There are golf destinations, and then there is the Kohala Coast.
Here, bright green fairways flow through ancient lava fields, palm trees sway beside the greens, and the Pacific Ocean becomes part of the game. Add warm sunshine, beautiful resort communities, and an impressive collection of courses, and it is easy to understand why Hawaiʻi Island is often called the Golf Capital of Hawaiʻi.
For guests staying with Kohala Coast Properties, enjoying these courses can be especially convenient. Many of our vacation rentals are located within Waikoloa Beach Resort, close to the fairways and only a short drive away from several other celebrated courses.
Some condo rentals may also include golf membership privileges, preferred guest rates, or other valuable savings. Benefits vary by property, so be certain to review the individual rental details when making your reservation.
Why Golf Belongs in Your Big Island Vacation
Golf offers much more than a scorecard.
A round can include several miles of walking, along with repeated swinging, bending, balancing, and carrying equipment. Research has found that golf can provide moderate-intensity physical activity and may promote cardiovascular, musculoskeletal, respiratory, and metabolic health. It also encourages time outdoors, concentration, and social interaction.
It is an activity that fits naturally into a relaxing vacation. You can stay active without spending an hour inside a hotel gym, surrounded by bright lights and exercise machines. Instead, you are moving through a beautiful Hawaiian landscape, breathing fresh air, and watching the mountains and ocean change as the day passes.
Golf can be especially rewarding for families. A round creates something that has become increasingly rare: several uninterrupted hours together. Phones are usually put away, conversation comes naturally, and each family member has a chance to participate.
Parents and grandparents can introduce younger players to the game, while beginners can enjoy learning at their own pace. A shorter nine-hole round is easy to fit between a morning at the beach and a sunset dinner.
Solo golfers can enjoy a completely different experience. A quiet round provides time to think, focus, and reconnect with nature. Joining another group may also lead to new friendships. Golf can be social, competitive, relaxing, or very personal, depending on the kind of day you want.
Waikoloa Beach Resort Golf
Waikoloa Beach Resort Golf is the natural starting point for many guests of Kohala Coast Properties.
The resort offers 27 holes arranged as three distinctive nine-hole loops: the Beach Nine, Lakes Nine, and Kings’ Nine. Golfers can combine the loops to create a varied 18-hole experience formed by lava, water, coastal breezes, and mountain scenery.
The Beach Nine is known for its coastal setting and ocean views. The Lakes Nine introduces water features and calculated decisions, while the longer Kings’ Nine offers the classic feel of championship resort golf.
This flexible layout is perfect for vacationers. You can play nine holes for a relaxed morning outing or create a full round by combining two loops.
Perhaps the greatest luxury is simply being so close. Imagine getting up in a spacious condo, making coffee in your own kitchen, and seeing the golf course just outside. There is no long drive and no need to plan the entire day around a tee time.
You can play early, return to your vacation home for lunch, and still have plenty of time for the beach, shopping, the pool, or an afternoon nap. What could be better than having one of Hawaiʻi’s finest golf experiences practically outside your door?
Mauna Lani Golf
Mauna Lani offers two 18-hole championship courses, the North Course and South Course, along with the Wikiwiki nine-hole walking course. Mauna Lani golf memberships provide access to both championship layouts and the Wikiwiki Course, along with guest rates, practice facilities, and other privileges.
The championship courses are known for their dramatic lava landscapes, immaculate greens, and beautiful ocean scenery. The South Course is especially memorable for its holes near the water, where vivid green fairways stand against black lava and deep blue ocean.
The North Course has a different personality, with rolling terrain and a quieter, more secluded feeling.
Families and newer players should pay special attention to the Wikiwiki Course. It was designed for a round of about one hour and welcomes players at every skill level. Complimentary rental clubs are available for children age 15 and younger, making this one of the easiest places on the coast to introduce younger family members to golf.
Westin Hapuna Golf Course
The Westin Hapuna Golf Course delivers a fascinating perspective on the Kohala landscape.
Designed by Arnold Palmer and Ed Seay, this links-style course opened in 1992. Its dramatic terrain features several elevation changes, rising roughly 750 feet above sea level. Golfers are rewarded with expansive views of the coastline, mountains, and Pacific Ocean throughout the course.
Hapuna is scenic and enjoyable, but it still calls for careful club selection. Wind, elevation, and distance can turn a seemingly simple shot into an interesting challenge.
Its open feel and expansive views make it a wonderful choice for players who want championship golf in a setting that feels peaceful and distinctly Hawaiian.
Mauna Kea Golf Course
Mauna Kea Golf Course is one of Hawaiʻi Island’s legendary golf experiences.
Robert Trent Jones Sr. designed the first course in 1964, transforming a rugged lava landscape into a dramatic seaside layout. Recent improvements led by Robert Trent Jones Jr. refreshed the fairways, bunkers, and greens while honoring his father’s original vision.
The signature third hole is the moment many golfers remember most. Players must carry the ball across an ocean inlet while taking into account the coastal wind. It is beautiful, intimidating, and unforgettable.
The renovated course now features Platinum Paspalum turf, onboard GPS in its golf carts, practice facilities, lessons with PGA professionals, and an open-air restaurant near the third hole.
The Village Course at Waikoloa
Travelers looking for a more budget-conscious option should consider the Village Course at Waikoloa.
Located uphill in Waikoloa Village, this Robert Trent Jones II design features generous fairways, wide landing areas, well-protected greens, and warm, dry playing conditions throughout the year.
The course provides a satisfying full round without the higher pricing commonly associated with luxury resort golf. It is also a good choice for groups with mixed skill levels. Newer golfers receive some extra breathing room on the fairways, while bunkers and undulating greens keep experienced players involved.
Make Golf Part of Your Stay
The best golf vacation is not only about choosing a famous course. It is about creating an easy, enjoyable rhythm.
Wake up near the fairway. Prepare a relaxed breakfast in your own kitchen. Play while the morning air is comfortable, then return to a condo with space to rest, store your equipment, and spend time with the family.
That is one of the greatest advantages of choosing a vacation rental instead of a traditional hotel room. You have private living areas, a full kitchen, room for golf clubs, and the freedom to shape each day around your own schedule.
With world-class courses, beaches, restaurants, shopping, and resort amenities close by, the Kohala Coast makes it easy for golfers and non-golfers to enjoy the same vacation.
At Kohala Coast Properties, we can help you find a comfortable vacation home close to the courses you are excited to play. Be sure to ask about available golf membership privileges and guest discounts when booking your stay.
Your next unforgettable round could be waiting just outside your door.
Explore our golf properties below:
Waikoloa Beach Villas H32
Waikoloa Beach Villas J32
Waikoloa Beach Villas O2
Fairway Villas A21
Fairway Villas J21