Puakea Golf Course: Kauai, Hawaii's secret gem

LIHUE, Kauai, Hawaii – Don't let the first impression of the Puakea Golf Course fool you. Beyond the trailer clubhouse and the flat holes behind the local Costco hides a tropical golf paradise.

Puakea opened as a 10-hole course in 1997 after a hurricane halted construction. It was rescued when AOL founder Steve Case purchased the land in 2000. Original architect Robin Nelson was brought back to complete all 18 holes, which opened in 2003.

The 6,954-yard layout remains a local favorite for its scenery and affordability. Green fees max out at $99, a steal once golfers get outside of the housing development of the first five new holes and into the jungle for the original routing. The views of Mt. Ha'upu later in the round leave everybody feeling satisfied.

The par 3s star throughout the day. The sixth hole requires a heart-stopping 176-yard downhill shot over water. The two par 3s on the back nine -- the 228-yard 13th hole and the tiny 134-yard 16th hole -- are a study in contrast. The greens are in the process of being converted into seashore paspalum, another step in the fascinating evolution of Puakea.