The Inside Swing

Nanea Golf Club

Kailua-Kona, Hawaii

Private Club · 18 Holes · Par 72 · 7,253 yds · Members Only · 4.8

An ultra-exclusive David McLay Kidd design on the Kona Coast, Nanea is consistently ranked as the best golf course in Hawaii. The minimalist layout flows over ancient lava terrain with Pacific Ocean views, volcanic mountain backdrops, and a walking-only policy that emphasizes pure golf.

History & Heritage

Nanea Golf Club was designed by David McLay Kidd (of Bandon Dunes fame) and opened in 2003 on the Kona Coast, created for founders Charles Schwab and George Roberts. Built on a thick hardened-lava mantle on the slopes of Mount Hualalai above the Pacific, it was the first course in North America to use Paspalum grass from tee to green.

Consistently ranked the No. 1 course in Hawaii and approximately 59th nationally. Walking-only with mandatory caddies. Strictly private and invitation-only — among the most exclusive golf clubs in the world.

Signature Holes

11
Hole 11 Par 4 · 400 yards

Part of the oceanfront stretch where fairways wind along black lava formations with sweeping Pacific panoramas. The course\'s greatness is in the cumulative routing rather than one standout hole — every hole is a signature hole.

What to Expect

A walking-only course with British links sensibility transplanted onto Hawaiian lava fields. Wide fairways with creative bunkering, firm and fast Paspalum conditions, and ground-game options throughout. Caddies are standard.

The lava fringes every hole, creating dramatic visual contrast with the emerald turf. Pacific Ocean views and volcanic mountain backdrops are constant companions.

Ultra-exclusive — membership by invitation only.

Playing Tips

Walking-only in Hawaiian heat requires serious hydration preparation.

Firm, fast Paspalum surfaces reward bump-and-run shots around the greens. Don\'t automatically reach for the lob wedge.

Wind is a constant factor on the Kona coast. Course management and shot shaping matter more than raw distance.

Enjoy the caddie — their local knowledge is invaluable.

Highlights

  • ✓ Ranked #1 golf course in Hawaii
  • ✓ David McLay Kidd minimalist lava design
  • ✓ Ultra-exclusive walking-only club

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Nanea really the best course in Hawaii?
Yes — consistently ranked No. 1 in Hawaii by Golf Digest and other publications, approximately 59th nationally.
Why walking-only?
The walking-only policy with mandatory caddies reflects a British links ethos — pure golf focused on the course and the walk.
Can anyone play?
No. Membership is by invitation only — one of the most exclusive golf clubs in the world.

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