Golf is unlike any other sport. It is one of the few games where players are expected to uphold the rules themselves, call penalties on their own shots, and show genuine respect for their fellow competitors, the course, and the game itself. Whether you are brand new to golf or have been playing for years, understanding and practicing proper golf etiquette is just as important as having the right equipment in your bag. At Golf & Casual Shop in Fort Myers, we have been serving Southwest Florida golfers since 1971, and we can tell you from experience that the players who truly love this game embrace its traditions — including the unwritten rules that make every round more enjoyable for everyone on the course.
Golf etiquette is not about being stuffy or old-fashioned. It is about mutual respect. It keeps the game moving, protects the course, and creates an atmosphere where golfers of all skill levels can have a great time together. If you are heading out to one of the many beautiful courses in Southwest Florida, here is what every golfer should know before they tee it up.
On the Tee Box: Starting Every Hole the Right Way
The tee box sets the tone for each hole, and there are a few important courtesies to keep in mind from the very first shot of the day.
Honor the Honor System
Traditionally, the player who scored the lowest on the previous hole has the honor of teeing off first on the next hole. In casual rounds, this is often relaxed in favor of ready golf — where whoever is ready hits first to keep pace of play up. Either way, never tee up your ball or take practice swings while someone else is addressing their shot. Give every player the quiet and space they need to focus.
Stay Out of the Eyeline
Stand behind and to the side of the player who is hitting, never directly in their line of sight or peripheral vision. Even the slightest movement can be distracting during a swing. This is a small gesture that goes a long way in showing respect for your playing partners.
Be Ready When It Is Your Turn
One of the biggest contributors to slow play is golfers who are not ready when it is their turn to hit. Use the time others are hitting to check your yardage, select your club, and plan your shot. When it is your turn, step up and play with confidence.
On the Fairway and Around the Green: Protecting the Course and Your Fellow Golfers
Once you leave the tee box, there are a number of etiquette rules that come into play on the fairway, in the bunkers, and around the greens. These habits protect the course and ensure a positive experience for every group on the course.
Repair Your Divots
When you take a divot in the fairway, replace the turf or fill the divot with the sand and seed mix provided on the cart. Southwest Florida courses deal with a lot of wear due to year-round play, and taking care of divots helps maintain the quality of the turf for everyone who plays after you.
Rake the Bunkers
After playing a shot from a sand bunker, always rake the sand smooth and leave the rake in a position specified by the course — either inside the bunker or outside along the edge. Entering and exiting from the lowest point of the bunker also helps minimize damage to the lip.
Fix Ball Marks on the Green
When your ball lands on the putting surface, it often leaves a small indentation called a ball mark. Fix your own ball mark and, if you have the time, fix any others you see nearby. An unrepaired ball mark can take weeks to heal and can knock a putt off line. Carry a divot repair tool in your pocket — it is one of the best small accessories any golfer can have.
Watch Where You Walk on the Green
Never walk across the line of another player's putt. Even if you do not leave a visible mark, your footsteps can subtly compress the grass and affect the roll of the ball. Be aware of where your playing partners are putting and take care to walk around their lines.
Tend the Flag With Care
When tending the flagstick for a fellow golfer, remove it smoothly and set it down off the green where it will not interfere with any putts. Under current rules, players may putt with the flag in, but if you are attending it for a partner, remove it cleanly once the ball is in motion.
Pace of Play: Keeping Things Moving for Everyone
Slow play is one of the most commonly cited frustrations among golfers everywhere, and in Southwest Florida where tee times fill up fast at popular courses, it is especially important to keep a good pace. Being mindful of pace is not just polite — it is a fundamental part of golf etiquette.
Play Ready Golf When Appropriate
In casual rounds, ready golf is widely encouraged. Rather than strictly adhering to who is away, hit when you are ready and it is safe to do so. This simple habit can shave significant time off a round without taking anything away from the enjoyment of the game.
Limit Practice Swings
There is nothing wrong with taking a practice swing to get a feel for a shot, but taking four or five practice swings before every shot adds up quickly over 18 holes. One purposeful practice swing is usually all you need.
Keep Cart Use Thoughtful
When riding in a cart, drive to your playing partner's ball first if it is on the way, drop them off with their clubs, then drive to your own ball. This simple approach reduces unnecessary back-and-forth and keeps the round moving efficiently.
Be Prepared at the Green
Do not wait until you have finished putting out to mark your scorecard. Write scores down at the next tee box while the first player in your group is teeing off. Lingering on the green to record scores backs up every group behind you.
General Courtesy: The Spirit of the Game
Beyond the specific rules and situations listed above, golf etiquette comes down to a general spirit of consideration for others. Here are a few more essential points every golfer should keep in mind:
- Always silence your phone or set it to vibrate before teeing off. If you must take a call, step away from the group.
- Avoid loud talking or laughing when players on nearby holes are addressing their shots.
- Never give unsolicited swing advice to your playing partners unless they specifically ask for your input.
- Be honest about your score. Golf is built on integrity, and self-reporting is one of its most defining characteristics.
- Congratulate good shots from your playing partners genuinely — a friendly and positive attitude is always welcome on the course.
- Do not drive golf carts near tee boxes, greens, or in areas marked with signage. Protect the turf.
- Follow the dress code of the course you are playing. Many clubs in Southwest Florida have specific requirements for collared shirts, appropriate shorts, and golf shoes.
Gear Up Like a Golfer Who Respects the Game
Part of playing with proper etiquette also means showing up prepared. That includes having a well-maintained set of clubs, wearing appropriate golf attire, and carrying the right accessories. At Golf & Casual Shop in Fort Myers, we carry everything you need to look the part and play the part — from premium golf apparel and footwear to divot tools, ball markers, and all the gear that makes you a complete golfer.
Our team is here to help golfers at every level find what they need to enjoy the game to its fullest. Whether you are brand new to the sport or a seasoned player looking to upgrade your setup, stop by the shop Monday through Saturday from 9AM to 5:30PM or Sunday from 11AM to 4PM. You can also reach us at (239) 936-8753. We are located right here in Fort Myers and have been proudly serving Southwest Florida golfers since 1971.
Golf is one of the greatest games ever invented, and when every player embraces its traditions and courtesies, the experience is better for everyone. Play well, play smart, and play with respect for the game. We will see you on the course.