There is no better way to discover Maui's stunning outdoors and scenic landscapes than by exploring the many golf courses on the island.
It is no secret that golfing on Maui has captured the hearts of many who live and visit the island! With perfect weather year-round and plenty of green, it's almost impossible to meet someone who doesn't consider it one of the best places to golf in the world. There are over 12 courses, all of which span from easy-going to impeccably designed by famous golfers such as Arnold Palmer.
Among these courses is The Kapalua Plantation Course, which has been recognized as the best golf course in Hawaii for 15 consecutive years by Golfweek. It is also the home to the famous annual PGA Tour Sentry Tournament of Champions. (Golfing here, you may spot a celebrity or two while cruising around in your golf cart.) But, there are also courses filled with history and culture like the Maui Country Club. Founded in 1925, it remains Maui's oldest golf course in operation! With so much to unpack about golfing on Maui, we decided to share some of our favorite courses on the island!
BONUS: Below each of our favorite courses, a few of our trusted golf enthusiasts share some background!
The Kaanapali-Royal Course was the past host for the Senior Tour Skin’s Game. The event was an unofficial PGA Tour event that went on from 1988-2011.The Kai Course is family friendly and features a foot golf course setup in the afternoons. The Kai Course hosts many community golf events and supports many of the nearby hotel group events.
Maui Country Club is Maui’s only 9-hole country club that is family friendly and offers lots of activities including a pool, tennis courts, and front-row to the stunning north shore,
Kahili Golf Course is currently walking-only on the weekends. It is the only public course on the island that does not have any houses or development around it! A true opportunity to take in all that Maui has to offer.
This world famous golf course was designed by Ben Crenshaw and Bill Coore, which explains its stunning reputation. The course opened in 1991 and offers massive panoramic views, greens, fairways, and incredible company. Many of the PGA Tour greats have competed here, which leaves many considering it a bucket course.
The Bay Course, or “first Kapalua Course”, opened in 1975 and was designed by Arnold Palmer and Francis Duane. The 17th par 3 is a favorite of most people who visit!
In fact, the infamous Sentry Tournament of Champions 2023 just wrapped this past weekend at the Kapalua Plantation Course! Jon Rahm walked into the Maui sunset, victorious, after shooting a 5-under 31 on the back nine. Many players who participated came to Maui early to find time beneath the palm trees with their families before competing in the golf tournament. Like we said, you never know who you’ll be seeing across the course.
The King Kamehameha Golf Club is Maui’s only 18-hole private golf course that anyone can join! While they focus on various membership opportunities, they offer a free guest pass for members, so that others may come and have the opportunity to experience it. This course offers a true golf experience with bi-coastal views and Haleakala views.
Makena Golf Course is a private golf course and is part of a handful of discovery land projects making it exclusive and popular among those looking for a luxury golfing experience.
Maui Nui Golf Club is a favorite among south Maui locals and visitors alike because of its affordability and excitement!
Pukalani Country Club is tucked among the upcountry pines and offers amazing bi-coastal views and weaves its way, beautifully, through the Pukalani neighborhood.
Wailea Golf Club Resort is currently the only 54-hole golf resort on Maui that offers 3 unique experiences, typically less prone to wind and weather, and is usually in great condition.
The Dunes at Maui Lani boasts the largest practice range on Maui and is centrally located and easy to get to, making it the best play for beginners.
BONUS
Waiehu Golf Course
One of the public golf courses on Maui located on prime real estate with amazing views and prices designed to be all inclusive.
All in all, golfing on Maui is one of the most intimate island experiences, where you can uncover hidden island gems and memories to last a lifetime.
