Hawaii offers some of the most breathtaking public golf courses in the world, combining stunning ocean views with challenging layouts.
Here are the five best public courses: Mauna Kea Golf Course, Poipu Bay Golf Course, Manele Golf Course, Kapalua Resort – The Plantation Course, and Ko Olina Golf Club.
Keep reading for a detailed breakdown of what makes each course stand out.
Mauna Kea Golf Course (Big Island)
Mauna Kea Golf Course, located on Hawaii’s Big Island, is one of the state’s most iconic golfing destinations.
Known for its breathtaking ocean views and challenging layout, it combines a rich history with modern updates to offer a premier golfing experience.
Whether you’re an experienced golfer or just looking to play in paradise, this course provides an unforgettable blend of beauty and difficulty.
History and Course Design
Mauna Kea Golf Course was originally designed by renowned golf architect Robert Trent Jones Sr. in 1964.
It was one of the first golf courses in Hawaii to be carved into the rugged terrain along the Kohala Coast, setting the standard for what Hawaiian golf could offer.
The course was later updated by Rees Jones, son of the original architect, who added modern elements while preserving the course's original character.
This careful update ensures that Mauna Kea remains competitive by today’s standards while maintaining its historical integrity.
The course design reflects a perfect blend of old and new, where traditional golf elements meet modern strategic challenges.
Wide fairways are mixed with well-placed bunkers and hazards, making every hole unique and exciting.
Iconic Features
One of the most famous features of Mauna Kea Golf Course is the par-3 third hole.
This hole has gained iconic status for its breathtaking design, where golfers must drive their ball across a Pacific Ocean inlet to reach the green.
The challenge of hitting over the water, combined with the stunning ocean backdrop, makes this one of the most memorable holes in Hawaii—and perhaps the world.
But the third hole is just the beginning. Ocean vistas can be seen from nearly every hole on the course, adding to the beauty and difficulty.
Whether you’re putting on a green with the ocean on your left or driving down a fairway with the waves in the background, Mauna Kea consistently showcases Hawaii's natural splendor.
Course Difficulty
Mauna Kea is known for its challenging layout, offering difficulties that go well beyond the famous third hole.
Elevation changes are a prominent feature of the course, affecting both shot distance and club selection.
Several holes have uphill or downhill fairways that require precise distance control, making them especially tricky for players unfamiliar with these conditions.
Hazards are also plentiful throughout the course, with strategically placed bunkers and water features.
Wind is another factor to consider; the course’s proximity to the ocean means that gusty coastal winds can change your shot plans at a moment’s notice.
The combination of these factors makes Mauna Kea suitable for skilled golfers who enjoy a tactical challenge, but it remains enjoyable for players of all levels due to its variety of hole designs.
Location and Amenities
Located on the picturesque Kohala Coast of the Big Island, Mauna Kea Golf Course offers more than just a great golfing experience—it’s set against a stunning natural backdrop.
The course is part of the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, providing convenient access to one of the most beautiful beaches in Hawaii.
After your round, you can relax by the ocean or take advantage of the resort’s luxurious amenities.
In terms of golf-specific facilities, Mauna Kea offers a fully stocked pro shop where you can purchase gear and apparel.
The club also provides professional instruction for those looking to improve their game.
For a post-round meal or drink, the on-site restaurant offers a variety of options, from casual bites to more refined dining experiences, all with ocean views.
Poipu Bay Golf Course (Kauai)
Poipu Bay Golf Course, located on the southern coast of Kauai, offers a world-class golfing experience with a combination of stunning ocean views and a challenging course layout.
It is best known for its rugged coastal beauty and has long attracted golfers looking for both a scenic and competitive round of golf.
Whether you're a seasoned player or a casual golfer, Poipu Bay has something unique to offer.
History and Legacy
Poipu Bay Golf Course has a rich history, most notably serving as the host of the prestigious PGA Grand Slam of Golf for over a decade from 1994 to 2006.
