What it is
Turtle Bay Golf, located on Oahu's North Shore in Kahuku, is a golf destination featuring two 18-hole championship courses: the Arnold Palmer Course and the George Fazio Course, along with shorter options like The Breaks putting course and a Pitch n' Putt. It is situated within the Turtle Bay Resort and offers ocean views and tropical landscapes.
The Arnold Palmer Course, designed by Arnold Palmer and Ed Seay, is considered the premier course and is consistently ranked as the #1 public access golf course on Oahu. It features a Scottish Links-style front nine with sand, water, and rolling terrain, and a tropical back nine winding through a jungle forest of pine and the Punahoʻolapa Marsh, a 100-acre wetland and bird sanctuary. Water hazards are present on 14 holes, and the course measures between 6,225 yards from resort tees and 7,218 yards from the Palmer (black) tees. Its signature 17th hole features nine bunkers leading to a green near the ocean.
The George Fazio Course, opened in 1972, is known for being more forgiving than the Palmer Course, with generous fairways and fewer forced carries, making it a popular walking course. It offers an 18-hole layout that meanders through lush landscapes and along the North Shore coast, with some holes situated mere feet from the Pacific Ocean. The Fazio Course has hosted events like the Champions Tour Skins Game. As of the latest information, the George Fazio Golf Course is temporarily closed.
Additionally, Turtle Bay Golf offers "The Breaks," an 18-hole putting course designed by PGA professionals, and a 3-hole "Pitch n' Putt" course.
Visitor experience
Travelers choose Turtle Bay Golf for a championship golf experience set against the scenic backdrop of Oahu's North Shore, offering ocean and mountain views. It appeals to golfers of all skill levels, from those seeking a challenging round on the Arnold Palmer course, which has hosted professional tournaments, to those looking for a more relaxed experience or to practice their short game on the Fazio course (when open) or the putting courses. Resort guests appreciate the convenience of having world-class golf steps from their accommodations.
The Arnold Palmer Course is highly regarded for its layout, immaculate fairways, and well-maintained greens. Golfers can expect a mix of links-style play and tropical scenery, with strategic water hazards and sand traps. The Fazio Course (when open) is generally considered more playable and features generous fairways and ocean views, with several holes located close to the Pacific.
Beyond the courses, visitors can utilize practice facilities including a driving range with grass tees, chipping greens with bunkers, and large putting greens. The golf shop offers equipment, apparel, and Titleist rentals. PGA Professionals are available for golf instruction.
Logistics
Area: Turtle Bay Golf is located within the Turtle Bay Resort on the North Shore of Oahu, in the Kahuku area.
Access: The golf facilities are part of the Turtle Bay Resort. It's approximately a 70-minute drive from Waikiki.
Reservations: Booking tee times in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak season, for both resort guests and Oahu visitors. Tee times can be booked online through the Turtle Bay Golf website or other golf booking platforms.
Timing: Golf courses are typically open daily, with the Golf Shop operating from 6:30 AM to 6:30 PM. The Breaks putting course is open from 10 AM to 5 PM daily, and no tee times are required for it. A full 18-hole round typically takes several hours.
Parking: Parking is available at the resort.
Permits/Fees: Green fees are required for play. Rates vary for resort guests, Oahu visitors, and kamaʻāina (Hawaii residents). As of the latest information, visitor rates for 18 holes on the Palmer Course start at approximately $285, with 9-hole options available. Green fees generally include a golf cart and range balls. Rental clubs are available for a daily or weekly fee.
Likely Duration: Playing 18 holes on either championship course is a half-day to full-day activity, requiring several hours. The putting course or Pitch n' Putt can be quicker stops.
Activity Classification: This is an anchor activity for serious golfers, or a significant half-day activity for those playing 9 holes or utilizing practice facilities.
Safety and cautions
Sun and Hydration: Hawaii's sun can be intense. Visitors should stay well-hydrated and apply sunscreen.
Weather: Weather can be unpredictable; a light jacket or windbreaker may be useful for possible rain and wind.
Terrain/Hazards: Golf courses feature water hazards and sand traps. The Paspalum grass used on the courses can make the rough very challenging, so staying on the fairway is advised.
Wildlife: The Arnold Palmer Course surrounds the Punahoʻolapa Marsh, a wetland preserve home to endangered Hawaiian birds.
Dress Code: Proper golf attire is generally preferred, including collared shirts and golf shorts or slacks. Tank tops, t-shirts, jeans, and beach sandals are typically not allowed. Only soft spikes or athletic shoes are permitted.
Course Conditions: The George Fazio Course is temporarily closed; verify its status before planning a visit if you intend to play that course.
Editorial take
Turtle Bay Golf is a high-priority activity for avid golfers visiting Oahu, especially those staying on the North Shore or at the Turtle Bay Resort itself. The Arnold Palmer Course, in particular, offers a world-class championship experience with diverse terrain and stunning ocean views, appealing to players seeking a challenging and memorable round. Guests of the Turtle Bay Resort (or The Ritz-Carlton Oʻahu, Turtle Bay) receive preferred rates.
Those who should skip it include non-golfers, travelers on a tight budget for activities, or those primarily seeking quick, casual resort amenities who are not interested in a dedicated golf experience. The commitment of time and expense is significant.
Do not confuse Turtle Bay Golf with other resort activities offered at Turtle Bay Resort (such as horseback riding, surfing lessons, or spa services). While part of the resort, the golf facilities operate as a distinct entity. Also, while there are other golf courses on Oahu, Turtle Bay Golf is specifically known for its two championship courses and North Shore location. The George Fazio Course is temporarily closed, so ensure any plans are centered around the operational Palmer Course or the shorter putting options.
Source notes
- Turtle Bay Golf Official Website - Rates: https://turtlebaygolf.com/rates/
- Turtle Bay Golf Official Website - Our Courses (Arnold Palmer Course): https://turtlebaygolf.com/arnold-palmer/
- Turtle Bay Golf Official Website - Our Courses (George Fazio Course and The Breaks): https://turtlebaygolf.com/our-courses/
- Turtle Bay Resort - Championship Golf Courses on Oahu's North Shore: https://www.turtlebayresort.com/oahu-golf
- GolfPass - Turtle Bay Resort - Arnold Palmer Course: https://www.golfpass.com/travel-advisor/courses/2873-turtle-bay-resort-arnold-palmer-course
- Hawaii Tee Times - Turtle Bay Palmer Course: https://www.hawaiiteetimes.com/course-details/turtle-bay-palmer-course
- Hawaii Tee Times - Turtle Bay Fazio Course: https://www.hawaiiteetimes.com/course-details/turtle-bay-fazio
