Get ready to tee off in paradise as we take you on a journey through the best golf courses in Hawaii. Nestled on the iconic islands in the heart of the Pacific, these scenic courses offer an unforgettable experience for golf enthusiasts of all levels. From lush green fairways bordered by swaying palm trees to breathtaking ocean views, the idyllic landscapes will transport you to a golfer’s paradise. So grab your clubs and get ready to indulge in the beauty of Hawaii’s world-class golfing destinations.
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Top Golf Courses in Hawaii
Hawaii is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, pristine beaches, and world-class golf courses. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a casual player looking to enjoy the sport amidst breathtaking scenery, Hawaii offers many options to satisfy every golfer’s dreams. In this article, we will take you on a tour of the top golf courses in Hawaii, showcasing their unique features, signature holes, and the facilities they offer. So grab your clubs, tee up, and prepare for an unforgettable golfing experience in paradise!
Mauna Kea Golf Course
Overview
Nestled atop an ancient lava flow on the Big Island of Hawaii, the Mauna Kea Golf Course is a true gem in the Hawaiian golf scene. Designed by the legendary Robert Trent Jones Sr., this course offers a challenging yet picturesque experience for golfers of all skill levels. With its stunning ocean views, lush fairways, and meticulously manicured greens, it’s no wonder that Mauna Kea is consistently ranked among the best golf courses in Hawaii.
Signature Hole: Number 3
One of the standout features of Mauna Kea Golf Course is its signature hole, Number 3. This par-3 beauty requires golfers to navigate their shots over an expansive ocean coastline, with crashing waves providing a dramatic backdrop. The elevated tee box and strategically placed bunkers add to the challenge, making it a hole that demands precision and courage.
Features and Facilities
Mauna Kea Golf Course offers a range of features and facilities to enhance your golfing experience. From a well-equipped pro shop to a driving range and practice area, everything you need to refine your skills is at your fingertips. The course also boasts a clubhouse where you can relax after your round and enjoy a delicious meal or refreshing drink overlooking the expansive fairways and sparkling blue waters.
Championship Layout
With its par-72 championship layout, Mauna Kea Golf Course provides golfers a diverse and rewarding experience. Measuring over 7,300 yards from the back tees, the course challenges players with its strategic bunkering, undulating terrain, and prevailing coastal winds. Each Hole offers a unique challenge, ensuring no two rounds are identical.
Awards and Recognition
Mauna Kea Golf Course has garnered numerous accolades over the years, solidifying its status as one of the top golf courses in Hawaii. It has been consistently ranked among the best courses by Golf Digest and Golfweek and has hosted prestigious tournaments such as the Hawaii State Open. Its breathtaking setting, exceptional design, and impeccable conditioning have earned it a well-deserved reputation as a must-play destination for golf enthusiasts.
Kapalua Golf Club
Overview
Situated on the picturesque island of Maui, the Kapalua Golf Club offers not one but two championship courses for golfers to enjoy. Nestled amongst lush landscapes and overlooking the sparkling Pacific Ocean, this golfing paradise provides a truly unforgettable experience. Whether you choose the renowned Plantation Course or the scenic Bay Course, Kapalua Golf Club promises a round of golf that combines challenge, beauty, and sheer enjoyment.
Signature Hole: Plantation Course, Hole 18
The Plantation Course at Kapalua is undoubtedly one of Hawaii’s most iconic golf courses, and its signature hole, Hole 18, is nothing short of spectacular. This par-5 hole challenges players to navigate their shots towards a green that seems to hang on the edge of a cliff, with dramatic coastal views stretching as far as the eye can see. With the trade winds often coming into play, it is a thrilling conclusion to a round of golf.
Features and Facilities
Kapalua Golf Club boasts various features and facilities to enhance your golfing experience. From a well-stocked pro shop to expertly maintained practice areas, you’ll find everything you need to hone your skills and prepare for your round. The club also offers private instruction, club rentals, and top-of-the-line equipment, ensuring you have everything you need for a memorable day on the links.
Championship Layout
Both the Plantation Course and the Bay Course at Kapalua Golf Club offer championship layouts that challenge and inspire golfers of all abilities. The Plantation Course, which has hosted the PGA TOUR’s Tournament of Champions for over 20 years, features sweeping fairways, dramatic elevation changes, and strategically placed bunkers. The Bay Course, known for its ocean views and lush vegetation, presents players with a more forgiving but equally enjoyable golfing experience.
