When you hear the name ‘Hula Hula’ in Krabi, Thailand, you may be forgiven for thinking it is some form of bar or nightclub. However, its full title is Hula Hula Golf Club and this is one of the top golf courses in Krabi.
Krabi is a town located in the province of the same name and home to around 55,000 people. Despite not having any beaches of its own, Krabi presents a relaxed vibe and one which makes a pleasant alternative for golf lovers to some of the busier locations in Thailand.
Krabi International Airport accepts domestic flights and some international flights from Malaysia and Singapore. For those travelling from outside of Thailand, you are advised to fly to Bangkok and catch a short connecting flight.
Hula Hula Golf Club is just 10 minutes from the centre of Krabi Town and is two kilometres away from the airport, so you are not required to make a long journey to enjoy a round of golf. Hula Hula is one of the latest golf course additions to Thailand and opened for play in 2018. The course was created by a local Thai designer and features an interesting concept.
Hula Hula is an 18-hole golf course but there are just 9 greens, meaning each green is used twice during a round. This may not be to some peoples taste but it is not something you consider when playing, as you are focusing more on your own golf than anything else.
For players who do not hit the ball long distances, Hula Hula is perfect in that it plays to only 5,964 yards. There are three tee boxes from which to choose but everyone should be comfortable with the distance of this golf course.
However, do not be deceived into thinking you will breeze around Hula Hula without being tested. The large freshwater lake means water comes into play on several holes and you will need to be precise with shot placement. The par-4, 4th hole is the perfect example as you face a tee shot over water to a green which is protected by water to the front and left side. There area also two bunkers at the mid-way point between the tee and green so you must be careful when hitting your tee shot to avoid trouble.
There are three par-3 holes on the golf course, two of which present very makeable birdie opportunities thanks to the short distance. With one at 92 yards and one at 102 yards from the back tees, your eyes will light up at the potential outcome.
In addition to the 18-hole golf course, Hula Hula is home to a clubhouse which provides tremendous views of the surrounding mountains. The clubhouse is home to a pro-shop, locker rooms, café and souvenir shop.
Hula Hula is never going to compete with the other major courses on Phuket but for those looking for something a little different away from the crowds, it makes a great choice.