Teeing Off in Paradise: A Comprehensive Oahu Golf Courses Map Guide (2024)

Hello golf lovers, avid tourists, and admirers of Hawaii’s spellbinding outdoors! Today, we’re embarking on a virtual journey across the enchanting golf landscape of Oahu.

Our comprehensive guide is designed to help you navigate the island’s golf terrain with ease.

From detailed descriptions of the top golf courses in Oahu to insights about the most impressive golf locations, we’ve got you covered in Oahu golf course map guide.

Oahu Golf Courses Map: Overview of Golf in Oahu

Oahu’s love for golf is more than just a pastime – it’s a deeply embedded part of the island’s cultural fabric. But how did golf carve such a special place in the heart of Oahu? Let’s find out.

Oahu Golf Courses Map: History of Golf in Oahu

Oahu’s romance with golf traces back to the late 19th century when Scottish immigrants introduced the game to Hawaii. Since then, golf has blossomed on the island, transforming Oahu into a dream destination for golf enthusiasts worldwide.

Importance of Golf to Oahu’s Tourism and Local Economy

You might wonder why Oahu boasts such a rich golfing heritage. Well, the sport plays a crucial role in bolstering the island’s tourism and local economy. The lure of Oahu’s world-class golf courses attracts throngs of international visitors annually, generating significant revenue for the local community.

Top Golf Courses in Oahu

We can’t delve into golfing in Oahu without spotlighting its top-tier golf courses. But what exactly sets these courses apart from the rest?

Ranking Criteria

A variety of factors are considered when ranking golf courses. The course layout, ease of access, amenities, natural beauty, and the unique challenges each course presents are all taken into account.

Description of Top Golf Courses

Oahu is home to a wealth of golf courses, each offering its own unique charm. From the rainforest-lined valleys of Ko’olau Golf Club to the breath-taking ocean views of Turtle Bay Resort, there’s a course for every golfing preference.

Oahu Golf Courses Map: Top 10 Private Golf Courses in Oahu

“Oahu, fondly referred to as ‘The Gathering Place,’ is not only a paradise for beach lovers and food enthusiasts but also for golfers of every skill level.

Home to some of the world’s most stunning and challenging golf courses, Oahu offers an unparalleled golfing experience that combines the serenity of its landscapes with the sophistication of its course designs.

Whether you’re a seasoned professional seeking a new challenge, or a casual golfer looking for an unforgettable round, these top 10 private golf courses promise to surpass every expectation.

Let’s tee off into the world of private golf courses that are as exclusive as they are exquisite.”

1. Oahu Country Club:

Oahu Country Club, founded in 1906, is Hawaii’s oldest private golf club. Set within the verdant Nuuanu Valley, the club’s course offers dramatic city and ocean views. It’s known for its cool, tranquil setting and for the kukui and monkeypod trees that shade its fairways, making it a scenic journey through Oahu’s natural beauty.

2. Waialae Country Club:

Located in East Honolulu, Waialae Country Club is the prestigious host of the annual Sony Open, a PGA TOUR event. The course boasts immaculate fairways and greens, interspersed with coconut palms and kiawe trees. With a view of the Pacific Ocean and Diamond Head, it provides golfers with a quintessentially Hawaiian golfing experience.

3. Ko’olau Golf Club:

Often dubbed one of the world’s most challenging golf courses, Ko’olau Golf Club is set against the backdrop of the breathtaking Ko’olau Mountain Range. This par-72 course is characterized by dramatic elevation changes, lush vegetation, and a diverse range of hazards that test even the most experienced golfers. While the course demands accuracy, its unparalleled natural beauty makes every round worth it.

4. The Royal Hawaiian Golf Club:

Tucked in the Maunawili Valley, The Royal Hawaiian Golf Club, previously known as Luana Hills, offers an idyllic golf experience. Designed by renowned architect Pete Dye, the course winds through forests and beside mountain streams, offering a serene and intimate experience. The course layout is as challenging as it is beautiful, making it a must-visit for any avid golfer.

5. Hawaii Prince Golf Club:

Designed by Arnold Palmer and Ed Seay, this 27-hole championship golf course in Ewa Beach offers a diverse experience with three interchangeable nines. Hawaii Prince Golf Club is known for its water features, rolling fairways, and multi-tiered greens, providing various playing conditions for golfers of all skill levels.

6. Turtle Bay Resort Golf Course:

Located on the North Shore of Oahu, Turtle Bay offers two courses, the Arnold Palmer Course, and the George Fazio Course. While these courses may sometimes be available to the public, they also offer memberships for more exclusive access. Surrounded by natural beauty, golfers can enjoy the ocean views, wildlife, and natural terrain that these courses have to offer.

7. Hoakalei Country Club:

Designed by Ernie Els, this 7,400-yard golf course offers beautiful views, broad fairways, and an array of strategic bunkers. The Hoakalei Country Club is a strong addition to Oahu’s list of world-class private golf courses, providing a challenge to golfers while being surrounded by stunning landscapes.

