Who decides the best golf courses in Hawaii? Is it the PGA Tour? Magazine editors? Or maybe, just maybe — it’s you, the golfer with a love for the game and an eye for scenic fairways.
Yes, Hawai‘i has elite courses like Kapalua, Waialae, and Hualālai, but many are either members-only or come with sky-high fees and resort stays. Unless you’re aiming for pro-level prestige, these may not fit your budget — or your vibe. But here’s the good news: Everyone can golf in paradise. With around 75 courses statewide, Hawai‘i offers plenty of scenic, well-kept, and affordable options for every skill level.
This guide highlights mid-range courses that deliver where it counts — stunning views, smooth fairways, and friendly green fees.
Best golf courses in Hawaii (Shutterstock)
Introduction to Golfing in Hawaii
The Hawaiian Islands are a golfer’s paradise, with numerous world-class courses that offer breathtaking views, challenging layouts, and unforgettable experiences. From the lush greenery of Kaua‘i to the rugged coastline of the Big Island, whether you’re teeing off against a backdrop of volcanic landscapes or enjoying the ocean breeze on a coastal fairway, golfing in Hawai‘i is an experience like no other. With a variety of courses catering to all skill levels, the Hawaiian Islands provide the perfect setting for both seasoned golfers and beginners.
Hawaiʻi has one of the highest numbers of golf courses per capita in the U.S., considering its size — and offers a wide variety for all budgets and skill levels.
Golf Courses by Island
| Island | Approximate Number of Courses |
|---|---|
| Oʻahu | 40 courses |
| Big Island | 16 courses |
| Maui | 13 courses |
| Kauaʻi | 9 courses |
| Lānaʻi | 2 courses |
| Molokaʻi | 1 course (recreational/local) |
Types of Courses
- Public/Municipal – Affordable and accessible (like Wailua on Kauaʻi)
- Resort Courses – High-end and scenic with hotel amenities (like Kapalua or Mauna Kea)
- Private Clubs – Member-only or invitation-only
- Military Courses – Available to active duty, retirees, and guests
Pro Tip: “Kama‘aina rates” are special fares for Hawai‘i residents with proof of residency. You should also ask if they offer discounts for active-duty military, veterans, or guests.
What Makes a Great Golf Course?
1. Course Design & Architecture
- A thoughtful layout that rewards strategy, not just distance.
- A mix of hole lengths and types — variety keeps it interesting.
- Intelligent use of natural terrain (elevation, water, trees, wind).
- Signature holes you’ll remember forever.
Great design gives you options, makes you think, and stays with you long after the round.
2. Scenery & Setting
- Natural beauty enhances the experience.
- Ocean views, mountain backdrops, forests, or dunes — depending on the location.
- In Hawai‘i? Oceanfront or lava-lined holes can turn a good course into a bucket-lister.
A beautiful course makes even a bad round feel memorable.
3. Playability for All Skill Levels
- Fair challenges: wide enough for beginners, tricky enough for pros.
- Good tee variety (multiple options based on handicap).
- Greens that are true but not cruel.
- Smart bunkering and rough that punishes but doesn’t ruin your day.
4. Condition & Maintenance
- Smooth, fast greens and tightly mowed fairways.
- Bunkers are well-raked and playable.
- Tee boxes that are level and clean.
- Well-drained — nobody wants to play on soggy greens or mud.
5. Vibe & Hospitality
- Friendly, knowledgeable staff.
- Good pace of play (no six-hour rounds).
- Pro shop, driving range, food and drink options.
- Local culture or community that makes it feel unique.
6. Memorability
- Courses with character stand out: quirky holes, dramatic views, unique wildlife (hello, Makalei peacocks).
- Signature finishing holes, risk-reward par-5s, or crazy elevation drops that make you say, “I can’t wait to play that again.”
Bonus: Walkability
- Many golfers love a course that’s walkable with great flow between holes. In some cases (like resort courses), carts are the norm — but walkable designs still tend to “feel” better.
Sunny day on a tropical golf course fairway (Shutterstock)
The Best Golf Courses in Hawaii
These courses provide a balance of challenge and playability, catering to a wide range of skill levels while showcasing the diverse landscapes of Hawai‘i.
Oʻahu
Hawai‘i Prince Golf Club – Ewa Beach
This 27-hole course, designed by Arnold Palmer and Ed Seay, offers wide fairways and relatively flat terrain, making it suitable for mid to high handicappers. Players have enjoyed the course’s forgiving nature and the variety provided by its three nine-hole layouts. The facility features amenities including a restaurant with a weekend breakfast buffet and locker room.
