Creating an exceptional golf destination requires more than just pristine fairways and stunning views. It demands a partnership built on trust, shared vision and deep respect for the community you serve. At Kohanaiki Golf Course on Hawaii’s Big Island, this philosophy has become the foundation for one of the most exclusive and culturally authentic golf experiences in the Pacific. The success story of this remarkable facility is written through the collaborative leadership of David Reese, PGA, President and CEO, and Lehua Wise, PGA, Director of Golf - a partnership that exemplifies how working together can transform a golf course into something truly extraordinary.
David Reese’s journey in the golf industry began long before he set foot on Hawaiian soil. A member of the PGA since 2002, David built his expertise through leadership roles at some of California’s most esteemed properties, including The Fountaingrove Club in Sonoma County, Winchester Country Club in Meadow Vista and CordeValle in San Martin. His career trajectory took a pivotal turn when he joined the Kohanaiki team in 2008, gaining invaluable insight into the unique challenges and opportunities of operating a luxury golf facility in Hawaii. After gaining additional experience elsewhere, David returned to Kohanaiki in 2014 with a clear mission to oversee the property’s evolution into one of Hawaii’s most exclusive destinations.
“At Kohanaiki, we’ve created an unparalleled destination where world-class golf seamlessly integrates with exceptional lifestyle amenities,” Reese explains. “Our Rees Jones-designed golf course sets a new standard in Hawaii, offering players a unique blend of challenging play and stunning coastal beauty. Beyond the fairways, members enjoy access to premier facilities including a state-of-the-art clubhouse, fitness center, dining venues and beachside recreation - all designed to enhance the overall experience. Kohanaiki is more than a golf club; it’s a vibrant community that embodies the spirit of island living at its finest.”
Under Reese’s leadership, Kohanaiki has become renowned for its personalized member experiences, innovative programming and unwavering commitment to integrating Hawaiian culture into every aspect of its offerings. This approach reflects Reese’s deep respect for the land and community, fostering a unique blend of luxury and authenticity that has come to define Kohanaiki’s identity in the competitive world of high-end golf destinations.
The success of any golf facility, however, depends heavily on the strength of its operational partnerships. For Reese, one of the most crucial relationships is with Lehua Wise, PGA, who serves as director of golf. Lehua brings a perspective that is both professionally accomplished and culturally invaluable - she is a native of Hawaii with over a decade of experience in elite golf environments and a deep understanding of island culture that permeates every aspect of her work.
Lehua’s journey to Kohanaiki began with her education at New Mexico State University, where she earned her degree in Professional Golf Management. Her competitive background includes time on the LPGA Futures Tour from 2009 to 2011, where she was honored as Desert Chapter Women’s Player of the Year three times. This competitive experience provided her with insights into the game that she now applies to member development and program creation.
Before joining Kohanaiki in 2023, Lehua honed her skills in luxury golf environments, including tenure at Yellowstone Club, where she managed high-end private golf communities, and as head golf professional at the prestigious Hideaway Golf Club. These experiences prepared her for the unique challenges of operating a world-class facility in Hawaii, where cultural sensitivity and operational excellence must work hand in hand.
“Just when you think you’ve played everywhere, you arrive at Kohanaiki Golf Course - the only course in Hawaii designed by the world-renowned Rees Jones,” Lehua explains with evident pride. “Our 18 holes offer the perfect balance of challenge and enjoyment, with six stunning oceanfront holes along a sparkling 1½-mile shoreline that showcase the island’s natural beauty. After your round, you can unwind at our golf hale with signature Kohanaiki brews or a variety of island-inspired snacks. It’s truly more than just golf - it’s an experience that captures the spirit of Hawaii.”
The partnership between David and Lehua represents more than just an effective management structure; it embodies a progressive approach to leadership in an industry that has traditionally been male-dominated. Lehua’s appointment as director of golf aligns with Kohanaiki’s commitment to inclusivity and excellence, demonstrating that the facility’s values extend beyond the golf course into its organizational philosophy.
At the heart of their successful collaboration is a management approach that prioritizes open communication and clear role definition. Reese’s leadership philosophy centers on creating an environment where every team member understands their responsibilities while feeling empowered to contribute to the facility’s success.
“As President and CEO, I focus on open communication and making sure everyone understands their role and responsibilities,” Reese explains. “We work closely as a team to deliver exceptional service, and I make it a priority to support ongoing training and development. Creating a positive and supportive workplace is important to me because when people feel valued and motivated, they do their best work. It’s about fostering a culture where collaboration comes naturally and everyone feels empowered to contribute.”
This collaborative approach extends directly to Reese’s working relationship with Lehua, which he describes as foundational to the club’s operational success. The partnership demonstrates how effective leadership in the golf industry requires not just individual expertise but the ability to build and maintain strong professional relationships that align with organizational goals.
“I work closely with several key team members, including our director of golf, Lehua Wise,” Reese notes. “Our relationship is founded on trust and collaboration, which is essential in aligning golf operations with the overall vision of the club. Having a strong partnership with Lehua ensures that we consistently deliver an exceptional experience for our members and guests. Her expertise and leadership play a vital role in maintaining the high standards and unique spirit that define our community’s success.”
The success of their partnership is evident in Kohanaiki’s reputation as a premier golf destination. Under their joint leadership, the facility has successfully balanced the demands of operating a world-class golf course with the responsibility of honoring and preserving Hawaiian culture. This balance is reflected in everything from the design elements that incorporate local traditions to the programming that celebrates island heritage.
Lehua’s role extends far beyond traditional golf operations. At Kohanaiki, she leads member engagement initiatives, develops innovative programming and fosters a welcoming environment that embraces both avid golfers and newcomers to the game. Her approach recognizes that modern golf facilities must serve diverse constituencies while maintaining the highest standards of play and service.
The Rees Jones-designed course serves as a testament to the thoughtful approach that defines Kohanaiki’s operations. The layout takes full advantage of the property’s spectacular coastal setting while respecting the natural environment and cultural significance of the land. The six oceanfront holes that Lehua highlights represent more than just scenic beauty; they embody the facility’s commitment to creating an authentic Hawaiian golf experience that honors both the game and the location.
Beyond the golf course, Kohanaiki’s success reflects the broader vision that Reese and Lehua share for what a modern golf facility can become. Their approach recognizes that today’s discerning members expect more than just access to a quality golf course. They seek a comprehensive lifestyle experience that includes exceptional dining, fitness facilities, social programming and opportunities for cultural enrichment.
The partnership between David Reese and Lehua Wise at Kohanaiki Golf Course demonstrates that success in the modern golf industry requires more than individual expertise - it demands collaborative leadership that honors both professional excellence and cultural authenticity. Their working relationship serves as a model for how golf facilities can thrive by embracing diversity, fostering open communication and maintaining an unwavering commitment to member experience.
As the golf industry continues to evolve, facilities like Kohanaiki prove that the most successful operations are those that understand the importance of strong partnerships, cultural sensitivity and operational excellence. Through their collaborative approach, David and Lehua have created more than just a golf course; they have built a destination that captures the true spirit of Hawaii while setting new standards for luxury golf experiences.
For golf professionals seeking to enhance their own facilities, the Kohanaiki model offers valuable insights: invest in strong partnerships, honor the cultural context of your location and never underestimate the power of collaborative leadership in creating exceptional member experiences. In an industry where success is measured not just in rounds played but in lasting relationships built, David Reese and Lehua Wise have proven that working together truly makes all the difference.