Tee Off in Paradise: A Guide to the Best Golf Courses in Maui

Maui is famous for its beaches, lush scenery, and rich culture—but it’s also a golfer’s paradise. The island has 14 top golf courses. Each one has beautiful views, giving players a great experience, no matter their skill level. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or a casual enthusiast, Maui golf courses are sure to impress. In this blog post, we’ll explore seven of the best golf courses in Maui to help you decide which course is the perfect fit for you!

1. The Plantation Course at Kapalua

Location: Kapalua

The Plantation Course at Kapalua is the most famous golf course in Maui. It hosts the PGA Tour’s Sentry Tournament of Champions. Set on the slopes of the West Maui Mountains, it offers sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. Designed by Ben Crenshaw and Bill Coore, the course features wide fairways, dramatic elevation changes, and challenging greens.

Highlights:

• Scenic Views: The Plantation Course is on the slopes of the West Maui Mountains. It offers golfers beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean and nearby islands like Molokai and Lanai. Every hole is designed to impress, with bright green fairways set against the deep blue sea.

• Challenging Layout: The course is celebrated for its challenging and strategic layout. The course stretches 7,596 yards from the championship tees and is known for its wide fairways, big elevation changes, and rolling terrain.

• Signature Hole: The 18th hole is one of golf’s most iconic finishers—a par 5 that runs 663 yards from the back tees. It’s particularly famous for its breathtaking views and challenging design, requiring precision and strategy.

Golfers who have played at the Plantation Course often speak of its sheer beauty and complexity. Its combination of natural beauty and expert design makes it a must-play for any golf enthusiast visiting Maui. Kapalua also has the Bay Course. It is easier to play but just as beautiful. This makes Kapalua Golf a great place for both pros and casual players.

2. Wailea Golf Club

Location: Wailea

Wailea Golf Club is considered one of the best golf resorts in Maui. It has three exceptional courses: Gold, Emerald, and Blue. Each course offers a unique golfing experience, with meticulously maintained fairways and greens coupled with spectacular ocean views. Robert Trent Jones II designed the Gold and Emerald courses, while Arthur Jack Snyder designed the Blue Course.

Highlights:

• Gold Course: This rugged course is both beautiful and challenging, with lava rock outcroppings and sweeping Pacific views. The par-3 17th hole is the highlight. It needs a careful tee shot over a ravine to a green on a cliff above the ocean.

• Emerald Course: This is Maui’s most friendly course. It has beautiful landscaping and ocean views, making it a great choice for golfers of all skill levels. Like the Gold Course, it offers spectacular views of the Pacific Ocean from several holes. The combination of lush greenery and ocean vistas provides a tranquil and enjoyable golfing experience.

• Blue Course: The original course at Wailea offers a classic layout with wide fairways and gentle slopes, perfect for a relaxing round of golf. The Blue Course isn’t as exciting as the Gold or Emerald courses. However, it still offers beautiful views of the ocean and the West Maui Mountains.

The scenic surroundings and well-maintained fairways create a pleasant and inviting atmosphere. This course has hosted numerous professional and amateur tournaments, adding to its prestige and charm.

Wailea Golf Club’s courses are consistently ranked among the best in Hawaii. The club has excellent practice facilities, a pro shop, and many dining options. This makes it feel like a country club in a resort.

3. King Kamehameha Golf Club

Location: Wailuku

The King Kamehameha Golf Club is a private club that offers an exclusive and luxurious golfing experience. The course was designed by Ted Robinson Sr. and later updated by his son, Ted Robinson Jr. It is located in the hills above Wailuku. From there, you can see beautiful views of the island and the ocean. The club is named after King Kamehameha, the great Hawaiian king who unified the islands.

Highlights:

• Luxurious Experience: The club offers top-notch facilities, including a stunning clubhouse designed by Frank Lloyd Wright. First planned as a home for Marilyn Monroe, the clubhouse is now an architectural masterpiece that blends with its natural setting. Its sweeping lines, open interiors, and fine details give it a sense of elegance and grandeur.

• Challenging Course: The course has big elevation changes, tricky bunkers, and fast greens, making it both fun and challenging. Several holes stand out for their design. The par-5 18th is famous for its sweeping downhill fairway and ocean views, offering a thrilling finish. The par-3 11th is another highlight, demanding a precise shot over water to reach its protected green.

• Scenic Views: Golfers can enjoy breathtaking views of Haleakalā, the West Maui Mountains, and the Pacific Ocean. Playing a round at the King Kamehameha Golf Club in the late afternoon is a great experience. Golfers can enjoy some of the most beautiful sunsets on the island. The sky turns a kaleidoscope of colors as the sun dips below the horizon, providing a magical end to a day on the course.

The King Kamehameha Golf Club is a haven for those seeking a high-end golfing experience. The combination of world-class design and unparalleled service makes it one of the best golf courses in Maui.

4. Kā‘anapali Golf Courses

Location: Lahaina

Kā‘anapali Golf Courses offers two distinct courses: Royal Kā‘anapali and Kā‘anapali Kai. Located in the heart of the Kā‘anapali Beach Resort, these courses combine challenge with stunning scenery. The Royal Kā‘anapali Course, designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr., is famous for its championship layout. The Kā‘anapali Kai Course has a more relaxed and forgiving design.

Kā‘anapali often has discounts for twilight play and seasonal specials. This makes it easier for visiting golfers to enjoy a resort experience without paying too much.

Highlights:

• Royal Kā‘anapali Course: Opened in 1962, this course has long been a staple of Hawaiian golf. With wide fairways, rolling greens, and tough bunkers, it offers a true test of skill. The Royal Kā‘anapali Course has hosted events like the PGA Tour’s Champions Skins Game and the LPGA’s Kemper Open. Its history and challenge make it a must-play for serious golfers in Maui.

