The Kings’ Course: Along the path of history
A very long time ago, the volcano erupted with force, pouring red, molten lava down the mountainside, burning and blackening the coastlands. Black rock remains, in mounds of jagged a’a, and abstract swirls of fast-moving pahoehoe. Where the surface is smoother, mysterious petroglyphs were carved, perhaps by travelers on the Ala Kahakai or Kings’ Trail, which linked important cultural sites from North Kohala to South Kona.
In this historic setting, the Kings’ Course has been called a surreal golf experience. Designed by the renowned team of Tom Weiskopf and Jay Morrish, the Kings’ Course demands respect and delivers reward. The Kings’ Course is truly a player’s course. It’s got the length, the strategic punishment or rewards and the ever-present trade winds to protect par. Yet, surprisingly enough it’s truly a player’s course, one that demands respect and delivers reward for every golfer, with the right mix of tough challenge and exciting play for a great day of golf.
Kings’ Course Signature Hole:
The picturesque but devious 5th hole is a very short par four, where the wind plays a part, ally or enemy. Choose to go for the green and a chance at the elusive eagle, and a fickle tropical breeze could decide to guide the ball into the large lava field down the middle. But once reached the view from that elevated green is magnificent — with vast lava “moonscape” as far as the eye can see.
For a sneak preview of this course, click here.
Kings’ Course Stats:
- Par 72,
- 7,074 yards
- Slope: 135
- Rating: 73.4
The Kings’ Course is a strategic, Scottish links-style layout with multiple tee placements, numerous lakes, lava outcroppings and pot bunkers add complexity and drama to the Kings’ Course golf experience.
For a round of golf in Hawaii that you will be talking about for a long time to come, the Kings’ Course is a must-play.