Curator’s statement
Hawai'i is a top destination for golf for travelers in the United States. When I think about golf in Hawai'i, four courses come to mind, three of which are in Maui. There are plenty of golf courses in Hawai'i, but these are must-play courses. The courses are Royal Ka’anapali Golf Course, Ka’anapali Kai, Kapalua Golf — (The Bay and Plantation Course) located at the Ritz Carlton Maui and Ocean Course at Hokuala (Kauai). You may have chosen one island or the other. Although Maui is a less than 60-minute flight to Kauai, it's best to base which golf course to play based on your trip location.
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The top golf courses in Hawai'i
Kapalua Golf (The Bay and Plantation): Both set against stunning ocean and mountain views. The Plantation Course, home to the PGA TOUR’s Sentry Tournament of Champions, is known for its challenging layout and dramatic elevation changes. The Bay Course was designed by Arnold Palmer and Francis Duane. It offers a scenic, player-friendly experience with oceanfront holes and lush landscapes, making Kapalua a premier destination for golfers of all skill levels.
Royal Ka’anapali Golf Course and Ka’anapali Kai Course: These courses are less than 15 minutes from the Ritz Carlton Maui and Kapalua Golf. They are two scenic, championship-level courses located at the Ka’anapali Beach Resort in Maui. The Royal Ka’anapali Course, designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., features wide fairways, strategic bunkering and ocean views, making it both challenging and picturesque. The Ka’anapali Kai Course offers a more relaxed, shorter layout. It winds through lush, tropical landscapes and offers beautiful views of the West Maui Mountains, ideal for players of all skill levels. Both courses embody the beauty and spirit of Maui golf.
Ocean Course at Hokuala: The Ocean Course at Hokuala in Kauai, Hawaii, is a breathtaking Jack Nicklaus Signature course. It is known for having the longest continuous stretch of oceanfront holes in Hawaii. This 18-hole course offers sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean, lush fairways and strategically placed bunkers, providing both beauty and challenge. The course’s design highlights Kauai’s natural landscapes, from coastal cliffs to tropical foliage, making it a premier golfing experience on the Garden Isle.
How long to plan for a golf trip to Hawai'i?
For Maui, you should plan for at least 5–6 days. This will allow for a mix of golf and other activities. With each of the courses in Maui having 36 holes, you will need at least two days of golf to play each course, and then head to the other course to play 18 or 36.
Where to stay in Maui for a golf trip?
The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
Royal Lahaina Resort
Hyatt Regency Maui Resort
Day Trips
In between golf, you can enjoy activities such as snorkeling, paddle boarding, catamaran cruises, zip-lining adventures or simply enjoying the beaches.
Places to eat & drink in Hawaii
Fond: Laid-back eatery tucked away in a Napili strip mall.
Ichiban Okazuya: A mom and pop shop serving Asian cuisine.
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Travel Advisor
Robert Huie
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Hawai'i page.