Big Island Golf Courses for a Beautiful Hawaiʻi Golf Vacation
Hawaiʻi Island is a dream destination for golfers. With ocean views, lava rock landscapes, mountain backdrops, and sunny resort settings, Big Island golf courses offer an unforgettable way to enjoy the island. In addition, many courses sit near beaches, restaurants, resorts, and vacation rentals. As a result, visitors can easily add a round of golf to a relaxing Hawaiʻi getaway. Below are several Big Island golf courses to consider during your next vacation.
Four Seasons
Hualālai Golf Course at Four Seasons Resort Hualalai offers one of the most memorable golf experiences on the Kona Coast. This Jack Nicklaus signature 18-hole course winds through lush fairways, black lava rock, and dramatic oceanfront scenery. The course begins in a green oasis before moving through lava-lined fairways. Then, it returns toward the ocean for a beautiful finish near the coastline. Because of its setting and design, Hualālai is a favorite for golfers who want a luxury resort experience with classic Kona views.
Hapuna
Hāpuna Golf Course is a strong choice for golfers who want both challenge and scenery. This Arnold Palmer and Ed Seay-designed course features dramatic elevation changes and wide views of the Kohala Coast. The course begins high above sea level and moves through rolling terrain with ocean and mountain views. Therefore, each hole offers a different perspective of the landscape. In addition, Hāpuna’s location near Mauna Kea Resort makes it convenient for visitors staying along the Kohala Coast.
Mauna Kea
Mauna Kea Golf Course is one of the island’s classic resort courses. Originally designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. and later updated by Rees Jones, the course blends history, challenge, and oceanfront beauty. Golfers can expect pristine fairways, bunkers, ocean views, and a polished resort setting. In addition, the course is known for its dramatic coastal scenery and long-standing place in Hawaiʻi golf history. For visitors who want a memorable round on the Kohala Coast, Mauna Kea is one of the most iconic Big Island golf courses.
Makalei
Makalei Golf Club offers a different kind of Kona golf experience. Instead of an oceanfront resort setting, this course sits inland among cooler elevations, native plants, and lush surroundings. The course features rolling terrain, lava tubes, cinder cones, and beautiful island views. As a result, it feels more rural and relaxed than many resort courses. Makalei can be a good option for golfers who want a local-style course with a unique upcountry feel.
Big Island Country Club
Makani Golf Club, formerly known as Big Island Country Club, sits on the lower slopes of Mauna Kea. The course was designed by Perry Dye and offers a welcoming layout for a range of skill levels. Golfers can enjoy rolling fairways, gentle hills, and water features on several holes. In addition, the cooler elevation can make play comfortable compared with hotter coastal areas. Because of its open setting and mountain views, Makani offers a peaceful alternative to the island’s coastal resort courses.
Kohanaiki
(private)
Kohanaiki Golf and Ocean Club is a private community course near Kailua-Kona. Although it is not generally open to the public, it deserves mention because of its beautiful oceanfront setting. The course combines lava rock, coastal views, anchialine ponds, and carefully designed fairways. In addition, the property reflects elements of Hawaiʻi’s natural and cultural landscape. If you have access through a member or private arrangement, Kohanaiki offers one of the island’s most exclusive golf experiences.
Plan a Big Island Golf Vacation
Big Island golf courses offer something for many types of players. For example, resort golfers may love Hualālai, Hāpuna, or Mauna Kea. Meanwhile, visitors who want a more local feel may enjoy Makalei or Makani. Before booking a tee time, check current availability, rates, dress codes, and guest access. Some courses are public or resort-accessible, while others are private. If you want to stay close to the fairways, consider booking a Hawaiʻi vacation rental near a golf course. This way, you can enjoy ocean views, resort amenities, and easy access to some of the island’s best golf. Whether you are planning one round or a full golf getaway, Hawaiʻi Island offers a beautiful setting for your next game.