BirdiesandBrews808

I usually play this course 2-3 times a year. For the last couple of years I have been a member of the Turtle Bay Golf Play program which give me access to some great deals on tee-times for this course.
It's really two different styles of course - Front 9 a bit more of a linksy' layout. Back nine winds it way through the woods bordered by by wetlands. Only one of the 18 holes do you see the ocean (#17), wind is always a challenge, particularly on the front nine. I have yeat to play from the blue tee's, which I will liklely do the next time I play this course, Playing fromt the Gold, if your t-shot is with the wind, you can end up in some trouble. Either put away the driver or move back a tee.
Look for the old Marconi Radio Station on #14 and use the coolers on your cart if you buy a sandwich from the roving cart (the Mongoose on this course are downright criminal).

This was my second time playing this course. While I remember when the course was first bult in the early '90's, I also rember its reputation on Oahu - "the best course you can't play," Sad to say that time has not been kind to Royal Kunia. Don't get me wrong....it's not completly run down - far from it. BUT...it does suffer, like a lot of Oahu courses from a lack of maintenance (it's a little rough around the edges). Sand traps could use some sand (very clay like), practice range is just a rough area; between fairways lacks a little "curb appeal." Don't let this turn you away, the views remain awsome, staff was very friendly and the course presents enough challenges for a very enjoyable day. Nice wide open fairways with room to move the ball. Not overly long....and well conditioned greens,
The lack of a clubhouse is minor as the on-site restuarant does a good job with what they have.

Played this course for the first time this past weekend. The fairways are in perfect condition. Bordering rough was not too punishing and the primary cut had very little in the way of bare spots.
The design of the course and the 20-30 MPH tradewinds the day that I played made for a challenging morning. Playing from the white tees. the course is a managable 6136 yards. Playing into the wind, your knock-down shot has got to hit the green. Many of the greens have false fronts, which check the ball up.
Greens were punched on May 10, so they are playing a little slow right now. Should come back nicely in about 2-3 weeks.
Service was excellant - I'll likely play this course again in the near future.

This is my go-to course...not because of any redeeming features....but it fits my work schedule, which takes me to the Northshore several times a month. If I time it right I can get on the course at 3:00 pm. Long days of summer means I can just get in 18 holes.

The fairwys and greens are in good shape. The recent heavy rain really has the rough well developed. As previous reviewers have stated - you only have two views of the ocean on this course. #6/#7 and #11/#12. Most courses on Oahu have none....ocean views...go to a neighbor island. All of the greens were holding the ball well (not hard) but the wind in the afternoon is a huge factor. My only complaint is the lack of sand in the bunkers. Very hard clay-like surface.
Take advantage of the Turtle Bay "Golf Plus" program. This is my third year of membership - a great deal if you can play here a lot.

Kahuku Golf Course is one of my favorite courses to play in Hawaii.
First, the facts:
It is a 9-hole course, It was built in 1937 by workers from Kahuku Sugar Plantation. In 1952 the City and County of Honolulu took over operation of the course. However, it sits on land that the city does not hold title to - thus it suffers from a lack of investment in the amenities. Yes, you will have to use a port-a-potty. There is no 19th hole and you will have to walk. If you don't have a pull cart, you can rent them - but they have to be back to the starter by the close of business.
The course is bulit in a links style on sandy soil with minimal bunkering fronting the holes. All 9 greens are permanent (there are no temporary greens) and are in decent shape. Many of the holes are designed for you to play in the true Scottish style - ball on the ground, running up to the green. 8/9 holes have ocean views - a rarity on Oahu, unless you are a member of Waialae, can play the Klipper at MCBH-Kaneohe Bay or choose to play Turtle Bay(three holes with ocean views over 2 different courses). Current rates are Residents: $20/$18 (weekend/weekday) for 18 holes (2x9). 9-holes $10/$9.00. Those without a state ID, or Golf ID card will pay $33 or $16.50 for 9-holes.

Now the opinion: If you are a vistor - this will not be your fanciest golf experience. However, if you golf for the challenge - then I encourage you to try Kahuku. You will need to bring a different style of game to navigate this course. You can enjoy the great views and very laid-back atmosphere. The overall course is in great shape - especially after a little rain. If you find hoses on the green (I've never seen this) - just move them off to the side (all the greens are hand-watered). My only complaint is hole #4. The tee box is still driving range astroturf. I play this course multiple times a year and enjoy the links style of golf. Last year on a trip to the UK I toyed with getting a tee-time at at several traditional links courses in England and Scotland. I could not find anything under $200,00 for the same same experience as I get at Kahuku for $20.