Host of PGA TOUR’s Tournament of Champions
The Kapalua Golf Club’s Plantation Course holds the distinction of hosting the PGA TOUR’s Tournament of Champions, featuring the year’s winners from the previous season. Each January, the world’s top golfers gather at this prestigious venue to compete for one of the most coveted trophies in professional golf. The scenic beauty, challenging design, and world-class facilities of Kapalua Golf Club have made it a favorite among pros and enthusiasts.
Princeville Makai Golf Club
Overview
Nestled on the stunning north shore of Kauai, the Princeville Makai Golf Club offers golfers a truly awe-inspiring experience. With panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, lush tropical landscapes, and majestic cliffs, this course is a feast for the senses. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., the Princeville Makai Golf Club seamlessly blends natural beauty with a challenging and enjoyable golfing experience.
Signature Hole: Makai Course, Hole 3
One of the standout features of the Princeville Makai Golf Club is its signature hole, Hole 3 on the Makai Course. This par-3 Hole requires golfers to navigate their shots over a stunning ocean cove, with crashing waves and dramatic cliffs as a backdrop. The breathtaking views and the challenge of the Hole itself make it a highlight of any golfer’s experience at Princeville Makai.
Features and Facilities
Princeville Makai Golf Club offers various features and facilities to enhance your golfing experience. With a fully stocked pro shop, rental equipment, and expert instruction, you’ll have everything you need to make the most of your round. The course also offers a practice facility with a driving range, chipping area, and putting greens, allowing you to warm up and fine-tune your skills before tackling the stunning fairways.
Championship Layout
The Princeville Makai Golf Club boasts a championship layout that takes full advantage of its picturesque surroundings. Measuring over 7,200 yards from the back tees, the course offers a mix of tight fairways, strategic bunkering, and undulating terrain, providing a challenge for golfers of all abilities. As you navigate the lush fairways and beautiful green complexes, you’ll be treated to breathtaking ocean views that epitomize the beauty of Kauai.
Stunning Ocean Views
One of the biggest draws of the Princeville Makai Golf Club is its stunning ocean views. Throughout your round, you’ll be treated to sweeping vistas of the Pacific Ocean, with waves crashing against the dramatic coastline. As you go through the course, you’ll feel a genuine connection with the natural beauty of Kauai, creating an unforgettable golfing experience.
Ko Olina Golf Club
Overview
Located on the sunny shores of the island of Oahu, the Ko Olina Golf Club offers a tropical oasis for golfers seeking a tranquil and unforgettable round. Designed by renowned architect Ted Robinson, this visually stunning course combines pristine fairways, picturesque lagoons, and breathtaking water features, providing a truly unique golfing experience.
Signature Hole: 14th Hole
The Ko Olina Golf Club is renowned for its signature hole, the 14th. This par-4 Hole requires golfers to navigate their shots over a picturesque lagoon, with palm trees lining the fairway and a waterfall cascading into the green. The breathtaking beauty of this Hole, combined with its strategic challenge, makes it a true highlight of any round at Ko Olina.
Features and Facilities
Ko Olina Golf Club offers a range of features and facilities designed to enhance your golfing experience. From a well-appointed clubhouse to a fully stocked pro shop, you’ll find everything you need to ensure that your day on the course is enjoyable and stress-free. With expert instruction, rental equipment, and a practice area, you can improve your game while immersing yourself in the tropical surroundings.
Ted Robinson-Designed Course
The Ko Olina Golf Club is a testament to the skill and vision of renowned golf course architect Ted Robinson. Known for his ability to blend golf courses with their natural surroundings seamlessly, Robinson created a masterpiece at Ko Olina. The course features a unique design highlighting the island’s beauty, with strategically placed water features, undulating fairways, and lush vegetation to create an unforgettable golfing experience.
Picturesque Lagoons and Water Features
One of the most striking features of the Ko Olina Golf Club is its picturesque lagoons and water features. As you go around the course, you’ll be treated to stunning views of crystal-clear lagoons and cascading waterfalls, creating an unmatched serene ambiance. These lush, tropical surroundings provide the perfect backdrop for a leisurely round of golf, allowing you to relax and enjoy the beauty of Oahu.
