When I first thought about golf in Hawaii, Lanai came to mind for its peaceful setting and beautiful courses.
Lanai has some of the best golf courses in Hawaii. These courses offer great views and fun challenges for golfers at any skill level.
I can relax while enjoying the unique beauty of the island.
One place I really enjoy is the Manele Golf Course.
Jack Nicklaus designed this 18-hole course with ocean views and natural landscapes.
Every round here feels special, whether I’m playing for fun or trying to improve my game.
If you want unforgettable golf and scenery, Lanai is a great place to visit.
Each course uses the island’s landscape in a different way.
I love how unique each experience is, which is why I keep coming back to Lanai for golf whenever I visit Hawaii.
Lanai’s Unique Golfing Experience
Playing golf on Lanai feels different from anywhere else.
The island’s natural beauty, ocean views, and mild climate make every round memorable.
Spectacular Landscape and Ocean Views
When I step onto the course on Lanai, I see dramatic scenery all around me.
Jack Nicklaus designed Manele Golf Course on rugged lava cliffs, making every hole feel special.
Bold rock formations, palm trees, and colorful flowers appear at almost every turn.
Some holes sit right along the edge of high cliffs above the blue Pacific Ocean.
On many holes, I get wide views of the water and sometimes even spot dolphins or whales in the distance.
The fairways and greens blend into the island’s natural landscape, giving the course a peaceful feeling.
Manele Golf Course offers ocean views on every hole.
Three holes line the cliffs, making the Pacific Ocean a real water hazard for my shots.
Golfing on Lanai feels like playing in a postcard.
Climate and Best Times to Play
The weather on Lanai stays mild and comfortable for golfing most of the year.
Cool ocean breezes keep it pleasant even on sunny days.
I rarely face the sticky heat or heavy rain that sometimes affects other islands in Hawaii.
Temperatures usually stay between 70 and 85 degrees Fahrenheit.
Rain is light and mostly falls during winter months, but the courses stay in great shape year-round.
My favorite time to play is in the morning.
The air feels crisp, and the sunlight over the ocean is stunning.
Late afternoons are also pleasant, with beautiful sunsets and quieter fairways.
This lets me pick the best time for my game while enjoying Lanai’s weather.
Manele Golf Course Overview
I’ve visited many courses, but Manele Golf Course stands out for its stunning views and unique cliffside holes.
The Four Seasons Resort Lanai manages this course, bringing together world-class design and a memorable playing experience.
Manele Golf Course History
Manele Golf Course opened in 1993.
Lanai wanted to become a luxury travel and golf destination, so the course was built on lava outcroppings and natural terrain.
Golf legend Jack Nicklaus designed the course to take full advantage of ocean views and rugged land.
Over the years, Manele became the centerpiece of the Four Seasons Lanai, attracting golfers from around the world.
Today, many major publications recognize Manele as the top public golf course in Hawaii.
Layout and Design by Jack Nicklaus
Jack Nicklaus designed Manele Golf Course to offer ocean views from every hole.
Each fairway winds along cliffs that drop 200 feet to the Pacific below.
Natural black lava outcroppings act as both hazards and dramatic backdrops.
The course has 18 holes, with a mix of short and long walks between tees.
The par-72 layout features four par-5s and four par-3s.
Nicklaus shaped each hole to maximize playability and the view for every golfer.
Elevated tees and sloping greens make the course challenging but fair.
Lush green fairways contrast with dark lava and blue ocean, making each round unforgettable.
The Nicklaus design encourages both strategic play and appreciation for the surroundings.
You can find more information about the design on the Nicklaus Design page.
Iconic Signature Holes
Manele Golf Course has a few holes that everyone remembers.
The most famous is the par-3 Hole 12, where I tee off over a cliff to a green near the ocean.
From the tee, I often see whales during winter months.
Hole 17 is another standout par-3, offering breathtaking views for bold shots.
Hole 13, a long par-4, follows the curve of the coastline and is equally dramatic.
Here’s a quick look at two signature holes:
| Hole Number | Par | Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| 12 | 3 | Tee shot over a cliff, ocean view |
| 13 | 4 | Runs along coastline, lava border |
Each signature hole tests skill and nerve.
Many golfers pause here for photos before taking their shots.
Golf Digest and others often mention the breathtaking location as a key part of the experience.
Player Experience and Reviews
My round at Manele felt special from start to finish.
Staff at the Four Seasons offered top service, from check-in to the final hole.
The course conditions were excellent, with fast greens and well-kept fairways.
Most reviews agree that Manele Golf Course is both beautiful and challenging.
Many players praise the unique cliffside shots and the quiet setting away from busy cities.
Some say it is one of the finest golf experiences available, and highlight how the ocean is in view nearly everywhere.
Golf Digest ranks Manele as the best public course in Hawaii.
The course isn’t easy, but most golfers can play it with a bit of patience and focus.
Highlights of Manele Golf Course
Manele Golf Course stands out for its coastal views and layout by Jack Nicklaus.
Some of the best moments come from its oceanfront holes and standout challenges that make each round memorable.
Dramatic Oceanfront Holes
When I play at Manele Golf Course, the first thing I notice is the dramatic setting by the Pacific.
Nearly every hole offers sweeping views of the ocean.
I often pause just to soak it all in.
Red lava cliffs edge several fairways, adding both beauty and challenge.
My favorite moments come from hitting tee shots toward the waves below.
The sound and sights of the water set a relaxing yet focused mood.
Sometimes, I can spot dolphins or even whales in the distance.
The wind off the water can change the way some holes play, adding difficulty.
This means I have to think carefully about club selection and shot direction.
