GREAT EATS HAWAII: KOHANAIKI GOLF CLUB

KOHANAIKI

73-2055 ALA KOHANIKI

KAILUA-KONA, HI 96740

808-329-6200

Simply stated - Kohanaiki is golf paradise. Don't think there is a better combination of golf course and amenities in the world. Playing Kohanaiki is an "experience" and one that not too many people can enjoy because it is an ultra-private club reserved for property owners. Lots and homes here start at about 5 million and go up north of 20 million. The 450 acre private club is only two miles from the Kona airport but once you enter Kohanaiki you are worlds away in what I would call a fantasy world of golf. After getting through security here to can drive down to the ocean where you will find a 10 hole course and clubhouse. We played the 18 hole course that is up the hill across the rolling lava fields. As we approached the clubhouse, we were immediately greeted by smiling staff members who all welcomed us to Kohanaiki and then unpacked our clubs, placed them on carts and then parked our car. The Club Pro introduced himself and showed us a few items in the Pro Shop. I then entered the clubhouse and immediately fell in love with the "feel" of this ultra resort. The warm woods, calming infinity pool and green vistas. Paradise found. From the clubhouse we were escorted to the driving range where we were again greeted with smiles and "welcome to Kohanaiki". The indoor/outdoor structure next to the range was stocked with fresh fruit, pastries, coffee, tea and beverages along with golf balls and gloves. Help yourself the attendant instructed us. What free golf gloves, lip balm, sunscreen and balls we asked. Yes, take what you need we were told. Now this is luxury and pure golf heaven I thought. I walked to the range to hit some balls and saw a small canoe like vessel holding various color tees, colored markers, band aids, pain relievers and pencils. Again - take what you need. I was struggling hitting my driver on the range and after a few minutes the attendant walked up to me and very calmly offered me a few tips. He said I was closing down the club face at impact and showed we a few quick adjustments and then placed a second tee in front of my ball. He said to swing through to the second tee on the next shot. Boom..I hit it high and straight. The attendant walked away with a smile and I said "I love you man!". The Kohanaiki "experience" had begun and I was in fantasy land. "Have you played Kukio" another attendant asked. I told him that Kukio was on the schedule for tomorrow. He said that Kukio had great Comfort Stations along the course but Kohanaiki's were ten times better. He mentioned where to find them on the course and something about Mai Tai's, Margaritas and Wine. Cool I thought but really did not know what to expect. We were escorted to the first hole where the Club Pro gave us an introduction to the course.

He asked if anyone wanted coffee and one of our players said yes. A hot cup of coffee was delivered to the player on the course within a few minutes. The Rees Jones designed course is spectacular and each hole looks like a postcard that his been colorized into deep greens and blues. I really enjoyed playing this course. It is simply beautiful. Loved it. One of my favorite courses ever but what sets Kohanaiki apart from other great courses is the Comfort Stations. These are little mini houses complete with kitchen and bathrooms. They even have decks with televisions. Whats inside these Comfort Stations is amazing. Unlimited food, drinks and amenities unlike anything I have ever experienced. Were talking Mai Tai and Margarita machines, Bloody Mary's, Beef Jerky, Salads, Popcorn, Ice Cream and just about every other snack item you can imagine. Once you enter the Comfort Stations it is hard to leave. Ended our round with a nice gentlemen approaching our group as we came off the 18th hole. He had cold towels and Ice Cream Mochi waiting for us. Two other gentlemen arrived in golf carts and presented everyone in our group with beautiful Kohanaiki Surfboard bag tags with our name engraved in them. How cool is that! We all tried to tip big but the man insisted that he could not accept money. Only complaint about Kohanaiki is that we had to leave. I wanted to stay here for at least a week. Truly one of the greatest golf days of my life!

Click link below to view updated post on Kohanaiki Golf Club;

https://greateatshawaii.blogspot.com/2019/05/kohanaiki-private-club-community.html

Click links below to view other course on the Big Island trifecta;

http://greateatshawaii.blogspot.com/2016/04/nanea-golf-club.html

http://greateatshawaii.blogspot.com/2016/04/kukio-golf-club.html