8.Kapolei Golf Club:

Kapolei Golf Club is a beautifully maintained course known for its flowering trees and shrubs, five expansive lakes, and 73 bunkers. As one of Hawaii’s most sought-after golf experiences, Kapolei offers a challenging yet fair test of golf, accompanied by a spectacular view of the Waianae mountains.

9. Mililani Golf Club:

The Mililani Golf Club offers a classic layout with Bermuda grass fairways and greens. It’s set among the Mililani Town’s beautiful homes and boasts an array of Norfolk Pines, Eucalyptus trees, and tropical fauna, providing an immersive golf experience.

10. Leilehua Golf Course:

While technically a military golf course, the Leilehua Golf Course offers limited access to the public and is therefore often considered semi-private. This par-72 course is situated in Wahiawa and is characterized by sweeping fairways lined with eucalyptus and monkeypod trees. It provides a truly Hawaiian golf experience, with the scent of tropical flowers filling the air and stunning views of the Waianae Range.

Oahu Golf Courses Map: Top 10 Public Golf Courses in Oahu

“Oahu isn’t just for the private club golfer – it’s also a haven for the public course player. With an array of exceptional public courses that offer world-class golfing experiences, there’s a spot for every golfer to enjoy the island’s beauty.

Whether you’re a visitor looking for a scenic place to play a round or a local wanting to improve your game, Oahu’s public golf courses offer the perfect blend of challenge, accessibility, and picturesque surroundings.

Let’s embark on a tour of the top 10 public golf courses in Oahu that are not just open to all, but also promise a game to remember.”

1. Ala Wai Golf Course:

Situated on the edge of Waikiki, the Ala Wai Golf Course offers magnificent views of Diamond Head and the Honolulu skyline. It’s one of the busiest golf courses in the world and is known for its flat, forgiving layout, making it an ideal course for beginners.

2. Ko Olina Golf Club:

This beautifully maintained course in the southwest part of Oahu is known for its cascading waterfalls, multi-tiered greens, and spacious fairways. The Ted Robinson-designed course provides a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golfers of all levels.

3. Ewa Beach Golf Club:

This Robin Nelson-designed course is a hidden gem. Known for its immaculate Bermuda grass fairways and greens, Ewa Beach Golf Club offers a strategic golf experience with an array of water hazards and sand bunkers.

4. Turtle Bay Resort:

Offering two spectacular public courses, the Palmer and the Fazio, Turtle Bay Resort on the North Shore provides a golf experience unlike any other. With stunning coastal views and natural wildlife, golfers can enjoy the best of Oahu’s natural beauty.

5. Hawaii Kai Championship Golf Course:

Situated in East Honolulu, this course offers panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean. Known for its well-kept fairways and strategic design, it’s a favorite among locals and tourists alike.

6. Waikele Country Club:

Located in central Oahu, this course is known for its beautiful views of Diamond Head, Pearl Harbor, and the Ko’olau and Waianae mountain ranges. It offers a challenge for all skill levels with its water hazards and undulating fairways.

7. Royal Kunia Country Club:

Offering expansive views of Pearl Harbor and the South Shore of Oahu, Royal Kunia is known for its exceptional course conditions, unique layout, and warm hospitality.

8. Coral Creek Golf Course:

This course in Ewa Beach offers a unique layout with natural coral rock formations, resulting in various strategic and aesthetic challenges that make every round interesting.

9. Olomana Golf Links:

Located in the Windward side of Oahu, this course is known for its strong trade winds that add an extra layer of difficulty. The front nine features water hazards on every hole, while the back nine offers stunning views of the Ko’olau Mountains.

10. Pearl Country Club:

Overlooking Pearl Harbor and the Arizona Memorial, this course offers beautiful views and a challenging layout with tree-lined fairways, bunkers, and water hazards.

Each course offers something different to cater to the diverse range of golfers out there. So, whether you’re after a leisurely round with friends or a challenging course to test your skills, Oahu’s public golf courses have something for everyone.

Understanding the Map of Golf Courses in Oahu

With a plethora of golfing options at your disposal, navigating Oahu’s golf landscape may seem overwhelming. However, our detailed map simplifies this task.

Geographical Distribution of Golf Courses

Golf courses in Oahu are dispersed across the island, each boasting unique terrain and stunning views. Whether you’re a fan of mountainous backdrops or prefer a seaside round, Oahu has something to suit your taste.

Accessibility and Transport Options

Reaching these golfing havens is a breeze, thanks to Oahu’s excellent transportation network. Whether you choose to drive, use public transportation, or even bike, rest assured there’s a convenient option for you.

Noteworthy Oahu Golf Course Locations

All of Oahu’s golf courses have their unique appeal. However, certain locations offer distinctive features and attractions that set them apart.

Features and Attractions of Specific Golf Course Locations

Imagine teeing off against the iconic silhouette of Diamond Head at Ala Wai Golf Course or embracing the serene surroundings of the Ewa Forest Reserve at Coral Creek Golf Course. These experiences add an extra layer of allure to your golfing adventure.

Special Amenities at These Locations

Besides the impressive golfing facilities, these locations also offer a range of amenities like pro shops stocked with the latest gear, extensive practice areas, and high-quality dining options – all designed to enhance your overall golfing experience.