Turtle Bay Resort Golf
Overview
Nestled on the world-famous North Shore of Oahu, the Turtle Bay Resort Golf offers an unforgettable golfing experience amidst breathtaking coastal scenery. With two championship courses designed by golf legends Arnold Palmer and George Fazio, this resort has become a haven for golf enthusiasts seeking a challenging yet visually stunning round of golf.
Signature Holes: Arnold Palmer Course, Hole 17 | George Fazio Course, Hole 10
The Turtle Bay Resort Golf is home to two signature holes that capture the essence of Hawaiian golfing at its finest. On the Arnold Palmer Course, Hole 17 challenges golfers to navigate their shots toward a green overlooking the Pacific Ocean. It is a visual masterpiece with crashing waves and panoramic views that will leave golfers in awe. On the George Fazio Course, Hole 10 presents a different challenge, with strategically placed bunkers and water hazards demanding accuracy and precision from players.
Features and Facilities
Turtle Bay Resort Golf offers a range of features and facilities to make your golfing experience truly memorable. With a fully equipped pro shop, rental clubs, and expert instruction available, you’ll have everything you need to ensure a successful round. The resort also boasts a driving range and practice area, allowing you to warm up and fine-tune your swing before heading out on the course. After your round, you can relax at the resort’s clubhouse, enjoying a delicious meal or refreshing drink while enjoying the spectacular coastal views.
Two Championship Courses
The Turtle Bay Resort Golf is home to not just one but two championship golf courses, each offering a unique and challenging experience. The Arnold Palmer Course, known for its breathtaking ocean views and undulating terrain, gives golfers a test of skill and strategy. On the other hand, the George Fazio Course offers a more forgiving layout. Still, it remains equally enjoyable, with stunning scenery and well-designed holes that captivate players of all levels.
Breathtaking Coastal Scenery
One of the main draws of the Turtle Bay Resort Golf is its breathtaking coastal scenery. Playing golf here means being treated to panoramic views of the North Shore’s rugged coastline, with crashing waves and pristine beaches stretching as far as the eye can see. As you make your way through the courses, you’ll feel a genuine connection with the natural beauty of Hawaii, creating a golfing experience that is as visually stunning as it is enjoyable.
Wailea Golf Club
Overview
Situated on the beautiful island of Maui, the Wailea Golf Club offers golfers a truly unique and unforgettable experience. With its three distinct courses, each showcasing stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, this club has firmly established itself as one of the premier golf destinations in Hawaii. Whether you’re a seasoned golfer or a beginner looking to enjoy the sport amidst paradise, Wailea Golf Club has something for everyone.
Signature Hole: Gold Course, Hole 11
The Wailea Golf Club is home to a signature hole that epitomizes the beauty and challenge of golfing in Maui. On the Gold Course, Hole 11 requires golfers to navigate their shots towards a green nestled between two picturesque waterfalls, with the Pacific Ocean as a backdrop. The beauty of this Hole, coupled with its strategic design, makes it a true highlight of any round at Wailea Golf Club.
Features and Facilities
Wailea Golf Club offers a range of features and facilities designed to enhance your golfing experience. Everything you need to enjoy a successful round, from a fully stocked pro shop to expert instruction and rental equipment, is readily available. The club also boasts a practice facility with a driving range, greens, and bunker practice areas, allowing you to sharpen your skills before heading out. After your round, you can relax at the clubhouse and savor delicious cuisine and refreshing beverages while taking in the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
Three Distinct Courses
The Wailea Golf Club is unique because it offers three distinct courses, each providing a different golfing experience. The Gold Course, known for its challenging design and stunning vistas, is a favorite among golf enthusiasts seeking an actual skill test. The Emerald Course, with its lush fairways and beautiful ocean views, is perfect for players of all levels. The Blue Course, designed to emphasize playability and enjoyment, offers a fun and relaxed round for golfers of all abilities. With each course offering its challenges and rewards, Wailea Golf Club ensures that every golfer can find their perfect match.
Spectacular Views of the Pacific Ocean
One of the most captivating aspects of playing at the Wailea Golf Club is the spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean. From tee to green, you’ll be treated to sweeping vistas of azure blue waters, with waves crashing against the pristine coastline. As you make your way through the courses, these breathtaking views will be a constant reminder of the beauty of Maui, enhancing your golfing experience and creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Hapuna Golf Course
Overview
Perched on the rugged Kohala Coast of the Big Island, the Hapuna Golf Course offers golfers a captivating experience amidst panoramic ocean views and stunning natural landscapes. Designed by Arnold Palmer, this championship course combines strategic design elements with the inherent beauty of Hawaii, offering players a truly unforgettable round of golf.
