Summary
The Big Island of Hawaii is one of the world's best golf destinations because it combines championship golf courses, dramatic volcanic landscapes, Pacific Ocean views, and year-round opportunities to play outdoors. The Kohala Coast is especially appealing to golfers, with scenic fairways, sunny weather, luxury resorts, and access to two renowned courses at Mauna Kea Resort. For travelers who want to pair exceptional golf with spacious accommodations, beautiful beaches, and resort amenities, Mauna Kea Residences offers a convenient luxury home base for a memorable golf vacation.
The Big Island offers golfers an experience that goes beyond the game, bringing together remarkable scenery, distinctive course designs, and the relaxed atmosphere of a Hawaiian getaway. With championship golf, luxury vacation rentals, and plenty of opportunities to explore between rounds, the Kohala Coast is an excellent destination for couples, families, and groups planning a golf-focused vacation.
What Makes the Big Island a Unique Golf Destination?
The Big Island stands out as a golf destination because its courses combine challenging play with spectacular volcanic and ocean scenery. On the Kohala Coast, golfers can enjoy views of the Pacific, rugged lava fields, green fairways, and distant mountain landscapes, creating a setting that feels distinctly Hawaiian.
The island's volcanic terrain also contributes to the character of its golf courses. Dark lava rock contrasts with manicured greens and bright coastal vegetation, giving many holes a dramatic appearance that differs from traditional parkland courses.
Another advantage is the opportunity to build a complete vacation around golf. Visitors can spend the morning on the course, relax at the beach in the afternoon, and enjoy local dining or a sunset overlooking the ocean in the evening.
Which Golf Courses Should You Play on the Big Island?
The Kohala Coast is one of the Big Island's most appealing areas for golfers, with established resort courses and scenic layouts suited to a range of playing preferences. Two standout options are the Mauna Kea Golf Course and the Hapuna Golf Course, both associated with the Mauna Kea Resort and Residences area.
The Mauna Kea Golf Course is known for its oceanfront setting and memorable coastal holes, while the Hapuna Golf Course offers elevated views across the coastline and surrounding volcanic landscape. Playing both can give golfers two distinct perspectives on the island's terrain and scenery.
Golfers planning their itinerary should consider their skill level, preferred course style, tee-time availability, and how much time they want to spend on the course. It is also worth checking current course conditions and booking tee times ahead of travel, particularly during busy holiday periods.
How Can You Plan the Perfect Big Island Golf Vacation?
A successful Big Island golf vacation balances tee times with comfortable accommodations, convenient transportation, and time to enjoy the island beyond the fairways. Staying on the Kohala Coast puts golfers near several renowned courses while offering access to beaches, restaurants, and other resort activities.
Mauna Kea Residences provides a range of luxury vacation rentals within Mauna Kea Resort, including properties with golf or ocean views, spacious living areas, and furnished lanais. Depending on the residence and booking arrangements, guests can also access resort amenities and receive direct-booking golf discounts, including 30% off at Hapuna Golf Course and 10% off at Mauna Kea Golf Course, with complimentary club rentals and shoes listed as part of those offers.[1]
Before your trip, consider these planning tips:
- Reserve tee times early: Secure preferred dates and times before finalizing your daily itinerary.
- Choose accommodations strategically: Look for a residence that makes your preferred courses easy to reach.
- Check golf packages and discounts: Confirm current rates, rental equipment inclusions, and eligibility before booking.
- Pack for changing conditions: Bring comfortable golf attire, sun protection, and lightweight layers for breezy conditions.
- Plan non-golf activities: Leave room for beach time, local dining, snorkeling, and exploring the island.
With the right planning, golfers can enjoy several memorable rounds without making the entire vacation revolve around the course. A spacious vacation rental also gives groups room to unwind together, prepare meals, and enjoy time between outings.
If you are planning a golf getaway to Hawaii, contact us today at 888.906.2139 or email reservations@maunakearesidences.com to learn more about Mauna Kea Residences and find a luxury vacation rental that complements your golf itinerary on the Big Island.
FAQ
- What makes the Big Island a great golf destination?
The Big Island combines championship courses, volcanic landscapes, ocean views, and warm-weather golf with beaches, dining, and luxury accommodations. - How many championship golf courses are at Mauna Kea Resort?
Mauna Kea Resort features two 18-hole championship courses: Mauna Kea Golf Course and Hapuna Golf Course.[2] - When is the best time to golf on the Big Island?
Golf is available throughout the year, but conditions vary. Check the forecast, course maintenance schedules, and tee-time availability when planning your trip. - Can beginners enjoy golf on the Big Island?
Yes. Beginners can look for lessons, practice facilities, and suitable tee options. Contact each course to learn about instruction and the best arrangements for your experience level. - Where should golfers stay on the Big Island?
Mauna Kea Residences is an option for travelers who want luxury vacation rentals on the Kohala Coast, with access to two championship golf courses and other resort amenities. Available residence features vary by property.
Citations
[1] “Amenities,” Mauna Kea Residences, Accessed October 27, 2026. Mauna Kea Residences Amenities
[2] “Golf Course Overview,” Mauna Kea Resort, Accessed October 27, 2026. Mauna Kea Resort Golf Courses
