KALAUAO, O‘ahu – Pearl at Kalauao conducted its soft opening on Nov. 29, marking the completion of renovations designed to elevate the golf course, transform the clubhouse and create a vibrant space for community connection.
“We are extremely excited to welcome the community back to Pearl at Kalauao,” said Ed Kageyama, general manager of Pearl at Kalauao. “We look forward to sharing a refreshed Pearl, where kamaʻāina and visitors can enjoy challenging golf, build pilina with friends and connect with the rich history of the Kalauao ahupua‘a.”
During the soft opening, visitors can enjoy limited golf tee times and restaurant reservations. Banquet bookings are now open and a festive open house with a night market — featuring live entertainment and more than 90 local vendors—is set for Dec. 11. The golf course plans to fully reopen on Feb. 1.
Among the most notable changes is the course’s new name, Pearl at Kalauao, reinforcing its connection to the ahupua‘a while honoring its history as Pearl Country Club.
Pearl at Kalauao’s new circular logo is inspired by the momi (pearls) found in Pu‘uloa (Pearl Harbor) and incorporates elements of the ‘āina (land), the lā (sun), Kalauao (billowing clouds) and Kahuewai (the spring at Kalauao). The rough edges evoke a hand-carved, stone look, inspired by Native Hawaiian petroglyphs.
Pearl’s renovations focused on creating a more inviting atmosphere, improving amenities, enhancing sustainability features and upgrading the golf course for a more enjoyable experience. Notable golf upgrades include:
- Turf: All greens were replaced with Platinum TE Paspalum turf, which is known for its adaptability to salt-air environments, providing a smooth, reliable putting surface.
• Water conservation: A state-of-the-art irrigation system was installed, equipped with a weather station for improved water management and conservation. Along with a new drainage system, this ensures more consistent playing conditions.
• Bunkers: Six new fairway bunkers were added, and the Better Billy Bunker method was introduced for enhanced playability and reduced maintenance.
• Tee boxes: Some holes feature new tee boxes, increasing shot values and enhancing views.
• Short course: A three-hole pitch-and-putt course was designed, with holes ranging from 40 to 60 yards, perfect for beginners and seasoned players refining their short games.
• Practice facilities: Two new chipping greens and a putting green were constructed, along with an extended driving range to accommodate long hitters.
• Junior golf: The revamped teaching facilities and programs aim to provide a dedicated space for local juniors to train and develop their skills.
• Golf carts: The club has received fully loaded E-Z-GO golf carts, equipped with GPS, Bluetooth speakers, cushioned premium seats and other amenities.
“Our goal is to re-establish Pearl as O‘ahu’s premier gathering spot for golf and entertainment,” Kageyama said. “Both longtime Pearl members and new visitors will appreciate the new greens, clubhouse amenities and our top-tier junior golf development programs.”
The reimagined clubhouse now offers versatile, modern amenities:
- Décor: New floor-to-ceiling windows, furniture, lighting and expanded event spaces.
• Outdoor lanai: Widened to provide additional dining and gathering space.
• Ballroom expansion: Increased capacity to host larger events, including weddings, birthdays, family gatherings and corporate functions.
• Kitchen and restaurant: New facilities and revamped menus showcasing locally sourced meals and drinks.
• Pro shop: Relocated and refreshed with popular apparel items, along with grab-and-go food and drinks.
Visit www.pearlatkalauao.com to reserve tee times, book dining or banquet facilities and stay updated on the reopening of Pearl.
