Mauna Lani Golf

Mauna Lani Golf offers an exceptional golfing experience with its two world-renowned courses—the North and South Courses. This premier destination combines breathtaking tropical scenery with challenging, meticulously maintained greens, making it a significant spot for both amateur and professional golfers. In this article, we’ll explore the rich history of Mauna Lani Golf, detailed descriptions of its courses, top-notch facilities, and tips for making the most of your visit.

• Mauna Lani boasts two world-class golf courses, the North and South Courses, designed to challenge and delight golfers of all skill levels. Both courses offer stunning ocean views and unique lava rock features, providing an unforgettable golfing experience.
• Golfers can enjoy a unique blend of sport and cultural heritage, adding depth to their visit.
• Mauna Lani Golf Club features excellent amenities, including a well-stocked pro shop, top-tier practice facilities, and professional instruction from PGA-certified golf pros.
• Staying at the Mauna Lani resort allows easy access to the golf courses, along with luxury accommodations, fine dining, and a variety of recreational activities.
• Mauna Lani Golf frequently hosts prestigious golf tournaments and events, providing visitors the opportunity to watch or participate in high-level competitions.

In 1964, two visionaries, Francis Hyde I’i Brown and Noboru Gotoh, set out to create a resort that celebrated golf while preserving the Hawaiian environment. Their partnership and shared dream led to the establishment of Mauna Lani Golf, a destination that seamlessly blends luxury with natural beauty.

The original 18-hole South Course, designed by Homer Flint and Raymond Cain, officially opened in 1981. It quickly garnered acclaim for its breathtaking ocean views and the challenging integration of the island’s signature lava rock formations. The course’s unique design elements made it a favorite among golfers and critics alike.

From 1990 to 2000, the South Course became the prestigious host of the Senior Skins Game, attracting golf legends such as Arnold Palmer and Jack Nicklaus. This era solidified Mauna Lani’s reputation as a top-tier golfing destination, drawing attention from the global golfing community.

The addition of the North Course further enhanced Mauna Lani’s appeal. Bordering an archaeological district, this course received praise for its unique design and environmental sensitivity. Today, both the North and South Courses are consistently ranked among the best, offering distinct yet equally captivating experiences for golfers.

Today, Mauna Lani Golf stands as a world-class golfing destination, renowned for its stunning beauty, challenging courses, and rich history. It continues to attract golfers from around the world, who come to experience the legacy and excellence that began over half a century ago.

The North Course at Mauna Lani is renowned for its rugged, natural beauty and unique layout, set amidst a stark lava rock landscape. This par-72 course offers golfers a challenging yet rewarding experience, featuring keyholes like the 17th, a par-3 that requires a precise shot over a lava bed. Players will enjoy navigating the narrow fairways and strategically placed bunkers, with tips including focusing on accuracy over distance and preparing for variable winds that can influence play.

The South Course at Mauna Lani is celebrated for its scenic oceanfront holes and lush, tropical surroundings. This par-72 course includes signature holes such as the iconic 15th, a dramatic par-3 that plays over the ocean to a green set on a lava peninsula. The course’s key features include wide fairways and large, undulating greens, with challenges stemming from the ocean breezes and strategically placed water hazards. Golfers are advised to bring their best-putting game and to be mindful of the coastal winds that add an extra layer of difficulty to this beautiful course.

Mauna Lani Golf offers top-notch facilities and amenities, starting with its well-appointed clubhouse that features luxurious locker rooms, a pro shop, and friendly staff ready to assist with all your needs. The practice facilities are exceptional, including a state-of-the-art driving range and meticulously maintained putting greens, perfect for honing your skills. The golf shop offers a wide selection of premium equipment, apparel, and accessories to ensure you’re well-equipped for your game. For dining, the clubhouse restaurant provides a delightful menu with local and international cuisine, offering stunning views of the course and ocean, making it a perfect spot to relax after a round of golf.

