Wailua Golf Course named one of nation’s best municipal layouts

WAILUA — The county Wailua Golf Course ranked No. 26 in Golf magazine’s list of 30 best municipal courses in America, announced last week.

“We are grateful for this honor and recognition, which speaks volumes about our hardworking staff and their dedication to maintain and preserve our treasured Wailua Golf Course,” said Patrick Porter, director of the county Department of Parks & Recreation in a press release.

“Considering that there are approximately 2,900 municipal courses in the U.S., we are fortunate that Wailua Golf Course ranked in the top 1% of all municipal courses in the nation.”

Wailua Golf Course was designed by Toyo Shirai, and was first built as a nine-hole course in the 1930s. In 1961, the second nine holes were added.

“So many of us have fond memories playing at Wailua, from junior golf to high-school tournaments, statewide and U.S. Amateur championships, to just casual rounds with friends and family,” Mayor Derek Kawakami said.

“Many can remember how important Wailua Golf Course was to my mom and dad, who were both avid golfers. I know that this would mean so much to them.”

Out of the top 30 municipal courses, Wailua ranked first in offering the least-expensive prices for locals, starting at $15 weekdays and $1 for residents under the age of 18, with monthly rates of $60 and special rates for seniors, according to information at kauai.gov/golf.