Course info
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Difficulty
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Course Report
The course is nicknamed 'Jurassic Park' due to its dense jungle, towering mountains, and wild, cinematic landscape reminiscent of the iconic film.
About
Royal Hawaiian Golf Club, designed by Pete and Perry Dye, winds through lush jungle in the Maunawili Valley just outside Honolulu. Dramatic elevation changes, forced carries, and jungle-lined fairways challenge golfers on an adventurous routing. Known for its 'Jurassic Park' setting amid palms and mountain vistas, the course features true-rolling Platinum Paspalum greens and memorable holes at every turn.
Caddie Tip
Club selection is critical—pay attention to swirling valley winds and always favor the safe side away from jungle edges. Some tee shots are blind and demand faith in yardages, while forced carries over ravines make conservative play wise for mid- to high-handicappers. Take extra balls; thick vegetation can easily swallow errant shots.
The Main Challenge
Royal Hawaiian’s challenge comes from tight, jungle-lined fairways, numerous forced carries over ravines, and the regular threat of thick vegetation just off the playable corridor. Elevation changes, blind shots, and unpredictable valley winds keep every golfer on their toes—precision off the tee and solid course management are essential to avoid big numbers.
The Good
Golfers rave about the spectacular jungle and mountain scenery, creating a truly immersive Hawaiian experience. The unique routing, with dramatic elevation changes, and holes carved through a lush, untamed rainforest make every round feel adventurous and memorable—an escape from the usual resort golf.
The Not So Good
Many visitors mention that rough areas and jungle edges can be penal, making lost balls frequent for higher handicappers. The cart-only policy and some long transitions between holes can slow the pace, and the driving range is often closed, limiting pre-round warmup options.
Signature Hole:
#
2
The par-3 2nd hole stands out as the signature, requiring a dramatic 187-yard carry over water to a peninsula green set against a backdrop of majestic mountains. The tee shot is both intimidating and picturesque, with little margin for error as the pond eagerly awaits mishits. It's a thrilling, scenic test early in the round.
Clubhouse
The 45,000 sq ft clubhouse features a pro shop, locker rooms with showers (sometimes closed), and the Oleana Restaurant and bar offering local and American cuisine with panoramic views. Banquet and conference spaces are available for events, and outdoor seating lets guests soak in the scenery.
Practice Facilities
Facilities include a putting green, chipping/pitch area, and sand bunker for short game practice. There’s usually no full driving range due to dense terrain, and its closing limits warmup. Club rental is available, and staff offer lessons for all skill levels.
Dress Code:
Standard
No dress code enforced. All attire is permitted.
Collared shirts not required. Clean, athletic or golf-appropriate casual wear is acceptable.
Collared shirts required. No denim, gym wear, or overly casual clothing.
Collared shirts must be tucked in; no cargo or athletic shorts. No hats indoors.
Elite club standards; jackets required indoors, no changing shoes in the parking lot, and specific attire rules based on the area of the facility.
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