At Kukuiʻula, the staff are the heartbeat of our community, bringing the spirit of Hoʻokipa—gracious hospitality—to life. This month, The Heart of Hoʻokipa series spotlights Todd Michaelsen, Kukuiʻula’s Director of Golf. With over a decade of dedication to the game and the club, Todd has played a pivotal role in shaping the golf experience at Kukuiʻula, fostering a welcoming and dynamic environment for all skill levels.
A Lifelong Passion for Golf
Todd’s love for golf began at the age of 10 when his father first introduced him to the game. By 14, he was taking it seriously, working in the cart barn at Wildcreek Golf Course in Reno, Nevada. His passion only grew, leading him to pursue a career in golf and become a member of the PGA of America after college. Today, he brings that lifelong dedication and expertise to Kukuiʻula, where he has been an integral part of the golf program for 14 years.
Life Beyond the Course
When he’s not on the greens, Todd enjoys spending time with his wife, Apryl, and visiting family on the mainland. He’s an avid traveler, sports fan, and concert-goer who also embraces the beauty of Kauaʻi. Some of his favorite island spots include Polihale State Park, Lumaha‘i Beach, and the stunning South Shore area. When it comes to dining, you might find him at The Tasting Room, La Spezia, Bar Acuda, or Stevenson’s Library, enjoying the island’s best culinary offerings.
Finding Home at Kukuiʻula
Todd’s journey to Kukuiʻula began in 2011 when he was brought on as an assistant professional. Having previously worked at Lahontan Golf Club in Truckee, CA, for the original developer, DMB, he was invited to Kauaʻi for a summer season to assist with Kukuiʻula’s first Member-Guest event—and he never left. Since then, he has grown into the Director of Golf role, fostering a thriving golf culture at the club and creating innovative programs for members to enjoy.
The Evolution of Golf at Kukuiʻula
Reflecting on his time at Kukuiʻula, Todd notes how golf participation has flourished. “We used to struggle to get members to play in our tournaments, but now they sell out,” he shares. Seeing members enjoy the game with friends and family is what excites him most about the future of golf at Kukuiʻula. As the club continues to grow, Todd looks forward to expanding the golf experience and enhancing the programs available to members.
Some of the unforgettable golf experiences Todd has helped cultivate include annual golf trips, such as the upcoming journey to South Africa this fall—an extraordinary adventure that combines world-class golf with an incredible safari component. Closer to home, Kukuiʻula offers an array of engaging programs, from Operation 36, which helps golfers of all levels improve their game, to the beloved Ladies 9 Hole, and of course, the most popular event of the year—Glow Golf, a member favorite that brings fun and excitement to the course after dark.
With a deep understanding that golf should be enjoyable for everyone, Todd has played a key role in developing dynamic programming that welcomes all skill levels. Whether you’re a beginner looking to pick up a club for the first time or an advanced player honing your skills, there’s something for everyone at Kukuiʻula.
Pro Tips from the Director of Golf
For those looking to improve their game at Kukuiʻula, Todd shares some insider advice:
- Read the Greens Carefully: The greens are subtle and don’t break as much as they seem—play half the break you think you see.
- Adjust for the Wind: The prevailing winds can be deceptive; use three or four extra clubs and focus on controlling your ball spin.
- Take Advantage of the Short Game Area: The practice area at the back of the range is a hidden gem—work on your chipping, pitching, and putting, and you’ll see improvement in your scores.
- Most Importantly, Have Fun!: “Remember, golf is fun!” Todd reminds us.
With his deep love for the game and commitment to Kukuiʻula, Todd Michaelsen embodies The Heart of Hoʻokipa. His leadership and passion continue to shape the golf experience, ensuring it remains welcoming, inclusive, and enjoyable for all who step onto the course.