The oceanfront holes at Manele Golf Course truly make each round unique.
Notable Holes: Hole 12, Hole 13, and Island Green
Hole 12 is famous for its dramatic tee shot over a cliff.
The risk and reward make it exciting for both beginners and experienced players.
If my drive carries, I feel a rush of accomplishment.
On Hole 13, the scenery gets even better.
I get almost a full panorama of the coastline, making it hard to focus on my shot instead of the ocean.
But it’s also a hole that asks me to be precise—stray too far, and I’m in trouble.
The island green is a highlight for me.
Nestled among lava rocks and ocean, it feels like a target floating on water.
It’s both beautiful and intimidating at first glance.
For anyone seeking a challenge at Manele, these holes are a must-play and show why Manele Golf Course ranks among the best in Hawaii.
The Experience at Koele
I loved visiting The Experience at Koele for its peaceful setting and cool climate.
The course layout, views, and services made my round comfortable and memorable.
Design and Setting
When I played at The Experience at Koele, I noticed the strong contrast to desert-style golf courses.
Tall pines, gentle slopes, and plenty of water features fill the area here.
The course has Bermuda grass fairways and greens, which makes for a smooth game.
Koele sits at a higher elevation, so I found the temperatures mild and the air fresh.
Streams, lakes, and waterfalls run through the property, adding beauty and a sense of calm.
The par is 72, and the total length is about 7,014 yards.
Some holes, like the 17th, have dramatic drops in elevation.
This feature stands out compared to flatter courses and adds excitement to the round.
It was easy to walk the course, with only a few tricky spots along the way.
You can find more details on this Koele Golf Course overview.
Golfing Amenities and Services
Koele offers a range of amenities for golfers of all skill levels.
The greens and bunkers are manicured and suitable for both beginners and advanced players.
Friendly staff help with everything from club rental to tee time reservations.
The practice facilities are helpful for warming up before a round.
Locker rooms and equipment rental are available if you need them.
When I visited, there was also a comfortable clubhouse with snacks and drinks.
Photo tours and course info are available at Experience at Koele.
This makes planning my day on the links much easier.
Beyond the Greens: Activities for Visitors
When I take a break from golf, I find plenty of other ways to enjoy Lanai. Outdoor activities and luxury places to stay and dine make the island a full vacation experience.
Horseback Riding and Outdoor Adventures
Lanai has many outdoor options right outside the resort. One favorite is horseback riding through the island’s pine forests and rugged trails.
I enjoy seeing wild stretches of land up close this way. Guided tours help riders of all experience levels feel safe and comfortable.
Both beginners and long-time riders can enjoy these trips. The scenery changes from open meadows to dramatic upland woods.
Besides horses, I like hiking, UTV off-roading, and snorkeling at popular spots. These outdoor adventures let me explore more of Lanai’s natural beauty.
If I need recommendations, the concierge at Four Seasons Resort Lanai points me to local guides and trusted outfitters.
Luxury Accommodations and Dining
When I stay at Four Seasons Resort Lanai, I get more than just a comfortable room. The property sits on a cliff overlooking the Pacific, so the views are always amazing.
I can choose from different dining options, like fresh seafood at Nobu Lanai or relaxed poolside snacks. Sensei Lanai, another Four Seasons property, offers wellness programs and fine meals focused on healthy ingredients.
The staff arrange golf tee times and recommend restaurants. Their attention to detail helps me relax and enjoy my trip.
Comparing Lanai’s Golf Courses to Neighboring Islands
Lanai gives me a private and peaceful golf experience. Nearby islands like Maui and Kauai have courses with different features and attractions.
Each destination brings its own style, views, and types of challenges for golfers.
Nearby Maui Courses: Wailea and Royal Kaʻanapali
When I think about golfing on Maui, I remember Wailea Gold, Wailea Blue, and Royal Kaʻanapali. Wailea Gold has rolling fairways and sparkling ocean views.
Lava rock features make each hole unique. Wailea Blue offers a gentler layout but still gives me plenty of challenge, with wide fairways and volcanic scenery.
Royal Kaʻanapali sits near the beach with soft breezes and mountain backdrops. I like how it blends flat areas with gentle slopes, making it great for a relaxed round.
Kapalua Bay and the Plantation Course are two more options on Maui that attract golf fans from around the world. Maui offers many choices, but these courses can be busy, and tee times may be hard to get during peak travel seasons.
Playing here is ideal if I want a larger resort experience and easy access to other island activities, as highlighted in the best Maui & Lanai courses.
Kauai’s Poipu Bay and Other Highlights
Kauai’s Poipu Bay is famous for its oceanfront holes and green bluffs. Tiger Woods played here during the PGA Grand Slam of Golf.
The sea views are stunning, and the winds make each round different. Other top courses like Princeville Makai and Wailua bring different challenges too.
Princeville Makai is beautiful with its clifftop fairways. Wailua is popular for its accessible green fees.
Kauai courses feel wild and more connected to nature. These options are great if I want dramatic landscapes and a quieter pace.
Why Choose Lanai for Your Golf Vacation?
Lanai stands out because it is much less crowded than Maui or Kauai. I feel a sense of privacy every time I golf here.
The Experience at Koele and the Challenge at Manele both offer beautiful, quiet rounds with stunning views of the Pacific. These courses let me take my time, relax, and enjoy the scenery.
The Challenge at Manele sits on cliffs right above the ocean. Sometimes I spot dolphins in the water while golfing.
Lanai is perfect if I want a luxury golf getaway. The resorts here provide comfort, excellent service, and a peaceful escape.
Lanai has only a few courses, so I enjoy more space and calm during my golf trip.
