Do you dream of playing golf with stunning ocean views in the background? Honolulu, Hawaii, is the perfect place for you. It’s home to 28 amazing golf courses. These courses are set in beautiful surroundings, offering a unique experience for everyone.
Picture yourself on a course designed by Ted Robinson or Arnold Palmer. Maybe you’re up for a challenge on one of America’s most difficult courses. Honolulu has it all, from top spots like Ko Olina to the renovated Royal Hawaiian. You’ll see the island’s beauty with every swing.
In Honolulu, you can find a course no matter your ability. It’s a great place for both the expert and the weekend player. So, grab your gear, book a time, and start your amazing golf journey in this paradise.
Key Takeaways
- Honolulu has 28 beautiful golf courses for all levels of players.
- The courses offer stunning views of the ocean and tropical landscapes.
- It features championship courses by famous designers like Ted Robinson and Arnold Palmer.
- Ko Olina Golf Club is among the top 75 resort courses in the U.S., according to Golf Digest.
- The Royal Hawaiian Golf Club got a fresh look with an 18-hole renovation.
Discover the Ultimate Golfing Experience in Honolulu
Head to Honolulu for a golf outing unlike any other. It offers many top golf courses for all skill levels. You can play at resort courses, private clubs, or in public settings. Each one highlights the island’s beauty.
Enjoy golfing amidst lush rainforests, grand mountains, and beautiful beaches. Honolulu has over 40 courses, perfect for any golfer. You will love playing surrounded by natural wonders.
Oahu’s courses are made by top architects like Ted Robinson, Arnold Palmer, and Greg Norman. This means they’re perfect for all kinds of players. Some top choices include:
- Ko Olina Golf Club: A 18-hole course with amazing water features and greens.
- Turtle Bay Resort Golf: Has two courses, the Arnold Palmer and George Fazio, both beautiful.
- Royal Hawaiian Golf Club: Designed by Peter and Perry Dye, and recently updated by Greg Norman. It’s in the Maunawili Valley.
- Hawaii Prince Golf Course: A 27-hole course by Arnold Palmer and Ed Seay, known for a unique experience.
Would you play in a place filled with beauty and challenge? Honolulu’s courses are perfect for any golfer. And, April to October brings great weather to enjoy the game. Remember to book early for these popular spots.
| Golf Course | Notable Features |
|---|---|
| Waialae Country Club | Hosts the PGA TOUR’s Sony Open annually; has raised $13 million for local organizations since 1999 |
| Ala Wai Golf Course | Recognized as one of the busiest municipal courses in the United States |
| Kapolei Golf Club | Hosted LPGA Tour’s Hawaiian Open (1996-2001) and PGA’s Pacific Links Championship (2012-2014); rated 4.5 stars by Golf Digest |
| Koolau Golf Course | Rated one of the most challenging courses in North America by the U.S. Golf Association; offers dramatic rainforest scenery |
Make Honolulu your next golf stop. See for yourself why it’s a favorite for global golf fans.
Ko Olina Golf Club: A Championship Course with Stunning Views
The Ko Olina Golf Club is located inside the beautiful Ko Olina Resort & Marina on Oahu’s sunny west coast. This championship course was designed by Ted Robinson. It has won many awards, being named in Golf Digest’s “Top 75 Resort Courses in U.S.” and other honors.
Challenging Layout Designed by Ted Robinson
The Ko Olina Golf Club’s course has 18 amazing holes for both men and women. The holes vary in length, from 165 to 506 yards for men and 100 to 438 yards for women.
They include water features, special greens, sand bunkers, and more. The wind can greatly affect your game, making club choice very important.
The course also offers great views and has unique features like waterfalls and elevated tees. These make playing here unforgettable.
| Course Features | Details |
|---|---|
| Hole Lengths (Men) | 165 to 506 yards |
| Hole Lengths (Women) | 100 to 438 yards |
| Hazards | OB (Out of Bounds), sand bunkers, water hazards |
| Green Types | Two-tiered, hour-glass shaped, multi-tiered |
| Signature Hole | Hole #12 with cascading waterfall and elevated tee |
Award-Winning Restaurant by Chef Roy Yamaguchi
At the end of your game, visit the Ko Olina Golf Club’s clubhouse for relaxation. Here you’ll find great shops and an award-winning restaurant by chef Roy Yamaguchi. The clubhouse also has luxurious locker rooms with Jacuzzis and saunas for golfers to use for free.
