
Ted Makalena Golf Course
The Ted Makalena Golf Course is a relatively flat course in comparison to the Pali municipal course, and often much more dry than West Loch and Ala Wai. The course is named for Ted Makalena, an American professional golfer native to Hawaii and one-time winner of the Hawaiian Open Golf Tournament in 1966. Makalena died tragically at the age of 34. Located in Waipahu, this course stands on a peninsula leading into Pearl Harbor. With a par of 71, this 18-hole course is great for beginners looking to enjoy their first real round of golf in the Hawaii.
The trade winds that affect so many long drives have little or no effect on the heat, and unless the sky is overcast expect a long, hot day. Be certain to bring plenty of extra water bottles. While some inexperienced golfers may end the days with towels red from dirt and dust from Hawaii’s red soil, experienced pros should have an easy time on the fairways.
Visitors without golf IDs (obtainable only by residents of Hawaii) can expect to pay $23 for a twilight/9-hole round, and $46 for an 18-hole round. Prices are the same regardless of weekday, weekend or holiday visits. Non-residents may call up to three days in advance for reservations, from 6:30am until closing. The course is open seven days a week, from 6am to 6pm. The Starter’s Office can be reached at 808.675.6052. Although lacking a pro shop, the Ted Makalena course does have a restaurant and snack bar, open from 6am to 7pm daily to accommodate that desire for a quick bite after a late round.
