There is so much beauty to see in Kauai, Hawaii, and if you’re a golfer, you’re in for a treat: you have several breathtaking courses you can play. You’ll find many of the finest courses on the planet from among Kauai golf courses.
Kauai is often called the “Garden Isle” thanks to its lush landscapes, dramatic cliffs, and breathtaking coastlines. For golfers, it’s also a dream destination with fairways framed by ocean views, palm trees, and volcanic backdrops. Whether you’re an experienced player or just looking to enjoy a round in paradise, Kauai golf courses combine natural beauty with world-class design.
From championship layouts hosting PGA tournaments to more casual public courses, you’ll find a variety of options across the island. Let’s take a closer look at some of the most celebrated spots where you can tee off during your Kauai vacation.
Poipu Bay Golf Course
Poipu Bay Golf Course is one of the island’s most well-known golfing destinations, located near the sunny South Shore. This course once hosted the PGA Grand Slam of Golf, welcoming some of the sport’s biggest names.
Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., Poipu Bay spans along rugged ocean cliffs, offering dramatic views of the Pacific. Players will find wide fairways that make it approachable, yet the constant trade winds and strategically placed bunkers keep it challenging.
Highlights include:
- A back nine with holes located directly above the ocean.
- The 16th hole, a par-4 with a stunning cliffside approach.
- Wildlife sightings, including Hawaiian monk seals and sea turtles along the shore.
If you’re looking to play at one of the best golf courses in Hawaii, Poipu Bay easily ranks high on the list.
Puakea Golf Course
For a more relaxed but equally scenic round, Puakea Golf Course in Lihue is a favorite among both locals and visitors. Carved out of an old sugar plantation, this course embraces the island’s natural terrain, with views of Mount Ha’upu and the Pacific Ocean.
Puakea is a par-72 course designed by Robin Nelson, known for creating layouts that balance fun and strategy. It’s not overly long, which makes it accessible for all skill levels, but the elevation changes and water hazards add variety to your game.
A few standout features include:
- The 6th hole, a par-4 with a green framed by tropical foliage.
- The 11th hole, which challenges golfers with a carry over a ravine.
- A welcoming clubhouse that makes it easy to unwind after your round.
The Ocean Course at Hokuala
The Ocean Course at Hokuala is truly a showpiece, designed by Jack Nicklaus and stretching along the coastline for over half of its holes. Located near Lihue, this course boasts the longest stretch of continuous oceanfront holes in Hawaii.
The layout combines coastal cliffs, lagoons, and tropical forests into a round that’s both demanding and breathtaking. Nicklaus’ design is known for rewarding precision, especially on approaches where trade winds and water hazards can influence your shot selection.
Highlights include:
- Four consecutive oceanfront holes (12–16) with unmatched views.
- A signature par-3 14th hole that plays over crashing surf.
- Luxurious amenities including a full-service practice facility.
Golfers often describe this as not only one of the top courses in Kauai but also among the most memorable anywhere in the Pacific.
Makai Golf Club at Princeville
This first solo design by renowned golf course architect Robert Trent Jones, Jr., has landed this course atop nearly every golf ranking out there, making it perhaps the best among the public golf courses on Kauai. These accolades include Top 100 Greatest Public Golf Courses in America by Golf Digest and the Top 3 Best Courses You Can Play in Hawaii by GolfWeek.
The course conditions are described as “immaculate” and so breathtaking that guided golf cart tours are given so that even visitors who might not play can take in the lush landscape and unparalleled views. Six of the course’s 18 holes are oceanfront.
Makai Golf Club at Princeville has two oversized practice tees, a practice fairway bunker, a teaching tee, and a practice complex for your short game. Golfers can also rent new Callaway Golf clubs.
Plan Your Stay!
Our Kauai Rentals put you near some of the most beautiful golf courses in the United States! Book your trip today to experience the beauty and fun first-hand.
Kiahuna Golf Club
Kiahuna Golf Club in Poipu offers a friendlier pace and an atmosphere perfect for families or casual rounds. Designed by Robert Trent Jones II, this par-70 course weaves through ancient lava rock walls, tropical gardens, and even remnants of Hawaiian archeological sites.
What sets Kiahuna apart is its walkability and accessibility. It’s an excellent choice for beginners or those who want to enjoy the scenery while playing. Still, it has its fair share of challenges, with water hazards appearing on nearly half the holes.
Standout details include:
- A setting filled with orchids and other tropical plants.
- Fairways framed by coconut palms and plumeria trees.
- A welcoming design that prioritizes enjoyment over difficulty.
Makai Course
Up on the North Shore, the Makai Course in Princeville is another standout designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr. Known for its dramatic cliffs and sweeping ocean panoramas, this course consistently ranks among the top public courses in the United States.
The Makai Course underwent a full renovation in 2009, modernizing its layout while preserving its natural beauty. Players will face rolling fairways, deep bunkers, and strategically placed water hazards.
Some highlights include:
- The signature par-3 7th hole, where golfers tee off toward the Pacific Ocean.
- Incredible sunset rounds with views of Hanalei Bay.
- Wildlife sightings, from albatross to nene geese.
The Makai Course is ideal for those seeking both challenge and postcard-worthy scenery in their round.
Kukui‘ula Golf Course
For an exclusive experience, Kukui‘ula Golf Course offers private club access that’s limited to members and guests of select accommodations. Designed by Tom Weiskopf, this 18-hole course features wide fairways, natural elevation changes, and panoramic ocean views.
Unlike some of the more traditional layouts, Kukui‘ula emphasizes a connection with nature. The course integrates orchards, native plants, and flowing lava rock. Midway through your round, you’ll encounter the club’s comfort station, stocked with local snacks and refreshments.
Standout features include:
- A design that blends luxury with sustainability.
- Expansive practice areas and instruction opportunities.
- A focus on creating a complete experience, not just a round of golf.
Wailua Golf Course
If you’re looking for great golf at an affordable price, Wailua Golf Course delivers. This municipal course, located near Lihue, consistently receives praise for its quality and value.
Wailua is a par-72 layout right along the coast, with several holes providing ocean views. It’s a favorite among locals, and visitors love that it offers championship-level golf without the resort-level price tag.
Highlights include:
- A walkable layout that balances playability with challenge.
- Holes 1 and 17, both par-5s with views of the ocean.
- A rich history, having hosted multiple USGA amateur events.
Wailua proves that world-class golf in Kauai doesn’t have to come with a luxury price.
Book Your Kauai Vacation Rental with Kauai Calls
After a day on the fairways, having the right place to unwind makes your trip even better. With Kauai rentals from Kauai Calls, you’ll find accommodations that keep you close to the courses you want to play while providing all the comforts of home.
Looking for convenience and value? Our Kauai condo rentals place you near dining, shopping, and beaches, with amenities like pools and private lanais. If you prefer more space, private homes are also available, giving you room to relax and recharge.
Whether you’re planning a golf-focused getaway or simply want to include a round or two during your vacation, booking through Kauai Calls ensures a smooth and memorable stay.