This golf club offers many services to make your golfing experience better. You can rent various golf equipment, take lessons from PGA professionals, and use a driving range. They also have a golf academy with personal training.
The Ko Olina Golf Club combines beauty, challenge, and top-notch services, making it a must-visit for any golf lover in Oahu. Secure your tee time now and discover the unique beauty and charm of this top course.
Turtle Bay Resort’s Palmer Course: A Gem on the North Shore
The Palmer Course at the Turtle Bay Resort on Oahu’s North Shore is a gem. It’s designed by Arnold Palmer. The course winds through lush Hawaiian jungle, providing both fun challenges and breathtaking views.
You’ll feel at one with nature on this course. The North Shore’s dense jungle keeps you safe from the wind. It also makes for a beautiful background. Even though not every hole is by the ocean, those that are offer amazing views.
Masterfully Designed Holes Winding through Hawaiian Jungle
This course beautifully blends into the jungle landscape. Each hole has something special to offer. You’ll face bunkers, tough greens, and more. Everything is designed to keep you engaged and test your golf skills.
Golfers love the Palmer Course, and some numbers prove it:
| Statistic | Value |
|---|---|
| Percentage of reviewers recommending the course | 82.1% |
| Average rating snapshot by reviewers | 4.2 out of 5 |
| Percentage of reviewers recommending the course for its excellent conditions and layout | 76.5% |
| Average reviewer rating for conditions, value, layout, pace, and amenities | 4.4 out of 5 |
| Most common rating given by reviewers | 5 stars |
Breathtaking Ocean Views
The ocean views on the Palmer Course are simply stunning. You’ll get to see the turquoise waters as you play. These views make the golfing experience unforgettable. The beauty of the Pacific Ocean inspires every golfer on the course.
- The stunning ocean views visible from select holes
- The friendly and helpful staff who contribute to a welcoming atmosphere
- The high-quality onsite amenities, such as the well-appointed clubhouse and luxurious spa
Despite a few small issues like slow pace or aerated greens, people love the Palmer Course. They’re impressed by its high quality and memorable experience. Many look forward to returning, showing the course’s lasting appeal.
Ko’olau Golf Club: A Jurassic Park-Like golf outing
Located at the base of the Ko’Olau Mountain Range, the Ko’olau Golf Club is truly unique. It used to be the hardest in the U.S. But today, it’s not as tough, yet still challenges all golfers with a 153 slope rating.
This golf course was built in 1992 by Dick Nugent and Brad Bartell. It has Bermuda Grass fairways and Seashore Paspalum Grass greens. The views make it a top spot for anyone visiting Honolulu.
| Category | Rating |
|---|---|
| Overall Rating | 3.4 (based on 301 reviews) |
| Recommendation Rate | 68.8% (207 out of 301 reviews) |
| Course Conditions | 2.7 |
| Value | 3.3 |
| Course Layout | 4.3 |
| Staff Friendliness | 4.3 |
| Pace of Play | 4.0 |
| Amenities | 3.4 |
Play here and feel like you’re in Jurassic Park. The scenery, complete with lush plants and tall cliffs, is amazing. It adds to the adventure of golfing here.
There’s more to this place than just golf. It has a bar, restaurant, clubhouse, and banquet facilities. Plus, it’s owned by the First Presbyterian Church, making it unique.
The Ko’olau Golf Club welcomes all golfers, from pros to newbies. Get ready for a round full of challenges and beauty. It’s a place you won’t forget.
Royal Hawaiian Golf Club: A Pete and Perry Dye Masterpiece
At the base of the beautiful Ko’Olau Mountains, the Royal Hawaiian Golf Club stands out. It’s known as a hidden gem offering a special golf outing. Pete and Perry Dye created this course from a Hawaiian rain forest and recently updated its 18 holes. This has made its stunning design even better.
Tranquil and Treacherous Rain Forest Course
In the Royal Hawaiian Golf Club’s rain forest course, you’ll experience peace mixed with challenges. You’ll play among giant trees over 100 feet tall, which create a peaceful yet impressive setting. Don’t be fooled by the beauty – the Dye design is tough, with tricky land, tough carries, and sharp drop-offs. This means you need skill and strategy to play well.
This course is a quiet retreat from the busy city. It lets you focus on your game while enjoying nature’s beauty. The fairways and greens blend perfectly with the surrounding rain forest, showing the designers’ talent in creating a golf paradise.
Exciting Finish with Dramatic Elevation Changes
The front nine at the Royal Hawaiian Golf Club is full of challenges and amazing views. But the back nine really stands out. The last few holes lead to an exciting ending. You’ll play through dense, tropical areas with big elevation changes. It will test your golf skills and keep you interested until the end.
