Kohanaiki Club

While I probably should be grateful for having been presented with the opportunity to play this exclusive private course, I didn't find it that compelling. I think I might get bored playing it repeatedly as a member. You really aren't missing that much if you don't get to play this course. By the way, I read that Hawaii residents can play the course on Mondays with proof of residency at a rate of $275. The staff was extremely friendly and solicitous. The young man who handled our clubs refused a gratuity declaring that the club has a no-tipping policy. The layout was "familiar"--similar to others we have played elsewhere. It didn't have any particularly compelling island or ocean views. However, it had "kid in a candy store" "comfort stations" to impress its members and guests including freezer drawers full of ice cream, a wide variety of snacks from beef jerky to frozen grapes, a frozen mai tai machine, a frozen margarita machine, pepper infused vodka, pineapple infused vodka, wine, beer, soft drinks, and juices. While these amenities were fun and impressive, they aren't necessary to enjoyable golf. The course had been aerated about a week before we played, but the greens still were in good condition which suggests they must be superior in normal conditions. I guess I just expected more from a private course. Considering the cost, I think Kona Country Club is a far better value, with a more impressive layout and more than adequate course conditions. I can't recommend this course simply because of the cost relative to the appeal.

I've lucked out, playing this once-in-a-lifetime experience twice within the past year. Kohanaiki is the private playground of millionaire property owners, although there is limited public access on Mondays, when Hawaii residents with a valid driver's license can play for $275. It might be the best Rees Jones design I've played, simply because it's much more fun and forgiving than the others. Jones designed the back nine around 13 Ahu (rock shrines) running parallel to 200 anchialine ponds in the volcanic black lava rock along the beach. These ponds were historically used by Hawaiians to raise fish and shrimp. Kohanaiki's service and amenities - three comfort stations stocked with free food and drink for golfers - are second to none. When the 62,000-square-foot clubhouse - home to a bowling alley, movie theater, restaurant, spa, recreation/game room, fitness area and men's and women's lockers - is completed in late 2015, Kohanaiki will rival any private club anywhere.