How to Play Golf Alone — Solo Round Tips, Etiquette, and Benefits
A solo round is the most underrated practice tool in golf. No waiting, no distractions, and you can hit as many balls as you want on quiet holes. Here is how to do it right — from booking the tee time to making the round count.
Why solo rounds make you improve faster
| Benefit | What it means in practice |
|---|---|
| Honest scoring | No gimmies or mulligans — you see your real game |
| Double the practice | Hit a second ball on quiet holes: 36 holes for 18-hole price |
| Your own pace | Stop on a hole that's giving you trouble; skip one that's easy |
| Deep focus | No conversation = full attention on your swing and course decisions |
| Schedule flexibility | Go out whenever there's a gap — no waiting for a full group to plan |
5 steps to a great solo round
Book a tee time as a single or ask the starter
Many courses accept single-player bookings — just select "1 player" when booking online. If the course doesn't list singles, call the pro shop and ask. Alternatively, show up 30–60 minutes before a quiet time and ask the starter if you can go out. Early mornings, early afternoons on weekdays, and late afternoons are the best windows for solo golfers.
Maintain pace — aim for under 3 hours
A solo golfer should move faster than a group, not slower. You have no one to wait on. If you are hitting a practice ball or two, keep moving between shots. Let faster groups play through if you are experimenting. The benchmark: finish 18 holes in 2.5–3 hours. If you are significantly slower, you may be paired with another group mid-round.
Hit a second ball on quiet holes for extra practice
When no one is behind you, drop a second ball for a specific shot you want to work on. Hit both balls and compare results. This is the biggest advantage of a solo round — you get 36 holes of practice in an 18-hole green fee. Just pick up the second ball before you slow down the next group.
Keep score honestly — no gimmies or mulligans
Solo rounds are a perfect chance to keep an honest, USGA-rules score. No gimmes, no mulligans, no picking up "for practice." This gives you a true baseline of where your game actually is. Many golfers are shocked by how their real score compares to what they score when playing casually with friends.
Set a specific practice focus for the round
Instead of just playing through, choose one specific thing to focus on per round: "today is about lag putting" or "I'm working on pre-shot routine." A focused solo round with one goal makes you improve faster than three casual rounds with friends. Write the goal on your scorecard before you start.
Frequently asked questions
Is it acceptable to play golf by yourself?
Absolutely — solo golf is not just acceptable, it is one of the best ways to practice and improve. Many serious golfers prefer solo rounds for the focus and pace. As long as you keep up with the group ahead of you, play at a good pace, and follow normal golf etiquette, you are welcome at virtually any public course.
Can I book a tee time as a single golfer?
Yes — most public courses and many semi-private courses accept single bookings. Select "1 player" on the tee time booking page. Some courses have a dedicated "singles" or "walk-in" policy where you show up and get slotted into gaps between groups. Private clubs may have restrictions, but public courses almost universally welcome singles.
Do I pay full green fees for a solo round?
Yes — green fees are per player, so you pay the same rate as anyone else. However, many courses offer a "twilight rate" or "walk-in single" discount later in the day when the course is less busy. If you walk (no cart), you often get a further discount. Ask about single and twilight specials when you call.
Can I play two balls during a solo round?
Unofficially yes — when there is no group behind you, many golfers drop a second ball for extra practice. Just be aware that (1) it is not officially scored, (2) you must not slow down the course, and (3) some courses have rules against it. Play one official ball, then hit a second if you have the space and time.
How long does a solo round of golf take?
A focused solo round should take 2–2.5 hours for 18 holes if you move efficiently. This is faster than a 4-person group (typically 4–4.5 hours). With a little extra practice time on quiet holes, 3 hours is a reasonable solo pace. Much longer than that and you risk the course asking you to let faster groups through.
Will the course pair me with other golfers if I go out as a single?
Sometimes yes — courses often fill empty slots by pairing singles with existing groups. You can accept the pairing (great for socializing) or politely ask the starter if you can go out alone. Most courses will accommodate the preference, especially if the course is not packed.
What should I focus on during a solo round?
Pick one thing per round: putting pace, pre-shot routine, shot shape, course management decisions, or a specific club you struggle with. Write it on your scorecard before you start. Golfers who play with a focused goal improve 2–3x faster than those who just go through the motions.
Is a solo round safe for a beginner?
Yes, with a few caveats: (1) Know basic golf etiquette before you go — yell "fore" if your ball goes toward another person, give right-of-way to faster groups, and repair divots and ball marks. (2) If you are very new and lose many balls, play during quiet times to avoid backing up the course. (3) Most golfers you encounter will be friendly and helpful if you ask.
Track every solo round (and see your real improvement over time) free with Par for the Chaos and Chip the robot caddie.
Try Chip free →