Spotlight on Hawaii’s Famous Golfers

Hawaii’s golf scene has produced an array of exceptional talents who have made a name for themselves on the global stage. Let’s take a moment to recognize these amazing athletes.

Professional Golfers from Hawaii

Hawaii has a rich golfing heritage, producing prodigies who have performed on the world stage.

Michelle Wie West

One such prodigious talent is Michelle Wie, a name synonymous with exceptional prowess in golf. Born and raised in Honolulu, Wie started swinging her golf clubs at the tender age of four.

By the age of 10, she became the youngest player ever to qualify for the USGA Amateur Championship, setting the stage for an extraordinary golfing career.

At 13, Wie wrote history when she became the youngest player to qualify for an LPGA tournament, the Takefuji Classic.

She was no ordinary teenager; she was a golfing sensation making strides in a sport often dominated by experienced adults. Her power off the tee and precision around the green belied her young age, and her love for the game shone through every swing.

Throughout her career, Wie continued to make her mark, notching up numerous victories, including a coveted U.S. Women’s Open title in 2014.

Winning the U.S. Women’s Open is considered a pinnacle of success in women’s golf, and this victory cemented Wie’s place among the greatest players in the sport.

Yet, it wasn’t just her victories that made her a revered figure in golf; it was her tenacity, her ability to compete against all odds, and her unwavering dedication to the sport.

From an early age, Wie demonstrated the courage to compete in men’s tournaments, consistently pushed herself to improve, and even battled through injuries to achieve her goals.

Michelle Wie’s career in golf is more than just a story of success; it’s a testament to the power of passion and hard work.

As a trailblazer in the sport, Wie has paved the way for young, aspiring golfers, proving that with talent and determination, anyone can overcome age and experience barriers in the world of golf.”

Allison Corpuz

Next on our list of noteworthy Hawaiian talents is Allison Corpuz, a shining star whose talent and tenacity have made her a formidable figure in the golfing world.

Corpuz was born and raised in Honolulu, where she was introduced to golf at the tender age of four. It wasn’t long before her extraordinary talent became evident, and she soon embarked on a remarkable golfing journey that has made her one of Hawaii’s most celebrated golfers.

With her hard work and natural talent, Corpuz quickly excelled in the sport, making her mark on both local and national stages.

At the age of 10, she set a new record by becoming the youngest qualifier in the history of the U.S. Women’s Amateur Public Links Championship.

This early achievement was a testament to Corpuz’s skill and determination, and it signaled the beginning of an impressive golfing career.

Corpuz honed her skills on the greens of Oahu, making use of both private and public courses that offered varied terrains and challenges.

She frequented courses like the Ko Olina Golf Club and Turtle Bay Resort, taking advantage of their world-class facilities to refine her game. These courses offered her the opportunity to practice and compete at a high level, shaping her into the golfer she is today.

While she found success on the fairways of private clubs, Corpuz also enjoyed the accessibility and inclusivity of public golf courses.

She often practiced at the Ala Wai Golf Course, one of the busiest public courses in the world. The course’s flat layout and forgiving greens provided an excellent training ground for Corpuz, allowing her to work on her precision and short game.

As she continued to grow and develop, Corpuz’s hard work paid off, and she secured a place on the USC Women’s Golf Team, one of the most successful collegiate teams in the nation.

Today, she continues to compete at a high level, demonstrating the exceptional talent and drive that set her on this path at a young age.

Allison Corpuz’s journey serves as a source of inspiration for young golfers in Hawaii and beyond. It is a testament to the opportunities available on both private and public courses in Oahu, underscoring the island’s unique ability to cultivate and nurture golfing talent.

With its diverse array of courses and supportive golfing community, Hawaii continues to produce players who make their mark on the national and international stages.

Your Comprehensive Guide to Oahu Golf Courses Map

Now that we’ve covered the top golf courses and famous golfers from Oahu let’s delve into some tips and considerations for your Oahu golfing adventure.

Booking and Reservation Tips

Oahu’s golf courses are popular, so booking your tee time in advance is advisable. You can book online or via phone call. Remember, early mornings and late afternoons are often the busiest.

Golf Etiquette in Oahu

As with any sport, golf comes with its etiquette. Respect for the course and fellow players is paramount. Repairing divots, maintaining a good pace of play, and adhering to the dress code are just a few practices to keep in mind.

Seasonal Considerations for Golfing in Oahu

Oahu boasts a warm, tropical climate, making it a year-round golfing destination. However, the weather can vary between different parts of the island. Keep an eye on the forecast and dress appropriately.

Exploring the golf courses of Oahu is more than just a game – it’s an adventure. Whether you’re an avid golfer or a novice keen to try your hand, Oahu offers a rich, diverse golfing landscape. With our comprehensive guide to Oahu golf courses, you’re now ready to tee off in paradise!

Oahu Golf Courses Map: FAQs

How about you? Have you experienced golfing in Oahu? What’s your favorite golf course in Oahu? We’d love to hear your stories about Oahu golf courses map!