Volcano Golf Course

Volcano Golf Course is an 18-hole upland course near Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, with cool mountain air, Mauna Loa views, nene habitat and a public driving range.

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Volcano Golf Course

Volcano Golf & Country Club, Big Island

The Volcano Golf and Country Club can be found in Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, at the edge of the active Kilauea volcanic crater. A thirty mile scenic drive from Hilo, its location alone makes this one of the most unusual courses in the world, as well as the oldest and highest. The course offers panoramic views of Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea, with their snow caps in winter, from its setting 4,000 feet above sea level in the island’s cool highlands region.

The 18-hole, par-72 course offers 6,547 yards of enjoyable play in a fresh environment that oozes with clean, crisp air. The Volcano Golf and Country Club is an excellent choice for anyone seeking a course that provides a relaxing game and sufficient time to concentrate on each shot. While this course, which was designed by Jack Snyder, is relatively flat for the most part it does have some rolling slopes that may present a certain amount of challenge. Some of the greens and nearly all of the tees are elevated. Four of the holes feature water – in the form of a pond and three ditches. The layout of the course is tight so, for a successful round, it is necessary to keep the ball in play. While the 17th hole at Volcano Golf Course is considered the best par-5 in Hawaii, the 425-yard long 15th hole is the most challenging. This par-4 requires players to take a tee shot up a fairway that doglegs to one side and has high pine trees along the turn. Another factor that golfers should watch out for here is the changeable mountain weather. While the views are great on fine days, conditions can change suddenly. But, despite that, playing golf in such a unique setting is a very worthwhile and refreshing experience.

After an invigorating round in the crisp air, golfers will find most if not all the amenities they could hope for at Volcano Golf and Country Club. The club provides golf carts, a club rental service, and a driving range. There is a pro shop on-site offering a selection of golfing merchandise, including clothing, equipment, and other goods. There is also a full bar and restaurant facilities to refresh players before or after their game.

Key Features

18-hole course in the Volcano uplands near Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
About 4,000 feet above sea level, with cooler air than coastal courses
Views toward Mauna Loa and Mauna Kea on clear days
Nene may be seen around the course property
Public driving range available without a tee-time reservation
Golf carts and rental clubs are available through the course
Weather can shift quickly, with mist, wind or passing showers
Located in Volcano, about 30 miles from Hilo by road
A very different setting from Kona and Kohala Coast resort courses
Good match for visitors spending time near Volcano village or the national park

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why is Volcano Golf Course cooler than coastal Big Island courses?

The course is around 4,000 feet above sea level in the Volcano uplands. That elevation brings cooler air, mist, wind and quick weather changes that feel very different from the Kohala and Kona courses near the ocean.

What wildlife might golfers see at Volcano Golf Course?

Nene, Hawaii's state bird, are often part of the Volcano area landscape. If they appear on the course, give them plenty of space and never feed or approach them.

How old is Volcano Golf Course?

Golf has been played at Volcano Golf Course for more than a century, making it one of Hawaii Island's historic golf settings.

How does the setting compare with Kohala Coast golf courses?

Kohala Coast courses are known for lava fields, oceanfront resort scenery and drier weather. Volcano Golf Course has a cooler upland setting with forest, mist, mountain views and nearby national park landscapes.

Can non-golfers enjoy the Volcano area nearby?

Yes. The course is close to Volcano village and Hawaii Volcanoes National Park, so non-golfers in the group can spend time with trails, crater viewpoints, art galleries or cafes while golfers play.