Looking for the best golf course on the Big Island that combines world-class play with unforgettable views? You’re in the right place. The Kona Coast and surrounding areas are home to some of Hawaii’s most scenic and celebrated golf destinations—perfect for everyone from casual players to seasoned pros.
Whether you’re teeing off with the Pacific Ocean as your backdrop or navigating lush lava rock landscapes, these courses offer more than just a round—they deliver a golfing experience in paradise. Here’s your insider guide to the top golf course on the Big Island near Kailua‑Kona, where beauty meets challenge at every hole.
Why the Big Island Is the Golf Capital of Hawaii
The Big Island isn’t just a tropical escape—it’s a golfer’s paradise, earning its reputation as the Golf Capital of Hawaii. From lava-lined fairways to ocean-hugging greens, this island offers some of the most visually stunning and diverse golf courses in the world.
Here, you can tee off against a backdrop of black lava rock, lush mountain slopes, and sparkling blue Pacific views—sometimes all in the same round. The island’s wide range of championship courses, designed by legends like Jack Nicklaus and Robert Trent Jones Jr., offer a blend of challenge and beauty, whether you’re playing in sun-drenched Kona or the cooler uplands of Waimea.
With year-round sunshine, varied terrain, and unforgettable scenery, the Big Island stands tall as Hawaii’s premier destination for golfers of every level.
1. Hualālai Golf Course – A Jack Nicklaus Signature
Set within the prestigious Four Seasons Resort Hualālai in Kaʻūpūlehu, this Jack Nicklaus Signature Course is consistently ranked among the top golf course on the Big Island of Hawaii. Known for its immaculate design and luxurious setting, Hualālai Golf Course offers a seamless blend of natural beauty and championship-level play.
Golfers are treated to dramatic lava rock features, oceanfront holes, and wide, playable fairways that appeal to all skill levels. The course’s signature closing stretch—set against sparkling Pacific views—is both scenic and strategic.
As the annual host of the Mitsubishi Electric Championship on the PGA Tour Champions, Hualālai delivers a tour-tested experience in a truly breathtaking setting. It’s a must-play for those seeking resort-level elegance and memorable island golf.
2. Kohanaiki Golf Course – Rees Jones’ Oceanfront Gem
Nestled along the Kona Coast, Kohanaiki Golf Course is a private, 18-hole masterpiece designed by renowned architect Rees Jones. Known for its exclusive access and jaw-dropping ocean views, Kohanaiki seamlessly integrates lush fairways, ancient lava flows, and coastal panoramas into a world-class layout.
Every hole offers a new perspective on the Big Island’s raw beauty—from windswept palms to waves crashing just beyond the greens. The course is meticulously maintained, yet feels wild and organic, reflecting the spirit of Hawaiʻi itself.
Consistently praised as one of the best golf course on the Big Island, Kohanaiki delivers more than just a game—it offers an elite private club experience with top-tier amenities, a stunning clubhouse, and a laid-back yet refined Hawaiian lifestyle.
3. Kona Country Club – Scenic, Accessible Public Golf
Kona Country Club offers one of the most inviting public golf experiences on the Big Island. Featuring both a Mountain Course and Ocean Course, it provides options for all skill levels—whether you’re looking for lush inland play or dramatic seaside holes.
The Ocean Course boasts nine holes with panoramic coastal views, where waves crash along lava rock outcrops, while the Mountain Course offers cooler elevations and wide fairways framed by tropical greenery. Recent renovations have enhanced both courses with improved greens, updated bunkers, and modernized facilities, elevating the overall experience.
Consistently rated among the best public golf course on the Big Island of Hawaii, Kona Country Club combines natural beauty with accessibility—making it a favorite for locals, visitors, and those new to island golf.
4. Makalei Golf Club – Elevated Forest Golf with Island Flair
Perched on the slopes of Hualālai volcano, Makalei Golf Club delivers a distinct Big Island golf experience. Unlike coastal layouts, this public course sits at higher elevation, offering cooler temperatures, sweeping island views, and a serene escape into nature.
Golfers navigate through a lush, native ohia forest, past lava rock features and even wild peacocks, with dramatic elevation changes adding a fun layer of challenge. The varied terrain, cooler air, and frequent wildlife sightings create a peaceful yet dynamic round of golf.