The changes in elevation make the golf game even more interesting. You’ll have to think hard about your club choice and shot tactics. The hills and bunkers make the game harder, but also more fun. Even very good golfers will find this course a challenge and a joy to play.
| Course Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Designers | Pete Dye and Perry Dye |
| Location | Foot of the Ko’Olau Mountains |
| Course Type | Rain forest course |
| Recent Developments | 18-hole renovation |
| Notable Features | Ancient trees, tumbling terrain, forced carries, precipitous fall-offs |
| Back Nine Highlights | Exciting finish, leafy tropical corridors, dramatic elevation changes |
If you’re an experienced golfer looking for something new, or a beginner wanting to try a top-quality course, the Royal Hawaiian Golf Club is perfect. With its incredible natural scenery, challenging design, and top conditions, this Pete and Perry Dye masterpiece is a must-visit in Honolulu. Reserve your tee time now and experience the magic of this rain forest treasure!
Hawaii Prince Golf Club: 27 Holes of Challenging Play
In the sunny Ewa Plain of Oahu lies the Hawaii Prince Golf Club. It was designed by golf legends Arnold Palmer and Ed Seay. This course stretches over 270 acres, offering diverse and challenging play.
This course features lush green fairways, with 90 sand bunkers and 10 lakes adding challenge. These features make every shot important. The backdrop of Waianae Mountains adds to the stunning views as you play.
Strikingly Green Fairways Guarded by Bunkers and Lakes
The Hawaii Prince Golf Club shines for the variety of shots needed. It has undulating terrain with sidehill, downhill, and uphill lies. This tests your adaptability and shot-making skills. It keeps both pros and casual golfers engaged.
The course offers three unique 9-hole combinations, each with its own character. The B-C layout is the most challenging, measuring 7,255 yards. It has a slope rating of 134, challenging even the best players.
| Course Aspect | Rating (out of 5) |
|---|---|
| Conditions | 4.3 |
| Value | 4.3 |
| Layout | 4.3 |
| Friendliness | 4.6 |
| Pace | 4.0 |
| Amenities | 3.9 |
Golfers love the Hawaii Prince Golf Club. It has a 4.4 out of 5 rating from 534 reviews. 91.9% recommend it, praising the great condition of the course. Despite some tee boxes under renovation, the experience is top-notch.
The club offers more than golf. Enjoy a bar, restaurant, and facilities for events. It’s a great place to relax or host a gathering after your round.
If you want a great golf experience on Oahu, check out the Hawaii Prince Golf Club. It features a challenging 27-hole course by famous designers. Stunning views and great conditions await, making it a must-visit for golfers.
Waialae Country Club: Home of the PGA Tour’s Sony Open
Waialae Country Club sits on Oahu, a breathtaking Hawaiian island. It’s a private golf course and home to the famous PGA Tour’s Sony Open. The course was designed by Seth Raynor, a well-known architect. It’s filled with beautiful greenery, offering a great experience for all golfers.
Stepping onto the first tee at Waialae, you’ll feel the gentle trade winds. These winds make the game more challenging. The course has wide fairways and trees like coconut and kiawe. They test your accuracy, adding to the fun and skill of the game.
Since 1965, the Sony Open has been a key event at Waialae. Golfers from around the world come to compete for its US$8,300,000 prize fund. The list of winners includes greats like Hubert Green, Corey Pavin, and Ernie Els.
In 2017, Justin Thomas had a remarkable performance, setting several records. His total score over four rounds is still the event’s best. This achievement shows his talent and the course’s potential for low scores.
| Year | Winner | Winning Score | Prize Money |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2017 | Justin Thomas | 253 (-27) | $1,120,000 |
| 2018 | Patton Kizzire | 263 (-17) | $1,152,000 |
| 2019 | Matt Kuchar | 258 (-22) | $1,152,000 |
| 2020 | Cameron Smith | 269 (-11) | $1,188,000 |
| 2021 | Kevin Na | 259 (-21) | $1,188,000 |
The Sony Open is not just about golfing. It’s also Hawaii’s biggest charity golf event. Over $1.2 million gets raised each year. Since 1999, it has supported 350 charities, thanks to Friends of Hawaii Charities.
Playing at Waialae is a unique experience, open only by invitation or referral. The course’s last hole has a ‘W’ made by palm trees. This feature makes the game memorable and leaves players wanting to come back.
