What it is
The Waikōloa Kings' Nine is one of three distinct nine-hole golf loops that comprise the 27-hole Waikoloa Beach Resort Golf on the Kohala Coast of the Big Island. Designed by Tom Weiskopf and Jay Morrish, the Kings' Nine offers a Scottish links-style experience. The course is characterized by wide, undulating fairways, deep pot bunkers, and indigenous grasses, all set amidst ancient lava fields with distant views of Mauna Kea.
Visitor experience
Travelers choose the Kings' Nine for a golf experience that contrasts with the more ocean-focused Beach Nine at the same resort. It provides a strategic challenge, featuring lava outcroppings and numerous pot bunkers that demand thoughtful shot-making. The course is designed to accommodate golfers of varying skill levels, offering multiple tee placements. Notable holes include the risk/reward par-four #5 and the scenic #9, which leads back to the clubhouse with picturesque views. The Waikoloa Beach Resort Golf facility also includes a pro shop, driving range, and practice facilities.
Logistics
The Waikōloa Kings' Nine is located within the Waikoloa Beach Resort on the Kohala Coast. Access to the course is straightforward within the resort area. Reservations for tee times are highly recommended and can be made by calling the golf shop or booking online, often up to 90 days in advance.
Golf carts are required. For an 18-hole round, the Kings' Nine is typically combined with either the Beach Nine or the Lakes Nine. A single 9-hole loop could be a quick stop activity (approximately 2 hours), while an 18-hole round would likely occupy a half-day to an anchor activity (4-5 hours). On-site parking is available at the clubhouse. There are no special permits required beyond standard green fees.
Safety and cautions
Golfers should be prepared for Hawaii's sunny climate by wearing sun protection (hat, sunglasses, sunscreen) and staying hydrated. Trade winds can pick up, particularly in the late afternoon, which may affect play. The course is carved through lava fields, and errant shots off the fairway may encounter challenging terrain with lava rock. While not explicitly stated for the Kings' Nine, wildlife such as the Hawaiian Nēnē (geese) are known to frequent golf courses in the Waikoloa area, so awareness of local wildlife is advisable.
Editorial take
The Waikōloa Kings' Nine is an excellent choice for golfers seeking a distinct links-style challenge set against a dramatic volcanic backdrop and views of Mauna Kea. It's particularly appealing to those staying at the Waikoloa Beach Resort who wish to experience the variety of golf offerings available or who prefer a course with less direct ocean frontage than the Beach Nine. Golfers not interested in this style of play or those solely seeking panoramic oceanfront holes might find the Beach Nine a more suitable option. It should not be confused with the entirely separate Waikoloa Village Golf Course, located inland in Waikoloa Village, which offers a different experience and price point. The Kings' Nine is also distinct from the Beach Nine and Lakes Nine, which are the other two nine-hole loops at the Waikoloa Beach Resort Golf complex.
Source notes
- Waikoloa Beach Resort Golf - Kings' Course: https://www.waikoloabeachgolf.com/kings-course
- Waikoloa Beach Resort Golf - Big Island Hawaii Golf: https://www.waikoloabeachgolf.com/
- Hilton Grand Vacations Club Kings' Land Waikoloa - Golf: https://www.hilton.com/en/hotels/koaklgv-hilton-grand-vacations-club-kings-land-waikoloa/golf/
- Hawaii Golf Deals - Unlimited Golf at Waikoloa Beach Resort: https://hawaiigolfdeals.com/deal/unlimited-golf-at-waikoloa-beach-resort-for-just-125-daily/
- Big Island Guide - Waikoloa Beach & King's Courses: https://www.bigislandguide.com/waikoloa-beach-kings-courses
- Hawaii Tee Times - Waikoloa Kings / Lakes: https://www.hawaiiteetimes.com/course/waikoloa-kings-lakes/
