If you’re new to disc golf, stepping onto the course for the first time can feel a little intimidating. But don’t worry—disc golf is all about having fun, learning as you go, and enjoying the outdoors! Here’s a simple, step-by-step breakdown of how play proceeds along the course, so you’ll know exactly what to expect.
1. Teeing Off: Where Every Hole Begins
Each hole on a disc golf course starts at the tee pad. This is a marked area (sometimes concrete, sometimes just a patch of grass) where you’ll throw your first disc toward the basket.
Tip: Beginners often feel pressure to throw far, but accuracy is way more important than distance—especially at first! When you try to throw as hard as possible while still developing your form, discs often end up in places you don’t want them to (like the woods or a creek). Focus on smooth, clean throws for better performance and more satisfaction as you develop your skills.
2. Advancing Down the Fairway
After everyone in your group has teed off, you’ll walk to where each disc landed. The player whose disc is farthest from the basket throws next.
Pro Tip: Many courses aren’t well marked. If there’s a course map at the start, snap a picture before you begin your round—it’ll make it much easier to find your way. You can also use an app like UDisc to help you navigate the course and locate the next tee spot.
3. Marking Your Lie
Wherever your disc lands, that’s your lie. You’ll throw your next shot from just behind this spot. Some players use a mini marker disc, but as a beginner, you can just leave your thrown disc on the ground and throw from behind it.
4. Approaching the Basket
As you get closer to the basket, you’ll likely switch to a disc that’s easier to control—like a putter or midrange.
Beginner-friendly picks: The Narwhal or Nuno are great choices for these shorter, more accurate throws.
5. Putting Out
Once you’re within about 30 feet of the basket, it’s time to putt. The goal is to land your disc in the metal basket.
If you miss, don’t sweat it! Just pick up your disc and try again until you make it.
6. Scoring Your Hole
After everyone in your group has finished the hole, count how many throws it took each player to get their disc in the basket. Write it down, and move to the next tee pad!
7. Playing Through the Course
Repeat this process for each hole. Most courses have 9 or 18 holes, just like traditional golf. The player with the lowest total score at the end wins—but remember, the real goal is to have fun and enjoy being outside.
Quick Etiquette Tips for Beginners
Let faster groups play through if you’re moving slower.
Stay quiet while others are throwing.
Help spot discs for your friends.
Leave the course cleaner than you found it.
Ready to Play?
Now that you know how a round proceeds, you’re ready to hit the course with confidence!
Want to learn more? Check out these helpful guides:
Disc Golf Etiquette – The Dos and Do Nots
What to Bring to the Course (coming soon!)
