Kauai is Hawaii’s oldest island. Which is why it has one of its best golf courses. Makai Golf Club is a Kauai north shore icon, perched above legendary Hanalei Bay on the island’s stunning Princeville area, delivering one of Hawaii’s most breathtaking golf experiences. This Robert Trent Jones Jr. masterpiece (his first solo design in 1971, renovated in 2010,  winds through native woodlands, serene freshwater lakes, and dramatic coastline, with six epic oceanfront holes showcasing Mount Makana (“Bali Hai”) and Pacific vistas. It’s pure aloha golf: lush Seashore Paspalum turf, trade winds, and scenery that ranks among the world’s most stunning settings.

Quick Facts

  • One championship 18-hole course: (Makai) + a fun Woods 9-hole regulation layout + practice facility
  • Coastal drama: Six oceanfront holes (three front, three back), elevation play, strategic bunkers, and panoramic views of Hanalei Bay
  • Year-round play: Mild tropical weather (70s-80s°F), but best in shoulder seasons to dodge rain/winds; dynamic pricing for deals
  • Premium access: Public/resort daily-fee; greens fees $300-$375 peak (twilight/resort discounts available); often ranked Top 100 public in America (Golf Digest), Top 3 playable in Hawaii (Golfweek), and Top 5 scenic globally (National Geographic Traveler)
  • Immaculate conditions: Post-renovation gem with six tee options for all levels (par-72, up to 7,223 yards)

The island of Kauai has awesome activities across the entire island from incredible hikes, amazing beaches, and world class dining. The golf is peak, and the vibes are otherworldly. 

Perfect For…

  • Guys’ Trips: High-drama rounds with ocean carries and risk-reward holes, post-golf Mai Tais or fresh poke, sunset views, and easy pairing with Kauai hikes, beaches, or north shore vibes
  • Families: Scenic, playable layout (forward tees forgiving); nearby resorts with pools, spas, beaches; non-golfers enjoy Hanalei Bay snorkeling, shopping, or rainforest drives

Top Standout Courses

Makai Course (18 holes, Robert Trent Jones Jr.)

The star,  RTJ Jr.’s first solo design, reborn in 2010 with stunning updates. Features six unforgettable oceanfront holes, lakeside drama, native woodlands, and massive views of Hanalei Bay and mountains. Challenging yet strategic (hard par, easy bogey feel from right tees), with risk-reward par-5s, short/long par-4s, and epic par-3s, pure bucket-list beauty and challenge.

Woods Course (9-hole regulation)

Relaxed complement, a fun, regulation nine winding through native woodlands on Kauai’s north shore. Great for quick rounds, warm-ups, families, or a casual second nine while soaking in the tropical setting.

Great Stay-and-Play Resorts & Spots

  • 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay: Luxury eco-chic with direct packages (e.g., “Golf with a View” including rounds, carts, rentals, transport)
  • Makai Club Resort : Hillside condos/suites alongside the course; cozy, golf-vacation focused with amenities
  • Nearby Princeville options: (St. Regis legacy, Cliffs at Princeville), Beach access, spas, pools; many offer bundled golf deals
  • Packages often include unlimited practice, GPS carts, priority tees, and extras like premium rentals or tours

All Key Makai Golf Highlights at a Glance

  • Makai Course (18 holes, Top 100 public, oceanfront icon)
  • Woods Course (9 holes, relaxed woodland fun)
  • Practice facility (driving range, putting greens)
  • Plus nearby Kauai north shore gems (if extending the trip)

Pro Tips

  • Book tee times & stay-and-play packages early via makaigolf.com or partners (1hotels.com/hanalei-bay, Troon),  dynamic pricing rewards advance bookings; check resort concierges for discounts
  • Fly into Lihue (LIH) 1-hour scenic drive to Princeville (rent a car for flexibility)
  • Pair golf with Kauai north shore musts: Hanalei Bay beaches, taro fields, fresh seafood, shave ice, Na Pali Coast boat tours, or hiking
  • Play mornings to beat trade winds/rain; use forward tees for enjoyment; embrace the views, this is as scenic as golf gets

Time to tee it up overlooking Hanalei Bay, chase birdies in paradise, and reset with unmatched Hawaiian aloha. Princeville Makai Golf Club is calling your escape.