LIHU‘E — Following several frustrating delays, Grove Farm Co., owner and operator of the Puakea Golf Course, has announced March 1 as the day Puakea Golf Course will open following a nearly two-year, pandemic-related shutdown.
Some of the features that will greet visitors to the golf course include facility improvements to the pro shop, golf course and the course restaurant, Puakea Grill.
“We’re one,” said TJ Esaki-Kua, the Puakea golf professional, to a pre-opening special event gathering of the Contractors Association of Kaua‘i. “The pro shop, the golf course and the restaurant Puakea Grill are all Puakea.”
Other improvements include a more expanded shopping experience in the pro shop, improved course conditions, an updated club membership program with details at puakeagolf.com, online tee-time booking and a renovated restaurant and bar that is now known as Puakea Grill.
“We made the most of our hiatus during the pandemic and took the opportunity to re-imagine what Puakea can offer,” said Casey Watabu, the Grove Farm director of asset management.
“With our convenient location in the heart of Lihu‘e, we wanted to provide exceptional value for residents and visitors alike. We truly appreciate the community’s support throughout our renovations, and we are excited to welcome golfers and diners back to Puakea.”
Golf-course leadership, from Grove Farm President and CEO Warren Haruki, Watabu, Esaki-Kua and Executive Chef Kristin Yanagawa of Puakea Grill, are all Kaua‘i-born.
“I lived across the road,” Esaki-Kua said. “My involvement with Puakea goes back to when I could cross the road and play here. Our hard-working maintenance staff has made transformations and improvements throughout the course, while keeping the best parts of Puakea intact. The course is fun and challenging, with beautiful views of the mountains and ocean. The sixth, seventh, 17th and 18th tee boxes have been renovated, lowered the height of the greens, and transformed the fairways and greens to paspalum grass for better playing conditions.”
Additionally, more improvements are continuing as golfers tee off on the new course.
“Our focus is on the youth,” Haruki said during a tour with the CAK group that included the organization’s new officers and board for 2022.
“We have a renovated and more-spacious pro shop that offers golf merchandise, clubs, components, as well as club-fitting and repair services. But for the young golfers getting ready to become the next generation, we have our Wall of Honor that shares the stories and exhibits of three of our own Kaua‘i golfers — David Ishii, Esaki-Kua’s uncle, Guy Yamamoto and Watabu, who had the honor of participating in the Masters tournament. We are looking at making Puakea attractive to not only golfers, but for those who don’t golf as well. This is the golf course for the next generation.”
The Puakea Grill, in addition to a new name, is also expanded in outdoor seating capacity and renovated on the inside with new furniture, spacing and hints of the possibility of expanding even more.
“Puakea Grill is a place for connection and community, with delicious, quality comfort food,” said Yanagawa, who brings a wealth of experience to the kitchen. “Whether you’re in the mood for a ginger-fried chicken plate lunch or a beer and pupu after work, the menu at Puakea Grill has something for everyone.”
The course has been shut down for two years. How will they honor the Haupu club members who lost their benefits for which they paid for?
I’m excited & fortunate to be there on opening day with Hobin Akiona, Les Hiranaka & Frank Sure. Mahalo to Warren Haruki for inviting us. Henry Kaialoa.