Kona Country Club
Kona Country Club offers an 18-hole course set amid volcanic lava and ocean views, blending approachable layout with island-inspired challenges. Its coastal breezes and well-crafted practice facilities make it a standout destination for players of various levels seeking a distinctive Hawaiian golf experience.
Course Overview
Situated along the rugged coastline of Kailua-Kona, Hawaii, Kona Country Club delivers an 18-hole golf experience that combines island charm with thoughtful design. This semi-private course weaves through volcanic lava fields and native flora, offering panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean that subtly influence each round. The layout is characterized by gently rolling fairways and generous greens, demanding strategic shot-making without overwhelming less experienced players. Local ocean breezes are a constant factor, testing the precision of approach shots and encouraging golfers to adjust their club selection with care.
Kona’s fairways are wide enough to encourage confident drives, while well-placed bunkers and natural hazards shape the challenge. The course’s unique volcanic terrain introduces subtle elevation changes that add variety without excessive difficulty, making it approachable for golfers of many skill levels. Among the highlights is the 13th hole, where a natural blowhole framed by jagged black lava rock invites players to pause and appreciate the island’s wild beauty amid their game.
The course’s short game facility is notably well-equipped, featuring dedicated areas for putting, chipping, and wedge practice that allow players to fine-tune their touch before heading out. The clubhouse offers a relaxed atmosphere with dining options that complement the tropical environment, serving as a welcoming hub after a round.
Visitors note the friendly and knowledgeable staff, whose local expertise can guide golfers through subtle green breaks and course nuances, elevating the playing experience. The layout’s blend of scenic coastal views, manageable challenges, and island ambiance positions Kona Country Club as a must-play in the Hawaiian golf landscape, ideal for both visitors seeking memorable vistas and regulars looking for consistency amid natural surroundings.
Golfers preparing for their visit should come ready for shifting winds and consider comfortable walking shoes due to stretches of rugged lava terrain integrated into the course. Early morning tee times are recommended to enjoy cooler temperatures and lighter play. Kona Country Club’s balance of approachable design and island character ensures a round that engages both body and senses, framed by Hawaii’s distinct landscape.
Course Highlights
Designed around natural volcanic lava formations, the course integrates scenic ocean views with a layout that balances playability and strategic elements. The 13th hole stands out with its natural blowhole feature among black lava rocks, creating a unique visual and sensory moment. The short game practice area provides dedicated spaces for putting, chipping, and wedge shots. Coastal winds influence club selection and shot trajectory throughout the round.
Frequently Asked Questions
Guest Reviews
lilac C
I think this golf course is very nice! Feels like we are in paradise. Beautiful beach area with lots of nice views, palm trees, large area with nice green grasses. We had fun playing golf here! The food at the restaurant was also good. Would like to come back and play golf again!
Taylor Suggs
Beautiful layout with spectacular views of the Ocean and Island! The short game facility (putting, chipping, and wedge area) is a great place to practice all your short game shots. The staff were friendly and helpful. I look forward to playing it again soon!
Cody Williams
Can not find better service, better vibes and better views. Few better ways to spend an afternoon in Kona
Mohamed Mounir
Unreal golf experience! If you're in Kona, this is a must! We went on a Wednesday morning so we got to enjoy the views more as it wasn't too busy. Met some lovely people as we played and caught glimpses of some unique critters as well (goats, ferrets, turkeys)! The blowhole through the black lava rocks at hole 13 makes for a nice pause to smell the roses moment while you play. 100% would come back!
Rudy Peralta (Ruru)
Me and my nephew had a 908am teetime. Single rolled a tee ball on is on the first hole while we were putting out. Needless to say we asked him to join us a few holes later. Then the day started to become a lasting friendship! See you never gonna know what to expect on a golf course.
Prapholwat Tota Panyayong
Jacob Reppert
Great course, beautiful scenery. Greens can be pretty tricky.
Todd Kovaletz
Stellar course with the best views around. The staff was friendly and welcoming. Don’t underestimate the greens. Reading the breaks can be extremely challenging and the greens keepers can pick some absolutely diabolical pin placements on some of the rolling greens. Don’t underestimate the influence of the ocean breeze on your shots into the wind. Just go golf there, you won’t regret it. I just have to figure out a way to get back out before the trip is over.
Todd Kovaletz
Stellar course with the best views around. The staff was friendly and welcoming. Don’t underestimate the greens. Reading the breaks can be extremely challenging and the greens keepers can pick some absolutely diabolical pin placements on some of the rolling greens. Don’t underestimate the influence of the ocean breeze on your shots into the wind. Just go golf there, you won’t regret it. I just have to figure out a way to get back out before the trip is over.
M T
We have played Kona many times over the years but sadly my most recent experience with the pro shop was disappointing. My husband was parking the car and I went into the shop to check in to be totally ignored by the Pro (?) behind the counter. Not sure if he was watching a golf competition on line? We needed a chit to get the golf cart to pick up our clubs (no help from back shop so therefore the button for service at bag drop off is useless). We were not informed we needed a 'coin' to get practice balls, again from the pro shop. However, we saw the cart person several times who was very friendly. We were very pleasantly surprised by the new golf carts and GPS. Too bad the Mountain Course was closed years ago. The golf course has amazing views and in very good condition. Of course like every island golf course putting is a challenge! We return to the Big Island several times a year and I hope this Winter our experience will be more welcoming.
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Course Details
Access & Location
78-7000 Ali‘i Dr, Kailua-Kona, HI 96740, USA
Main clubhouse features dining, pro shop, and a relaxed lounge area overlooking the course.
Walking is possible but involves some uneven lava terrain; sturdy golf shoes recommended.
Reservations recommended, non-members welcome during off-peak times or with member invitation.
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