Related: 27 Golf Outing Prizes That Will Make Your Event a Smash Hit

8. Whiskey Tasting Hole

The Whiskey Tasting Hole adds a classy and social element to any golf tournament or golf outing. Set up at a tee box, this stop lets players take a short break from the playing field to sample different whiskeys, from bourbon to scotch to rye.

It’s an easy way to elevate your golf event while also offering a natural sponsorship opportunity with a local distillery.

Equipment Needed

• Golf balls
• Whiskey tasting glasses
• Measuring tools
• Scorecards

How to Set Up

Choose an entire hole that allows for safe setup and has enough space for a tasting table or tent. Partner with a distillery or sponsor to supply a variety of whiskeys. Add water and light snacks to cleanse the palate, and make sure volunteers or staff are available to serve responsibly.

How to Play

This isn’t a competitive golf tournament game, but a social stop. Players take a quick tasting before hitting their next shot. It slows the pace just enough to feel relaxing without disrupting play, making it a perfect fit for charity golf events where camaraderie is just as important as competition.

Prizes

• Bottles of whiskey, branded glassware, or tasting vouchers

• Special whiskey prize for the golfer who gets closer to the hole

9. Putting Contest

The Putting Contest is an all-time favorite and one of the greatest games for golfers at any level. This contest adds spice and a good added tactical taste to your charity golf tournament, with all the focus on precision and control, not raw power.

Equipment Needed

• Putters
• Golf balls (3 per player).
• Putting Green (That area of a golf course where the grass has been specially treated and prepared for putting).

How to Set Up

• Standard Single-Hole Contest: Set up a putting green and mark a specific distance. Each player putts three times from this distance.

• Circular Putting Green Setup: If space allows, create a circular green with multiple small holes at different distances within the circle. This setup lets all players putt simultaneously, enhancing pace and variety.

How to Play

• Scoring System: Players aim to hole out in the fewest strokes. The player with the fewest strokes over three attempts wins.

• Variation with Green: Players putt once at each hole around the circular green, tallying scores from all holes to determine the winner.

Prizes:

• Winner's Prize: One may even give some kind of special prize to the winner, such as a trophy, gift certificate, or even golf gear.

• Consolation Prizes: You could also offer smaller prizes for second and third place or even for notable efforts like the longest putt made.

These charity golf tournament ideas are perfect for everyone to have an opportunity at this golf event.

10. Baseball Bat Drive Hole

The Baseball Bat Drive Hole is a hilarious and crowd-pleasing addition to any golf tournament or golf outing. Instead of using traditional clubs, players take a full swing with a baseball bat to see how far and straight they can send the ball. 

It’s a fun golf tournament game that levels the playing field since even the best golfers are out of their comfort zone. This hole always draws laughs and is one of the best places for memorable photos at your golf event.

Equipment Needed

• Golf balls
• Baseball bat
• Measuring tools
• Scorecards

How to Set Up

Pick an entire hole that is wide, open, and clear of hazards. Place safety cones or rope boundaries to keep the playing field safe. Provide at least one sturdy bat for participants. Have staff on-site to supervise and mark distances.

How to Play

At the designated tee, players take their turn swinging with the bat instead of a golf club. Drives are measured from the tee to where the ball lands within the fairway. The furthest ball inbounds wins. It’s an easy way to bring extra energy to your charity golf event.

Prizes

Award the winner with prizes such as sports memorabilia, baseball gear, or golf accessories. Bonus prizes can go to the golfer who lands closer to the hole than expected with a baseball swing.

11. Bingo Bango Bongo

Bingo Bango Bongo is a dynamic and engaging point-based golf game that encourages strategic play and rewards precision and speed on the green.

This game is ideal for adding a lively competitive element to your golf tournament, suitable for players of varying skill levels.

Equipment Needed:

• Golf Balls
• Golf Clubs

How to Set Up:

• Game Structure: The game is played hole by hole, with three specific achievements to aim for on each:

• Bingo: Awarded to the first player in the group to get their ball onto the green, emphasizing the importance of the initial approach shot.

• Bango: Goes to the player whose ball is closest to the pin once all balls are on the green, highlighting precision in approach play.

• Bongo: Earned by the first player to hole out, encouraging efficient putting and a strong finish.

How to Play:

• Playing Order: Players rotate the order of play on each hole to ensure fairness in the scoring opportunities for Bingo.

• Scoring: Each player earns points based on their achievements:

• One point for achieving Bingo,

• One point for Bango,

• One point for Bongo.

• Winning the Game: At the end of the round, the player with the most points accumulated across all holes is declared the winner.

Bingo Bango Bongo is particularly effective in golf tournaments as it keeps all players fully engaged throughout each hole, regardless of their skill level.

12. Massage Hole

The Massage Hole is a refreshing surprise that adds a touch of luxury to any golf outing or golf tournament.

A professional massage therapist sets up at the tee box to give quick chair or table massages, helping golfers loosen their shoulders, backs, and arms. It’s a pampering break that keeps energy high and makes your golf event stand out.

Equipment Needed

• Golf balls
• Massage chair or table
• Scorecards
• Measuring tools

How to Set Up

Choose an entire hole where pace of play won’t be disrupted. Set up a shaded area at the tee box with the massage chair or table ready. Add signage to tie in sponsors, making it an easy way to elevate your charity golf outing.

