Luxury Golf Courses in Hawaii: Play Like a Pro
Hawaii is a golfer’s dream, with top-notch courses and stunning views. The state has many championship courses that test and thrill golfers of all levels. From famous spots like Mauna Lani and Kapalua to hidden gems like Kukui’ula and Mauna Kea, each course offers a mix of beauty and playability.
Key Takeaways
- Hawaii boasts an array of championship-caliber golf courses with panoramic ocean vistas and volcanic backdrops.
- These luxury golf destinations attract players from around the world, offering exceptional playing experiences.
- Courses are designed to showcase Hawaii’s natural beauty while presenting strategic and challenging layouts.
- Golfers can enjoy exclusive amenities, personalized instruction, and unique event programming at these premier golf clubs.
- Hawaii’s year-round temperate climate makes it an ideal location for an unforgettable golf vacation.
The Ultimate Hawaiian Golf Experience: Where Paradise Meets Sport
Hawaii’s golf culture is a perfect mix of natural beauty and top-notch course design. The state is home to big tournaments like the PGA TOUR’s Sentry Tournament of Champions at Kapalua. It brings together the world’s best golfers.
Understanding Hawaii’s Golf Culture
Golf in Hawaii is enjoyed all year, thanks to the warm weather. Courses have unique features like lava rock and ocean views. Luxury resorts offer great golf packages for a full Hawaiian golf experience.
Best Seasons for Golfing in Hawaii
- Hawaii’s tropical climate means golfing is always comfortable, with temperatures in the 70s to 80s Fahrenheit.
- The best time to golf is from May to October, when it’s sunny and warm.
- From November to April, golfers can enjoy smaller crowds and possible discounts.
No matter the season, the Hawaiian golf culture and tropical climate make for an unforgettable golf experience. It’s perfect for golf enthusiasts looking to play in a paradise setting.
“Golf in Hawaii is a true feast for the senses, where the beauty of nature seamlessly complements the thrill of the sport.” – PGA Tour Pro, John Doe
Royal Hawaiian Golf Club: A Jurassic Park Experience
The Royal Hawaiian Golf Club is set in Kailua, Oahu, offering a unique golfing adventure. It was designed by Peter and Perry Dye and later enhanced by Greg Norman. This 18-hole, par-72 course combines challenge with natural beauty.
The course’s stunning backdrop features the Mount Olomana and Ko’olau Mountains. It feels like a Jurassic Park adventure, with every shot exploring the lush tropical environment.
| Course Details | Specifications |
|---|---|
| Par | 72 |
| Yardage | 6,609 yards (Gold tees) |
| Course Rating | 73.1 |
| Slope Rating | 138 |
| Pricing | $155 (Peak) / $100 (Twilight) |
| Rentals | Club rentals available for $65 |
The 45,000 square-foot clubhouse offers many amenities. You can enjoy food, use lockers, and shower facilities. The Royal Hawaiian Golf Club is a true Jurassic Park-inspired golfing adventure in Hawaii’s paradise.
“The Royal Hawaiian Golf Club is a must-play for any golfer visiting Hawaii. The course is a true masterpiece, with each hole offering a unique challenge and breathtaking views that will leave you in awe.”
Mauna Lani’s Championship Courses: North and South
Mauna Lani Golf Resort is on the lush Big Island of Hawaii. It has two 18-hole championship courses. These courses mix top-level golf with the island’s natural beauty.
The North and South courses at Mauna Lani give golfers a special experience. They show off the island’s lava rock formations and green tropical plants.
The Iconic South Course Oceanfront Holes
The South Course at Mauna Lani is famous for its stunning oceanfront holes. The 15th hole is a highlight, where players must hit across the ocean. The course offers amazing views of the sea and ancient lava fields.
This makes for a classic Hawaiian golf experience. It’s unlike any other.
North Course Features and Challenges
The North Course at Mauna Lani is a challenge for golfers. It has a par of 72 and yardages from 5,383 to 6,913 yards. It was designed by top architects.
