10 things you should never do at a golf course, according to PGA pros and employees

Justan Johnson, a PGA golf instructor at East Potomac Golf Links and the owner of Blue Golf Performance LLC, told BI that he doesn’t like when golfers waste time watching other players’ shots land.

“Instead, they should be playing ‘ready golf’ — meaning standing at their ball quietly, without distraction, preparing for their next shot while their partner is hitting,” he said. “As soon as their partner’s shot lands, they should be hitting their shot in the next 20 seconds.”

Johnson added that keeping things moving can save about 30 minutes a game.

Don’t break the dress code — it exists for a reason

Erika Larkin, the director of instruction at Creighton Farms Golf Club, told BI that players should always pay attention to a golf course’s dress code. Wearing things like jeans, tank tops, and backward hats can be seen as disrespectful.

“Golf has always been a game about class and integrity, so it’s best to wear proper attire like a collared shirt with golf shorts or skirt,” she said.

Forgetting to repair your marks on the green is bad etiquette

Don Rasmussen, the lead instructor at Circling Raven Golf Academy, cautions players against misusing golf carts — especially while they’re in motion.

“We have had a couple of golfers that dangled their legs,” he told BI. “The result ended poorly as they both caught their foot on a railroad tie and caused a spiral break in their lower leg.”

Avoid playing music too loud (or at all)

It might be tempting to bring a Bluetooth speaker out on the course for a fun day, but Johnson advises against it.

“In a business setting, the wrong song could destroy a relationship or even a deal,” he said. “Keeping your volume to a level that doesn’t distract or offend your playing partners but you can still enjoy is best.”

Whatever you do, don’t drive into native grass off the green

Jason Crawford, the PGA head golf professional at Massanutten Resort, told BI that timeliness is necessary when heading to the golf course.

“Check in 20 minutes before your tee time,” he said. “Tee time means starting the first hole at your time. If you begin after your tee time, you throw off the rhythm of the course for everyone.”

The pro also mentioned that beginners should choose tee times later in the day to enjoy a more relaxed pace — golfing behind veterans who hit the links early can feel rushed.

Avoid letting your frustration get the best of you

No matter how frustrated you are with a shot, Crawford said, letting your anger out in obvious ways disrupts the vibes on the course.

“Avoid letting frustration take control,” he told BI. “Throwing clubs and cursing not only disrupts your game but also affects others’ enjoyment.”