How to Play

Instead of swinging right away, players take a short massage before their shot. It’s not a competition but a wellness stop that brings smiles and boosts morale on the playing field.

Prizes

Offer spa gift cards, massage vouchers, or relaxation kits. A bonus prize could even be given to the golfer who hits closer to the hole after their massage.

13. ABCD Best Ball Format

The ABCD Best Ball format is a thrilling and strategic twist on traditional best ball golf tournaments, designed to challenge both individual skills and team dynamics.

This format allows each team member to shine and significantly impact the team's overall success.

Equipment Needed:

• Golf Balls
• Golf Clubs

How to Set Up:

• Team Composition: Organize participants into four-player teams.

• Game Structure: The scoring system changes with every hole in a cyclical pattern:

• Hole 1: Only the best (lowest) score counts towards the team total.

• Hole 2: The top two lowest scores from the team are used.

• Hole 3: The three lowest scores contribute to the team's total.

• Hole 4: All four scores are counted, increasing the stakes and collective pressure.

• This sequence repeats every four holes throughout the 18-hole golf course.

How to Play:

• Scoring: The aim is to achieve the lowest possible score on each hole according to the format's requirements.

• Strategy and Coordination: Teams need to coordinate their play, deciding whether to play more aggressively or conservatively.

The Best Ball format is particularly engaging because it requires constant strategic adjustment and provides a platform for all team members to contribute critically to the outcome. 

14. Pay-to-Hit from the Fairway

The Pay-to-Hit from the Fairway hole is a fun twist that works perfectly in any golf tournament or charity golf outing. Instead of being stuck in the rough, players continue by paying a small fee to move their own ball straight onto the fairway.

It’s a lighthearted golf tournament game that raises extra funds and keeps the energy high across the golf course.

Equipment Needed

• Golf balls
  
• Golf clubs
  
• Measuring tools
  
• Scorecards

How to Set Up

Choose a fair and open hole where players can buy their way into a better position. Mark a drop zone in the middle of the fairway. Volunteers can help manage payments and track the team score impact so play keeps moving quickly, almost like speed golf.

How to Play

Golfers who land in a tricky spot may donate a small amount to move their ball to the designated drop zone. Players continue from there, making this an easy and entertaining addition to any golf outing. It pairs well with contests like closest to the pin or longest drive, keeping everyone engaged.

Prizes

• Small rewards for the top contributors or teams with the highest team score boost

• Bonus prize for the golfer who gets closest to the pin after buying a fairway shot

15. Wine Bottle Putt Challenge

The Wine Bottle Putt Challenge is a fun and interactive game that brings excitement to the putting green. Contestants will putt their ball toward a line of wine bottles, aiming to hit one and win the bottle they hit!

Equipment Needed

• Golf Balls
• Putter
• Wine Bottles (as targets and prizes)
• Small Flags or Markers for Start and End Points

How to Set Up

1. Choose a Putting Green: Select a flat or slightly sloped practice green to keep the challenge fair but fun.
2. Set Up Wine Bottles: Arrange several wine bottles in a line or cluster at the end of the putting green, ensuring they’re stable but easy to hit with a direct hit.
3. Mark the Start Point: Use a tee, ball marker, or small flag to designate where contestants will putt it from.

How to Play

1. Contestant Putt: Each player gets one putt to aim directly at the wine bottles.
2. Scoring:
   • Direct Hit: If the ball knocks over a bottle, the contestant wins that exact bottle of wine.
   • Near Miss: If the ball misses the wine, no prize is awarded.

Prizes

• Bottle Winner: Award the exact bottle that was hit by the contestant as their prize.
• Participation Prizes: Consider small items like wine charms, golf tees, or ball markers for all participants.

The Wine Bottle Putt Challenge is a perfect blend of skill and fun, turning the putting green into a lively hotspot. It's a great way to keep players engaged while giving them the chance to take home a tasty reward! 🍷🏌️♂️

Our sales manager, George, can help you with your golf outing, golf trip, or custom logos and artwork.

Call George at (203) 307-5399 or email george@groovygolfer.com.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: How do you make a golf hole fun?

You can make a golf hole fun by adding creative challenges, such as “longest drive” contests, “closest to the pin” games, or themed obstacles that test different skills. Adding charity golf twists like mulligans or pay-to-improve shots can also keep things exciting. Fun formats like speed golf or scramble play encourage teamwork and keep players engaged.

Q2: How can I make my golf game more fun?

To make your golf game more fun, try playing with friends in teams, keeping track of a team score, or setting small challenges like hitting your own ball from tricky lies. Mix in golf tournament games during a golf outing, such as longest drive or putting contests. You can also make it more social by playing shorter formats or adding lighthearted rules.

Q3: How to make crazy golf more fun?

Crazy golf becomes more fun when you add unique obstacles, creative themes, or silly challenges for each hole. Encourage players to come up with fun penalties or rewards, like doing a dance if they miss. Using speed golf rules, trick shots, or team-based scoring can also make the experience more interactive and entertaining.

Q4: What can I use as a golf hole?

You can use almost anything as a golf hole, depending on whether you’re on a real golf course or playing at home. A cup, bucket, or small container can work for practice putting indoors. Outdoors, you can mark a target area with cones, flags, or even chalk. The goal is simply to have a clear target for players to aim at so the game stays enjoyable.

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