Kapolei Golf Club
In the heart of Oahu’s sunny Ewa Plain lies Kapolei Golf Club. Renowned architect Ted Robinson designed this course. It’s an 18-hole, par-72 course that stretches over 7,001 yards. The course is challenging yet enjoyable for golfers of all levels.
The fairways are beautifully maintained. You’ll find over 80 bunkers and greens that require careful shots. There are special holes like the 1st, 10th, and 18th. They offer unique challenges and stunning views of the Ewa Plain.
Kapolei Golf Club is known for its excellent design and upkeep. It hosted big events like the LPGA Hawaiian Open and PGA Pacific Links Championship. The course is highly rated, earning 4 1/2 stars from Golf Digest. It has also been named the Best Course on Oahu twice.
| Kapolei Golf Club Rates & Fees | Price |
|---|---|
| Morning Rate | $210.00 per person |
| Twilight Rate (1:30 pm) | $155.00 per person |
| Junior Rate (with paying adult) | $85.00 |
| Rider Fee | $35.00 |
| Club Rental (Titleist) | $75.00 |
Kapolei Golf Club is just a short drive from Honolulu. It’s a favorite for both locals and tourists. The club promises a round of golf in just four and a half hours. You’ll have time to appreciate the Ewa Plain’s beauty during your game.
- Course Details: 18 holes, par 72, 7,001 yards
- Slope Ratings: 135/131/127/124
- Course Ratings: 74.3/72.4/70.5/71.8
- Men’s Handicap Rating: 7, 1, 15, 17, 13, 5, 3, 9, 11
- Men’s Par Scores: 5, 4, 4, 4, 3, 4, 5, 3, 4
- Ladies’ Handicap Rating: 9, 1, 7, 11, 17, 5, 3, 13, 15
Are you looking for a good challenge or are new to the game? Kapolei Golf Club welcomes you. It’s a stunning course in the Ewa Plain. Book your tee time and find out why this Ted Robinson course is one of Hawaii’s best.
Kaneohe Klipper Golf Course
In the heart of Marine Corps Base Hawaii sits the Kaneohe Klipper Golf Course. It’s a hidden treasure providing an exceptional golfing experience for those in the military and their friends. Perched on the Mokapu Peninsula, the course offers spectacular views of the Ko’olau Mountains and the Pacific Ocean.
Playing at the Kaneohe Klipper Golf Course means diving into Hawaii’s scenic coastal landscapes. The course is lush and groomed, with bunkers and water hazards adding a challenging touch. It truly tests your accuracy and skill, no matter your level.
The course’s 13th hole is a major highlight. It’s a par-3 where your first shot is a scenic challenge over an ocean inlet. With its stunning view and unique layout, this hole is beloved by all who play it. It stands as a must-try at this military golf course.
| Hole | Par | Yardage | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 4 | 405 | Moderate |
| 7 | 5 | 530 | Challenging |
| 13 | 3 | 185 | Signature Hole |
| 18 | 4 | 420 | Challenging |
Each round at the Kaneohe Klipper Golf Course is a skillful and scenic adventure. The course’s design fits beautifully into the natural landscape. Golfers are treated to stunning views and challenging play throughout their game.
While mainly for military use and their friends, this course is a top pick for any golfer. It’s a blend of exquisite views, demanding holes, and the rare chance to play at a military base. This combo makes it a memorable spot for golf on Oahu.
Olomana Golf Links
Nestled on Oahu’s Windward Coast, Olomana Golf Links is a must-visit for both locals and tourists. Since 1968, this course has charmed many with its affordable prices, friendly vibes, and stunning scenery.
Olomana Golf Links has an average rating of 2.9 out of 5 from 88 reviews. Despite this, 67% of players recommend it. The course keeps everyone on their toes with its mix of challenges, and its staff is always friendly.
Some have complained about the course’s condition, mentioning wet spots and maintenance issues. Yet, others have seen improvements. Many say the course has gotten better, even calling it outstanding on holidays.
Your visit to Olomana includes access to a:
- Bar
- Restaurant
- Clubhouse
- Banquet facilities
Players find these facilities to be quite helpful, making their experience at the course enjoyable.
A unique rule here is that you must wear a collared shirt. This adds a special touch, showing respect for golf but keeping a friendly vibe for everyone playing.
| Aspect | Rating |
|---|---|
| Conditions | 3.1 |
| Layout | 3.5 |
| Friendliness | 4.2 |
| Value | 3.7 |
| Pace of Play | 3.2 |
| Amenities | 3.4 |
| Difficulty | 3.6 |
Despite challenges with the course, Olomana wins hearts with its value and beauty. Many see it as a second home because of its unique layout and the camaraderie among regular golfers.
