The Club at Kukuiāula
4.9
ā¢50 reviewsā¢ā³ 18 holesā¢championshipā¢$$$$private clubocean and mountain viewsexclusive amenities
membersadvanced players
šŗ Why Kai Loves It
I've got to tell you about The Club at Kukui'ula - this place is absolutely spectacular! šļø Nestled on Kauai's sunny South Shore in Koloa, this Tom Weiskopf-designed championship course opened in 2010 and has been wowing golfers ever since with its 4.9-star rating. What makes this course so special? Picture this: you're playing on pristine sand-capped Paspalum fairways with the Pacific Ocean as your backdrop, and suddenly spinner dolphins start jumping in the distance. That's the magic of the 14th hole - I've seen grown men stop mid-swing just to watch humpback whales breach! The layout is challenging but fair, with wide fairways that forgive your drives but thick Bahia grass roughs that punish wayward shots. Those brilliant white Cambodian sand bunkers? They're as beautiful as they are strategic. This is definitely for golfers who appreciate the finer things - it's a private club with exclusive amenities and that premium feel. If you can swing an invitation or guest pass, absolutely go for it! šŗ Insider tip: The front nine's 5th through 7th holes are pure eye candy, so bring your camera. And trust me, book an early tee time to catch those incredible morning light conditions over the mountains.
Course Details
The Club at Kukuiāula, located in Koloa on Kauaiās South Shore, is a private 18-hole championship course renowned for its stunning scenery, challenging design, and exclusive amenities. Below is a comprehensive overview addressing each aspect of your query:
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Course Overview
- Designer and Year Built:
The course was designed by Tom Weiskopf and opened in 2010.
- Course Layout and Style:
The layout features sand-capped Paspalum fairways over 216 acres, with wide, generous landing areas but penal roughs of thick Bahia grass. The course is a par 72 and blends traditional resort-style playability with strategic challenges, including water hazards and dazzling white bunkers imported from Cambodia.
- Signature Holes:
The 14th hole is especially memorableāa classic Weiskopf par 4 with dramatic ocean views and frequent sightings of spinner dolphins and humpback whales. The front nineās 5th, 6th, and 7th holes are also standouts for their elevation changes and coastal panoramas.
- Overall Difficulty & USGA Rating:
The course is challenging but playable for a range of skill levels. USGA ratings (Course Rating/Slope) by tee:
- Black: 78.4 / 139 (6,416 yards)
- Gold: 74.1 / 131 (6,073 yards)
- Blue: 69.2 / 122 (5,669 yards)
- White: 63.8 / 113 (5,223 yards)
- Red: 55.2 / 98 (4,516 yards)
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Playing Experience
- What Makes It Unique:
Every hole offers ocean views, and the courseās pristine conditioning is consistently praised. The blend of tropical flora, strategic bunkering, and wildlife sightings (including whales and dolphins) sets it apart.
- Best Time of Year to Play:
Kauai enjoys over 300 days of sunshine annually, making almost any time ideal. Winter months (DecemberāMarch) offer the chance to see whales offshore.
- Typical Pace of Play:
As a private club with limited guest access (mainly for Lodge at Kukuiāula guests), pace of play is generally relaxed and unhurried.
- Dress Code & Etiquette:
Standard resort golf attire is expected: collared shirts, golf shorts or pants, and soft spikes. The club maintains a high standard of etiquette and decorum.
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Scenery & Setting
- Ocean, Mountain, and Tropical Features:
The course offers panoramic Pacific views from nearly every hole, with lush landscaping including Macadamia Nut, Royal Palm, and Chinese Banyan trees. The setting is a former sugar cane plantation, adding historical interest.
- Wildlife:
Common sightings include spinner dolphins, humpback whales (in season), and a variety of tropical birds.
- Best Photo Opportunities:
The 14th hole is the most photographed, but sunset views from the clubhouse and several elevated tees are also spectacular.
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Pricing & Value
- Typical Green Fees:
The course is private; access is primarily for members and guests of The Lodge at Kukuiāula. Green fees are not publicly listed but are typically in the $250ā$350+ range for guests, reflecting the exclusivity and amenities.
- Twilight Rates/Specials:
No public twilight rates are advertised due to the clubās private nature.
- Whatās Included:
Green fees generally include cart, range balls, and access to practice facilities.
- Is It Worth the Price?
For those seeking a world-class, uncrowded golf experience with luxury amenities and breathtaking scenery, most reviewers consider it worth the premium.
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Amenities
- Clubhouse Facilities:
The clubhouse features lounges, locker rooms, a pro shop, and fine dining with panoramic views.
- Practice Facilities:
Includes a state-of-the-art driving range, short game area, and putting greens.
- Pro Shop:
Well-stocked with premium gear, apparel, and accessories.
- Restaurant/Bar:
Offers upscale dining and drinks, with both indoor and lanai seating overlooking the course and ocean.
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Insider Tips
- Best Tee Times to Book:
Guest tee times start at 12:40 PM (TueāFri) and 11:40 AM (SatāSun); earlier times are reserved for members. Book as early as possible, especially during peak travel seasons.
- Local Knowledge:
- The Bahia grass rough is deceptively penalākeep shots in the fairway.
- The wind can shift quickly; check conditions before your round.
- The 14th hole plays longer than it looks, especially into the wind.
- How to Prepare:
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and a camera for the views. Expect luxury service but also respect the clubās private, tranquil atmosphere.
- Common Mistakes Tourists Make:
Underestimating the wind, not booking tee times far enough in advance, and failing to stay within the fairways (the rough is punishing).
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Who Should Play Here
- Skill Level Recommendations:
The course is challenging but fair for all skill levels, with multiple tee boxes to accommodate everyone from beginners to scratch golfers.
- Best For:
- Couples (romantic setting, luxury amenities)
- Groups (private, uncrowded)
- Solo golfers (peaceful, scenic)
- Families (junior clinics and family-friendly amenities)
- Accessibility for Non-Golfers:
The club offers spa, fitness, tennis, pools, and diningāmaking it enjoyable for non-golfing spouses or family members.
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Summary:
The Club at Kukuiāula is a premier private golf destination on Kauaiās South Shore, offering a Tom Weiskopf-designed course with ocean views, luxury amenities, and a tranquil, exclusive atmosphere. Access is limited but highly rewarding for those able to play.
Course Information
South Shore (Koloa)
2700 Ke Alaula St, Koloa, HI 96756, USA
Holes18
Difficultychampionship
Price Range$$$$