I would ask whether we're talking professional, competitive golf, or fun, club-type golf. Then I would ask if that should make any difference. Personally, I don't want the same level of challenge that the Tour guys face, typically, in the 18th hole design.
I want to end the round with a fun, memorable hole that gives me a reasonable chance to smile during my after-round beer.
Joe
I love the way you summed that up.
I have been thinking about this a bit lately, because I am in AZ and there are a few finishing holes on "resort" courses that leave me shaking my head.
Whyinhell any course operator would accept an 18th hole that almost guarantees the majority of their customers will leave the course frustrated, pissed off and unhappy escapes me. I've been thinking about starting a thread that's opposite of this, ie., what are the worst finishing holes you've seen.
Two of the nines at Ocotillo Golf Resort present an obstacle that I've never seen anyone leave with a smile on their face in about 6 rounds.
And Tuesday I'll be playing Superstition Springs Golf Club, where the 18th has consistently produced similar results. In fact, I don't think I've ever seen anyone actually finish the hole.
FWIW, these three holes all involve forced carries over water. And the water is positioned such that most of their customers have no chance.
K