Golf Getaway
Whether you are stepping off the plane or off the links, the Four Seasons' transformed and expanded spa has everything you could ever desire to put both body and mind at ease. In a setting that integrating lush tropical gardens with spare-but-classically Hawaiian interiors, complimentary perks at your fingertips include lap pool, whirlpools, saunas, steam rooms, and cold plunges, all set amidst lush greenery. Every skin-care and massage treatments can be enjoyed outdoors in our exotic new hales, secluded for privacy. Adding to the intimacy and only-in-Hawaii feel of the experience is an on-site apothecary that allows you, with your therapist, to customize your treatment by blending any of 20 local natural ingredients, ranging from Hawaiian sea salt to crushed macadamia nuts.
As you would expect from a Four Seasons property, there is an abundance of dining venues, from a stylishly clubby post-golf hangout (Hualalai Grille) with island-influence gastro-pub fare, to atmospheric indoor/outdoor beach-house café dining (Beach Tree), to an authentic old-school Tiki bar (Lava Lounge). The property’s fine dining hub, Pahu i’a, is up on the latest farm-to-table culinary trends, with 90% of the restaurant’s menu fashioned from ingredients sourced fresh from the Pacific and local farms.
Even in the heart of paradise, should any business issue from back home arise, relax. The resort’s fully-equipped 24-hour business center enables you to address it promptly so you can get back to your vacation. If your stay is a working vacation, rest assured the meeting rooms are set up for wired or wireless Internet access. Thanks to its sophisticated but approachable layout and natural setting, this hotel is perfectly suited for any kind of getaway, from an intimate romantic getaway, to a well-appointed family escape, to an executive conference centered around the 18-hole Jack Nicklaus course built directly into dramatic black lava fields. As it has played host to the prestigious “Mitsubishi Electric Championship of Hualalai” competition, playing these links alone makes a great conversation starter.
This flowing, geologically wondrous masterpiece extends some of the most challenging and picturesque golf that this spectacular island has to offer. With four separate sets of tee markers, each individual player can determine the level of difficulty that will best suit their own skill level. Playing from the furthest set of tees (Black), the par 72 terrain will stretch out to 7,117 yards. With a course rating of 73.7, and a slope of 139, the Black tees, also named the Mahope tees, will offer a great challenge to even the greatest of players.
The back nine stretch of holes has two of the most unique par 3’s I have ever had the pleasure of playing. The par 3 12th is 167 yards from the Black tees, but do not let the short distance fool you into thinking it is a easy hole. Precise accuracy is a must, as there is a highly unusual pot bunker in the middle of this large putting surface.
As you approach the 17th tee, note accuracy is once again pertinent. Measuring at only 164 yards, one thing is certain: it is an extremely intimidating 164 yards. If you mishit the golf ball, or a gust of wind blows (a common occurrence on the Kohala coast), your golf ball can and most likely will end up in the ocean as the 17th green borders the Pacific Ocean. The 17th hole is one of – if not the – most picturesque golf holes in the state of Hawaii.
The service you will receive at Hualalai Golf Course is second to none. From the moment you step into this heavenly facility until its time for the 19th hole refreshments, you will feel like family with the properties spin on the Aloha treatment. This is a MUST experience resort golf course.
Golf tee times may be requested with room reservations up to 90 days in advance. Green fees range from $200-$350. For more information contact: 808/325.8480 or fourseasons.com/hualalai.
12 Holes, Par 36, 1858 Yards.
Prices range from $15-$21 with a $9 cart fee.
For more information call 805/343.9459
monarchdunes.com
Central California
THE CHALLENGE AT MONARCH DUNES
Rated as a “Top 10 Par 3 Course” by golf.com, The Challenge at Monarch Dunes is designed by Damian Pascuzzo as well as PGA Tour great Steve Pate. Thecourse is set in windswept dunes and eucalyptus trees with gorgeous views of amber colored hillsides.
Photo by Craig Tanner
Southern California
SHERWOOD LAKE CLUB
18 Holes, Par 54, 1,965 yards
Private golf facility, for more information call 805/497.3037
sherwoodlakeclub.com
This magnificent par 3 course is a true hidden gem. Designed by the legendary Jack Nicklaus, Sherwood Lake Club is known as a “Bear’s Best” par 3 course, with a collection of Jack Nicklaus’ most prized par 3 designs throughout his career.
Northern California
PETER HAY GOLF COURSE
9 Holes, Par 27, 725 Yards
Prices range from $10-$30.
For more information call 800/654.9300
pebblebeach.com
Located directly across the road from Pebble Beach Golf Links and respected as one of the top courses in the world, Peter Hay Golf Course is the only par 3 course open to the public on the Monterey Peninsula. This par 3 course is great fun while it shares some of the same spectacular scenic views as its neighbor Pebble Beach Golf Links.
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