Signature Holes: 3rd and 17th Holes
The Hapuna Golf Course is home to two signature holes that showcase the beauty and challenge of golfing on the Big Island. The par-3 3rd Hole requires golfers to navigate their shots over a dramatic ocean cove, with waves crashing against the black lava rocks. The par-4 17th Hole, on the other hand, presents a different kind of challenge, with its elevated tee box offering panoramic views of the ocean before players make their way toward the green. These signature holes and their captivating surroundings create a golfing experience that is as visually stunning as rewarding.
Features and Facilities
Hapuna Golf Course offers a range of features and facilities to enhance your golfing experience. With a fully stocked pro shop, rental equipment, and expert instruction available, you’ll have everything you need to ensure a successful round. The course also features a practice facility with a driving range, putting greens, and chipping areas, allowing you to warm up and fine-tune your game before tackling the challenging fairways. After your round, you can unwind at the clubhouse and enjoy a meal or beverage while enjoying the breathtaking ocean views.
Arnold Palmer-Designed Course
The Hapuna Golf Course is a testament to the skill and vision of its designer, Arnold Palmer. Known for his ability to create challenging and enjoyable courses, Palmer has crafted a masterpiece on the Big Island. The course features rolling fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and dramatic ocean views, offering a golfing experience that is truly unique and captivating.
Elevated Tees and Panoramic Ocean Views
One of the most striking features of the Hapuna Golf Course is its elevated tees and panoramic ocean views. As you make your way through the course, you’ll be treated to breathtaking vistas of the Pacific Ocean, with waves crashing against the stunning coastline. The elevated tees provide a visual spectacle and add an element of strategy and challenge to the game, as players must navigate their shots amidst the ever-present coastal winds. Playing at Hapuna Golf Course is a feast for the senses, allowing you to immerse yourself in the natural beauty of the Big Island while enjoying a round of golf.
Poipu Bay Golf Course
Overview
It is located on the sunny south shore of Kauai; the Poipu Bay Golf Course offers golfers an idyllic setting for a round of golf. This championship course, designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., seamlessly blends lush tropical landscapes with stunning ocean views, creating an unforgettable golfing experience. With its world-class facilities and immaculately maintained fairways, Poipu Bay is a favorite among golf enthusiasts seeking a challenging yet enjoyable round.
Signature Hole: 16th Hole
One of the standout features of the Poipu Bay Golf Course is its signature hole, the par-4 16th. As you go towards the green, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the rugged coastline, with waves crashing against the cliffs below. The challenge of this Hole lies in its narrow fairway and the prevailing coastal winds, which demand accuracy and precision from players. The beauty, strategy, and sheer enjoyment of the 16th Hole make it a highlight of any round at Poipu Bay.
Features and Facilities
Poipu Bay Golf Course offers a range of features and facilities designed to enhance your golfing experience. The course boasts a fully stocked pro shop with the latest equipment and apparel. Expert instruction is also available for golfers looking to improve their game. Additionally, the course features a driving range and practice area, allowing you to warm up and fine-tune your skills before your round. After your game, you can relax at the clubhouse and savor a meal or refreshment while soaking in the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean.
Championship Course
Poipu Bay Golf Course offers golfers a challenging and rewarding experience as a championship course. With strategically placed bunkers, undulating fairways, and well-guarded greens, the course demands both skill and strategy. Measuring over 7,100 yards from the back tees, this par-72 gem ensures that players of all abilities are tested to their limits. The immaculate conditioning and exceptional design of Poipu Bay have earned it a well-deserved reputation as one of the premier golf courses in Hawaii.
Stunning Ocean and Mountain Vistas
Playing at Poipu Bay Golf Course means being treated to stunning ocean and mountain vistas throughout your round. From tee to green, you’ll be captivated by the beauty of Kauai, with its rugged coastline, verdant mountains, and crystal-clear waters. As you navigate the fairways, the breathtaking views will serve as a constant reminder that you are playing golf in one of the most beautiful places on earth, creating a truly unique and memorable experience.
