Use to be called the Links at Kuilima, but recently renamed "The Palmer Course at Turtle Bay." This is a Palmer/Seay design, and it presents an outstanding mixture of superb golf holes. The front nine is more open and links-like (less trees), while most holes on the backside are heavily forested. Wind can be a factor on this course so try to play when winds are down (say less than a steady 15mph). After recent LPGA and Champions tour events the course was in excellent condition. The greens were fast, firm and rolling true, and fairways were immaculate. The Palmer Course has Paspalum grass which is much less grainy than the Bermuda found on most Hawaiian courses. Mainlanders will appreciate this fact as it makes putting somewhat
easier. Probably reason this course isn't in Top 100 is that there are no truly outstanding great holes on the course. And there are no holes that require forced carries over large ravines or water hazards. Everything is subtle on this course. If you think your way around you can shoot a good score, but if you try to bite off more than you can chew, a BIG number can enter the equation. In summary, the mixture of good solid golf holes, superb conditioning, and great weather make this course memorable. Note: If you watch the Golf Channel on TV, this course was used in the filming of the Big Break V.

Customer Service

Excellent four star service. Bottled water and wet towels provided. Club cleaning at end of round. Range balls included with round.

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Have played numerous courses in Hawaii and more importanly on island of Oahu including Coral Creek, Makaha Resort, Hawaii Prince, Ko Olina, Koolau, and Kapolei.

The design is strong, the layout is beautiful and winds around a natural preserve on the back nine. hole 18 is a great risk/reward finishing hole.

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I now enjoy this course quite a bit. The first few times I played it, it was tough and hard to get a handle on. It is a links-style course with one oceanfront hole. The distances I found hard to judge, and I kept losing pellets in the natural waste and hazard areas.

BUT, after playing it a few times, I got enough local knowledge of it to feel comfortable, settle down and play a good round. It'll still bite if you're off line, but you can also have some very good holes.

This may not be among Palmer/Seay's top three courses, but it is a fun test of golf---after you get to know it.

Customer Service

Good people out here.

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The restaurant needs attention, but the shop is well stocked.