Luana Hills Country Club

FlyFish · November 8, 2008

Kailua, Hawaii

Luana Hills Country Club is a Pete Dye target-style golf course set on the windward side of the island of Oahu. It is aptly nicknamed "Jurassic Park" by the locals.

Although relatively short at 6,595 yards, the design of the course keeps play challenging. It is characterized by winding, undulating fairways that wrap through the jungle and hills.

The greens are bent grass (the only bent greens on the island) and while rolling true, are relatively slow for bent.

The course is built on red volcanic soil and clay. Drainage appeared to be average, with a few muddy spots on the back nine. The conditioning is better on the front nine due to better sun exposure.

Green fees include range balls and cart. Twilight rates are available (currently $85 for non-residents).

Although there weren't any marshals out on the course when I played, utilization was light and I was able to complete 18 holes in four hours.

The driving range is irons only and uses mats. They do have a putting green - the grass on the putting green appeared to be Bermuda and was noticeably slower than the Bent greens out on the course.

The use of a cart is a must as there is a lot of elevation change throughout the course.

The front nine starts above the clubhouse and offers majestic views of the Ko'olau range and Kaneohe bay. The wind comes into play here more than the back nine.

The back nine offers a completely different experience as it winds down and through the jungle. The feeling of playing in the jungle environment is highly unique and not to be missed.

Water comes into play on only one hole - their signature "The Pond" hole. This hole features an elevated tee shot over water (with fountains) to a protected green. The prelude to "The Pond" hole is an interesting two minute cart ride through the jungle. "The Pond" hole is not always open - but it serves as the 11th hole when it is.

The course does have a little bunkering but it doesn't pose much of a threat. The challenge of this golf course comes from the width and shape of the fairways, undulations and ravines. Most holes require perfect club selection off of the tee to find a flat landing spot - otherwise you may end up with a hilly lie or in a ravine.

This course eats balls. If you can't hit a fairway, you might as well forget playing this course as there is little rough. However, the trees lining the fairways are played like a lateral water hazard making things a bit easier.

Bringing a rangefinder is highly recommended as the course is marked sparsely in places, and you must know the exact distance for your tee shot target in many cases. This is a course where local course knowledge is extremely helpful.

In conclusion, Luana Hills offers a challenging yet fair test of golf, breathtaking scenery and above average conditioning. It is worth visiting for the scenery alone (not to mention the authentic Hawaii golf experience). Bring plenty of balls and a camera!