Some greens are cup-shaped, but all of them have grain that goes toward the ocean. There was once a gate near the course permitting easy access by golfers from the community. But when the Reef Runway was built and other related changes came about at the adjacent Honolulu International Airport, golfers were routed through the main gate at Hickam. Hickam's Mamala Bay layout was designed by golf architect Bob Baldock and was opened in 1966. The base also boasts the Hickam Par-Three Course, which opened on the base with 9 holes in 1959.
Green fees are on a sliding scale based on military rank, and some restrictions apply.
Golfers should call for tee times up to three days in advance. Shirts with sleeves, and shoes, are required. Of the nine military course in Hawaii, three are nine-hole courses. But only one of the nine is a par-three course. A unique feature of the Hickam Par Three course is night lights, making it one of only a few illuminated courses in the Islands.