The Ocean Course At Hokuala

The Ocean Course at Hokuala is an 18-hole golf course at 3132 Ninini Point St in Lihue, on Kauaʻi. Designed by Jack Nicklaus, it moves from mango and guava forest to a run of ocean-facing holes. The Pacific comes into play on the back nine, with a dramatic par 3 over an inlet at the 14th and an island-like green at the 16th. Expect a demanding but enjoyable round, striking coastal scenery and some airplane noise from the nearby airport.

From forest to the Pacific

The course follows a changing route across the property. Its opening nine runs through mango and guava forest before the layout turns toward the coast. On the back nine, the Pacific becomes the focus, with a sequence of ocean holes that gives the round a very different feel from the inland start.

The coastal stretch begins at the 13th, a par 4 played toward the ocean. The 14th is a par 3 over an inlet, while the 16th has a green surrounded by water and breaking waves. The route also passes through the Timbers resort area at the 16th. These holes bring the shoreline directly into play, so the scenery is part of the challenge as well as the setting.

Course design and practical details

Jack Nicklaus designed the course as an 18-hole layout. The revived back nine opened in 2011, creating a continuous sequence of ocean holes described as the longest of its kind in Hawaiʻi. The dramatic coastal holes are a main reason to choose this course, alongside a layout that is challenging but enjoyable across the round.

Club rentals are available, which is useful if you are not bringing golf equipment to Kauaʻi. There are no water stations on the course, so take your own water. Its location close to the airport also means aircraft noise can interrupt the quiet. Renovations have affected the clubhouse and nearby areas; check the current situation before planning your visit if those facilities matter to you.