This event brought together the winners of the four major championships each year, cementing Poipu Bay's place in the world of competitive golf.
Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., the course was crafted to blend seamlessly into Kauai’s natural landscape while providing strategic challenges for golfers.
The course’s reputation grew, not just for its tournament history, but also for its thoughtful design, which caters to a variety of skill levels.
Signature Hole
The par-4 16th hole at Poipu Bay is the course’s signature hole and a favorite among players.
Set along dramatic seaside cliffs, this hole features a fairway that runs parallel to the coastline, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.
The scenery is so stunning that it can be easy to get distracted, but this hole demands focus due to its length and the ocean winds that can affect ball flight.
The 16th is a true test of both skill and concentration, combining the natural beauty of Kauai with the technical challenge of managing the coastal elements.
Course Characteristics
Poipu Bay Golf Course is uniquely influenced by Kauai’s rugged and diverse landscape.
The course is situated between the ocean and the mountains, which means golfers experience both coastal and inland terrain throughout their round.
The natural undulations of the land create significant elevation changes, adding a layer of complexity to approach shots.
One of the major challenges golfers will face is the wind, which often sweeps in from the ocean and affects ball trajectory, particularly on holes near the coastline.
Players will also encounter the uneven terrain typical of Kauai’s volcanic landscape, requiring careful club selection and shot planning.
The fairways are generous in width, which provides some leniency for off-center drives, but the ever-present winds and rolling greens keep even experienced golfers on their toes.
Water hazards and strategically placed bunkers add to the difficulty without making the course unplayable for casual golfers.
What Makes It Unique
What sets Poipu Bay apart is the seamless blend of beauty and challenge it offers.
The course manages to be both visually captivating and technically demanding, which appeals to a broad range of players.
For casual golfers, the wide fairways and forgiving layout make it an enjoyable round even if you're not hitting every shot perfectly.
For more seasoned golfers, the course provides enough strategic complexity—between the winds, elevation changes, and challenging green complexes—to keep the round interesting and competitive.
Beyond the golf itself, Poipu Bay’s location on the Garden Isle of Kauai adds to its appeal.
The island is known for its lush, tropical landscape, and Poipu Bay incorporates this natural beauty into its design, making a round feel like an immersive experience in the heart of Kauai.
After a day on the course, you can enjoy the nearby beaches or explore Kauai’s stunning natural attractions, such as Waimea Canyon or the Na Pali Coast.
Manele Golf Course (Lanai)
Manele Golf Course, located on the island of Lanai, offers one of the most stunning and exclusive golfing experiences in Hawaii.
Known for its dramatic oceanfront holes and serene surroundings, this Jack Nicklaus-designed course takes full advantage of its clifftop location to offer breathtaking views and a challenging, enjoyable round for golfers of all skill levels.
Designer and Aesthetic
Manele Golf Course was designed by golf legend Jack Nicklaus, who meticulously crafted a layout that integrates the island’s natural beauty into the playing experience.
The course is positioned on high coastal cliffs, giving golfers incredible views of the Pacific Ocean from almost every hole.
Nicklaus focused on enhancing the landscape rather than altering it, using the rugged coastline, lava outcroppings, and rolling terrain as both aesthetic elements and natural hazards.
The result is a course that is not only visually striking but also provides a strategic and thoughtful challenge for golfers.
Clifftop Holes
One of the standout features of Manele Golf Course is its series of clifftop holes, the most famous of which is the par-3 12th hole.
This iconic hole requires golfers to take their shot over the ocean, with the green perched on the other side of a deep, rocky cliff.
It’s not only visually breathtaking but also a real test of nerve and accuracy, as the Pacific Ocean lies between you and the green.
The 12th is the kind of hole that stays with you long after you’ve finished your round, combining the thrill of the challenge with the beauty of the setting.
Throughout the course, ocean views dominate, with many holes offering panoramic vistas that stretch across the water.