Booking a tee time at Mauna Lani Golf is a straightforward process, easily done through their official website or by contacting the clubhouse directly. Green fees for Mauna Lani South are $279.00 in the morning, $259.00 after 10 am, and $195.00 for twilight at 2 pm. For Mauna Lani North, morning fees are $249.00, $219.00 after 10 am, and $195.00 for twilight at 2 pm. Membership options offer unlimited play and additional perks. Special packages and promotions, including discounted twilight rounds, group bookings, and stay-and-play deals, ensure that every golfer finds a suitable package.

Mauna Lani Golf offers a comprehensive range of golf instruction and clinics designed to improve players of all skill levels. Lessons are available in various formats, including private one-on-one sessions, group classes, and specialized clinics focused on different aspects of the game, such as short game mastery or driving accuracy. The experienced and PGA-certified golf instructors provide personalized guidance, leveraging their extensive knowledge to help golfers enhance their techniques and strategies. Regularly scheduled clinics and group classes foster a supportive learning environment, making it an ideal place for both beginners and seasoned players to refine their skills.

For those seeking luxurious accommodations near Mauna Lani Golf, the Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection, and the Villages at Mauna Lani offer exceptional stays with world-class amenities and stunning views. Nearby attractions include exploring the historic petroglyph fields, relaxing at the serene Makaiwa Bay, or visiting the Puako Petroglyph Archaeological Preserve. Adventure seekers can enjoy snorkeling, paddleboarding, and hiking along the picturesque coastline. Convenient transportation options, such as shuttle services provided by the resorts and rental car facilities, make it easy to travel to and from the golf courses and explore the surrounding area.

• What to Bring: Wear comfortable golf attire, bring plenty of sunscreen, and carry a water bottle to stay hydrated.
• Course Navigation: Familiarize yourself with the course layout beforehand to better strategize your play.
• Golf Etiquette: Respect local golf etiquette, including repairing divots and raking bunkers after use.
• Equipment: Ensure your golf clubs are in good condition; rentals are also available if needed.
• Booking in Advance: Reserve your tee time well in advance, especially during peak seasons.
• Practice Facilities: Arrive early to take advantage of the driving range and put greens for a thorough warm-up.
• Weather Conditions: Be prepared for changing weather; afternoon winds can affect your game, so plan accordingly.
• Local Rules: Familiarize yourself with any specific local rules or regulations that may apply to the courses.
• Relax and Enjoy: Take time to soak in the stunning scenery and enjoy the overall experience beyond just the game.

The best times to visit Mauna Lani Golf are during the early mornings and late afternoons when the temperatures are cooler and the courses are less crowded. These times offer a more pleasant and relaxed golfing experience, allowing you to fully enjoy the stunning scenery and the meticulously maintained greens. Additionally, visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring and fall can provide more moderate weather and fewer crowds, making for an ideal golfing adventure.

To reach Mauna Lani Golf by car, begin by heading north on Queen Ka’ahumanu Highway (Hwy 19) if you are coming from Kailua-Kona. Continue on this route for approximately 22 miles. You’ll then make a left turn onto Mauna Lani Drive, which is well-marked with signs indicating the Mauna Lani Resort area. Follow Mauna Lani Drive for about 1 mile until you reach the entrance to the Mauna Lani Golf Course on the left-hand side. There is ample parking available near the clubhouse.

If you prefer to travel by bus, the Hele-On Bus service provides a convenient and affordable option. Board the bus on Route 7 Kohala Resorts, which services the area around Mauna Lani. You can catch this bus from several stops, including those in Kailua-Kona and Waikoloa. The bus will drop you off at a stop near Mauna Lani Drive, from which you can either walk or take a short taxi ride to reach the golf course. Make sure to check the Hele-On Bus schedule for the most up-to-date timings and stops.

With its storied history, world-renowned courses, and top-tier amenities, it’s no wonder this destination is a favorite among golf enthusiasts. Don’t miss out on the chance to play where legends have walked—book your tee time today and step into a golfer’s paradise.