Maui’s Top Golf Courses for Visitors: Best Fairways and Scenic Views

I always look forward to golfing in Maui when I visit the island.

Maui has some of the best golf courses in Hawaii, including the Plantation Course at Kapalua and the scenic Wailea Golf Club. These courses offer beautiful views, challenging layouts, and great conditions. Players of all levels will find options they enjoy.

I love sharing my favorite places to play, and Maui has plenty of impressive options. From the rolling hills at Pukalani Country Club to the lush fairways at Kā’anapali Golf Courses, each course offers something special.

If you’re planning a golf trip or just want a round during your vacation, you’ll find excellent choices across the island.

Whether you want ocean views or a course where pros play, Maui’s top golf courses have it all. Get ready to see what makes golfing in Maui a must-do for visitors and locals.

Overview of Golf in Maui

Maui features world-class golf courses, beautiful coastlines, and perfect weather.

Golfers of any skill level will enjoy the variety and scenery on Maui.

Why Maui is a Golf Destination

When I visit Maui, I notice the many options for golfing. The island has over a dozen courses, some designed by famous golf names.

Many courses appear in Golf Digest and Golf Magazine for their layout, service, and playability.

Maui offers more than just golf. I can spend my morning on the fairways, then swim, snorkel, or surf at the nearby beaches.

The weather is usually warm and breezy, perfect for outdoor sports all year. The mix of top golf and other activities makes Maui a true golf destination.

Golf Course Scenery and Landscape

Maui’s courses impress me with their unique settings. Many run along the Pacific Ocean, so I can watch the waves as I play.

Palm trees, volcanic mountains, and lush fairways make the courses stand out.

Courses in Wailea and Kapalua sit against dramatic cliffs and offer wide ocean views. On clear days, I sometimes spot whales in winter.

The greens and fairways stay well kept, often surrounded by tropical flowers and sand traps. The landscape adds a special touch to every round.

Best Times to Play

I plan my rounds for mornings since the weather is cooler and the ocean views are clear. The afternoon sun can get strong, but breezes usually help.

Maui’s golf courses stay open all year, but winter and spring are busiest because the weather is best.

I’ve found that courses are less crowded on weekdays. For the best conditions and fewer people, I aim for late fall or early summer.

Many courses offer tee time deals and twilight rates during these times. This makes it more affordable to enjoy great Maui golf.

Championship Courses and Signature Experiences

I’ve played golf in many places, but some Maui courses stand out for their design and beauty. These courses have hosted major tournaments and welcome players of all skill levels.

Kapalua Plantation Course

When I visited the Kapalua Plantation Course, I saw why it’s one of Maui’s best. This course has wide fairways, big elevation changes, and stunning ocean views from almost every hole.

Each January, the PGA TOUR’s Sentry Tournament of Champions takes place here. Watching pros like Michelle Wie play where I stand gave me real excitement.

Bill Coore and Ben Crenshaw designed the par 73 layout, which is famous for sloping greens and strong wind. Every hole gave me a new challenge, especially the long 18th, which plays downhill.

Golfers will appreciate the natural beauty and history at this course.

Wailea Gold Course

Robert Trent Jones II designed the Wailea Gold Course, part of the Wailea Golf Club. I enjoy how it uses Maui’s sunny weather and volcanic landscapes.

This course stands out with deep bunkers, rugged lava outcroppings, and manicured greens. It’s a par 72 and measures just over 7,000 yards from the back tees.

Arnold Palmer called it “the thinking player’s course.” Each shot takes planning.

There are five sets of tees for different skill levels. I felt welcomed as a visitor, and the staff was always friendly.

The scenery, with sweeping views of the ocean and Mount Haleakalā, makes every round memorable.

Makena Golf and Beach Club

Makena Golf and Beach Club gives a more private and secluded experience. This club is exclusive, so I arranged my round ahead of time, but the peaceful atmosphere made it worth it.

The course was redesigned recently and now features wide fairways, natural water features, and mountain views. Each hole gave me a sense of privacy and space.

I like how the course blends into its environment, with native plants and unspoiled views. If you want a course away from crowds, Makena is a top choice.

The staff goes out of their way to make guests feel special, and the beach club amenities add luxury.

Top Golf Resorts and Areas

Maui has several well-known golf destinations. Each one offers a different mix of beauty, challenging layouts, and relaxing extras.

I find these resorts popular for their unique courses, views, and visitor amenities.