The peaceful, isolated nature of the course enhances the experience, providing a tranquil yet challenging environment for golfers.
The ocean breezes that sweep across the cliffs add an extra layer of difficulty, affecting shot trajectory and club selection, particularly on the holes nearest the coast.
Course Layout and Play
Manele Golf Course is designed to be both playable and strategic, offering wide fairways that provide some forgiveness off the tee but challenge golfers to place their shots carefully if they want to score well.
The layout features a variety of elevation changes, with many holes playing uphill or downhill, adding complexity to club selection and shot strategy.
Bunkers are strategically placed throughout the course, particularly around the greens, demanding precision on approach shots.
Wind plays a significant role in how the course plays on any given day, particularly given its open exposure to the ocean.
Gusts can make certain holes far more challenging, requiring golfers to adjust their strategy mid-round.
While the course is tough enough to challenge experienced golfers, its wide fairways and well-maintained greens make it accessible to those with less experience, ensuring that every round is enjoyable.
Luxury and Accessibility
Manele Golf Course is part of the luxurious Four Seasons Resort Lanai, offering high-end amenities and a seamless golfing experience.
While the association with a luxury resort might suggest exclusivity, the course is open to the public, meaning that anyone can book a tee time and enjoy the exceptional facilities.
The course is meticulously maintained, with immaculate greens and well-kept fairways ensuring that players experience top-tier conditions throughout their round.
The proximity to the resort also means golfers have access to world-class amenities, including dining, spa services, and luxury accommodations, making it easy to turn a day of golf into a full vacation experience.
Despite its connection to the Four Seasons, Manele remains a public course, making it accessible to both resort guests and visitors alike.
Kapalua Resort – The Plantation Course (Maui)
Kapalua Resort's Plantation Course on Maui is famous for its breathtaking views and challenging design.
As the host of the PGA Tour’s Tournament of Champions, this course is renowned among professional and amateur golfers alike for its unique blend of wide fairways, tricky winds, and dramatic elevation changes.
It’s a must-play for those looking to experience world-class golf in one of the most beautiful settings in Hawaii.
Host to Champions
The Plantation Course is best known for hosting the PGA Tour’s Tournament of Champions each January, which features winners of the previous year's tour events.
This prestigious event brings some of the top golfers in the world to Maui, showcasing the course’s ability to challenge even the best players.
The wide-open nature of the course, combined with its stunning backdrop, creates the perfect stage for this season-opening event.
Watching the pros navigate the course’s complex layout can provide valuable insight for those hoping to take on the challenge themselves.
Challenging Layout
One of the most notable features of the Plantation Course is its wide fairways, which can provide some relief for golfers who are less accurate off the tee.
However, don’t let the width of the fairways fool you—this course presents significant challenges that require strategic thinking.
The course is built on former pineapple plantation fields and takes full advantage of Maui’s natural terrain, with dramatic elevation changes playing a crucial role in the difficulty of each hole.
Uphill and downhill shots demand careful club selection and planning, as even slight misjudgments can lead to difficult second shots.
The wind also adds a considerable layer of difficulty, particularly on the back nine, where coastal breezes can become unpredictable.
The wide fairways may offer some margin for error, but players need to account for wind direction and speed to avoid trouble.
The greens are large and undulating, requiring precision on approach shots to avoid lengthy putts.
Strategic play is essential, as the course rewards those who can adapt to the changing conditions and use the elevation shifts to their advantage.
Scenic Backdrop
The Plantation Course offers some of the most dramatic views in all of golf, with the West Maui Mountains providing a stunning backdrop throughout the round.
On clear days, you can even see across the Pacific to the neighboring islands of Molokai and Lanai.
The course’s layout takes full advantage of the natural surroundings, with several holes offering panoramic ocean views, especially from elevated tees and greens.
These vistas add to the overall experience, making each hole as much about the scenery as it is about the challenge.
