Oahu may be the most-populated of Hawaii's islands, but there are still ample opportunities to get away from the crowds and enjoy 18 holes of golf under the tropical sun. While doing so, you can stay in one of the best Oahu beach rentals in the area. The island has several world-class locations with challenging courses for both the professional and the amateur golfer.
Ko'olau
Enjoying the reputation among many golfers as the most challenging course in the world, Ko'olau Golf Club is as beautiful as it is difficult. Built in 1992 by Dick Nugent, the 200-acre course is set in a rainforest environment with spectacular views of the ocean and nearby mountains. Ko'olau is par 72, and Golf Digest named it as Oahu's #1 course. The current visitor rate is $130 for 18 holes. The golf course is only a few minutes away from Oahu rentals located near Honolulu.
Ko Olina
Multi-tiered greens and attractive water features are part of what sets the par 72 Ko Olina course apart from other golfing spots on the island. Located on the West Coast and not far from Ewa Beach, Golf Digest has rated this as one of the top 75 resort courses in the U.S. The beautiful waterfall on hole 8 is one of the highlights here, as are the various small cascades and meandering pools around hole 12. Ko Olina also offers personalized instruction for visitors wanting to learn or improve their game in their Golf Academy. Rates for the academy range from $30 clinics to two days of lessons for $975. Morning rates for a round of golf are $179, while 18 holes in the afternoon will cost you $149.
Turtle Bay
For those with beach rentals on the north side of Oahu, the courses at the Turtle Bay Resort may be a good option for local golfing. The Arnold Palmer Course was designed by Arnold Palmer and Ed Seay and hosts the LPGA Tour's annual SBS Open at Turtle Bay. While the par 72 course can be challenging even for professional golfers, amateurs shouldn't be intimidated as there are sets of tees for all skill levels available. Turtle Bay is a very diverse golfing experience, having a front nine that is reminiscent of similar links in Scotland and a back nine that winds through the lush tropical environment that Hawaii is famous for. The resort's par 72 Fazio Course is older but also enjoyable. Both nines are played near the ocean, have pleasant views and have a family-friendly atmosphere. The Fazio Course is the least expensive of the two, with rates ranging from $75 for walkers to the standard morning price of $125. The Arnold Palmer Course runs $110 in the afternoon and $175 for a morning round.
No matter where you decide to golf, play or dine on Oahu, Vamoose.com is there to guide you to the best spots. You can search for beach rentals on Vamoose based on price, amenities and location.