KONA COUNTRY CLUB
Originally the Ocean Course at Kona CC, today's Kona Country Club is all that remains of the former 36-hole facility, following the closure of the Mountain Course earlier this century. Located along scenic Keauhou Bay just south of Kailua-Kona, this attractive 18-hole layout winds through lava landscapes before returning to the Pacific Ocean twice during your round. The signature stretch includes a stunning oceanfront par-3, with a neighboring green and tee sharing the picture perfect setting.

Originally designed by William Francis Bell, Kona Country Club has benefited from two significant renovation projects. The layout remains refreshingly straightforward, featuring just two doglegs on each nine, wide resort-style fairways, and generous landing areas that keep the emphasis on enjoyable golf rather than punishing mistakes. More often than not, the real challenge begins with your approach shots and play around the greens.

Very good course conditioning, true-rolling greens, and some of the gentlest trade winds on the Big Island further contribute to lower scores and an enjoyable round.

The first renovation, completed in the early 2000s, modernized the tee complexes and better incorporated the  oceanfront terrain, creating more visually striking holes and improved shot values. A second renovation, completed between 2013 and 2015, upgraded the turf, bunkers, irrigation system, and drainage infrastructure.

The result is a well-maintained layout that blends classic resort-style golf with some appealing Pacific Ocean scenery at sea level, making Kona Country Club a quality golf experience, especially at the rates we reveal to our subscribers via our "Insider Tips."

MAKALEI GOLF CLUB
Perched more than 2,000 feet above sea level on the slopes of Mt/ Hualalai above Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport, Makalei Golf Club is arguably one of Hawaiʻi's most distinctive golf experiences. Surrounded by native forest, lava tubes, cinder cones, and abundant wildlife, the course offers a peaceful upcountry setting unlike any of the island's coastal resort layouts. Dramatic elevation changes, colorful game birds, and panoramic vistas make every round as memorable as it is challenging.

The mountainside micro-climates add another layer of intrigue. Sunshine can quickly give way to mist, fog, or light rain, changing both the atmosphere and playing conditions within minutes.

Designed by Dick Nugent, Makalei stretches to 7,041 yards from the championship tees and carries a 71.8 course rating and 143 slope. It's a true shot-maker's course that rewards accuracy, creativity, and thoughtful course management. One of only a handful of Hawaiʻi golf courses featuring Bentgrass greens, Makalei eliminates the challenge of reading grain, allowing golfers to focus on line and speed.

Makalei is a golf-first facility without any of the amenities typically found at destination resorts. Its remote location, varied terrain, and mountain environment make year-round maintenance particularly demanding. So, resort golf it is not, but the reward is a uniquely authentic golf experience that feels worlds away from the bustle of the coastline.

Experienced golfers seeking a strategic and rewarding test will find plenty of challenge at Makalei. Players with higher handicaps are encouraged to choose the forward tees, where the course becomes considerably more enjoyable while still delivering all of its spectacular scenery and character.

GOLFHAWAIICARD holders receive our "Insider Tips," which reveal the best rates to enjoy Makalei. You'll also gain access to additional Insider Tips, including outstanding restaurant recommendations through the Big Island Dining Insider, our Wheel Deals rental car savings, and a scenic half-day driving tour.