Top Golf Gambling Games for Added Fun on Course

Last Updated on August 28, 2025 by Caesar Fikson

Golf betting games are becoming extremely popular in 2025, and it’s no wonder why.

Are you feeling bored with the usual golf rounds? Want to add some spice to your gameplay?

Here is where golf gambling games come into play, literally.

They can turn your rounds into adventures you won’t forget. But what exactly are these games? How do they make golf more fun?

Let’s explore and discover more!

Golf gambling games have a long history, dating back centuries to the 18th century. That’s right, they’re part of golf’s tradition. They let players challenge each other and spice up the competition.

Let me share some interesting facts with you:

• Around 70% of golfers have tried a gambling game at least once.
• There are more than 50 different games available worldwide.
• These games lead to millions in bets every year.

These stats highlight how popular golf gambling games are. They’re a big part of the golfing world. So, why not elevate your game with these exciting options?

Playing golf gambling games adds a new layer of fun, whether with friends or on your own. Get your clubs and dive into these thrilling games. Your golfing experience will never be dull again!

Top Golf Betting Games for Added Fun on Course

Golf Gambling Game	Description	How to Play	Ideal Group Size	Betting Variations
Nassau	A classic betting game with three separate bets: front nine, back nine, and overall score.	Players wager on each segment, and points are awarded for each section won.	2-4 players	Presses, carryovers, adjusting the bet size.
Skins	Players compete for each hole, with a “skin” awarded to the lowest score on that hole.	After each tee shot, the Wolf decides whether to partner up or go solo.	3-4 players	Varying skin values, carryovers, or double skins.
Wolf	A strategic game where players take turns being the “Wolf” and deciding if they want to team up or play alone.	Combine scores (e.g., a 4 and 5 make 45); the lowest team wins the hole.	4 players	Double points if Wolf plays solo and wins.
Stableford	Points are awarded based on the score for each hole, encouraging risk-taking without huge score penalties.	Points are earned for birdies, pars, and better, with penalties for bogeys.	2-4 players	Adjusting point values for different skill levels.
Vegas	A team-based game where partners’ scores are combined in an interesting way to create the team score.	Points are awarded for fairways, greens in regulation, closest to pin, and other challenges.	4 players (2 teams)	Multipliers for birdies or worse scores.
Rabbit	Players compete to “capture” the Rabbit by holding the best score on consecutive holes.	The Rabbit is won by having the best score; it’s lost if the player ties or loses on a subsequent hole.	3-4 players	High stakes for the player holding the Rabbit at the end.
Bingo Bango Bongo	Players earn points for being first on the green, closest to the pin, and first in the hole.	1 point per category per hole; the highest point total wins.	3-4 players	Adjust point values for each achievement.
Sixes (Round Robin)	Players rotate partners every six holes, allowing everyone to play together.	Best-ball scoring is typically used; winning pairs earn points each round.	4 players	Changing partners and varying point systems.
Match Play	A head-to-head format where players compete to win individual holes rather than overall score.	The player with the lowest score on each hole wins the point for that hole.	2-4 players	Extra bets on birdies or long putts.
Hammer	Players can “hammer” (double the bet) at any time, forcing their opponent to accept or concede.	If the opponent accepts, the bet doubles; if they decline, they lose automatically.	2 players	Multiple hammer opportunities per hole.
Nines	Presses, carryovers, and adjusting the bet size.	Players rotate and distribute points each hole, with payouts at the end.	3 players	Points adjustments based on agreed criteria.
Dollars per Hole	Simple betting per hole with agreed amounts; the winner of the hole takes the money.	A straightforward game where each hole has a set value.	2-4 players	Vary the stakes per hole or for birdies.
Snake	The last player to three-putt owes money into the pot, which grows until a winner is declared.	The player with the last three-putt at the end of the round pays everyone else.	2-4 players	Larger pots and adding side bets.
Umbrella	A low-score/high-score game where a low score wins money and a high score loses it.	Points are tallied per hole; the highest point total wins at the end.	3-4 players	Adjusting point categories and stakes.
Acey-Deucey	A three-player game where points are distributed per hole (5 for the winner, 3 for second, and 1 for last).	The lowest score on the hole wins the pot, and the highest pays the pot.	3-4 players	Adjusting pot size based on performance.

