With its rolling green fairways, dramatic ocean views, and year-round sunshine, it’s no surprise West Maui has earned its reputation as one of the most iconic golf destinations in the world. Whether you’re a seasoned player chasing a championship course or a casual golfer looking to enjoy the island breeze, West Maui offers some of Hawai‘i’s most memorable golfing experiences.
From the world-renowned Plantation Course at Kapalua to the historic Royal Ka‘anapali Course, here’s your guide to four standout golf courses that define the West Maui golf scene.
Kpalua Golf
2000 Plantation Club Dr. Lahaina, HI 96761
Kapalua Golf is more than just a place to play—it’s a full-on island lifestyle. Tucked into the upper northwest corner of Maui, the Kapalua Resort is your one-stop-shop for luxury living, stunning scenery, and two of Hawaiʻi’s most iconic golf courses: The Plantation Course and The Bay Course. The resort also boasts five-star stays at The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua and Montage Kapalua Bay, plus six bays, world-class dining, spa escapes, tennis, pickleball—you name it. It's where comfort meets class, and where golfers come to unwind, play hard, and soak up the best Maui has to offer.
But Kapalua isn't just known for its sweeping views and luxury—it's also home to The Sentry, the official kickoff to the PGA TOUR’s season. Every January, the game’s biggest names tee it up here, making this resort a true mecca for golf fans.
The Plantation Course at Kapalua
Playing the Plantation Course is like stepping into a golf fantasy. Designed by legends Ben Crenshaw and Bill Coore, the course features dramatic elevation changes, wide open fairways, and jaw-dropping views from nearly every hole. The opening hole? A downhill, downwind par four that practically begs you to swing big—it sets the tone for a round you’ll never forget.
The Sentry Tournament of Champions: This prestigious event kicks off the PGA TOUR calendar and brings golf’s elite to Maui’s shores. With past champs like Tiger Woods, Jordan Spieth, and Jon Rahm gracing its greens, this tourney brings serious star power. The 2025 tournament ran January 2–5, and in 2026, mark your calendar for January 7–11.
Booking Tee Times & Info:The Plantation Course is open daily with tee times starting at 7:00 AM. Standard tee times can be booked online up to 30 days in advance. Premium bookings, which open 31–90 days in advance, incur a 15% surcharge. Kamaʻāina rates are available with a valid Hawaiʻi driver’s license and a 7-day booking window. Rates range from $439–$539, depending on resort affiliation and time of booking. Call 1-877-KAPALUA for Kamaʻāina, junior, and Troon program bookings.
The Bay Course at Kapalua
The Bay Course is the chill sibling of the Plantation Course—laid back, but still iconic. With oceanfront holes (including a par-3 that literally plays over the Pacific), rolling fairways, and breezy vibes, this course checks every box for an unforgettable day on the green. Designed by Arnold Palmer and Francis Duane, it’s hosted more than 20 professional tournaments and served as the stage for some legendary wins. Add it to your must-play list, pronto.
Booking Tee Times & Info:
The Bay Course is also open daily starting at 7:00 AM. Rates range from $259–$320, depending on your resort affiliation or booking tier. Kamaʻāina, junior, and Troon-affiliated players should call 1-877-KAPALUA for reservations and pricing. Online bookings available for standard and premium tee times.
Ka‘anapali Golf Courses
2290 Kaanapali Pkwy, Lahaina, HI 96761
Located along the shoreline of Lahaina with views of Lānaʻi and Molokaʻi in the distance, Kaʻanapali Golf Courses combine championship layouts with the spirit of aloha. These fairways were once the vacation grounds of Maui’s royal chiefs, and today, they’re a sanctuary where the rhythm of your swing meets the gentle flow of island life. Here, it’s not just about the game—it’s about connection, reflection, and a good time under the sun.
Royal Kaʻanapali Course
Designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., the Royal Kaʻanapali Course is a bold, 6,700-yard par 71 that flows from sea level through the rolling hills of West Maui. With massive contoured greens, swaying coconut trees, and historical plaques on each tee box, every hole tells a story. The 18th hole? Arnold Palmer himself called it one of the best—and most challenging—finishing holes he’d ever played.
As you play, take in the breathtaking island views and cool tropical breezes, all while walking fairways steeped in Hawaiian heritage. You’re not just golfing—you’re becoming part of the story.
Kaʻanapali Kai Course
A bit more forgiving and laid-back than its big sibling, the Kaʻanapali Kai Course is perfect for players of all levels. Originally designed as an executive course and later renovated by Robin Nelson, this 6,400-yard, par 70 layout takes you from the oceanside (makai) into the mountain foothills (mauka), offering epic views and lush surroundings along the way.
You’ll play past native hibiscus, lava rock walls, and breezy coconut palms—all adding to the magic. It’s strategic, scenic, and seriously good fun, whether you’re new to the game or just looking for a relaxing round in paradise.
Booking Tee Times & Info:
Both the Royal Kaʻanapali and Kaʻanapali Kai courses offer online tee time booking for groups of 1–4 players. Groups of 5–15 can reserve under "Book a Tee Time," and parties of 16+ should inquire through the Tournaments & Group Tee Times page. Note: no groups of 5 allowed in a single tee time. All tee times include shared cart fees. Rental clubs are available. For cancellations, please notify them at least 24 hours in advance at 808-661-3691.
Aeration Notices:
Royal Kaʻanapali Course: Closed May 6–9, 2025. Discounted rates May 10–16.
Kaʻanapali Kai Course: Closed May 27–30, 2025. Discounted rates May 31–June 6.
Imagine waking up in paradise, sipping your morning coffee, and knowing you’re just minutes away from world-famous fairways. That’s life in West Maui. Here, golf isn’t just a hobby—it’s a lifestyle. With unbeatable weather, luxury resorts, and iconic courses in your backyard, it’s the kind of everyday luxury that never gets old.
Whether you’re looking to relocate, invest, or simply live where you love to play, Island Sotheby’s International Realty can help you find the perfect place to call home on Maui. Let us help you tee up your best life.
Ready to make West Maui your home course? Reach out to one of our local experts today!