The combination of lush greenery, rolling hills, and the sparkling ocean creates a visually striking environment that adds to the allure of playing at Kapalua.
It’s not uncommon for players to pause between shots just to take in the views, making the round feel as much like a scenic tour of Maui as a round of golf.
Playing Tips
Playing well at the Plantation Course requires a combination of smart strategy and adaptability.
Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your round:
- Handling the Wind: Since wind is a constant factor, especially in the afternoon, you’ll need to account for its strength and direction on every shot. Use lower ball flights to cut through the wind and avoid the temptation to aim directly at the flag on windy days. Instead, aim to the side that allows the wind to bring the ball closer to the target.
- Using Elevation to Your Advantage: The significant elevation changes can either help or hurt your game depending on how you approach them. On downhill shots, take less club than you might normally use, as the ball will carry farther. Conversely, on uphill shots, club up to compensate for the reduced distance caused by the slope.
- Approaching Downhill Shots: Several holes require you to hit downhill approach shots to greens. These can be tricky, as it’s easy to overshoot the green if you don’t account for the extra roll. Choose a club that gets you to the front of the green, as the slope will often carry the ball farther than expected.
- Mastering the Greens: The large, undulating greens can be deceptive. Approach shots should aim for the flattest section of the green, ideally below the hole. Avoid getting caught above the hole on sloping greens, as downhill putts can be particularly difficult to control.
Ko Olina Golf Club (Oahu)
Ko Olina Golf Club, located on the western coast of Oahu in Kapolei, is a beautifully designed course that offers a mix of playability and challenge for golfers of all levels.
Known for its pristine conditions and stunning water features, Ko Olina provides a top-notch golfing experience that attracts both professionals and recreational players.
Immaculate Course Design
Designed by renowned golf course architect Ted Robinson, Ko Olina Golf Club is characterized by its meticulous attention to detail and use of natural features to enhance the play.
Robinson’s design emphasizes water features, with cascading waterfalls, clear lagoons, and reflecting ponds woven throughout the course.
These features are not only visually stunning but also serve as strategic hazards that require golfers to think carefully about their approach on many holes.
The course is well-maintained, offering lush fairways and fast greens, making it both beautiful and a joy to play.
With wide landing areas and well-placed bunkers, the layout caters to golfers of different abilities, allowing for an enjoyable yet challenging round.
Scenic and Playable
Ko Olina’s combination of scenic beauty and well-balanced difficulty makes it one of the most attractive golf courses on Oahu.
Ocean views from various points on the course provide a stunning backdrop to your round, while the design incorporates challenging water hazards, deep bunkers, and undulating greens that demand precision.
These water hazards and bunkers come into play on several holes, requiring careful shot placement to avoid trouble, particularly on the back nine, where many of the most visually striking holes are located.
Despite these challenges, Ko Olina is designed to accommodate a range of skill levels.
The course offers generous fairways that give higher-handicap players some margin for error, while the complex greens and strategic hazards provide enough of a test to keep experienced players engaged.
Whether you’re an advanced golfer looking to fine-tune your game or a beginner seeking a stunning yet approachable course, Ko Olina strikes the perfect balance between beauty and difficulty.
Professional Tournaments
Ko Olina Golf Club has earned its reputation as a high-quality venue, having hosted several professional events, most notably on the LPGA Tour.
The club was the site of the Lotte Championship, where top female golfers from around the world competed.
Hosting these professional tournaments not only speaks to the quality of the course but also offers golfers a chance to play on the same fairways and greens where world-class athletes have tested their skills.
The course’s ability to challenge professional players while still being accessible to amateurs is one of the reasons it remains a top choice for both serious golfers and casual players alike.
Family-Friendly Amenities
Ko Olina Golf Club isn’t just about the golf; it’s also part of the larger Ko Olina Resort, which offers a variety of family-friendly activities and amenities.