- Why it’s Great: 27 holes (three 9s), relatively flat – great for mid to high handicappers.
- Designer: Arnold Palmer & Ed Seay
- Vibe: 27 holes (three 9-hole layouts – A, B, C), parkland-style with wide fairways and water hazards.
- Skill Level: Great for beginners to mid-handicappers. The layout allows flexibility, and there’s not too much elevation change.
- Extras: A good practice facility, great staff, and often less crowded than Ko Olina.
- Pro Tip: Play early to avoid winds and afternoon heat.
- Price Range: ~$130–$180 (twilight and kamaʻāina rates lower)
- Online Booking: Visit their website to book tee times directly: Hawai‘i Prince Golf Club Tee Times.
- Phone Reservations: Call (808) 944-4567 for assistance.
- Notes: Rates include shared cart, range balls, and bottled water. Resident rates are available with a valid Hawai‘i ID.
“The course was in great condition. The greens were fast but fair. I am an average golfer (16) and the course was not too difficult.” – Golfer from Wayzata, MN.
Coral Creek Golf Course – Ewa Beach
Known for its beautiful design and attentive staff, Coral Creek offers a mix of easy to moderately difficult holes. The course features wide fairways with water hazards to test accuracy. The driving range is equipped with a shade cover, enhancing the practice experience.
- Why it’s Great: Water features, forgiving layout, fast greens, not too crowded.
- Designer: Robin Nelson
- Vibe: Lush tropical landscaping, lots of water hazards, well-bunkered greens.
- Skill Level: A little tighter than Hawai‘i Prince but still beginner-friendly.
- Condition: Known for good maintenance and nice greens.
- Cool Touch: The course has a driving range built into a quarry – pretty unique!
- Price Range: ~$100–$150
- Online Booking: Reserve tee times through their website: Coral Creek Golf Course Tee Times
- Phone Reservations: Contact the course at (808) 441-4653.
- Notes: Reservations can be made up to 60 days in advance.
“The course was in great condition, new GPS system in carts, fairways were great, greens in good condition running around 10 (not bad).” – Golfer from Sydney, Australia
Maui
Maui Nui Golf Club – Kihei
Praised for a variety of hole designs and impressive ocean views, Maui Nui provides a forgiving layout with wider fairways, making it approachable for golfers of all levels. The course is considered Maui’s best value, offering a solid experience without the premium price tag. Additionally, the well-equipped driving range features TopTracer technology, providing detailed feedback on shots.
- Why it’s Great: Solid layout, ocean views, and a laid-back vibe.
- Designer: Bill Newis
- Vibe: Ocean and mountain views, player-friendly layout, not too hilly.
- Skill Level: Very approachable for beginners, but interesting enough for experienced players.
- Condition: Good greens, fairways can be a bit dry in summer, but overall well-kept.
- Price Range: ~$80–$120
- Online Booking: Book directly on their website: Maui Nui Golf Club Tee Times.
- Phone Reservations: For assistance, call (808) 874-0777.
- Notes: Twilight rates offer great value — especially with those stunning sunset views.
“The course is in great shape! I bought a Players Pass last October and it was a great deal for the money. I highly recommend playing this course.” – Golfer on Tripadvisor
The Dunes at Maui Lani – Kahului
Offering a links-style experience with Hawaiian flair, The Dunes is characterized by rolling terrain and impressive mountain views. Golfers appreciate the challenging layout and the course’s unique design, which incorporates natural dune formations. While turf conditions have faced challenges, the overall design and cost make it a valuable play in Maui.
- Why it’s Great: Links-style, natural sand dunes that are fair for all levels.
- Designer: Robin Nelson
- Vibe: True Hawaiian links course – think rolling fairways, tall rough, wind!
- Skill Level: More challenging due to uneven lies and bunkering, but very playable.
- Tip: Bring extra balls — errant shots into native areas can be hard to find.
- Price Range: ~$100–$140
- Online Booking: Reserve tee times via their website: The Dunes at Maui Lani Reservations.
- Phone Reservations: Contact the Pro Shop at (808) 873-0422.
- Notes: All prices are per person for 18 holes and include the use of a shared golf cart. Riders are welcome, space available, and will be charged accordingly.
