Hawaii, with its stunning landscapes and idyllic climate, is a golfer’s paradise. The state boasts some of the most picturesque and challenging golf courses in the world. Here, we’ll explore some of the best golf courses in Hawaii that offer not only a memorable round of golf but also breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and lush tropical scenery.
1. Kapalua Golf Course, Maui
Location: Kapalua, Maui
Kapalua is home to two world-class golf courses, the Plantation Course and the Bay Course. The Plantation Course, designed by Ben Crenshaw and Bill Coore, has hosted the PGA Tour’s Sentry Tournament of Champions and is known for its dramatic elevation changes and panoramic ocean views. The Bay Course offers a more relaxed round of golf, with its beautifully manicured fairways surrounded by coconut palms.
2. Mauna Kea Golf Course, Big Island
Location: Kohala Coast, Big Island
Designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., the Mauna Kea Golf Course is famous for its challenging play and stunning views. The course features elevated tee boxes, wide fairways, and oceanfront holes that provide golfers with an unforgettable experience. The signature 3rd hole, a par-3, requires a tee shot over an ocean inlet.
3. Princeville Makai Golf Club, Kauai
Location: Princeville, Kauai
Perched on the cliffs overlooking Hanalei Bay, the Princeville Makai Golf Club offers breathtaking vistas of the Pacific Ocean and the lush North Shore of Kauai. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., this course provides a mix of challenging holes and beautiful scenery. The renovation in recent years has elevated its status as one of Hawaii’s top golf destinations.
4. Waialae Country Club, Oahu
Location: Honolulu, Oahu
The Waialae Country Club is a classic Hawaiian golf course with a rich history. It hosts the PGA Tour’s Sony Open each year, attracting some of the world’s top golfers. This traditional layout features mature trees, tight fairways, and small greens, making it a true test of precision and shot-making skills.
5. Ko’olau Golf Club, Oahu
Location: Kaneohe, Oahu
Ko’olau Golf Club is renowned for its challenging and scenic layout. Nestled against the dramatic Ko’olau Mountain Range, this course offers a unique experience with jungle-like terrain and undulating fairways. It’s often considered one of the most difficult courses in the world, providing golfers with a true test of skill.
6. Wailea Golf Club, Maui
Location: Wailea, Maui
Wailea Golf Club features three championship courses: the Gold Course, the Emerald Course, and the Blue Course. Each offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the neighboring islands. The Gold Course, designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., is particularly renowned for its challenging design and beautifully landscaped fairways.
7. Turtle Bay Resort, Oahu
Location: Kahuku, Oahu
Turtle Bay Resort boasts two outstanding golf courses, the Palmer Course and the Fazio Course. These courses offer a mix of challenging holes, coastal views, and the opportunity to spot sea turtles sunbathing on the shores. The Palmer Course, designed by Arnold Palmer, is known for its dramatic oceanfront holes.
Hawaii’s golf courses not only challenge golfers of all skill levels but also provide a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the natural beauty and tranquility of the islands. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or just looking to enjoy a round in paradise, these courses offer an unforgettable golfing experience in the heart of the Pacific.
8. Ko Olina Golf Club, Oahu
Location: Kapolei, Oahu
Located on the west coast of Oahu, the Ko Olina Golf Club offers a serene golfing experience with views of the crystal-clear lagoons and the Pacific Ocean. Designed by Ted Robinson, this course combines Hawaiian landscaping with strategic water hazards and bunkers. The 18th hole, a par-4, has a memorable finish along the coastline.
9. Poipu Bay Golf Course, Kauai
Location: Poipu, Kauai
Poipu Bay Golf Course is known for its lush tropical surroundings and oceanfront setting. This course has hosted the PGA Grand Slam of Golf and features gently rolling fairways and strategically placed bunkers. Golfers may encounter humpback whales during the winter months, adding to the enchanting experience.
10. Hualalai Golf Course, Big Island
Location: Kailua-Kona, Big Island
Part of the luxurious Hualalai Resort, the Hualalai Golf Course is a Jack Nicklaus design that offers a picturesque golf experience. Lava rock walls, swaying palm trees, and ocean views create a stunning backdrop for this challenging course. It’s an exclusive experience reserved for resort guests and club members.
