Everybody wants to have fun golfing, but when does a golf course become exciting and playable?

If you are in Honolulu, you should look into Hawaii Kai Championship Golf Course, which is just 13 miles away from Waikiki. This 6,500-yard course offers 18 holes, a great layout, and a beautiful view of the eastern coastline of Oahu. On top of this, you can also watch the majestic Makapuu Cliffs and the radiant Pacific Ocean. Plus, a bonus whale watching during the whale season, usually from December to May!

Whatever your skill level is, you will surely find it enjoyable and challenging at the same time, with the tropical winds blowing from the ocean. Their clubhouse features a restaurant and bar, serving delicious foods and beverages. Plus, a pro-shop that has everything you need, including signature brands. Reserve your tee time now and have fun on this championship course!

What to Expect

Hawaii Kai is approximately a 40-minute drive away from Waikiki. If you are taking a taxi, just tell them to take you to 8902 Kalanianaole Highway. You can also arrange for roundtrip transportation from and to major Waikiki hotels, which is more convenient. On your way to the course, you will pass by the majestic views of the Diamond Head, Kahala, Waialae Country Club, Hanauma Bay, Blow Hole, and Sandy Beach.

When you get there, you will be welcomed by friendly staff upon check-in. This par 72 golf course doesn’t only cater to golfing, but also special events. Who doesn’t want to get married in a breathtaking place, or host a party in a scenic venue? Not to mention a clubhouse with a restaurant and bar that offer relaxing views, and serve appetizing menus, including homestyle breakfast and sandwiches, salads, and burgers, and refreshing island-style beverages. So, if you get hungry, you can stop by here before or after your game to recharge.

If you happen to visit in winter, you can see some pods of whales in the ocean. Either the mother playing with her calves, or male whales chasing females. Did you know that humpback whales migrate to warm waters like in Hawaii from Alaska and other colder seas during the cold season for breeding?

The course may be easy for professionals, but all skill levels will definitely find the tropical winds blowing from the ocean a real challenge. Thankfully, Hawaii Kai has wide fairways, well-positioned bunkers, and large greens. In addition, all 15 holes, noticeably at number 10, provide you with awe-inspiring ocean views! They also have an electrical power cart, which is included in your green fees. For a normal player, you should complete your round within 4.5 hours. If you feel the need to practice your swing, you are most welcome in their practice range.

The signature holes? We say par 3, 8th hole and the par 5, hole number 14.

 

HAWAII KAI COURSE DETAILS:

Golf Course:

  • Architect: William Bell
  • Director of Golf: Ryan Nagata
  • Started Operating: 1973
  • Dress Code: Proper golf attire
  • Spike Policy: soft spike only
  • Course Type: 18-hole, par 72
  • Yardage: 6614/6222/5591
  • Yardage Markers: 150-yard Hibiscus tree
  • Slope: 123 /120 /123
  • Rating: 71.4/69.8/71.9
  • Bunkers: Yes
  • Practice Green: Yes
  • Driving Range: Yes
  • Golf Carts: Available
  • Pull Carts: No
  • Water Holes: Yes
  • Caddies: No
  • Five-some Policy: Allowed
  • Walking: Not allowed
  • Greens: Bermuda
  • Fairways: Bermuda
  • GPS Tracking: Not available
  • Lessons: No
Facilities:
  • Club House: Available
  • Pro Shop: Available
  • Restaurant: Available
  • Bar: Available
  • Conference Facilities: Available
  • Banquet Facilities: Available
  • Lodging: No
  • Showers: No
  • Lockers: No
  • Rider Fee: Around $25
  • Club Rental: Callaway (Around $70)

HAWAII KAI GOLF COURSE SCORECARD:

 

HOLE

 

1

 

2

 

3

 

4

 

5

 

6

 

7

 

8

 

9

 

OUT

Blue 363 377 457 369 136 369 406 233 529 3,287
White 355 355 455 355 124 358 392 175 499 3,079
Red 333 331 454 341 106 324 376 120 397 2,782
Men’s Hcp 11 13 5 9 17 7 1 15 3  
+/-                    
Men’s Par 4 4 5 4 3 4 4 3 5 36
+/-                    
Ladies’ HCP 13 11 5 3 15 7 1 17 9  
                     

 

HOLE

 

10

 

11

 

12

 

13

 

14

 

15

 

16

 

17

 

18

 

IN

Blue 159 513 414 368 541 379 389 206 358 3,327
White 137 502 397 353 500 358 365 184 346 3,143
Red 113 477 379 339 395 312 310 149 335 2,809
Men’s Hcp 18 12 8 4 2 14 6 16 10  
+/-                    
Men’s Par 3 5 4 4 5 4 4 3 4 36
+/-                    
Ladies’ Hcp 18 4 2 8 6 14 12 16 10