Simple Bunker Shots That Actually Work

For many golfers, bunkers feel like automatic bogeys. One bad swing turns into two, then three, and suddenly the hole is over before it really started.

The truth is, bunker shots are some of the most predictable shots in golf—once you understand the basics. You don’t need perfect timing or elite skill. You need the right setup, commitment, and trust that the sand will do the work.

This guide breaks down how to hit out of a sand trap with confidence, using simple fundamentals that work for everyday golfers. It’s part of the Golf Up North Fundamentals Series, designed to simplify golf from tee to green.

A Quick Disclaimer

I should mention that I am not a professional golfer, instructor, or short-game wizard. Everything shared here is based on personal research and things that have helped me play slightly less bad golf. Some days they work great. Other days… not so much. Use what helps, ignore what doesn’t, and feel free to blame me only after your third-putt.

Understanding the Bunker Shot

The biggest mistake golfers make in bunkers is trying to hit the ball.

In a greenside bunker, the goal is to:

  • Hit the sand first
  • Let the sand carry the ball out
  • Use the club’s loft and bounce

Once you accept that you’re not striking the ball directly, bunker shots become far less intimidating.

Club Selection: Trust the Sand Wedge

Most greenside bunker shots call for a sand wedge.

Why it works:

  • High loft gets the ball up quickly
  • Wide sole helps the club glide through sand
  • Bounce prevents digging

Unless the bunker shot is unusually long or short-sided, your sand wedge is the right choice.

Bunker Setup: Open and Stable

Setup is everything in the sand.

Stance & Alignment
  • Feet wider than shoulder-width
  • Open stance (aim feet slightly left of target for right-handers)
  • Clubface slightly open

An open stance gives the club room to swing under the ball.

Ball Position & Weight
  • Ball positioned forward in your stance
  • Weight favoring the lead foot (60–70%)
  • Dig your feet into the sand for stability

Digging in lowers your body slightly, which helps ensure clean contact with the sand.

Clubface & Grip
  • Open the clubface before gripping the club
  • Maintain a secure but relaxed grip
  • Don’t try to “flip” your wrists

An open face adds loft and uses the bounce correctly.

Where to Hit the Sand

This is the key to bunker success.

  • Aim to strike the sand 1–2 inches behind the ball
  • Focus on splashing sand onto the green
  • Let the ball ride out on the sand

If you focus on the ball, you’ll likely hit it thin. Focus on the sand instead.

The Bunker Swing: Commit to It

Bunker shots require commitment.

Swing Keys
  • Full, confident swing
  • Accelerate through the sand
  • Keep the clubhead moving

Unlike chipping, bunker shots often require more swing than you think.

Follow-Through & Finish
  • Finish with the clubhead high
  • Chest rotating toward the target
  • Maintain balance

Stopping the swing is a guaranteed way to leave the ball in the bunker.

Common Bunker Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)

Decelerating

Fear causes golfers to slow down. Commit to the shot.

Hitting the Ball First

This leads to thin shots. Focus on the sand.

Square or Closed Clubface

Open the face before gripping the club.

Too Small of a Swing

Sand absorbs energy. Swing bigger than you think.

Adjusting for Different Sand Conditions

Not all bunkers are created equal.

  • Soft sand: Open the face more, swing freely
  • Firm sand: Slightly less open face, shallower entry
  • Wet sand: Hit slightly closer to the ball

Small adjustments go a long way.

Simple Practice Drill for Better Bunker Shots

The Line in the Sand Drill
  • Draw a line in the sand
  • Take swings trying to hit the line consistently
  • Don’t worry about the ball at first

This builds confidence in where the club enters the sand.

Approach with confidence

Bunker shots don’t have to be scary. With the right setup, commitment, and trust in the sand wedge, you can get out in one shot far more often than you think.

Next time you find yourself in a bunker, remember—you’re not hitting the ball. You’re splashing the sand.

Up next in the Golf Up North Fundamentals Series: Putting Basics—how to make more putts and lower your scores.