Located in Kapolei, this area is home to luxurious resorts, including the Aulani, a Disney Resort & Spa, making it an ideal destination for golfers traveling with family.
While you enjoy a round of golf, your family can explore the nearby lagoons, visit the beaches, or take part in other recreational activities such as snorkeling or paddleboarding.
The resort's restaurants and spa services provide additional opportunities for relaxation after your round, making Ko Olina a perfect destination for both golfers and non-golfers alike.
Choosing the Right Course for You
With so many incredible public golf courses in Hawaii, it can be challenging to decide which one best suits your preferences and skill level.
Whether you’re seeking a tough, competitive round or a more relaxed, scenic experience, there’s a course for everyone.
Difficulty Level
If you're a golfer who enjoys a tough challenge, both Mauna Kea Golf Course on the Big Island and the Plantation Course at Kapalua on Maui are excellent choices.
Mauna Kea is known for its demanding layout, featuring challenging holes that require precision and skill, especially with its famous par-3 over-the-ocean hole.
The Plantation Course is equally tough, offering wide fairways but with dramatic elevation changes and gusty winds that test even seasoned golfers.
These courses are ideal for those who are looking to sharpen their skills on technically challenging layouts.
For golfers who want a balance between beauty and playability, Poipu Bay Golf Course on Kauai and Ko Olina Golf Club on Oahu are perfect options.
Poipu Bay offers stunning ocean views with a challenging but not overly punishing course, while Ko Olina’s wide fairways and well-placed water hazards make it approachable for golfers of all levels without sacrificing a touch of difficulty.
Both courses provide a more forgiving experience, without compromising the joy of scenic, competitive play.
For those who prioritize scenic beauty and a more relaxed round, Manele Golf Course on Lanai is ideal.
While Manele has its share of challenging holes, it’s known more for its serene clifftop setting and ocean vistas than its intense difficulty.
This course is perfect for golfers who want to take in the natural beauty of Hawaii while enjoying a round of golf without feeling overly pressured by the layout.
Location Preferences
If your itinerary takes you to the Big Island, Mauna Kea Golf Course is a must-play.
It’s one of the island’s most iconic golf experiences, offering a dramatic and memorable round of golf.
The Kohala Coast location also provides easy access to some of the Big Island’s best beaches and resorts, making it a convenient choice for travelers.
On Kauai, Poipu Bay Golf Course is the most accessible option, located on the island’s southern coast.
Its picturesque location and proximity to some of Kauai’s top resorts make it an easy choice for visitors staying on the island.
You can play a round of golf while enjoying the island’s natural beauty, with the convenience of staying nearby.
For a truly unique, quiet island experience, Manele Golf Course on Lanai is unmatched.
Lanai is far less populated than the other Hawaiian islands, offering a more peaceful and secluded environment.
Manele provides golfers with the rare opportunity to play on a world-class course while enjoying the tranquility of the island’s rugged cliffs and Pacific views, without the crowds.
On Oahu, Ko Olina Golf Club is the most convenient option, particularly for those staying in or around Honolulu.
Located in the resort area of Kapolei, Ko Olina is easily accessible from the major resorts and hotels, offering both a world-class golf experience and nearby family-friendly attractions.
Scenic Priorities
If you’re primarily drawn to stunning ocean views and dramatic landscapes, both Manele Golf Course and Poipu Bay Golf Course should be at the top of your list.
Manele provides golfers with unforgettable views of the Pacific from nearly every hole, including its famous par-3 12th hole, where you’ll tee off over an ocean cliff.
Poipu Bay also offers incredible coastal scenery, with holes that run parallel to the ocean and provide sweeping views of the cliffs and sea.
Conclusion
Hawaii offers some of the most stunning and varied public golf courses, each providing a unique blend of challenge and natural beauty.
Whether you’re looking for a tough, competitive round or a more relaxed, scenic experience, there’s a course to fit your needs.
No matter which course you choose, you’re guaranteed an unforgettable golfing experience in paradise.
