How to Hit Out of a Greenside Bunker: Simple Sand Shot Tips

What is the basic technique for a greenside bunker shot?

The basic technique is to hit the sand, not the ball. You pick a spot a few inches behind the ball, bring the club into the sand there, and let a thin layer of sand slide under the ball and throw it onto the green. That is why people call it a splash.

It feels strange the first time because everywhere else on the course you try to hit the ball cleanly. In a bunker you are aiming at the sand, and the ball just comes along for the ride.

How do you set up in a greenside bunker?

Open the clubface first, so it points to the right of your target if you are right-handed, then take your grip. Opening the face after you grip it will twist it back closed. Dig your feet into the sand a little so you have a steady base, and set your stance slightly open, with your feet aimed a bit left of the target.

Put the ball a bit forward in your stance, about under your front chest. Lean your weight slightly toward your front foot and keep it there. A lot of new golfers lean back to try to help the ball up, and that usually makes the club hit the ball first or bounce off the sand.

Why does the open face matter in the sand?

An open face uses the back edge of the club, called the bounce, which keeps the club from digging in too deep. The bounce lets the club glide through the sand instead of getting stuck. It also adds loft, so the ball comes out higher and lands softer.

If the face is square or closed, the sharp front edge can dig straight down. That is the most common reason a ball stays in the bunker.

Why do I leave the ball in the bunker?

The usual reasons are stopping the swing early, leaning back, or hitting too far behind the ball. When you are nervous about the sand, it is natural to quit on the shot at impact. The club slows down in the sand, and the ball does not have enough energy to get out.

The fix is to commit to a full swing and a full finish. The swing can be smooth, but it should not stop. Think of finishing with the club up and your chest facing the target.

What is a good drill for practicing bunker shots?

Try the line drill. Draw a line in the sand with your club, then set up with the line just in front of your lead foot, where the ball would be. Swing and try to enter the sand at the line and exit a few inches past it. Do not use a ball at first. You are learning where the club bottoms out.

Once you can leave a clean, shallow scoop of sand after the line most of the time, put a ball on the line and do the same thing. Notice that the ball does not matter much. If the sand moves correctly, the ball usually follows. Practice this a few minutes at a time rather than a whole session of frustration.

Can a lesson help with bunker play?

Bunker shots are easier to learn when someone watches where your club enters the sand and what the face is doing. In my lessons in Orem and Vineyard, I work with beginners, juniors and adult amateurs on the short game, and each lesson ends with a written practice plan so you know what to work on next.