Alaka'i Aloha Oahu logo
← Back to Hawaiʻi Kai Golf Course profile

Hawaiʻi Kai Golf Course - Deep Research Report

Deep Research Report

Last updated: April 23, 2026

What it is

The Hawaiʻi Kai Golf Course is a public golf facility located in East Honolulu, Oahu, approximately 13 miles east of Waikiki. It features two distinct 18-hole courses: the Championship Course and the Executive Course. Both courses offer scenic views of the Pacific Ocean and the rugged eastern Oahu coastline, including the Makapuʻu Cliffs and Koko Head.

The Championship Course, designed by William Bell, is an 18-hole, par-72 course measuring approximately 6,500 to 6,614 yards depending on the tee. It is known for its wide fairways, large greens with well-placed bunkers, elevation changes, and challenging dogleg holes. Tropical winds from the ocean are a significant factor, adding to the challenge of play.

The Executive Course, designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., is also an 18-hole course, but it is a shorter par-54 layout, measuring around 2,223 yards. It is characterized by small, sloping greens and views overlooking Oahu's east shore and Sandy Beach Park.

The facility includes a clubhouse with dining options, a pro shop, a driving range, and practice greens.

Visitor experience

Travelers choose Hawaiʻi Kai Golf Course for its golfing opportunities paired with stunning ocean and coastal views. The Championship Course appeals to more experienced golfers seeking a challenging round with strategic bunkers, water hazards, and the added element of trade winds. The Executive Course is suitable for beginners, junior golfers, or those looking to practice their iron and short game in a more relaxed setting. Both courses are publicly accessible, welcoming all golfers. On clear days, players might even catch glimpses of neighboring islands like Molokaʻi and Maui, and during winter months, it's possible to spot whales. Many visitors appreciate the friendly staff and the convenience of booking tee times.

Logistics

  • Area: Hawaiʻi Kai & East Honolulu, Oahu.
  • Access: Located at 8902 Kalanianaʻole Hwy, Honolulu, HI 96825. It's approximately 13 miles east of Waikiki, accessible via H1 East which leads to Kalanianaʻole Highway (Route 72). Pass Hanauma Bay, Halona Blowhole, and Sandy Beach on your right; the clubhouse will be about a mile past Sandy Beach on the left.
  • Reservations: Tee times can be booked online via their website or by calling the pro shop directly. Advance booking is recommended, especially for weekends and holidays. Tee time requests are generally booked to the closest available time within 30 minutes of the requested time.
  • Timing: The course is open daily. Mornings are often recommended for cooler temperatures and calmer winds.
  • Parking: On-site parking is available.
  • Permits/Fees: This is a daily fee course. Green fees vary based on residency and time of day (morning vs. twilight rates). Golf cart rental is typically included in the green fee. Club rentals are available for an additional fee. A rider fee applies for non-golfing companions.
  • Likely Duration: A full 18-hole round on the Championship Course typically takes a half-day or more. The Executive Course, being shorter, might be a quicker experience.
  • Activity Type: This is primarily a half-day to full-day anchor activity for golfers.

Safety and cautions

  • Weather: Tropical winds can be a significant factor, making play more challenging. Golfers should be prepared for varying wind conditions.
  • Sun Exposure: Oahu's climate means strong sun exposure, so sun protection (hats, sunscreen, sunglasses) is advisable.
  • Dress Code: Proper golf attire and soft spikes are required.
  • Walking: Walking is generally not allowed on the Championship Course, with golf carts included in the fees. The Executive Course may allow walking.
  • Course Conditions: Some visitor reviews mention variable course conditions, particularly for the Executive Course, with occasional issues regarding greens or fairways being dry or having crabgrass. It's advisable to check current conditions with the pro shop if this is a concern.
  • Residential Proximity: Parts of the course are near residential areas, so golfers should be mindful of errant shots.

Editorial take

Hawaiʻi Kai Golf Course is a solid choice for golfers visiting Oahu who appreciate scenic ocean views alongside their game. It caters to a range of skill levels with its two distinct courses. Experienced golfers will find the Championship Course challenging, especially with the coastal winds, while the Executive Course offers a more approachable and quicker option for casual players or those working on specific aspects of their game. It's an excellent option for those staying in East Honolulu or willing to make the short drive from Waikiki.

Those who should prioritize it are golf enthusiasts looking for a public course experience with beautiful Hawaiian scenery, offering both a championship-level challenge and a more relaxed executive option. It's a good alternative to more expensive resort courses while still providing stunning views.

Visitors who are not interested in golf, or those primarily seeking purely pristine, resort-level course conditions without any tolerance for minor wear, might consider skipping it or exploring other options.

Do not confuse it with other golf courses on Oahu such as Ko Olina Golf Club or Turtle Bay Golf Course, which are resort-affiliated and located on different parts of the island, offering distinct experiences and price points. The Hawaiʻi Kai Golf Course provides a more "local Hawaii style" golf experience, rather than a resort one.

Source notes

Alaka'i Aloha Logo

Ready to see the highlights?

View the main activity profile for Hawaiʻi Kai Golf Course