Mauna Lani Resort Golf Club
Overview
Perched on the Kohala Coast of the Big Island, the Mauna Lani Resort Golf Club offers golfers a world-class experience amidst stunning natural beauty. With its two championship courses designed by legendary golf architects, this resort has become a favorite among golf enthusiasts seeking the perfect blend of challenge and relaxation.
Signature Hole: 17th Hole
The Mauna Lani Resort Golf Club is home to a signature hole that captures the essence of its surroundings. On the North Course, Hole 17 requires golfers to navigate their shots towards a green nestled amidst a lava field, with panoramic ocean views stretching as far as the eye can see. The rugged volcanic terrain, strategic design, and breathtaking vistas make this Hole a true highlight of any round at Mauna Lani.
Features and Facilities
Mauna Lani Resort Golf Club offers a range of features and facilities to enhance your golfing experience. With a well-appointed pro shop, expert instruction, and rental equipment available, you’ll have everything you need to enjoy a successful round. The club also boasts a driving range and practice area, allowing you to warm up and fine-tune your game before playing the stunning fairways. After your round, you can relax at the clubhouse and savor a delicious meal or refreshing beverage while taking in the panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.
Spectacular Views of Haleakala and the Pacific Ocean
One of the main draws of playing at Mauna Lani Resort Golf Club is the spectacular views of Haleakala and the Pacific Ocean. From tee to green, you’ll be treated to breathtaking vistas that showcase the natural beauty of the Big Island. As you make your way through the courses, the stunning views will constantly remind you of the uniqueness of this golfing experience, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
Affordable and Approachable Course
In addition to its stunning beauty and exceptional design, Mauna Lani Resort Golf Club stands out for its affordability and approachability. With a range of tee options, golfers of all abilities can enjoy a round at Mauna Lani, making it an ideal destination for families, groups, and individuals looking for a memorable golfing experience. The welcoming atmosphere and exceptional value offered by Mauna Lani Resort Golf Club have made it a favorite among locals and visitors alike.
Kahili Golf Course
Overview
Nestled in the foothills of the West Maui Mountains, the Kahili Golf Course offers golfers a scenic and enjoyable round in paradise. Designed by Robin Nelson, this 6,570-yard course provides a challenging yet approachable experience for players of all levels. Kahili Golf Course is a true hidden gem in the Hawaiian golf scene, with spectacular views of Haleakala and the Pacific Ocean.
Signature Hole: 17th Hole
The Kahili Golf Course is home to a signature hole that perfectly embodies the beauty and challenge of the course. On the par-3 17th Hole, golfers are treated to breathtaking views of Haleakala and the Pacific Ocean, creating a picturesque backdrop for their shots. With its elevated tee box and strategically placed bunkers, this Hole demands skill and strategy, making it a true highlight of any round at Kahili.
Features and Facilities
Kahili Golf Course offers a range of features and facilities designed to enhance your golfing experience. With a fully stocked pro shop, expert instruction, and rental equipment available, you’ll have everything you need to ensure a successful round. The course also features a driving range and putting green, allowing you to warm up and fine-tune your skills before heading out. After your round, you can relax at the clubhouse and enjoy a meal or beverage while enjoying the panoramic views of the West Maui Mountains and the sparkling ocean.
Spectacular Views of Haleakala and the Pacific Ocean
One of the biggest draws of playing at Kahili Golf Course is the spectacular views of Haleakala and the Pacific Ocean. Throughout your round, you’ll be treated to sweeping vistas that showcase the natural beauty of Maui, with its majestic mountains and pristine waters. As you navigate the fairways, these breathtaking views will constantly remind you of the island’s beauty, creating a golfing experience that is as visually stunning as it is enjoyable.
Affordable and Approachable Course
Kahili Golf Course stands out not only for its beauty but also for its affordability and approachability. With a range of tee options and a welcoming atmosphere, golfers of all abilities can enjoy a round at Kahili. The course’s exceptional value and idyllic setting have made it a favorite among locals and visitors looking for a memorable golfing experience without breaking the bank.
In conclusion, Hawaii is a golfer’s paradise, offering a wide array of world-class courses that combine scenic beauty, challenging gameplay, and exceptional facilities. From the dramatic cliffs of Mauna Kea Golf Course to the breathtaking ocean vistas of Kapalua Golf Club, each course listed in this article offers a unique experience that will leave a lasting impression. So, whether you’re a seasoned pro or a casual player, pack your clubs and head to the tropical paradise of Hawaii for an unforgettable golfing journey. Aloha!
