Poipu Bay Golf Course
4.4
•412 reviews•⛳ 18 holes•championship•$$$ocean viewmountain backdroplush tropical landscaping
touristsadvanced playersall skill levels
🌺 Why Kai Loves It
I've got to tell you about Poipu Bay Golf Course – this place is absolutely stunning! 🏌️ Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. and opened in 1991, this championship par-72 course on Kauai's South Shore is what golf dreams are made of. Stretching over 7,123 yards, it perfectly blends challenging play with breathtaking scenery. What makes Poipu Bay special? The 16th hole alone – locals call it "the Pebble Beach of the Pacific" – sits dramatically on oceanfront cliffs with ancient Hawaiian ruins nearby. I always tell visitors to soak in that moment! The 17th hole is another stunner, a par-3 that crosses a ravine with the Pacific hugging the left side. This course respects Hawaiian culture beautifully, incorporating ancient heiau (temples) and lava rock walls throughout the layout. You're not just playing golf; you're experiencing Kauai's rich heritage. I'd recommend Poipu Bay for intermediate to advanced players who appreciate both challenge and beauty. With 85 bunkers and five water hazards, it demands strategy. Pro tip: book early morning tee times for the best lighting and fewer crowds. The trade winds pick up later, making those ocean holes even trickier! 🌺 Trust me, this isn't just golf – it's a Hawaiian experience you'll never forget.
Course Details
Poipu Bay Golf Course on Kauai’s South Shore is one of Hawaii’s most celebrated golf destinations, blending championship-caliber design, dramatic scenery, and a rich cultural legacy.
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Course Overview
- Designer and Year Built: Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., Poipu Bay opened in 1991.
- Course Layout and Style: The course is an 18-hole, par-72 championship layout stretching over 7,123 yards. It features a resort-style design with a blend of oceanfront holes, strategic bunkering (85 bunkers), and five water hazards. The layout incorporates ancient Hawaiian heiau (temples) and lava rock walls, adding cultural depth to the playing experience.
- Signature Holes:
- 16th Hole: Known as “the Pebble Beach of the Pacific,” this cliffside par-4 is memorable for its dramatic ocean views and proximity to ancient Hawaiian ruins.
- 17th Hole: A ravine-crossing par-3 with the ocean tight left, offering both visual drama and strategic challenge.
- 9th, 16th, 17th, and 18th Holes: Feature preserved archaeological sites, including lava rock heiau and stone walls.
- Overall Difficulty and USGA Rating: The course is challenging, especially when trade winds are up, and has hosted elite tournaments like the PGA Grand Slam of Golf. USGA ratings are not specified in the search results, but the course is recognized for its championship pedigree and strategic demands.
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Playing Experience
- What Makes This Course Unique:
- Six oceanfront holes and dramatic cliffside stretches.
- Integration of ancient Hawaiian archaeological sites.
- Host of the PGA Grand Slam of Golf (1994–2006), played by legends like Tiger Woods and Phil Mickelson.
- Seashore paspalum grass ensures excellent year-round playability.
- Best Time of Year to Play: Kauai’s South Shore enjoys consistently pleasant weather year-round, with minimal rainfall compared to other parts of the island.
- Typical Pace of Play: Not specified in search results, but as a resort course, expect a relaxed pace, especially outside peak hours.
- Dress Code and Etiquette Notes: Standard golf attire is required; collared shirts and golf shoes are recommended. Respect for local culture and archaeological sites is emphasized.
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Scenery & Setting
- Ocean Views, Mountain Views, Tropical Features:
- The course sits on 210 oceanfront acres, with holes perched on cliffs up to 150 feet above the Pacific.
- Palm trees, tropical flora, and lava rock features frame the fairways.
- Wildlife Commonly Seen: Native birds and occasional monk seals along the shoreline; tropical flora throughout the course.
- Best Photo Opportunities:
- 16th and 17th holes for cliffside ocean views.
- Shipwreck Beach adjacent to the course.
- Ancient heiau and lava walls integrated into the landscape.
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Pricing & Value
- Typical Green Fees (Range):
- Green fees are described as luxury-level, typically ranging from $200–$250 per round for visitors. Discounts are available for guests of the Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa.
- Twilight Rates or Specials: Twilight rates and packages may be available; check with the course directly for current offers.
- What’s Included:
- GPS-equipped golf carts
- Rental clubs
- Access to practice facilities
- Professional lessons available
- Is It Worth the Price?
- The course is considered a top-tier experience due to its design, history, and scenery. Most reviewers agree it’s worth the premium for serious golfers and those seeking a memorable round in Hawaii.
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Amenities
- Clubhouse Facilities:
- Full-service clubhouse with dining options featuring fresh local cuisine and beverages.
- Practice Facilities:
- Driving range
- Putting green
- Short game area
- Pro Shop:
- Well-stocked with apparel, equipment, and souvenirs.
- Restaurant/Bar:
- On-site dining with ocean views and local specialties.
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Insider Tips
- Best Tee Times to Book:
- Early morning for calm winds and fewer crowds.
- Late afternoon for dramatic lighting and sunset views.
- Local Knowledge About Specific Holes:
- 16th and 17th holes require careful club selection due to wind and elevation changes.
- Respect the archaeological sites—do not enter or disturb these areas.
- How to Prepare:
- Bring sunscreen, hat, and water—the course is exposed and sunny.
- Rental clubs are high-quality, but bring your own if you prefer.
- Expect trade winds; adjust your club selection accordingly.
- Common Mistakes Tourists Make:
- Underestimating the wind’s impact.
- Not booking tee times in advance, especially during peak season.
- Failing to respect local cultural sites.
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Who Should Play Here
- Skill Level Recommendations:
- Suitable for all skill levels—challenging for low handicaps, enjoyable for resort golfers.
- Best For:
- Couples, groups, solo golfers, and families. The adjacent Shipwreck Beach and resort amenities make it ideal for mixed groups.
- Accessibility for Non-Golfers:
- Shipwreck Beach and the Grand Hyatt’s facilities offer plenty for non-golfers, including sunbathing, swimming, and spa treatments.
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Recommendation: Poipu Bay Golf Course is a must-play for golfers seeking a blend of championship challenge, breathtaking scenery, and Hawaiian cultural heritage. Book early, respect the land, and savor the experience.
Course Information
South Shore
2250 Ainako St, Koloa, HI 96756, USA
Holes18
Difficultychampionship
Price Range$$$