Although there may be plenty of world class golfing around the country, none can compare to the golfer’s paradise that Maui has to offer. Maui, along with Molokai and Lanai, offer sixteen of the world’s most beautiful golf courses that not only look great, but challenge you as well. Seemingly part of the landscape, playing golf here can be a wonderful and exciting adventure.
With the climate staying warm and sunny most of the year, you will almost always have perfect weather to soak up while you are teeing off. Although the afternoon winds keep some golfers away, you can certainly enjoy the morning and evening golf that makes Maui’s golf courses so desired.
These golf courses are certainly not for the beginners however. In fact, they are quite challenging because they feature different grasses, natural hazards that are quite unusual in shape and trade winds that gust out of nowhere. Added to the fact that you are often distracted with the amazing ocean and landscape views, you may want to tune up your game before you step foot on the courses. South Maui offers some of the best courses, with less wind then West Maui golf courses. Most of the greens break toward the ocean, allowing you to take in the beauty as you take on the course.
The tee times vary, but most accept reservations a few days in advance. The rules are generally the same at each gold course, with gold attire requested. On some courses, they will not allow you to play if you are not dressed appropriately. For example, some courses prohibit denim, t-shirts, or tank tops.
Recognized as one of the best courses on the island of Maui, Kapalua Resort has 1500 acres of greenery surrounded by a pineapple plantation. It includes three of the world’s most challenging courses called The Bay, The Plantation, and The Village. The scenery is also amazing. In fact, hole 6 of The Village, is considered the most scenic area in which to view the island. The Plantation you may have seen on television, as it is the host to the PGA Tour’s Mercedes Benz Championship. Located on the Northwest coast of Maui, Kapalua Resort is truly the place to come in play if you want both stunning views and challenging courses.
Another fantastic resort is the Kaanapali Golf Course at the Kaanapali resort which is located in West Maui. Featuring two 18-hole golf courses, The North Course and The South Course, The North Course is considered to be one of Hawaii’s toughest finishing holes. The Senior PGA Tour event, the Kaanapali Classic is held here every year and offers exciting finishes each and every time.
If you are traveling to Maui and plan on doing some golfing, you may want to consider getting a package deal that includes your hotel room at the resort, golfing fees, as well as a rental car to get around Maui. Guests of the resorts playing at their own course will usually get lower fees and better tee times. Certainly, for any golfing enthusiast, you can’t beat the great courses available to you on the island of Maui.
