If you’re thinking about jumping on the bandwagon and giving golf a try on Kaua‘i, there are a few things you should know before hauling your clubs to the greenest grass of the Garden Isle. And whether this is your first time playing golf altogether or you’re just new to the area, we’ve got you covered with the essential tips and tricks to enjoying a successful round of golf at Puakea Golf Course in Līhu‘e.
The Facts
- 18 holes
- Par 72 layout
- Driving range
- Short game practice area
- Putting green
- 6,954 yards from the back tees
- Rolling mounds | Strategic bunkering | Water features
- Pro Shop
- Golf Carts
- Puakea Grill
- Daily rates and club memberships are available
- A 10-minute drive from the airport
The Basics
Puakea Golf Course is open to the public for a daily fee—from 7 a.m. until the final tee time at 5:30 p.m.—and is centrally located on the island of Kaua‘i, making it easy to access from wherever you’re coming from. Picture playing beneath the Wai‘ale‘ale Mountain Range, next to an array of glistening water features, with moderate weather conditions that are ideal, on lush green grass, and maybe riding a rented golf cart amongst a more laid-back experience. Beginners are absolutely welcome at Puakea Golf Course, and won’t be pressured to rush through a game.
Spill the Tee (Time)
The first thing you need to do is select your tee time. We recommend considering your itinerary for the day and weather conditions when selecting the best tee time for your round of golf. Mornings tend to be cooler and there may be less wind, but if you prefer to play later in the day, twilight tee times are discounted and can offer a unique experience (plus it’s a great way to unwind after a work day). Something else to keep in mind is the close proximity of Puakea Golf Course to Līhu‘e Airport—so you could potentially begin or end your Kaua‘i trip by teeing off for 18 holes.
Booking Your Tee Time
Booking your tee time at Puakea Golf Course is a straightforward process. You can do it easily via phone or online. Plus, there are special promotions and discounts available when booking on our website and for kamaʻāina.
Be on time! Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled tee time. If you arrive right at your booking time, you’re late.
Club Master
Choosing the right club can be an ongoing experiment for golfers of all skill levels. Puakea Golf Course offers a range of Callaway, Taylormade and PXG rental sets that are available to rent for the day or try out before you upgrade. Before getting into the swing of things, familiarize yourself with each type of club and when it’s best to use them. Keep in mind distance and terrain as these factors will also impact your club selection. If you’re new to golf, be sure to check out the instructions provided by our team at our Pro Shop when renting a set of clubs.
Practice Makes Perfect: Driving Range Drills
Before stepping up to the first tee, take some time to practice your driving range drills. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a beginner, we recommend a variety of drills to help you improve your swing, such as “The One-Hand Drill” or “The Split Grip Drill.”
What to Bring
Aside from your clubs, there are some essential items to bring to the golf course to make your day on the fairways more enjoyable. You can bring plenty of golf balls and tees, as well as a hat and sunscreen but if you want to pack light, make sure to stop by our Pro Shop. Remember to dress appropriately for a tropical day away from the shade: Break out your new collection of collared shirts and shorts or pants!
Dress Code
While Hawai‘i’s golf courses are more laid back, there are still a few dress code requirements to keep in mind. Jeans and being barefoot are not allowed, as they may create a safety hazard. Golf shoes, tennis shoes, or golf sandals are also required. We highly recommend collared shirts and golf shoes to keep up with the atmosphere of the game.
Now that you have a better understanding of what to expect on your first round of golf at Puakea Golf Course, we hope you’re ready to hit the links and take in all the beautiful scenery the course has to offer. We look forward to seeing you on the course soon!
