Centurion cardmembers' most requested hotels, restaurants, and more
Recommendations from the travel and lifestyle experts at Centurion Concierge.
One of the most favoured spots in the world for golf professionals and amateurs alike, Hawaii hosts many major golf tournaments that attract top players. But rather than be content to go out and watch, why not seize the chance to play with the pros?
Most golfers have probably heard of the PGA Sony Open, which takes place on Oahu every January. Few probably realise, though, that it is also open to a few lucky amateurs who can play in the tournament right alongside the pros. "The Sony Open is played at Waialae, next to the breathtaking Ko`olau Mountains," Says Honolulu-based Ray Stosik, former president of the tournament and a specialist in unique golf experiences in the Aloha State. "The country club here was built in 1926, and I think it's the best course in Hawaii. You usually can't play the course unless you are a member, but for the Sony Open, amateurs can sign up to play eighteen holes right alongside the major golfers, as part of their team." Amateur participants receive Sony gifts like electronics that have yet to hit the market and tickets to a Sony-sponsored concert and the premiere of an unreleased Sony Classics film. The cost is US$9,000 for the whole experience, but book early, since the 200 amateur spots always sell out. Similar arrangements can be made for the LPGA’s SBS Open at Turtle Bay in February or the Champions Tour’s Turtle Bay Championship in January, both on Oahu’s beautiful North Shore.
If you miss out on those opportunities, though, not to worry. Stosik’s company, 141 Premiere Sports and Marketing, can also arrange exclusive one-on-one experiences with some of the top names in golf—Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, Michelle Wie, and even Tiger Woods—who sometimes make their time available whilst remaining in Hawaii after winter tournaments. “It's great,” says Stosik, “because they are relaxed and in a good mood on the islands, and if you catch them before their yearly tours, they're fresh and full of vitality.” The price tag for such one-of-a-kind opportunities can range from US$25,000 to US$250,000.
And what if you simply want to play a round on a truly excellent course without Tiger in your foursome? Stosik recommends several Oahu courses—each with its own special appeal: Turtle Bay Resort's Palmer Course (“the only true links course on Oahu and one of the most scenic”); Luana Hills Country Club (“beautiful views throughout, and several holes played in the rainforest”); and Pearl Country Club (“great views overlooking Honolulu and the ocean”).
For a listing of more great Hawaiian golf courses, explore our interactive map or download a printable PDF version.
141 Premiere Sports and Marketing
733 Bishop Street, Suite 2160, Honolulu
+1 808 792 9300
Poipu Bay Golf Course
Grand Hyatt Kauai
Koloa, Kauai, HI 96756
+1 808 742 8711
Ko'olau Golf Club
45-550 Kionaole Rd
Kane'ohe HI 96744
+1 808 236 4653
Kauai Lagoon Resort
3351 Hoolaulea Way
Lihue, HI 96766
+1 800 634 6400
Luana Hills Country Club
770 Auloa Road
Kailua, HI 96734
+1 808 262 2139
