Kahuku Golf Course — Attraction in Oʻahu

I read about this muni before I arrived from California and was expecting something different than you usual execuitve 9 hole course. This is NOT your usual executive course of par 3s. This course has 3 par 5s, 3 par 4s and 3 par 3s. Total length of this 9 hole course is more than 3,000 yards. It’s much more like a regular 18 hole course cut in half. The setting is right on the ocean with regular trade winds. It is the most unpretentious golf venue I have ever experienced.

The pro shop is a pro “shack”. No powered carts just a good walk with a push cart or carry. You can always walk on any time. Never crowded. There are practice green and short game practice area but no driving range. I didn’t bring my clubs so I rented. The rental clubs were about 15 year old clubs if not older. The set I chose had a Nike driver (not square but close), rusty Cleveland wedge, no name putter, you get the picture, for $10. Also rented a push cart for $4. The bag had two zipper compartments that still zipped. I shoved my water bottle in one and my wallet and car keys in the other. To my surprise, there were six balls but no tees. I brought glove, shoes and tees from home so I was set.

As I approached the first tee, I saw an older guy waiting to tee off. He appeared to be a single so I asked if we could play as a twosome. His name was Dosh or sounded like that. Turned out he had turned 90 years old recently. Born and raised in the Sunset Beach community. He was quite a character and could still drive it a fair distance. About half or more of the players I saw were from the surrounding communities. This is one way to learn, up close and personal about the culture and personal stories about the people on this island.

The wind was moderate and did affect ball flight but it’s a good opportunity to learn to keep it low. Fairways were mowed close so balls can be easily found but it’s not Bermuda grass or any kind of grass. It’s more like a mowed pasture. Still the ball rolled out in typical fashion. The greens were in good shape but a bit slow. The views were spectacular and some interesting elevation changes. Even with very used equipment, I thoroughly enjoyed playing this course. It’s the best value on the island. I went back a few days later and...

We were staying at Turtle Bay Resort and our waiter suggested this course.

The clubhouse looks like a few abandoned demountable units. Joe came out and told off my Uber driver for parking in front of the unmarked emergency egress.

The clubhouse is basic. There's really nothing there. Odd for the US which is always trying to sell you something. The green fees for 9 holes and a pull cart was about $30USD. The pullcarts are basic Bagboy carts with big wheels, which were good for the terrain.

The toilets are a single portaloo. I didn't need to use it so can't rate it. Looked tired and in keeping with the rest of the aesthetic.

The course itself is rough. There are really no fairways per se but more areas with weeds or cut weeds. It's the first time I lost my ball in the bunker because the weeds were growing in there and super thick.

The greens are ok. They've appeared to have attempted to sand them at some point this decade.

It does have the most amazing views of the ocean and accompanying sea breeze which provides welcome respite as there isn't a lot of shade on the course.

There is also a feral dog on hole 9, which makes it an adventure if your ball gets too close to him.

Random surfers and locals will also cut across your game. So...perhaps bring your bathers and go for a swim after the game.

So, why four stars? Because it's an authentic local, cheap, public, Hawaiian course with world-class views. It's not a looker itself, but it's an experience. I'd 100% do it again.

Word of warning, it is hilly and not terribly accessible for handicapped or mobility...

Kahuku golf course is a 9 hole walking course that's played along side the beach. Anyone can play an 18 or 9 hole game, there are golf clubs and cart rentals available, and walk-ins are fast if anyone so happens to suddenly wants to try out this course! Opens at 6am and as soon as the sun rises people can start playing ( also a good sunrise pic opportunity ). The cost is in the 30s and varies on rentals, kama'aina, golf ID, and non residence. The course itself is a fun course for me because there are times where you start from the bottom hitting upward to the green or starting from the top hitting downwards. I like those holes because when you reach the top the view is awesome. After playing that course I felt refreshed and relaxed. The feeling of my hectic schedule was gone and I felt recharged to tackle my work load. Also, the looks of the club house and signs has that runned down look. I guess the theme of that club is a deserted island golf getaway, lol. It's a fun course...