It is difficult to categorise a course that has hosted three PGA Tour events as a hidden gem, but compared to its more popular neighbour, Real Las Brisas, it feels as though Aloha may fly under the radar. Opening for play in 1975, it was the last course ever designed by well renowned Spanish course architect Javier Arana and it is arguably one of his best.
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It is a slightly shorter layout for a championship course, measuring just under 6,900 yards. But don’t let that yardage lull you into a false sense of security, because tree lined fairways, well placed hazards and blind approach shots all provide more than adequate defence for this challenging course. Large multi-tiered greens usually kept in great condition are a standout feature of Aloha and good approach play is required to avoid costing yourself three putts.
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A picturesque golf course set within mountainous terrain, it includes several beautiful lakes and eucalyptus tree-lined fairways as well as lovely views of nearby Marbella and Puerto Banus. Set in the heart of the Costa del Sol, Aloha is definitely a course not to be missed.
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[Read More > Best Golf Courses on the Costa Del Sol](https://www.mulliganplus.com/blog/best-golf-courses-on-costa-del-sol/)
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The bare description, that Aloha is neither too hilly or flat, nor overlong or exceptionally short, would imply that it is a middle-of-the-road nonentity, but that would be wrong, for it is an extremely enjoyable test.
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It was designed by Javier Arana, one of Spain’s most prestigious architects and its opening in 1975 is regarded as the starting point for Spain’s subsequent golfing boom.
Tee shot accuracy is paramount and while Aloha is not brutally long, careful placement is essential in order to score well and if you consistently miss the fairways, you could be in for a long and expensive day.
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The problems don’t end when you get to the greens either, as many are multi-tiered, and as a consequence can be lightning fast, so four-putting is not unusual.
