Princeville Makai Golf Club
Princeville, Hawaii
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.
History & Heritage
Princeville Makai was Robert Trent Jones Jr.\'s very first solo design, opening in 1971 on dramatic bluffs overlooking Hanalei Bay on Kauai\'s North Shore. RTJ Jr. later returned to renovate his debut course, introducing Seashore Paspalum turf on all fairways and greens.
Six oceanfront holes total, with the routing touching the sea cliffs twice during the round. Views of Hanalei Bay\'s famous pipeline surf, the Bali Hai peak, and the distant Na Pali Coast create what many consider the most scenic golf in Hawaii.
Signature Holes
Plays along the sea cliffs with panoramic views of Hanalei Bay and the Bali Hai peak — one of the most scenic holes in all of Hawaii. The cliff-edge setting and ocean views make this an unforgettable par 4.
A dramatic ocean-cliff par 3 with one of the most iconic tee shots on Kauai. The Pacific crashes below as you select your club.
What to Expect
Six oceanfront holes weaving through native forests, tranquil lakes, and along coastline with Na Pali Coast views in the distance. Seashore Paspalum turf provides exceptional playing surfaces. Significant elevation changes on this bluff-top layout.
Kauai\'s North Shore gets more rain than the south side — be prepared for passing showers and softer conditions. The views of Hanalei Bay\'s pipeline surf from the course are world-famous.
Resort access at $175-300.
Playing Tips
Wind is unpredictable along the cliffs. Trust your yardage device but adjust for gusts.
The multi-level greens require precision on approach shots. Being on the wrong tier means a difficult two-putt.
Play from appropriate tees — the course has real teeth from the tips at 7,223 yards.
Prepare for passing North Shore showers — they come and go quickly.
Highlights
- ✓ Dramatic Kauai North Shore sea cliff setting
- ✓ Views of Hanalei Bay and Bali Hai
- ✓ Robert Trent Jones Jr. oceanfront design
Frequently Asked Questions
Was this really RTJ Jr.\'s first course?
How many holes are oceanfront?
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