Popular Golf Betting Games for Groups

Playing golf with friends offers lots of betting games to make it fun. One famous choice is Best Ball. Each player hits their ball, and the team uses the lowest score per hole. Another hit is Alternate Shot. In this, two-person teams switch, hitting the ball until they hole out.

Suppose you enjoy adding a twist; Banker might be your game. Players rotate as the banker, with the others playing against them each hole.

These are just a few entertaining options.

Each has its unique rules and challenges.

Golf Betting Strategies and Tips

There are key strategies to boost your odds in golf betting. First, understand the rules and game types. Knowing how each game works improves your betting smarts. This is crucial for games like Best-Ball, where each player’s role is essential.

Next, look at your partner’s skills. If they’re great at long shots, you might want to bet on them for the longest drive challenge. This is about knowing your team’s strengths and picking bets wisely.

Keeping up with pro golfers’ recent performances matters a lot. Trends and previous results help you plan better. Also, consider the weather and the course itself. These elements can a lot influence your bets.

Remember, the goal is to have fun. Betting should make the game more enjoyable. It’s all about the excitement and the bond with friends on the course. So, enjoy the process, even when bets don’t go your way.

When you’re ready to hit the course, keep these tips close. They can a lot improve your betting and overall golf experience.

Best Golf Gambling Games for Small Groups

Many fun and competitive golf gambling games still work well if your group is small. I’ll share the top games for small groups here. Let’s get started!

5-3-1

The 5-3-1 game is all about strategy. Players score points based on their performance on each hole. The person with the fewest points on a hole gets 5, the next gets 3, and the third gets 1. This keeps things lively and fair for all players.

Closeout

Closeout is thrilling for small groups. Let’s say the 18-hole match is worth $100. After that, a new game starts on the remaining holes for $50. This setup can turn the tables and make the game more exciting for everyone.

Strike Three

Strike Three helps players bounce back after a wrong hole. You can toss out scores from three holes. Then, the best 15-hole performance decides the winner. This game makes sure players stay in the running until the end.

These games are just the tip of the iceberg for fun golf gambling among pals. They offer a mix of luck and skill to keep the game interesting. Round up your friends, hit the course, and have a blast with these games!

Golf Gambling Game	Description
5-3-1	Players earn points based on their scores on each hole
Closeout	Players get to throw out their score on three holes, and the best 15-hole score wins
Strike Three	Players get to throw out their score on three holes, and the best 15-hole score wins.

Conclusion

Golf gambling games make playing golf more exciting and fun for everyone. They create special memories with friends. When you play these games, you add a new twist to golf.

Knowing the rules and strategies for these games makes them even better. You should learn how to play and use the betting tips. This can make your game better and more fun.

Next time you play, try some of the top golf gambling games or golf tournament side games. You can choose from classic ones or newer ones. It will be a fun round mixing golf with clever betting!

FAQ

What are some popular golf gambling games?

Best-Ball, Alternate Shot, Banker, and 5-3-1 are some fun choices. You can also try Closeout and Strike Three for variety.

How do you play Best-Ball?

Best-Ball is simple. Every player hits their own ball. Then, the team uses the lowest score on each hole.

What is Alternate Shot?

It’s a two-person game. Each player on the team hits a shot in turns, going back and forth.

How does Banker work?

In Banker, one player is the banker on each hole. The others try to win against the banker.

What is 5-3-1 in golf gambling?

In 5-3-1, golfers score points based on performance on each hole. It’s a simple and engaging game.

How does Closeout work in golf gambling?

Closeout has two matches. The first 18 holes have a point value. Then, there’s a second match on the remaining holes with points halved.

How do you play Strike Three?

In Strike Three, golfers can discard their scores on up to three holes. The one with the best 15-hole score wins.

Are there any strategies for golf betting?

To bet smart in golf, know the game’s rules and your team’s strengths and weaknesses. But the most important thing is to enjoy the game.

What are some tips for golf betting?

Bet wisely by understanding the game and your opponent’s skills. Have a great time with the competition.

What are the best golf gambling games for small groups?

For small groups, 5-3-1, Closeout, and Strike Three are ideal. They keep the game lively and interesting.

How can golf gambling games enhance your round?

These games make golf more fun and memorable. They add a layer of excitement and camaraderie to the game.