Best Tee Time For Beginners (When Should You Tee Off?)


Best Tee Time For Beginners (When Should You Tee Off?)

*This post may contain affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.

Attention all budding golf enthusiasts! Ever found yourself standing on the tee at the crack of dawn, shivering in your spikes, asking yourself, “Is this really the best time to play golf?” Well, wonder no more.

I’m here to guide you through the puzzling world of tee times, with more wit than a late-night talk show host and more wisdom than a seasoned golf pro. This article is your one-stop-shop for everything tee time-related.

By the end, you’ll know the best tee time for beginners like the back of your golf glove. So grab your clubs, and let’s dive in.

To see some of the latest and greatest golfing gadgets currently on the market just click here.

Understanding Golf Basics

Golf Terms and Rules Relevant to Tee Times

Now, to the uninitiated, golf might seem like a foreign language. I mean, birdies, bogeys, eagles – are we playing golf or bird watching?

It’s almost as if a bunch of old guys in tweed just sat around thinking of the most obscure terms they could find. But don’t worry, I’ve got your back.

Birdie is when you finish a hole one stroke under par. Par is the number of strokes an expert golfer is expected to take on a hole or round.

So, if you’re anything like me and frequently find yourself yelling “FORE!” and hitting more sand than David Hasselhoff in Baywatch, you might be more familiar with bogeys (one stroke over par).

And eagles? Well, let’s just say if you’re regularly hitting those, you probably don’t need this article.

Importance of Etiquette in Golf

Next up, let’s talk about the E-word – etiquette. In golf, like in life, manners matter, folks. Sure, golf courses are not quite Downton Abbey, but you’re still expected to act like a decent human being.

So, what does golf etiquette entail? Simple things, really. Don’t talk during another player’s swing, don’t walk in someone else’s line on the green, and please, for the love of all things holy, replace your divots.

Remember, golf is a gentleman’s game, so let’s keep it classy out there. After all, we’re hitting golf balls, not each other.

How Different Golf Basics Influence the Ideal Tee Time

Alright, let’s talk about how these basics play into finding the best tee time. Weather, for instance, can be a real game-changer.

I once played in a torrential downpour, and let me tell you, it was like trying to swing a club underwater while being attacked by a swarm of water-skiing squirrels.

Course traffic is another big one. I’ve seen more traffic jams on golf courses than on the LA freeway during rush hour. If you’re a beginner, try avoiding peak times to save yourself the pressure of a conga line of golfers waiting for you to make your shot.

What is Tee Time?

Alright, time to tackle the big question: What on earth is tee time? No, it’s not a delightful afternoon of sipping Earl Grey and munching on cucumber sandwiches

of golf is to enjoy yourself. So, whether you’re teeing off at the crack of dawn or under the setting sun, as long as you’re having fun, you’re doing it right.

The Best Tee Time for Beginners

Morning Tee Time

Ah, the morning tee time. It’s like the breakfast of golf. For some, it’s the best part of the day, but for others, it’s a painful reminder that sleep is over.

But let’s talk about why it might be a good idea for you newbies out there.

Firstly, the course conditions are usually pristine in the morning. The grass is still dew-kissed, the fairways untouched, and the green smoother than my dance moves (which, if I may say so, are pretty darn smooth).

It’s like being the first person to walk on a freshly cleaned beach.

Secondly, the morning tends to be quieter. You might find that the course is as peaceful as a library on a Monday morning.

This can be great for beginners, as it allows you to play at your own pace without feeling rushed.

Lastly, morning tee times often mean cooler temperatures. This can be a blessing, especially during the summer months when the afternoon heat can turn a golf course into a giant, grassy sauna.

Afternoon Tee Time

On the other hand, we have afternoon tee times. This is like the lunch break of golf. It’s a welcomed reprieve for those who aren’t morning people and would rather face a bunker shot than the prospect of waking up early.

One major advantage of afternoon tee times is that the course tends to be drier, meaning less chance of your ball getting stuck in soggy turf. Also, the greens have usually been trampled by morning players, so they might be a bit more predictable.

However, afternoon tee times can be hotter, busier, and more expensive. It’s the golfing equivalent of going to a popular brunch spot on a Sunday. You’ll get your eggs benedict, but you might have to wait for it.

Evening Tee Time

Lastly, there’s the evening tee time, the dinner of golf, if you will. It’s for those who want to unwind after a long day with a round of golf under the setting sun.

Evening tee times offer the advantage of cooler temperatures and often a less crowded course. Plus, there’s something incredibly peaceful about playing golf as the sun is setting. It’s like starring in your own golf-themed movie, minus the dramatic soundtrack.

However, keep in mind that you’ll be racing against daylight. The last thing you want is to be stranded on the 18th hole, squinting in the dark like a lost pirate searching for his buried treasure.

Which Tee Time Is Best For Beginners?