Wailea Golf Resort Overview

Wailea has three main courses: Wailea Gold, Wailea Emerald, and Wailea Blue. Each course is beautifully maintained and offers a different experience on the South Maui coast.

The Wailea Gold Course is the most challenging, with narrow fairways and lava outcroppings along the greens.

The Wailea Emerald Course is famous for ocean views and a more forgiving design. Many casual players enjoy it for a fun round.

The Wailea Blue Course offers classic Hawaiian golf with wide fairways, making it friendly for all skill levels.

The resort provides club rentals, lessons, and a large pro shop. After playing, I like to stop at the club’s Seawatch Restaurant for local food and great views.

Wailea is sunny almost every day, which adds to its appeal.

Kapalua Golf Resort Highlights

Kapalua Golf Resort is best known for its world-class layouts. The resort sits on Maui’s northwest coast, surrounded by ocean and mountains.

Its two main courses, The Plantation Course and The Bay Course, rank among Hawaii’s best.

The Plantation Course attracts top golfers each year for the PGA TOUR’s Sentry Tournament of Champions. Its wide fairways, strong winds, and sloping greens test any golfer.

The Bay Course is milder but still features water and scenic views.

Kapalua offers practice areas, equipment rentals, a pro shop, and great staff. I enjoy the sea views along many holes, especially on the back nine.

This area lets me feel close to both nature and world-class sport.

Kaanapali Golf

Kaanapali sits on Maui’s west side, right by the beach. There are two main courses: the Royal Kaanapali Course and the Kaanapali Kai Course.

Famous golf architects designed each course to show off the island’s beauty.

Palm trees line the fairways, and many holes offer a clear view of the Pacific Ocean. The Royal Course is tougher, while the Kai Course is shorter and good for beginners.

Both courses have hosted events like the Skins Game.

I also appreciate how Kaanapali Golf Courses are close to resorts, shops, and the beach. After playing, it’s easy to walk to restaurants, go shopping, or relax by the ocean.

This makes Kaanapali a great choice if I want both golf and vacation fun in one place.

Wailea’s Three Premier Courses

Wailea has three top golf courses, each designed for a different kind of player. I found the courses in great shape and set against amazing ocean views.

Wailea Gold Course

When I played the Wailea Gold Course, I noticed the stunning layout. Robert Trent Jones II designed this 18-hole championship course with narrow fairways and large bunkers, making it more challenging for experienced golfers.

The Gold Course measures about 7,078 yards from the longest tees.

The views are some of the best on Maui. I could see the Pacific Ocean and the slopes of Haleakalā during my round.

Lava rock outcroppings on many holes create a unique look and require careful shots.

The greens are fast but fair, and the staff keeps them well-manicured all year.

Wailea Emerald Course

The Wailea Emerald Course is more forgiving than the Gold. Designed for fun, it suits both casual and skilled golfers.

The Emerald Course measures about 6,825 yards from the back tees, with wide fairways and lots of lush tropical plants.

I enjoyed the colorful landscaping and several lakes. Water hazards come into play on a few holes, adding to the challenge without making it too hard.

Many holes offer beautiful ocean views, and some have double greens shared by two holes.

Both men and women seem to enjoy the friendly atmosphere here. The Emerald is known for its excellent conditions and bright floral displays, making every round feel special.

Wailea Blue Course

Arthur Jack Snyder designed the Wailea Blue Course, which is the original course at Wailea. This course measures around 6,765 yards from the back tees and features a traditional layout.

When I played the Blue Course, I appreciated the generous fairways. The approach shots to the greens felt easier than on other courses.

It’s a good pick for beginners, families, or anyone wanting a less stressful round. The course winds through old lava flows and offers views of both the ocean and the volcano.

The Blue Course has a friendly atmosphere. The staff welcome guests, and I found the pace of play relaxed.

The course sits in a central location in the resort, close to shops and restaurants. This makes it very convenient for guests.

Standout Public and Semi-Private Courses

Maui offers excellent options for golfers who want beautiful courses without private club restrictions. These places welcome both beginners and dedicated players.

The Dunes at Maui Lani

When I play at The Dunes at Maui Lani, I notice right away how unique this course feels. Robin Nelson designed the course to fit the natural sand dunes of central Maui.

This gives it a real “links” style, similar to classic Scottish courses. Hazards like rolling hills, tall native grasses, and changing winds make every round feel different.

The fairways are wide, but approach shots can be tricky if I’m not careful with club choice. There’s also a great on-site restaurant and a solid practice range.

Features at a Glance:

The Dunes sits close to the airport, making it perfect for a quick round after landing in Maui.