The course has strategic bunkers, water hazards, and Seashore Paspalum greens. It’s great for golfers of all levels. The 17th hole, called the “Lava Amphitheater,” is a standout. It offers a unique and beautiful golfing experience.
Signature Hole Ocean View Experience
Mauna Lani Point has exclusive Signature Hole Ocean View condos. They offer luxury and convenience. Golf fans can enjoy the views and watch the course action all day.
Whether you’re a pro or just playing for fun, Mauna Lani’s courses are unforgettable. They’re in the heart of the Big Island’s natural beauty.
Kapalua Golf: Home of Champions
Kapalua Golf is a paradise for golf lovers, located on Maui. It boasts two top-notch courses: the Plantation Course and the Bay Course. Both offer a memorable golfing adventure.
The Plantation Course is a masterpiece by Ben Crenshaw and Bill Coore. It’s ranked as Hawaii’s best golf course. It challenges golfers with its dramatic elevation and wide fairways. The course is also home to the PGA TOUR’s Sentry Tournament of Champions, featuring legends like Tiger Woods.
The Bay Course has a rich history since 1975. It has hosted over 20 major tournaments, more than any other Hawaiian course. Its 17th hole is famous for being the only ocean-crossing hole on Maui, offering a stunning view.
| Course | Highlights | Professional Tournaments Hosted |
|---|---|---|
| Plantation Course |
|
PGA TOUR’s Sentry Tournament of Champions |
| Bay Course |
|
Over 20 major professional tournaments since 1975 |
Kapalua Golf is perfect for both pros and beginners. It combines Maui’s beauty with the thrill of top-level golf. With its excellent facilities, breathtaking views, and history, Kapalua Golf is a true champion’s home.
“The Plantation Course at Kapalua is one of the most beautiful and challenging courses I’ve ever played. It’s no wonder it hosts the PGA TOUR’s elite event every year.”
Kukui’ula Golf Course: Kauai’s Hidden Gem
The Kukui’ula Golf Course is a hidden treasure on Kauai’s southern shore. It was designed by Tom Weiskopf. Golf Digest named it one of Hawaii’s top courses. It’s known for its beautiful paspalum turf and views of the ocean.
Course Design and Features
The course covers 216 acres and fits perfectly into the landscape. It has rolling fairways and sand bunkers that test your skills. The paspalum turf ensures a smooth game, even in the tropical weather.
Players get to see stunning ocean views from different spots. It feels like playing in a Jurassic Park setting, with its hills and coffee fields. This makes for a unique and unforgettable golfing experience.
Exclusive Member Benefits
The Kukui’ula Golf Course is for members only. It’s open to club members and guests at the Lodge at Kukui’ula. This exclusivity offers a more personal golfing experience.
Joining costs $50,000 for property owners. A club membership with golf access is $125,000, requiring property ownership. The resort’s homes start at $2.95 million and $1.6 million, offering a luxurious lifestyle.
Members enjoy more than just golf. They have access to the Kukuiula Boat Harbor, National Tropical Botanical Gardens, and the Beach House restaurant. The Beach House serves the best of Kauai’s local food and seafood.
Wailea Golf Club’s Triple Threat
Wailea Golf Club is in the heart of the Wailea resort area on Maui. It has three top-notch golf courses: the Gold, Emerald, and Blue Courses. Each course offers a unique experience for all skill levels and preferences.
Gold Course Championship Layout
The Wailea Gold Course is a challenging test of skill, with a 4.5 out of 5 rating from 78 reviews. It’s highly recommended by 97.4% of reviewers, making it a top resort course in America. Designed by Robert Trent Jones, Jr., Donald Knott, and Gary Linn, it opened in 1994.
Players love its well-kept fairways, stunning ocean views, and many bunkers. These features add to the course’s challenge.
Emerald and Blue Course Highlights
The Wailea Emerald Course is known as “lady-friendly” for its wide fairways and forgiving design. It has a 4.1 out of 5 rating and is recommended by 98.7% of reviewers. The Emerald Course is great for all skill levels.
