Nanea Golf Club

Nanea is an ultra-private club that opened in 2003 on the upper slopes of the Hualalai volcano above Kailua-Kona, roughly 2,000 feet above the sea. Scottish architect David McLay Kidd, fresh off his acclaimed work at Bandon Dunes, routed the par-71 course across ancient lava flows and rolling volcanic terrain, using native grasses, elevation, and sweeping Pacific views rather than the tropical resort palette found closer to the coast. The layout stretches well past 7,000 yards and leans on firm, windswept ground and dramatic sightlines, a distinctly links-influenced sensibility transplanted to Hawaii. Founded by financiers Charles Schwab and George Roberts, Nanea was conceived as a low-profile retreat: there is no sign at the entrance and access is strictly invitation-only, reserved for members and their guests. That secrecy, combined with its mountainside setting and Kidd's minimalist design, has made it one of the most quietly revered and rarely seen courses in American golf.