Pukalani Country Club

Pukalani Country Club sits in upcountry Maui, almost 1,100 feet above sea level. Here, the cooler air and open views over the island make me feel relaxed even before my round begins.

The course is rarely crowded, so I can usually play at my own pace. This 18-hole course features spacious fairways, along with a variety of water holes and elevated greens that test my short game.

The gentle slopes and fast greens create a nice challenge for experienced golfers. If I need a break, I visit the pro shop or enjoy food at the Pukalani Clubhouse.

The laid-back crowd and staff always make me feel at home.

Maui Country Club

Maui Country Club is a semi-private course located near the beach in Spreckelsville, east of Paia and close to Kihei. Even though it’s not fully public, visitors can play by arranging a tee time.

This course opened in 1927, making it one of the oldest on Maui. The layout is nine holes, but many people play it twice for a full 18.

Coastal breezes from the nearby ocean keep things cool, and the trade winds add extra challenge to each swing. The club also offers tennis courts, swimming, and great food.

If I bring family, everyone has something to enjoy while I golf. The casual vibe and ocean views make it a great place to experience classic Maui golf.

Makena Area Golf Offerings

Makena offers some of the most scenic and unique golfing on Maui. The courses blend natural beauty, ocean views, and a relaxed atmosphere.

Makena Golf Course

The Makena Golf Course stands out because it stretches from the sea up toward the mountain. I like how it gives me an 18-hole challenge surrounded by natural lava rock, kiawe trees, and sweeping ocean views.

I feel like I’m in untouched Hawaii when I play here. Golfers enjoy wide fairways and smooth greens.

The natural setting helps me feel far from busy resort life. All skill levels can play comfortably.

Guests can get special deals on tee times and club rentals. For example, resort guests pay around $99 per round, and club rentals are included.

You can find details at the Makena Golf Course page.

Makena North Course

The Makena North Course offers a quieter alternative for golf lovers. When I played here, I noticed it has fewer crowds and a peaceful feel.

The course layout takes players through rolling hills with great views of the ocean and mountains. It’s a great pick for early risers or anyone who wants to escape the crowds.

The fairways are generous, but hazards and bunkers keep the game interesting. Practice facilities are well-kept.

You can book tee times online or through local resorts. Golfers who prefer a less busy atmosphere will enjoy the calm pace on the North Course.

Golf Near Popular Maui Destinations

Maui offers beautiful golf courses close to many of the island’s busiest places. You’ll find options for all skill levels, along with stunning ocean views and top-notch facilities.

Golf Courses in Lahaina

I’ve always enjoyed the golf options in Lahaina. This area is home to Ka’anapali Golf Courses, which features two main courses: the Royal Ka’anapali Course and the Ka’anapali Kai Course.

Both are close to Kaanapali Beach and the historic town of Lahaina. The Royal Ka’anapali Course is longer and more challenging, designed for those who want a real test of skill.

The Ka’anapali Kai Course is a little shorter and easier, making it great for families and beginners. Both offer wide fairways, coconut trees, and views of the ocean.

A lot of visitors like playing at these courses because they have hosted big tournaments, including LPGA events. There are practice facilities, a pro shop, and several places to eat.

You can find more details at Ka’anapali Golf Courses on GolfPass.

Golfing Around Hana

When I visit Hana, I notice it’s much quieter than places like Lahaina. The area is known for its natural beauty and for being remote, so you won’t find big golf resorts or championship courses in Hana.

Hana’s relaxed vibe makes it perfect for travelers who want to explore less crowded places. You may find small, local options on private properties or at community centers, but they can be hard to access and are not well publicized.

Most golf lovers staying in Hana drive back toward the central or west parts of Maui if they want a more standard course. If golf is a must-do, areas near Kihei and Wailea are not too far by car and offer excellent options like the Wailea Golf Club.

You can learn more at Pride of Maui.

Tips for Visiting Golfers

When I golf in Maui, planning ahead always makes my experience smoother. I pay attention to how I book my tee times and make sure I have the right equipment for the weather and course type.

Making Tee Time Reservations

I don’t leave booking tee times in Maui to the last minute. Popular courses fill up quickly, especially during tourist season.

I usually book my slot a few weeks in advance to get my ideal time. Many courses let me reserve online, making the process quick and easy.

Some resorts require that I am a guest at their property to play, so I check that before making plans. Private courses rarely allow outside visitors, so I stick to the public and resort courses that welcome guests.

For a stress-free visit, I look up discounts for afternoon tee times or special rates for visitors. Maui’s best courses recommend showing up early to check in and warm up.