For a public golf course experience on Oahu’s Windward Coast, consider Olomana. It offers both fun and challenge. With improvements and a welcoming vibe, it’s a great choice for all skill levels.
Ala Wai Golf Course
Located in Waikiki, the Ala Wai Golf Course is a local favorite. It provides an enjoyable and affordable golfing experience. Designed by Donald MacKay, it first opened in 1931. Since then, it has been a key part of Waikiki‘s golf life.
The course spans 5,861 yards and is par 70. It has a slope rating of 115, and a USGA rating of 66.8. There are two sets of tees for players of all levels. Women’s tees stretch 5,095 yards. They have a par of 70, a slope of 110, and a rating of 67.2. The grass is Bermuda, perfect for the warm climate.
One great thing about this course is how affordable it is. Golfers can play for $43 to $86. This cost is the same for each day, making it perfect for those watching their expenses. The course also has:
- Pro in-house
- Driving range available from 6:30 AM to 10 PM (last bucket at 9 PM)
- Rental clubs
- Rental carts available for $26
Ala Wai has special ties with Callaway Golf for rentals and sales. The golf center holds events and lessons. On January 2, 2023, they ran a Junior Kickoff. Over 200 guests came, with 115 being kids aged 3 to 18, along with several West Maui families.
| Tee | Par | Yardage | Slope | Rating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Men’s | 70 | 5,861 | 115 | 66.8 |
| Women’s | 70 | 5,095 | 110 | 67.2 |
The course might be small, but it’s filled with challenges and great views. Diamond Head’s crater stands out on many holes. This course is perfect for a fun round, no matter your skill level. It’s a top pick for golfers wanting to enjoy Waikiki’s golfing on a budget.
Plan Your Ultimate Honolulu Golf Vacation Today
Start your unforgettable Honolulu golf vacation and experience the island’s amazing beauty. As soon as you arrive, the stunning landscapes will surround you. From the Ko’olau Mountains’ rainforests to the Ewa Plain’s sunny shores, Hawaii is a golf paradise.
Honolulu is not just about great golf. It also boasts top-notch world-class accommodations and amenities. Whether you want a romantic stop or a family fun, you’ll find great places to stay that fit your needs.
Spectacular Landscapes and Stunning Vistas
A Honolulu golf trip lets you see the island’s breathtaking beauty. Eager golfers will feel amazed by their surroundings as they play. Imagine a course in a lush rainforest or on a cliff over the Pacific Ocean. These views will take your breath away.
World-Class Accommodations and Amenities
When it’s time to rest, Honolulu offers many top accommodations. You can pick from luxurious resorts to cozy boutique hotels. They come with several amenities like spas, fine dining, and fun activities to make your stay great.
For a budget-savvy trip, think about getting a GOLFHAWAIICARD. It saves you money on green fees across the islands. The Big Island GOLFHAWAIICARD is $52.95, and the Oahu GOLFHAWAIICARD is $26.95. You can get the combo card for both at just $69.95.
| GOLFHAWAIICARD | Regular Price | Discounted Price |
|---|---|---|
| Big Island | $59.95 | $52.95 |
| Oahu | $34.95 | $26.95 |
| Big Island + Oahu | $89.90 | $69.95 |
Don’t miss the chance to plan your dream Honolulu golf trip. With unmatched beauty, perfect accommodations, and stunning golf, Oahu is the top pick for golf lovers. Book your vacation now and dive into the magic of this tropical gem!
Insider Tips for Golfing in Honolulu
For a great time golfing in Honolulu, follow these tips. Play early or late for cooler temperatures and fewer crowds. Make reservations in advance for places like Ko Olina and Turtle Bay, especially when it’s busy.
Bring the right clothes and gear for golfing in Honolulu. Many clubs, including Waialae Country Club, need you to wear collared shirts and avoid denim. Bringing your own clubs can be cheaper than renting, which costs between $50 and $75 a set.
Customizing Your Honolulu Golf Itinerary
To plan the perfect Honolulu golf trip, mix golf with sightseeing and chill time. Don’t miss playing at the Hawaii Prince and the Royal Hawaiian clubs. Explore the island’s beauty and culture, such as seeing Diamond Head and Pearl Harbor, or driving the serene North Shore. Blend excellent golf with local adventures for a memorable Hawaiian vacation that suits your style.
