Hawaii isn’t just paradise for the occasional vacation; it’s also a beautiful place for the avid golfer to hit the greens! With breathtaking scenery, it’s no wonder it holds 5 of the most iconic golf courses across the nation. Here’s a list of our favorite golf courses in Hawaii.
1. Mauna Kea Golf Course (Big Island)
Location: Kohala Coast, Hawaii
Perched along the pristine Kohala Coast on the Big Island, the Mauna Kea Golf Course is a timeless masterpiece designed by the legendary Robert Trent Jones Sr. Established in 1964 as an integral part of Laurance S. Rockefeller’s vision for the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, this iconic course seamlessly marries strategic play with breathtaking Pacific Ocean views.
The layout, known for its wide fairways, elevated tees, and challenging bunkers, beckons golf enthusiasts to embark on a journey that transcends the ordinary. A crown jewel within the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, the course is not just a golfing experience; it’s an immersion into the natural beauty of Hawaii’s Big Island.
The Mauna Kea Golf Course is renowned for its signature par-3 3rd hole, where golfers tee off over an ocean inlet to a green perched on a black lava rock peninsula. It’s received numerous awards and accolades over the years for both its strategic design and its role as a cornerstone of Hawaii’s golfing legacy.
For those seeking an unforgettable golfing adventure amidst lush landscapes and panoramic ocean views, Mauna Kea Golf Course stands as a testament to the artistry of Robert Trent Jones Sr. and the timeless allure of golfing in paradise.
2. Wailea Golf Club (Maui)
Location: Wailea, Maui
Situated on the enchanting island of Maui, the Wailea Golf Club beckons golfers to experience the diverse beauty of Hawaii’s landscapes. With three distinct courses; Wailea Blue, Wailea Gold, and Wailea Emerald; this club offers a golfing trifecta that caters to a range of preferences.
Wailea Blue Course
The Wailea Blue Course provides a classic resort feel, featuring gently rolling fairways and strategically placed bunkers. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking a more relaxed round while still enjoying the stunning views of the Pacific Ocean.
Wailea Gold Course
Moving to the Wailea Gold Course, golfers encounter a more challenging layout with undulating terrain, elevated greens, and panoramic views. Each hole presents a strategic puzzle for players to solve, making it a favorite among those looking for a more formidable golfing experience.
Wailea Emerald Course
Adding to the diversity, the Wailea Emerald Course weaves through tropical landscapes, offering vibrant green fairways and a visually captivating journey. The course design harmoniously incorporates Maui’s natural beauty, making it a memorable round for golfers of all skill levels.
For those craving a golfing adventure that showcases Maui’s stunning coastal panoramas and lush greenery, the Wailea Golf Club is a must-visit destination. Whether you’re drawn to the resort feel of the Blue Course, the challenging play of the Gold Course, or the visual feast of the Emerald Course, Wailea promises a golfing experience that transcends the ordinary.
3. Kapalua Golf Course (Maui)
Location: Kapalua, Maui
Set against the stunning backdrop of Maui’s natural beauty, the Kapalua Golf Course is a golfing mecca that beckons players seeking an immersive experience. Host to the prestigious Sentry Tournament, the Plantation Course at Kapalua stands out as an iconic golf destination.
Designed to take golfers on a journey through nature, the Plantation Course features expansive fairways, dramatic elevation changes, and panoramic views of the West Maui Mountains. Renowned for its challenging layout, each hole presents a strategic challenge that demands both skill and precision.
The undulating fairways create a rollercoaster-like experience, enhancing the thrill of the game against the backdrop of Maui’s breathtaking vistas. Kapalua Golf Course is not merely a golfing destination; it’s a visual and sensory exploration of Maui’s diverse landscapes. The breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and neighboring islands add to the allure, making every swing an opportunity to immerse oneself in the natural wonders of the island.
For golf enthusiasts seeking a blend of challenging play and unparalleled beauty, the Kapalua Golf Course offers an unforgettable experience. Beyond a game of golf, it invites players to become part of Maui’s rich tapestry of natural wonders.
4. Princeville Makai Golf Club (Kauai)
Location: Princeville, Kauai
Nestled on the picturesque cliffs of Kauai, the Princeville Makai Golf Club stands as a testament to the harmonious blend of challenging play and breathtaking ocean vistas. Following a meticulous renovation by Robert Trent Jones Jr., this golf course offers golfers a sensory-rich experience surrounded by the natural beauty of the “Garden Isle.”
The Princeville Makai Golf Club features a challenging layout that demands precision and strategy from players. Strategically placed bunkers, water features, and elevation changes create a course that not only tests the skills of golfers but also provides an immersive journey through the lush tropical surroundings.
The tropical landscapes and cliffside setting elevate every swing into a visual spectacle. Golfers find themselves surrounded by the sounds of crashing waves and the scent of tropical flowers, creating a unique fusion of sport and nature. Whether navigating through the course’s challenging holes or pausing to take in the panoramic views, every moment at the Princeville Makai Golf Club is a celebration of Kauai’s natural wonders.
For those seeking a golfing adventure where each swing is accompanied by the beauty of the Pacific Ocean and the vibrant landscapes of Kauai, the Princeville Makai Golf Club offers an unrivaled experience.
5. Ko’olau Golf Club (Oahu)
Location: Kaneohe, Oahu
Set against the majestic Ko’olau mountain range on the island of Oahu, the Ko’olau Golf Club is a golfing gem known for its challenging design and lush tropical surroundings. Carved through a rainforest, this course offers golfers a unique and immersive experience amidst the diverse landscapes of Oahu.
Each hole at Ko’olau is a visual marvel, featuring dramatic elevation changes, water features, and the striking beauty of the Ko’olau Mountains as a backdrop. The course demands accuracy and strategy from players, making it a favorite among those seeking a challenging yet rewarding round.
As golfers navigate through the course, they are treated to an immersive journey through Oahu’s rich diversity. The rainforest setting adds a unique dimension to the golfing experience, with vibrant greenery, native flora, and the sounds of nature enhancing every swing.
Ko’olau Golf Club showcases not only the challenging nature of golf but also the beauty of Oahu’s natural elements. For those seeking a golfing adventure surrounded by lush landscapes and the striking vistas of the Ko’olau Mountains, this course offers an unparalleled experience.
Own the Next Iconic Golf Course
Elevate your golfing experience beyond the greens of Hawaii’s famed courses. Contact Southwest Greens of Hawaii to design the next iconic golf course. From commercial spaces to backyard putting greens, we’ll help you build the course of your dreams.
Transform your space into a golfing haven, wherein every swing is surrounded by the peaceful bliss of Hawaii.