“Really enjoyed our round. Plenty of sand as you would expect. Challenging layout. Greens were very slow. All in all, a real good value for the money.” – Golfpass US
Waikoloa Village Golf Course (Shutterstock)
Big Island
Waikoloa Village Golf Course – Waikoloa (NOT the beach/resort courses)
Located upcountry, this course offers wide fairways and good greens, providing a relaxed pace suitable for vacationing couples. Waikoloa Village is recognized for its beautiful scenery and is considered one of Hawaii’s best-kept secrets.
- Why it’s Great: Elevation changes, ocean breezes, affordability.
- Designer: Robert Trent Jones Jr.
- Vibe: Up the hill from the resort area; cooler temperatures with lava rock edges and ocean views.
- Skill Level: Wide fairways and medium difficulty make it great for casual rounds.
- Value: One of the best deals on the island for a full 18-holes.
- Price Range: ~$60–$100
- Online Booking: Schedule tee times through their website: Waikoloa Village Golf Course Tee Times.
- Phone Reservations: Call the Pro Shop at (808) 883-9621.
“Nice course, wonderful staff. Booked through Golf Now and paid $50. Fairways and green in excellent shape.”
Makalei Golf Club – North of Kailua-Kona
Set on the upper slopes of Mount Hualālai, Makalei presents challenging play with narrow corridors and significant elevation changes. Golfers should be prepared for a test of accuracy and may need extra balls due to the demanding layout. The course is known for abundant wildlife, including peacocks and pheasants.
- Why it’s Great: Upcountry mountain course with cooler temperatures and peacocks roaming the fairways!
- Designer: Dick Nugent
- Vibe: Mountain course with wildlife, elevation changes, and lush forest.
- Skill Level: Tricky lies and narrow fairways challenge all levels but fair layout.
- Cool Feature: The change in elevation gives you some unique tee shots and great views.
- Price Range: ~$80–$120
- Online Booking: Book tee times via their website: Makalei Golf Club Tee Times.
- Phone Reservations: For assistance, contact (808) 325-6625.
“Great course! Very challenging. Lots of wildlife, very green and lush. Staff was super nice, expect rain most days in the afternoon.”
Kauaʻi
Wailua Municipal Golf Course – Līhuʻe
Often regarded as the finest municipal course in the Hawaiian Islands, Wailua features oceanfront holes and a classic design. Golfers appreciate its affordability and the opportunity to play alongside locals, experiencing authentic Hawaiian golf.
- Why it’s Great: One of the best muni courses in the U.S. Oceanfront holes, historic charm, and budget-friendly.
- Vibe: Originally opened in the 1930s, it’s a simple, classic design with real charm.
- Skill Level: Fair for all levels, but wind and ocean-side holes add spice.
- Best Value: Legitimately one of the best deals in Hawaii.
- Tip: Bring your camera — especially on holes 16 and 17 near the beach.
- Price Range: ~$60–$80 (even less for locals)
- Phone Reservations: To book a tee time, call (808) 241-6666.
“Really reasonable rates and friendly golfers all around, good selection at the pro shop and nice driving range.”
Puakea Golf Course – Līhuʻe
This course offers a friendly atmosphere with a layout that becomes more engaging as the round progresses. While not as renowned as some of Kauaʻi’s other courses, Puakea delivers enjoyable holes at a more accessible price point. The course is noted for its natural beauty and casual charm.
- Why it’s Great: Scenic jungle backdrop, forgiving layout, and fewer crowds than resort courses.
- Designer: Robin Nelson
- Vibe: Built at the foot of the Hā‘upu Ridge with jungle backdrops and wide open spaces.
- Skill Level: Wide fairways and a relaxed layout, forgiving for higher handicaps.
- Fun Fact: Originally part of a larger resort plan that never fully materialized, it’s now a beloved standalone course.
- Condition: Can be a little soft after rain, but very scenic and casual-friendly.
- Price Range: ~$90–$120
- Online Booking: Reserve tee times through their website: Puakea Golf Course Tee Times.
- Phone Reservations: Contact the course at (808) 245-8756.
- Notes: When booking online on weekdays, select the 9-hole option to view available tee times. If 18 holes are selected, no tee times will be shown as available. Rates will be adjusted for 9-hole play.
“Great value, great views, great golf, if you are looking to golf on Kauai, definitely hit up this place.”
General Tips:
- Advance Booking: It’s advisable to book tee times as early as possible, especially during peak tourist seasons, to secure your preferred time slot.
- Cancellation Policies: Familiarize yourself with each course’s cancellation policy to avoid potential fees.
- Attire: Ensure you adhere to the dress code of each course, typically requiring collared shirts and appropriate golf attire. And take into account the weather!