More details can be found here.

Dress Code and Etiquette

Most Maui golf courses have a dress code. Collared shirts, golf shorts or pants, and soft-spike golf shoes are preferred.

I avoid denim, t-shirts, or beachwear, as these are usually not allowed. I bring a hat and sunglasses to protect myself from the strong Hawaiian sun.

Good etiquette is a must. I always repair ball marks on greens, rake bunkers, and keep up a friendly pace of play.

I let faster groups play through and stay quiet during another player’s shot. These habits make the round more enjoyable for everyone.

Golf Club Rentals and Equipment

Bringing my own clubs can be a hassle when flying to Hawaii, so I often rent high-quality clubs at the course. Most top courses offer brand name club rentals in both left and right-handed sets.

Prices vary, but I find that rental fees are reasonable and the process is usually smooth. I pack essentials like sunscreen, a glove, and extra golf balls, since losing a ball in the tropical rough isn’t rare for me.

Drinking water is important to prevent dehydration in the heat. If I play more than once, some club rental shops offer multi-day rental discounts or package deals.

When I’m unsure about what gear to bring or rent, I check the course’s website or call ahead to get the latest information. This saves me from surprise rule changes or unexpected costs.

For more advice on local rentals and gear, I often refer to helpful guides online such as this one.

Unique Experiences at Maui Courses

Playing golf in Maui isn’t just about the sport. The scenery, wildlife, and amenities make each round special.

Oceanfront and Mountain Views

When I stand on a fairway in Maui, I see both the deep blue of the Pacific Ocean and the green slopes of the West Maui Mountains. Many of the best courses, such as Kapalua’s Plantation Course, are famous for these dramatic landscapes.

When I play near Kapalua Bay, I often see whales during migration season. Peaceful sea breezes cool the course.

Some holes even run close to the shore, so I can hear the waves as I line up a putt. The top golf courses on Maui are designed to show off these views from tee to green.

Early mornings and sunsets are especially beautiful, making the round even more enjoyable.

Wildlife and Local Flora

During my rounds, I notice how Maui’s courses mix golf with nature. Colorful native plants, such as hibiscus and bougainvillea, line many fairways.

Palm trees and large flowering bushes give shade and add a tropical feel. Sometimes, I spot native birds nearby.

At some Maui courses, especially those near natural reserves, I see nene geese or mynah birds. The grass often looks softer and greener thanks to the island’s climate.

It’s easy for me to appreciate how Maui’s unique environment shapes these courses.

Dining and Onsite Amenities

Many Maui golf courses offer more than just golf. Some popular clubs feature excellent restaurants and bars with open-air seating and ocean views.

After a round at Wailea, I often dine at the Seawatch Restaurant. This spot serves fresh local seafood and tropical drinks with stunning views of the course and Pacific.

Pro shops stock unique island golf wear and accessories. Several courses offer practice areas and lessons from experienced pros.

Between rounds, I relax at the clubhouses or enjoy a casual meal with friends. For more information about course amenities, I check the official Maui golf club pages.

Architectural Highlights and Course Designers

Many of Maui’s top golf courses have creative layouts from some of the world’s best-known architects. I notice these designs blend natural scenery with challenging golf.

Each course feels memorable for both beginners and experienced players.

Arnold Palmer Designs

Arnold Palmer, one of my favorite architects, has left a strong mark on Maui golf. He designed the beautiful Bay Course at Kapalua.

This course features sweeping ocean views and several holes that curve along the shoreline. The layout keeps me focused since many fairways require smart club choices.

Palmer’s design at the Bay Course includes wide landing areas. The tricky greens make me plan every approach carefully.

Signature holes like the par-3 fifth play over a gorge to a green with breathtaking views. Palmer brings drama to golf course architecture.

If I want a course that is fair but never boring, I choose his courses. Many visitors return to play here year after year.

Robin Nelson Contributions

I often look for Robin Nelson when I want unique golf experiences in Hawaii. He creates courses that protect the local environment and showcase Maui’s natural beauty.

One of his best-known courses is The Dunes at Maui Lani. The layout follows the island’s sand dunes and uses native plants.

When I play a course Nelson designed, I notice how he lets the landscape guide each hole. The Dunes at Maui Lani has rolling fairways and deep bunkers.

Tall grasses frame many holes. Nelson’s courses blend into the land, instead of just sitting on it.

You can learn more about Maui’s unique course layouts by checking out this guide to Maui’s top golf courses.