Oahu Golf Guide: The Top 3 Honolulu Golf Courses | Prince Waikiki

The Best of Oahu: The Top 3 Oahu Golf Courses

The Best of Oahu: The Top 3 Oahu Golf Courses

Aerial View of Hawaii Prince, the Best Oahu Golf Course.Aerial View of Hawaii Prince, the Best Oahu Golf Course.The island of Oahu remains one of the world’s most desirable golf destinations, mainly due to the spellbinding natural beauty, the idyllic pace of play, and the renowned course designs by the likes of Arnold Palmer, Ed Seay, and Ted Robinson. Because the island spans “only” 597 square miles, Prince Waikiki’s guests will always be a short drive away from the premier Oahu golf courses, including the prestigious, undeniably beautiful Hawaii Prince Golf Club.

The 3 Best Oahu Golf Courses

One round of Oahu golf typically leads two or three more, especially for those aiming to play 18 holes at multiple coastal gems. The three best Oahu golf courses lie on the southwest edge of the island in or near Kapolei, a continuously-growing community a few ticks west of Pearl Harbor. This sprawling, picturesque region is well known for its public golf courses, including the three staples listed below.

Fairway Photo at Hawaii Prince, the Best Oahu Golf Course.Fairway Photo at Hawaii Prince, the Best Oahu Golf Course.It’s hard to imagine a more paradisical golf destination on the island. Hawaii Prince sits on 270 acres of pristine Ewa Plain terrain, where the Waianae Mountains grin at a distance, and the swaying palms add a calming effect. Arnold Palmer and Ed Seay, two of the industry’s top architects, joined forces to masterfully create a dramatic, 27-hole design, highlighted by 10 still lakes, lush greenery, soft greens, white sand bunkers, and a naturally rolling landscape. Prince Waikiki offers exclusive discounts as well. Don’t forget to enjoy a fruity cocktail and a pupu, such as poke or ika karaage, at Bird of Paradise before departure.

Over the decades, Kapolei Golf Club has earned widespread recognition for hosting LPGA and PGA Tour Champions events. The Kapolei team is quick to point out that Annika Sorenstam and Greg Norman have graced these tee boxes and greens. Architect Ted Robinson flawlessly transformed a 190-acre sugar cane plantation into an 18-hole marvel. Due to its location along the southern rim of an arid, uninhabited quarry at the foothills of the jagged Nanakuli Forest Reserve, Kapolei tends to undergo dry spells. However, that only amplifies the stark contrast between the vibrant greens and grounds and the surrounding sandcastle-tan desert plain.

Admittedly, Ewa Beach isn’t one of the most beautiful Oahu golf courses. However, it’s an altogether fabulous experience that features rolling, links-style fairways, diverse (and native) birdlife, and a swift pace of play, all within earshot of Puʻuloa Beach’s salty waves. Skilled golfers admire Ewa Beach’s challenging design, which utilizes every inch of its cramped, albeit magnificently designed 130 acres.

The Best Hotels in Oahu: Prince Waikiki

Photo of Prince Waikiki's Infinity Pool, the Perfect Place to Relax after an Oahu Golf Game.Photo of Prince Waikiki's Infinity Pool, the Perfect Place to Relax after an Oahu Golf Game.For a truly unique and memorable Oahu golf experience, please read about Prince Waikiki’s stay and play packages. Combine several rounds of championship golf with a scenic drive around the island, wellness activities, and a bevy of socially-distanced pursuits. Back at Prince Waikiki, guests can soak in the opulent, ocean-view infinity pool, dine on island cuisines, and relax in the exclusive Club Lounge. Aaron Miyakawa, Prince’s director of restaurants, was recently featured in an UPROXX article about fall’s hottest scotch labels. Take Aaron’s advice and order the Macallan 18 at Hinana Bar. Please take the time to watch the “Prince Promise” video. It’s short, informative, and important—book now, save later!