Hawaiian Golf Getaway: A Golfer’s Guide to Paradise Across Six Islands
Hawaii isn’t just a dream vacation—it’s a golfer’s paradise. With six main islands offering wildly different landscapes, cultural vibes, and world-class golf, every fairway brings a fresh perspective. Whether you’re chasing birdies or sunset views, Hawaii’s islands serve up a blend of championship-caliber courses and unforgettable island adventures.
Hawaii (Big Island): The Golf Capital of Hawaii
The Big Island lives up to its name with vast, dramatic landscapes—active volcanoes, black sand beaches, and lava-lined fairways. It’s also home to Hawaii’s highest concentration of top-rated courses, earning its title as the *Golf Capital of Hawaii*.
- Hualalai Golf Course (Jack Nicklaus): A luxury resort experience with a stunning ocean backdrop and black lava contrast.
- Mauna Lani Resort – Francis H. I‘i Brown Courses: The South Course offers iconic ocean views and forgiving play, including the breathtaking par-3 15th. The North Course ups the ante with tighter fairways through ancient lava and kiawe trees—don’t miss the lava bowl at No. 17.
- Mauna Kea Golf Course (Robert Trent Jones Sr.): A legendary layout where towering greens meet Pacific Ocean drama. The signature par-3 third hole is an unforgettable carry over crashing waves.
- Hapuna Golf Course (Arnold Palmer & Ed Seay): A scenic, links-style gem through bluff terrain, known for its sustainability and rolling, fescue-lined beauty.
- Waikoloa Beach Resort – Beach & Kings’ Courses: The Beach Course is a relaxed, scenic journey, while the Kings’ Course plays longer and tougher, especially when the island winds change course.
Beyond the Green: Snorkel with manta rays, explore lava fields at Volcanoes National Park, and savor local coffee in Kona.
Oahu: Urban Energy, Golf Variety
Oahu brings the best of both worlds: the buzz of Honolulu and Waikiki with over 40 diverse golf courses scattered across the island. Add in a calendar of pro events, like the *Sony Open at Waialae Country Club*, and you’ve got a golfer’s playground.
- Ko Olina Golf Club: LPGA-tested with trade winds and water features making every shot a challenge. Watch for the signature par-3 eighth, framed by a cascading waterfall.
- Turtle Bay Resort – Palmer & Fazio Courses: The Palmer Course delivers PGA-level tests across preserved wetlands, while the Fazio layout is more forgiving but no less scenic, especially along the North Shore’s crashing surf.
Off the Course: Ride waves in Waikiki, catch a North Shore surf competition, explore historic Iolani Palace, or sip a Mai Tai as the sun dips below Diamond Head.
Maui: Golf with a View
Maui’s beauty is so spellbinding it almost feels unfair. With 14 golf courses nestled among lava fields, palm groves, and seaside cliffs, you’ll be torn between playing your best and simply soaking it all in.
- Kapalua Resort – Plantation & Bay Courses: The Plantation Course (host of the PGA TOUR’s Sentry Tournament of Champions) is bold and dramatic with ocean panoramas. The Bay Course offers a more traditional layout with signature holes along the surf.
- Wailea Resort – Gold & Emerald Courses: The Gold Course is Maui’s most challenging, rewarding precision with stunning terrain. The Emerald Course is more relaxed, surrounded by vibrant tropical blooms and panoramic views.
Island Moments: Take the Road to Hana, sip local wines in Upcountry Maui, or relax on golden beaches like Wailea and Kaanapali.
Kauai: Lush, Remote, Legendary
Nicknamed the *Garden Isle*, Kauai feels like Hawaii in its most natural form—untamed cliffs, jungle valleys, and dramatic coastlines. It’s also home to some of the state’s most revered golf experiences.
- Makai Golf Club at Princeville: A scenic masterpiece atop cliffs overlooking Hanalei Bay. The 3rd and 7th holes are cliffside par-3s that must be seen (and played) to be believed.
- Prince Golf Course at Princeville (currently under redevelopment): Once ranked among Hawaii’s best, this Robert Trent Jones Jr. design features ravines, jungle, and waterfall views—an unforgettable test.
- Poipu Bay Golf Course: Former home to the PGA Grand Slam of Golf, this course offers oceanfront holes along Kauai’s sunny South Shore and surreal views of Mahualepu’s rocky coastline.
In Between Rounds: Hike the Na Pali Coast, kayak the Wailua River, or unwind at a luxurious South Shore resort.
Lāna‘i: Private, Peaceful, Perfect for Golf Purists
Lāna‘i is a secluded escape with just one golf course—but what a course it is.
- Manele Golf Course (Jack Nicklaus): Set atop cliffs with sweeping ocean views, this 18-hole stunner is pure golf luxury, with barely another group in sight. You may even spot spinner dolphins during your round.
Island Vibes: Explore Shipwreck Beach, sip cocktails at the Four Seasons, or go off-roading through remote backcountry trails.
Moloka‘i: Authentic and Undisturbed
For the adventurous golfer seeking solitude, Moloka‘i offers one 9-hole course that captures the spirit of old Hawaii.
- Ironwood Hills: Humble, unspoiled, and set 1,200 feet above sea level with views across the island. It’s a true local gem.
Slow Down: Visit Kalaupapa National Historical Park or just enjoy the untouched serenity of this peaceful island.
Whether you’re chasing a scratch score or a tropical breeze, Hawaii offers a golf holiday unlike any other—lush landscapes, top-tier course design, and island experiences you’ll treasure forever.
