Ko'olau Golf Club
Ko'olau Golf Club, Oahu
The Ko'olau Golf Club is carved into a mountainside in the picturesque eastern side of Oahu. Situated in an area with three different climate zones, each one distinctive, the course is created from a tropical rainforest and surrounded by magnificent mountains. This golf course features drastic changes in elevation, beautiful winding ravines, and stunning views of cascading waterfalls. The Ko'olau Golf Club is considered one of the most beautiful courses in Hawaii, and its stunning setting should inspire players right through their game.
Designed by renowned architect Dick Nugent in 1992, the 18-hole Ko'olau Golf Club is considered one of the world’s toughest golf courses. Golf Digest placed Ko'olau at No. 25 on its 2012 list of the most difficult golf courses in the nation, although this rating means it has dropped from its place at No 3 five years earlier. The spectacular natural beauty of the course with the tropical rainforest and the Ko`olau Ridge in the background provides the perfect setting for all types of golfing and social events. Indeed, it is easy to see why visitors may be tempted to come here for the scenery rather than a high golf score. Some people just come to walk around the course, view the waterfalls, and admire the tropical flowers.
The course has four sets of tees, making it suitable for players of all abilities. The tournament course is 7,310 yards, has a 75.7 rating, and a challenging slope of 152. However, to accommodate those who find this setup too tough, there is an easier course layout of 6, 406 yards with more suitable challenges. Another hazard is that of losing balls, which can disappear into the ravines and the dense jungle along many of the fairways. Players, especially novices, may find this frustrating. The wet climate in this area can also make the conditions soggy, another factor that adds to the course’s difficulty.
The amenities at Ko'olau Golf Club are excellent. It is an ideal place for hosting a tournament, a corporate outing, or a fundraising event; it also provides a memorable setting for client meetings, weddings, birthday parties, and other family functions. The club is home to a PGA Approved Golf School, an educational establishment dedicated to training and developing the skills of aspiring and talented junior golfers. Individual instruction and/or tailor-made courses, delivered by PGA-qualified instructors, are also available for men, women or groups who want to learn the game or just fine-tune their existing skills. Other facilities at the club include a practice range and restaurant.
Ko'olau Golf Club Overview
- 18 holes, par 72, 7310 yards
- Architect: Dick Nugent & Jack Tuthill
- Rating: 75.7/73.5/71.7/72.9
- Slope: 152/145/138/129
- Open: 1992
- Phone: (808) 247-7088
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