The Wailea Blue Course is shorter and sportier, perfect for a relaxed game. It’s ideal for those who want a fun, easy round.
The three courses at Wailea Golf Club have won over 170 awards. They are celebrated for their design and service, making Wailea a top golfing spot in Hawaii.
| Course | Length (yards) | Rating | Recommendations | Key Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Wailea Gold | 7,078 | 4.5/5 | 97.4% | Challenging layout, ocean views, well-maintained conditions |
| Wailea Emerald | 6,825 | 4.1/5 | 98.7% | Wider fairways, more forgiving design, suitable for all levels |
| Wailea Blue | 6,765 | N/A | N/A | Shorter, sporty layout, relaxed golfing experience |
“The Wailea Golf Club offers an exceptional golfing experience, with three distinct courses that cater to a wide range of skill levels and preferences. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a casual enthusiast, you’re sure to find a course that suits your game and leaves you with lasting memories of your time in paradise.”
Princeville Makai: Kauai’s Crown Jewel
Located on Kauai’s lush northern shores, Princeville Makai Golf Club is a true gem. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., it offers stunning Hanalei Bay views and top-notch golfing.
The par-3 7th hole is a standout, known as one of the world’s most beautiful. It requires a shot over cliffs to the blue waters below. This hole has made the course a top pick among the Top 100 Greatest Public Golf Courses in America (Golf Digest).
Princeville Makai is not just beautiful; it’s also a challenging yet rewarding course. The Makai Course, opened in 1971 and updated in 2010, has a par-72 layout with four tee sets. It’s ranked #3 in Hawaii by Golf Week, blending natural beauty with great design.
Whether you’re an experienced golfer or new to the sport, Princeville Makai is unforgettable. Enjoy the island’s calm, take in the Hanalei Bay views, and start an amazing golfing journey at Kauai’s crown jewel.
Mauna Kea Resort: Dual Course Excellence
The Mauna Kea Resort is a gem on the Kohala Coast. It has two top-notch courses: the Mauna Kea Course and the Hapuna Course. These courses, designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. and Rees Jones, offer a unique golfing journey in Hawaii.
Robert Trent Jones Sr. Legacy
The Mauna Kea Course, created by Robert Trent Jones Sr. in 1964, is a work of art. It boasts amazing ocean views and a tough layout. With its bunkers and high greens, it’s a test of skill for all players.
Many tournaments have been held here, making it a favorite among golfers.
Ocean View Playing Strategies
The Hapuna Course, designed by Rees Jones, offers a different golfing experience. It has smooth greens and natural terrain, with views of the Kohala Coast. Golfers need strategy and skill to navigate its unique features.
The Mauna Kea Resort caters to all golfers. Whether you prefer a classic or scenic course, it has it. With top-notch service and luxury, it’s a top spot for golf lovers in Hawaii.
| Course | Greens Fees (Non-Hotel Guests) | Greens Fees (Hotel Guests) |
|---|---|---|
| Mauna Kea Course | $285 (7am-1pm) | N/A |
| Hapuna Course | $135-$295 | $90-$150 (before 1pm), $90-$125 (after 1pm) |
“The Mauna Kea Course is a true test of golf, with its stunning ocean views and challenging layout. It’s a must-play for any serious golfer visiting the Kohala Coast.”
Waikoloa Beach Resort: Three Unique Experiences
At Waikoloa Beach Resort, golfers can enjoy a special 27-hole experience. It features three unique nine-hole courses: Beach Nine, Lakes Nine, and Kings’ Nine. Each course has its own charm and challenges, perfect for all skill levels.
The Beach Nine offers an oceanfront adventure with stunning Pacific Ocean views. The Lakes Nine takes you through serene water features, offering a peaceful break. The Kings’ Nine, inspired by Scotland, features volcanic backdrops that amaze.
Whether you’re an experienced golfer or new to the sport, Waikoloa Beach Resort’s 27-hole experience is unforgettable. Its beautiful landscapes, diverse courses, and excellent conditions make it a golf paradise. You’ll want to come back again and again.