• Kā‘anapali Kai Course: This course offers a more relaxed and forgiving design than its counterpart. It is shorter and more accessible, making it perfect for beginners and those looking for a leisurely round of golf. Despite its more relaxed nature, the Kā‘anapali Kai Course still provides an engaging and enjoyable golfing experience.

• Historical Significance: The Kā‘anapali Golf Courses have a rich history in Hawaiian golf. They have hosted many professional tournaments and events over the years. Since they opened, they have been an important part of Maui’s golf history. They help make the sport more popular in Hawaii.

Golfers at Kā‘anapali Golf Courses can see stunning views of the West Maui Mountains and the Pacific Ocean. They can also enjoy sights of the nearby islands of Lanai and Molokai. The resort setting also offers a variety of amenities, including luxury accommodations, dining, and shopping.

5. The Dunes at Maui Lani

Location: Kahului

The Dunes at Maui Lani is a unique links-style course located in central Maui. Designed by Robin Nelson, the course uses natural sand dunes to create a layout that is both challenging and scenic. The Dunes at Maui Lani has been named one of Hawaii’s best courses, praised for its smart design and natural beauty.

Highlights:

• Links-Style Layout: This course gives golfers a true links-style experience, much like the classic courses in Scotland and Ireland. It features rolling terrain, natural sand dunes, and strong trade winds.

• Strategic Design: The layout requires precision and strategy, with well-placed bunkers and challenging greens. The course layout includes a variety of holes that challenge different aspects of a golfer’s game. The Dunes has long par-5s that need strong drives. It also has short par-3s that test your accuracy. This mix creates a fun and varied golf experience.

• Convenient Location: The Dunes Maui Lani Golf Course is only a few minutes from Kahului Airport. This makes it great for a round of golf right after you arrive or before you leave Maui. Its central location also makes it easy to reach from anywhere on the island. Whether you stay in Wailea’s resorts or the historic town of Lahaina, The Dunes is a short drive away. It is a great choice for golfers.

The Dunes at Maui Lani offers a refreshing change from typical tropical golf courses. Golfers will enjoy the unique design and tough play of this exceptional course. They will appreciate its natural beauty and strategic challenges.

6. Makena Golf & Beach Club

Location: Makena

Another club on our list of the best golf resorts in Maui is the Makena Golf & Beach Club. This private club offers an exclusive golfing experience on the southern coast of Maui. The course was designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. It is in a beautiful area. From there, you can see lava rock, local plants, and the ocean. The club is known for its serene environment and top-notch facilities.

Highlights:

• Exclusive Experience: As a private club, Makena Golf & Beach Club offers its members a tranquil and luxurious setting. Memberships have many benefits. You can enjoy special events, personal service, and connecting with other golf lovers. The club’s commitment to excellence ensures that members receive the highest level of service and attention.

• Challenging Design: One of the course’s standout features is its dramatic elevation changes. The varying elevations not only offer stunning views but also add a layer of complexity to the game. The course is dotted with challenging bunkers strategically placed to protect the greens and fairways. The greens at Makena are known for their speed and subtle undulations. Accurate putting is essential, as the fast greens can quickly turn a straightforward putt into a challenging endeavor.

• Scenic Beauty: Golfers can enjoy beautiful views of the Pacific Ocean, Molokini Crater, and the islands of Kahoʻolawe and Lanai. The course is landscaped with native Hawaiian plants, bright tropical flowers, and ancient lava rock formations. Together, these natural features create a setting that reflects the island’s beauty and harmony.

Makena Golf & Beach Club is a hidden gem, offering a peaceful and luxurious golfing experience away from the crowds. The combination of expert design and natural beauty makes it a top choice for discerning golfers.

7. Maui Nui Golf Club

Location: Kihei

Maui Nui Golf Club is a public course known for its friendly atmosphere and affordable rates. Located in the sunny town of Kihei, the course offers well-maintained greens, scenic views, and a relaxed environment. Designed by Bill Newis, Maui Nui Golf Club is suitable for golfers of all skill levels. The club is known for being friendly and affordable, making it a favorite for both locals and visitors. Everyone can enjoy a round of golf here without breaking the bank.

Highlights:

• Affordable Rates: This course provides great value. Golfers can enjoy a quality experience at a lower cost than many exclusive courses in Maui. With fair pricing, players of all budgets can enjoy the game. Special rates for juniors, seniors, and twilight play make it more affordable. This way, more people can enjoy the beauty and challenge of the course.

• Friendly Atmosphere: Maui Nui Golf Club feels like a community. Many local golfers see it as their home course. Regulars often gather for casual rounds, tournaments, and social events, fostering a sense of camaraderie and connection among players.

• Scenic Views: The course is next to the Pacific Ocean. Many holes have stunning views of the ocean. Golfers can also enjoy breathtaking views of Haleakalā, Maui’s majestic volcano, and the West Maui Mountains. These natural landmarks provide a picturesque setting, making every round a visual delight.

Maui Nui Golf Club provides a fun and enjoyable golfing experience without breaking the bank. Its convenient location and friendly vibe make it a popular choice for both casual and serious golfers.

The Conclusion of the Best Golf Courses in Maui

Maui golf courses offer something for every golfer, from the luxurious and exclusive to the friendly and affordable. Each course provides a unique experience, with stunning views, challenging layouts, and top-notch facilities. If you want to practice your skills on a championship course or have a fun round with friends, check out these golf resorts in Maui. 

So, pack your clubs, book your tee time, and get ready to tee off in paradise. With its perfect weather, breathtaking scenery, and world-class courses, Maui is a golfer’s dream destination. We hope this guide inspires you to explore the best golf courses on the island and create unforgettable memories on the greens. Mahalo for joining us on this golfing journey through Maui!