So now that you know the pros and cons for each tee time which one should you choose as a beginner?

For a beginning golfer an early morning tee time or an early afternoon tee time is typically the best. If you get there as soon as the course opens you will have fewer people to compete with and can take your time playing.

An early afternoon tee time will also typically have fewer people than late morning or late afternoon as well which is why it is also a good time for new golfers to head to their local course.

Ultimately the best tee time for a beginner is one where there will be fewer people so you can feel comfortable setting your own pace and won’t be as worried about other people seeing your shots or form.

How to Book the Best Tee Time

Booking the best tee time is like solving a Rubik’s cube. It can be a little challenging, but once you get the hang of it, you’ll be doing it in no time.

Step-by-step Guide on How to Book a Tee Time

Here’s a step-by-step guide to getting you from the couch to the course:

  1. Research: Start by finding golf courses near you and check out their websites. Most courses offer online booking, which is as convenient as ordering pizza in your PJs.
  2. Decide on a Time: Based on the advice from our earlier sections (you did read them, didn’t you?), decide what time of day would suit you best.
  3. Check Availability: On the course’s website, there should be a calendar showing available tee times. Pick a day and see what’s open.
  4. Book it, Danno: Once you’ve found your ideal slot, click on it and follow the prompts to book. You’ll likely need to provide some basic information and pre-pay for your round.

Tips on Finding and Securing the Best Tee Time Slots

Now that we’ve got the basics down, let’s look at some pro tips for securing the best slots:

  • Be Flexible: The best slots are like the last slice of pizza – everyone wants it. So, you might need to be flexible with your times. Remember, golf is like pizza – it’s good any time of day.
  • Plan Ahead: Tee times can fill up quickly, especially during peak times. So, plan ahead and book as early as you can.
  • Keep an Eye on the Weather: A sunny forecast can see tee times disappear faster than ice cream on a hot day. So, keep an eye on the weather and try to book before the rush.

Preparing for Your Tee Time

So, you’ve booked your tee time, and it’s fast approaching. It’s like the night before the first day of school. You’re excited, nervous, and desperately trying to remember where you put your golf shoes.

What Beginners Should Do Before Their Tee Time

Here’s a quick rundown of what you should do before your tee time:

  1. Check Your Equipment: Make sure your clubs are in good condition, you’ve got enough balls (they have a habit of disappearing), and your golf shoes are clean and comfortable. You don’t want to be that guy who shows up with a baseball bat and tennis shoes.
  2. Dress Appropriately: Most golf courses have a dress code, so make sure you’re dressed to impress. Think country club chic, not beach bum casual.
  3. Warm-Up: A good warm-up is as essential as a good breakfast. It gets your muscles ready and helps prevent injury. Plus, it gives you a chance to practice your swing and get a feel for the day’s conditions.
  4. Arrive Early: Aim to arrive at least 30 minutes before your tee time. This gives you time to check in, warm up, and maybe even enjoy a pre-round snack.

Suggestions for Making the Most Out of Your Booked Tee Time

Alright, here we go. You’re all prepped and ready to go. Now, how do you make the most out of your booked tee time? Here are some tips:

  • Stay Relaxed: Remember, golf is supposed to be fun. Don’t stress if your first few shots aren’t perfect. Even the pros hit bad shots from time to time.
  • Keep Up the Pace: Be mindful of the players behind you. Try to keep up with the group in front to prevent hold-ups.
  • Practice Good Etiquette: Be respectful

of others on the course and take care of the course itself. Repair divots, rake bunkers, and don’t be that person who drives their golf cart onto the greens.

  • Enjoy the Experience: Enjoy the scenery, the fresh air, and the game. After all, you’re not just there to play golf, you’re there to have a good time.

Conclusion

And there you have it, folks. A comprehensive guide to finding the best tee time for beginners and making the most out of it.

Whether you’re a morning lark ready to hit the course at sunrise, an afternoon person preferring a leisurely pace under the sun, or an evening owl who enjoys a twilight round, golf is an anytime sport. Choose the time that suits you best and hit those fairways.

Happy golfing, and remember, there’s no such thing as a bad day on the golf course. Unless, of course, you forget your golf clubs. Now, that would be a real hazard!

And hey, don’t forget to book your tee time, or else you’ll end up like me on my youngest daughter’s fifth birthday. Yes, I did forget to book the clown for her party. Trust me, the look on her face was scarier than any sand trap.

So, book your tee time, check your equipment, warm up, and most importantly, don’t forget to have fun. After all, golf is a game, and games are meant to be enjoyed. Even if you do end up in the bunker more often than you’d like.

Now, tee up, take a swing, and enjoy the wonderful game of golf.

Matt R.

Hello, My name is Matt and I'm the founder of Just Golfin'. This site is all about one thing... GOLFING!

Recent Posts