There's nothing run-of-the mill about a round of golf on Lanai or Molokai. If you're willing to get all decked out, part with a wad of cash and tackle two of the most challenging and beautiful courses in the world, head for Lanai. Molokai's the place to go if you're looking for a down-home, less expensive and relaxed experience.
Some say golfing on Lanai is the ultimate sporting experience, not just for the demands of its two courses, but also for its dress code and fees. The Challenge at Manele, designed by Jack Nicklaus, has earned top awards from Golf Magazine. Its signature 12th hole requires players to hit the ball 200 yards from one cliff to another with nothing but the Pacific Ocean separating them.
Lanai's other course, The Experience at Koele, was designed by Greg Norman, and is as much a delight to behold as it is to play, featuring views to four other islands. The amazing 8th hole drops more than 250 feet to the valley floor while the 17th hole is completely encompassed by water.
To play either of these courses, you'll have to book a tee time in advance. And you'll need to show up wearing collared shirts, slacks (no jeans) or golf shorts (not more than 1 inch above the knee) and wearing shoes with no metal spikes.
On Molokai, you'll find a recently renovated 18-hole course where rates are low and the scenery delights. The Kaluakoi Golf Course is located 10 minutes away from The Lodge in Maunaloa Town. Using the natural terrain and narrow fairways, there are some tough bunkers and water hazards to maneuver around.
