When it comes to combining championship-level play with breathtaking views, few places in the world can rival the golf offerings of Oahu, Hawaii’s third-largest island. With more golf courses than any other island, golfers of every skill level from around the world head to Oahu. There are 40 public and private courses to choose from, including casual municipal links and elegant resort courses. Spectacular scenery awaits you no matter which course you choose. If you prefer to watch the pros play, Oahu even hosts the PGA TOUR’s Sony Open at the Waialae Country Club every January.
In this guide, we take you through a remarkable golfing experience on Oahu, exploring the top courses, discussing the island’s unique weather considerations, and offering expert tips for making the most of your tee time.
Waialae Country Club
Theย Waialae Country Club represents a unique blend of Hawaii’s natural beauty and strategic golfing challenges. Not only is it famous for hosting the Sony Open in Hawaii, an annual PGA Tour event, but it also captivates golf enthusiasts with its picturesque landscapes and meticulously manicured fairways.
The course, originally designed by Seth Raynor, is a par-70 layout sprawling along the southern shore of Oahu, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. Strategic bunkering and a variety of water hazards demand precision and thoughtful play, making rounds at Waialae both challenging and rewarding. Its rich history, combined with the aloha spirit, ensures that a day spent on the greens here will be one to remember.
Ala Wai Golf Course
Positioned at the edge of Waikiki, theย Ala Wai Golf Course stands as a testament to golfing amidst urban landscapes. Known for being one of the busiest municipal courses in the United States, it offers a unique experience for golfers of all skill levels staying near Waikiki Beach. The course is notorious for its tight fairways, challenging water hazards, and the stunning backdrop of the Ko’olau Mountain Range.
Despite its proximity to the bustling city life, players at Ala Wai can find a moment of tranquility and focus, enhanced by the picturesque views of the urban skyline and the Diamond Head crater looming in the distance. With its convenient location and affordable play, Ala Wai Golf Course invites locals and tourists alike to enjoy a round of golf under the Hawaiian sun, making it an exceptional choice for those seeking both challenge and beauty on the green.
Ko Olina Golf Club
Nestled on the sun-soaked coast of Oahu, theย Ko Olina Golf Club is a true oasis for golfers looking to indulge in a luxurious and serene golfing experience. Designed by renowned architect Ted Robinson, Ko Olina Resort’s 18-hole course is famous for its outstanding beauty, featuring cascading waterfalls, expansive white sand bunkers, and dynamic water features that accentuate its lush, tropical landscape.
This par-72 course offers a variety of challenges for golfers at every skill level, encouraging strategic play with its gentle rolling hills and generous fairways. Beyond its stunning course, Ko Olina Golf Club prides itself on providing exceptional amenities, including a royalty-like clubhouse, exquisite dining options, and a fully stocked pro shop.ย
Turtle Bay Golf Courses
Turtle Bay Resort Golf stands as a beacon for those seeking an unparalleled golfing experience amidst Hawaii’s natural beauty. Located on the fabled North Shore of Oahu, Turtle Bay Resort offers two distinct courses: the Arnold Palmer Course and the George Fazio Course.
The Palmer Course, a masterpiece designed by Arnold Palmer, is often touted as the #1 Golf Course on Oahu. It’s recognized for its sophisticated design that seamlessly integrates with the surrounding wetlands, forests, and coastline, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean. The Fazio Course, on the other hand, provides a more relaxed golfing experience with wider fairways and fewer bunkers, perfect for players of all skill levels seeking enjoyment and a scenic backdrop.
Royal Hawaiian Golf Club
Theย Royal Hawaiian Golf Club is where nature and ancient Hawaiian culture merge into a golfing experience like no other. Nestled in the heart of Oahu’s tropical rainforest and between the majestic Mount Olomana and Ko’olau Mountains, this 18-hole course is both a visual masterpiece and a challenge.
Co-designed by renowned architects Peter and Perry Dye and recently redesigned by Greg Norman, the golf course takes advantage of the natural contours of the land, featuring elevated tees, sculpted fairways, and strategic bunkering. Playing at the Royal Hawaiian is more than a test of one’s golfing skill; it’s an immersive journey through a lush, verdant landscape filled with native flora and historical sites, offering tranquility and inspiration with every shot.
360ยฐ Ewa Beach Golf Club
Theย 360ยฐ Ewa Beach Golf Club is a true hidden gem nestled on the island of Oahu. Known for its breathtaking mountain views and delightful on-site restaurant, this club offers an inviting and challenging experience. The 18-hole course layout is designed to test your strategic skills with its narrow fairways, well-placed bunkers, and shimmering water hazards that reflect the beauty of the island’s coastal scenery.
Beyond its exceptional play, Ewa Beach Country Club is celebrated for its warm and inviting ambiance, dedicated to upholding the cherished Aloha spirit that guarantees a memorable outing and a great time for golfers of every skill level.
Hawaii Prince Golf Club
Theย Hawaii Prince Golf Course, situated on the sunny Ewa Plain of Oahu, is a remarkable destination for golf enthusiasts. Crafted by the legendary Arnold Palmer and Ed Seay, this 27-hole golf haven features three distinct sets of nine holes, offering diverse challenges for players of all skill levels.
With stunning views of the Waianae mountains, the course’s design incorporates strategic water elements and obstacles that demand precision and thoughtful strategy. The expansive fairways and meticulously maintained greens ensure a memorable golfing experience, while the ever-present trade winds provide an exciting challenge, making each game endlessly fascinating.
Kahuku Golf Course
Situated on the scenic North Shore of Oahu,ย Kahuku Golf Course represents the essence of Hawaii’s natural beauty and laid-back charm. Unlike its more manicured counterparts, this 9-hole, par-36 course offers a straightforward, refreshing golf experience that appeals to beginners and seasoned players seeking a return to the basics of the game.
The ocean views accompanying almost every hole are nothing short of spectacular, offering golfers a competitive challenge and a peaceful retreat. Its minimalistic design philosophy emphasizes the rugged coastlines and rolling terrain, rather than artificial barriers, to test a golfer’s skill and strategy. Affordability and accessibility make Kahuku Golf Course a beloved gem for locals and a refreshing alternative for visitors looking for an authentic Hawaiian golfing encounter.
Golfing in Oahu: What to Expect & Recommendations
Whether you’re teeing off on Oahu’s coastal plains or putting under the shadow of an extinct volcanic crater, the island’s temperate climate and gentle trade winds offer a nearly perfect golfing environment year-round.
Weather Conditions
The island’s weather can be as varied as its course landscapes, but Oahu’s golfing season generally runs from April to October, providing the most consistent and settled conditions. The winter months bring increased rainfall but also quieter courses and reduced green fees, making it a trade-off for budget-conscious travelers.
Booking Tips and Recommendations
Advance booking is highly recommended for Oahu’s most popular golf courses, especially during peak tourist season. Many courses offer online reservations, and we suggest booking at least a few weeks in advance to secure your preferred tee times.
Want to Know More About Visiting Oahu?
Check out our comprehensive Oahu travel guide to learn everything to know before you visit!
Keep Exploring Oahu
