Big Island golfing is always a joy and, with so many different settings, there are plenty of opportunities to explore. Among all these amazing golf courses rests an appealing option in Kailua-Kona: the Nanea Golf Club. This isn’t your ordinary golf club — it’s one of the most sophisticated and distinct on an island already chock full of impressive golf destinations.
Mount Hualalei forms the perfect backdrop and environment for this remarkable golf course, where plenty of undulation can be expected. It’s a vast course and not a very well-known one, although locals are familiar with its strong reputation — and the local high school team even gets the chance to practice there on occasion.
Designed by the renowned David McClay Kidd, the course is one of the more exclusive on the island. The course’s designer was selected largely due to his creativity; Charles Schwab also referenced his “flair for creating outstanding links golf courses, not to mention, his “Scottish brogue.”
From the vacationer’s perspective, the main problem with this course is that it is so difficult to access. Membership is exclusively available by invitation, so would-be golfers absolutely need to know the right people.
Those fortunate enough to score a rare invite to this little-visited course will be thrilled to find a compelling series of challenges, with no two holes appearing even remotely alike. This ensures that even the most experienced golfers find new sources of intrigue.
Despite these challenges, the course is fairly forgiving. This is fostered, in part, by the paspalum grass, which is notoriously player-friendly. While most visitors will be elite (or at least moderate-level) golfers, beginners can certainly get by.
A deep-seated appreciation for Hawaii’s natural landscape is clearly evident, with the course paying homage to lava flows and other local phenomena. Evidence of lava is to be expected, not to mention delightful sea breezes that make this golfing experience feel distinctly Hawaiian. While golf here should get competitive, it’s important to take time to truly feel immersed and to enjoy the moment.
The clubhouse is also awe-inspiring, mainly because it is modeled after the Big Island’s iconic volcanoes. This is where the exceptional service is most evident and, despite the club’s exclusivity, you may be surprised to find that the clubhouse space feels friendly and welcoming.
Make every effort to discover the unique joy of exploring an exclusive course at Kailua-Kona’s Nanea Golf Club. You might not get the chance to explore this course — but if you do, you should absolutely make the most of this special opportunity. You will never regret taking part in a golfing experience that is available to so few.
Insider Tips:
-If you have any intention at all of checking out the Nanea Golf Club, it cannot be overstated: you need to find someone who is willing to extend an invite. If you have close friends in high places, leverage these relationships to improve your odds of scoring an invite.
-Be prepared for some tricky navigation as you head to the golf club. In order to maintain its air of privacy and exclusivity, the club has purposefully neglected to provide a sign at the turnoff. GPS won’t be much help either. Thankfully, the Kukio Golf and Beach Club serves as the ideal landmark; turn on the unmarked road across from it and continue for a few miles until you arrive at Hawaii’s version of golfing paradise.
-While Hawaiian elements such as lava rock make this course feel authentic, there is a caveat: the sharp rocks are likely to damage any balls that depart from the fairway. As such, it is best to keep plenty of extra golf balls on hand.