11. Kahili Golf Course, Maui
Location: Wailuku, Maui
Kahili Golf Course is a local favorite on Maui, known for its affordability and breathtaking views. Nestled on the slopes of the West Maui Mountains, it offers a mix of wide-open fairways and challenging elevation changes. The trade winds can add an extra element of difficulty, making it an enjoyable test for golfers of all levels.
12. The Dunes at Maui Lani Golf Course, Maui
Location: Kahului, Maui
The Dunes at Maui Lani Golf Course is a unique links-style course on Maui. Designed by architect Robin Nelson, it offers a change of scenery from the typical Hawaiian golf experience. With rugged terrain, natural dunes, and coastal breezes, this course provides a challenging and memorable round.
13. Kohanaiki Golf & Ocean Club, Big Island
Location: Kailua-Kona, Big Island
Kohanaiki Golf & Ocean Club is an exclusive and private golf course designed by renowned architect Rees Jones. Situated on the Big Island’s Kona Coast, this course combines challenging play with stunning oceanfront holes. The club’s commitment to environmental sustainability ensures that golfers can enjoy the natural beauty of Hawaii while respecting the environment.
14. Makai Golf Club at Princeville, Kauai
Location: Princeville, Kauai
Makai Golf Club at Princeville boasts a scenic Robert Trent Jones Jr. layout with ocean views from nearly every hole. The course underwent extensive renovations to enhance its playability and views. The final holes, with their dramatic ocean cliffs, are particularly memorable.
15. Waikoloa Beach Golf Course, Big Island
Location: Waikoloa Beach Resort, Big Island
Waikoloa Beach Golf Course offers a picturesque round of golf with views of Anaeho’omalu Bay and the Kohala Coast. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., this course features wide fairways and well-placed bunkers. The beachfront setting and lava rock accents make it a true Hawaiian golfing experience.
Top Hawaii Golf Courses
| Course Name | Location | Par | Year Established | Designer |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mauna Kea Resort | Kohala Coast, HI | 72 | 1964 | Robert Trent Jones |
| Kapalua Plantation | Maui, HI | 73 | 1991 | Ben Crenshaw |
| Ko’olau Golf Club | Oahu, HI | 72 | 1992 | Dick Nugent |
| Princeville Makai | Kauai, HI | 72 | 1971 | Robert Trent Jones |
| Wailea Gold Course | Maui, HI | 72 | 1994 | Robert Trent Jones II |
Green Fees for Top Hawaii Golf Courses
| Course Name | Weekday Rate ($) | Weekend Rate ($) | Twilight Rate ($) | Junior Rate ($) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mauna Kea Resort | 250 | 295 | 175 | 85 |
| Kapalua Plantation | 295 | 350 | 195 | 75 |
| Ko’olau Golf Club | 135 | 165 | 85 | 45 |
| Princeville Makai | 245 | 295 | 175 | 95 |
| Wailea Gold Course | 210 | 250 | 150 | 70 |
Course Lengths and Ratings
| Course Name | Course Length (yards) | Slope Rating | Course Rating | Yardage Type |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mauna Kea Resort | 7403 | 139 | 74.4 | Championship |
| Kapalua Plantation | 7411 | 144 | 75.0 | Championship |
| Ko’olau Golf Club | 7200 | 145 | 75.7 | Championship |
| Princeville Makai | 7355 | 140 | 74.3 | Championship |
| Wailea Gold Course | 7071 | 136 | 73.8 | Championship |
Dining Options at Golf Courses
| Course Name | Clubhouse Restaurant | Fine Dining | Casual Dining | Snack Bar | Beverage Cart |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mauna Kea Resort | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Kapalua Plantation | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Ko’olau Golf Club | Yes | No | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Princeville Makai | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Wailea Gold Course | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Golf Course Amenities
| Course Name | Pro Shop | Driving Range | Putting Green | Rental Clubs | Golf Lessons |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Mauna Kea Resort | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Kapalua Plantation | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Ko’olau Golf Club | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Princeville Makai | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Wailea Gold Course | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
Conclusion
In conclusion, Hawaii’s golf courses are not just places to play golf; they are opportunities to immerse yourself in the natural beauty and unique landscapes that make the islands so special. Whether you prefer coastal views, mountainous terrain, or lush tropical settings, Hawaii has a golf course to suit your preferences and skill level, all while offering an unforgettable experience in paradise. So, pack your clubs and tee off in one of the world’s most picturesque golf destinations.
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