A local favorite and a must-visit for visitors seeking something off the beaten path, Makalei Golf Club offers an unforgettable blend of natural beauty and mountain golf on the Big Island of Hawaii.
5. Makani Golf Club – Elevated, Strategic, Serene
Formerly known as Big Island Country Club, Makani Golf Club sits at approximately 2,500 feet above sea level on the western slopes of Mauna Kea, offering cooler temperatures, rolling terrain, and panoramic coast-to-mountain views.
Designed by Perry Dye, this public course is known for its thoughtful layout—incorporating water hazards on nine holes, carefully contoured fairways, and strategic bunkering that challenges seasoned players while remaining accessible for newcomers.
The tranquil setting, gentle breezes, and lush surroundings make every round feel like a retreat. With its unique highland environment and expertly crafted design, Makani Golf Club is a serene standout among golf courses on the Big Island of Hawaii.
Other Notable Golf Courses Across the Big Island
Beyond Kona, the Big Island boasts a diverse lineup of exceptional courses. Along the stunning Kohala Coast, you’ll find the iconic Mauna Kea Golf Course, the Mauna Lani Resort’s North and South Courses, and the scenic Hapuna Golf Course—each offering ocean views and championship-level play.
For a unique twist, head upland to Volcano Golf & Country Club, one of the oldest courses in Hawaii, set near Hawaiʻi Volcanoes National Park. You’ll also find local gems like Hāmākua Country Club and other hidden favorites that complete the island’s full-spectrum golf experience.
From lava-lined fairways to lush rainforest surroundings, the Big Island delivers one of the most diverse and memorable golfing adventures in all of Hawaii.
Golf Lessons and Instruction on the Big Island
Whether you’re a beginner hoping to learn the basics or a seasoned golfer sharpening your game, most golf courses on the Big Island offer professional lessons and instructional programs. Certified PGA instructors are available at many locations—including Kona Country Club, Mauna Lani, and Mauna Kea—catering to all skill levels and ages.
Lesson formats range from private one-on-one sessions to engaging group clinics and junior camps. Fees vary depending on the course, the instructor’s credentials, and the length of the lesson. As a general guide:
- Private lessons typically start around $60–$120 per hour.
- Group clinics and junior sessions may offer more affordable rates, ranging from $25–$50 per person per session.
For the best availability and most up-to-date pricing, it’s a good idea to contact your preferred course directly or visit their website. Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak travel seasons, to ensure you get your preferred time and instructor.
Homes For Sale In Kona With Golf Course View
Choosing the Right Golf Course for Your Visit
Planning your perfect round starts with knowing what matters most to you:
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For top-tier play and exclusivity, Hualālai and Kohanaiki are among the most prestigious golf courses on the Big Island, offering impeccable design, luxury amenities, and dramatic coastal views. Ideal for those seeking a world-class, members-only experience.
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For public access paired with stunning scenery, consider Makalei, Makani, and Kona Country Club. These courses offer diverse landscapes—from lush mountain forests to oceanfront fairways—at a more accessible price point, making them excellent for casual visitors or repeat play.
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For iconic coastal resort golf, Mauna Kea and Hapuna Beach Golf Course along the Kohala Coast offer breathtaking seaside layouts with full-service resort perks—perfect if you’re combining golf with a luxury getaway outside of Kona.
No matter your skill level or budget, the Big Island has a course that fits your pace, your preferences, and your paradise.
Final Thoughts: Golf Course on the Big Island
Whether you’re drawn to championship-level layouts, lava-lined fairways, cool upland breezes, or breathtaking oceanfront holes, the golf course on the Big Island of Hawaii offer an unforgettable blend of beauty and challenge. With options ranging from scenic public gems to ultra-exclusive resort experiences, the island—especially the Kona and Kohala Coast areas—stands as Hawaii’s premier golf destination. For golf lovers of every level, the Big Island delivers rounds you’ll remember long after the final putt.
Thinking of Living Near a Course?
If you’re interested in golf on the Big Island, I can help you explore real estate near these golf communities—whether you’re buying second home, investing, or dreaming of oceanfront living.
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