Ko'olau Golf Club

Ko'olau Golf Club

Ko'olau Golf Club is a legendary course on Oahu's windward side, carved into the lush Ko'olau Mountain Range. With dramatic elevation changes, rainforest surroundings, and a slope rating of 152, this par-72 championship course is widely considered one of the most challenging in the world. Ko'olau offers unforgettable scenery, waterfalls, jungle ravines, and a test of precision for adventurous golfers.

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.


Key Features of Ko'olau Golf Club

  • Course stats: 18 holes, par 72, 7,310 yards from the back tees with a slope rating of 152.
  • Challenging layout: Elevation changes, jungle-lined fairways, and narrow landing zones make it one of the toughest courses in the U.S.
  • Scenic rainforest setting: Set against the backdrop of the Ko'olau Ridge with views of waterfalls and native flora.
  • Multiple tee options: Four sets of tees accommodate players of all skill levels despite the course's intimidating reputation.
  • Location: 45-550 Kionaole Road, Kaneohe, HI 96744


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Frequently Asked Questions

⛰️Why is Ko'olau Golf Club considered difficult?

The course features steep elevation changes, ravines, dense jungle, and tight landing areas - earning it a slope of 152 from the tips.

How many tees are available?

There are four sets of tees to accommodate different skill levels, from recreational to tournament play.

🌴Is it worth playing if I'm not an advanced golfer?

Yes. While difficult from the back tees, the forward tees make the course more accessible. Many golfers visit just for the scenery.

📍Where is Ko'olau Golf Club located?

The course is located in Kaneohe at 45-550 Kionaole Road, nestled beneath the Ko'olau Mountains on Oahu's east side.

🎓Does the course offer lessons or a golf school?

Yes. Ko'olau Golf Club is home to a PGA-approved Golf School offering individual and group instruction for all levels.