Mastering bunker shots is one of the biggest challenges for any golfer. That sinking feeling as your ball plugs into the face of the green-side bunker can be frustrating… but it doesn’t have to be. With proper technique, consistent practice and the right mindset, the bunker can go from a feared trap to a chance to shine on the course.
In this article, we’ll guide you through a practical and complete approach to improving your bunker play and getting out of the sand with confidence and precision.
Understand the bunker shot
Unlike most golf shots, the aim in a bunker is not to hit the ball directly, but rather the sand just behind it. The goal is for the explosion of sand to carry the ball out and onto the green. It’s not about power—it’s about control.
This demands a mental shift: forget the fear of failure or the instinct to swing hard. Focus instead on fluidity, rhythm, and trust.
Basic technique for escaping a green-side bunker
1. Choose the right club
Your best ally in the bunker is the sand wedge. This club has a bounce on its sole that allows it to glide through the sand instead of digging in.
2. Body and ball position
- Place the ball slightly forward in your stance.
- Open the clubface (so it points slightly to the right of the target).
- Open your stance too, aligning your feet left of target.
- Keep most of your weight on your front foot—and maintain it throughout the shot.
3. The swing
- Make a full swing, as if drawing a “U” rather than a “V”.
- Focus on striking the sand 3–4 cm behind the ball.
- Let the club follow through naturally and finish high.
Pro tip: Acceleration is key. If you decelerate through impact, the ball will stay in the bunker.
How to adjust your shot based on the sand
- Soft sand: Open the clubface more and use a steeper swing to prevent the club digging too deep.
- Firm sand: Square the clubface slightly and go for a shallower swing to avoid bouncing off the surface.
- Buried ball: Use a more closed sand wedge and make a firmer strike to simply get the ball rolling out.
Drills to improve your bunker shots
- Draw a line in the sand: Mark a line perpendicular to your target. Practise swings without a ball, always aiming to strike the line cleanly. It will help improve your precision and entry point.
- Three balls, three trajectories: Place three balls in the bunker. Hit one low to roll, another medium height, and one high and soft. Adjust the clubface and swing length to learn control over your trajectory.
- Practice with a target: Lay a towel on the green and try to land your bunker shots on it. This helps develop distance control and focus.
The mental game: play the bunker with confidence
One of the most common errors is fearing the bunker. But fear only creates tension and poor swings. Build your confidence:
- Visualise the shot before stepping in.
- Repeat a pre-shot routine to relax and stay centred.
- Remember that mistakes are part of learning.
As Bobby Jones once said, “Golf is played on a five-inch course – the space between your ears.” Success in the bunker starts with a change in mindset.
Bonus: common bunker mistakes to avoid
- Decelerating the club: Always accelerate through the shot.
- Not opening the clubface: A common mistake that prevents the ball from lifting.
- Striking the ball directly: Hit the sand, not the ball.
- Using the same club every time: Learn to switch between sand wedge, lob wedge or even a pitching wedge depending on the lie.
Elevate your game with the best
Mastering bunker play comes down to technique, practice, and mindset. But having the right guidance makes all the difference.
If you’re serious about taking your game to the next level, there’s no better place than Sergio García Golf Academy, at Mediterráneo Golf. Train in the very environment where Sergio himself developed his game, with professionals who understand every detail of yours.
Ready to transform your bunker play? Book your personalised training session at Sergio García Golf Academy today and start enjoying the sand.