The Inside Swing

Best Resort Golf Courses in Hawaii

The top 5 resort and destination golf courses in Hawaii, ranked by our editorial team for 2026.

1

Lahaina, Hawaii · Bill Coore & Ben Crenshaw (1991) · 18 holes · Par 73 · 7,596 yards

Host of the PGA Tour's Sentry Tournament of Champions, Kapalua Plantation is a Coore & Crenshaw design cascading down the slopes of the West Maui Mountains toward the Pacific Ocean. The dramatic elevation drops, sweeping ocean views, and wide fairways create one of the most exhilarating rounds in golf.

PGA Tour Sentry Tournament of Champions hostDramatic West Maui Mountain-to-ocean elevation dropsCoore & Crenshaw design with sweeping Pacific views
Green Fee: $250–$400 Rating: 4.8/5
2

Kohala Coast, Hawaii · Robert Trent Jones Sr. (1964) · 18 holes · Par 72 · 7,370 yards

The course that started the Hawaii golf resort era, Mauna Kea was Robert Trent Jones Sr.'s masterpiece on the Big Island's Kohala Coast. The iconic par-3 3rd hole over a Pacific Ocean cove is among the most photographed holes in the world, and the lava-framed layout remains a must-play.

RTJ Sr. masterpiece that launched Hawaii resort golfIconic par-3 3rd hole over ocean coveHistoric Kohala Coast lava landscape
Green Fee: $175–$325 Rating: 4.7/5
3

Kohala Coast, Hawaii · Robin Nelson & Rodney Wright (1981) · 18 holes · Par 72 · 6,938 yards

Set amid ancient lava fields on the Big Island's Kohala Coast, Mauna Lani South is famous for its dramatic par-3 15th hole played over the Pacific Ocean and ancient Hawaiian fishponds. The vivid contrast of emerald fairways against black lava rock creates an unforgettable visual experience.

Famous par-3 15th over ocean and fishpondsEmerald fairways through ancient lava fieldsKohala Coast volcanic landscape
Green Fee: $150–$295 Rating: 4.6/5
4

Princeville, Hawaii · Robert Trent Jones Jr. (1971) · 18 holes · Par 72 · 7,223 yards

Perched on dramatic sea cliffs along Kauai's North Shore, Princeville Makai offers some of the most breathtaking ocean views in all of golf. Robert Trent Jones Jr.'s design features holes that play along Anini Beach, Hanalei Bay, and Bali Hai cliffs with the Na Pali Coast as a distant backdrop.

Dramatic Kauai North Shore sea cliff settingViews of Hanalei Bay and Bali HaiRobert Trent Jones Jr. oceanfront design
Green Fee: $175–$300 Rating: 4.5/5
5

Kapolei, Hawaii · Ted Robinson (1990) · 18 holes · Par 72 · 6,867 yards

A Ted Robinson design on Oahu's west coast, Ko Olina features his signature water features with cascading waterfalls, tranquil lakes, and lush tropical landscaping. The resort course at the Four Seasons provides an accessible yet scenic Hawaiian golf experience just 30 minutes from Waikiki.

Ted Robinson tropical water feature designFour Seasons resort setting on OahuAccessible location near Waikiki
Green Fee: $175–$250 Rating: 4.3/5

Frequently Asked Questions

How many resort and destination golf courses are in Hawaii?
We've identified 5 top-rated resort and destination courses in Hawaii. The state has many more total courses, but these represent the best options for visiting golfers.
What is the best resort and destination course in Hawaii?
Kapalua Plantation Course (Bill Coore & Ben Crenshaw, 1991) is our top-ranked resort and destination course in Hawaii with a 4.8 rating.
What is the best value resort and destination course in Hawaii?
Mauna Lani South Course at $150–$295 offers excellent value. It's an Robin Nelson & Rodney Wright design built in 1981.

Stay in the Loop

Get weekly rankings updates, destination guides, and insider tips delivered to your inbox.