Mauna Kea Golf Course
Design by Robert Trent Jones Sr. · Par 72 · 7,378 yds
An iconic Robert Trent Jones Sr. Don't rush; take time to appreciate the breathtaking views from every hole.
ChallengingClassic Hawaiian Parkland$295–400
Best season
Year-round
May · Sep · Oct · Nov
Trip cost · per golfer
$3,600–$10,600
4-night trip
Nearest airport
KOA
52 mi · KOA
Difficulty
mixed
Handicap 5–30
Overview
Why play Big Island / Kona
Experience golf amidst lava fields and ocean vistas on the Big Island, where championship courses offer unparalleled beauty and challenge, promising a truly unforgettable Hawaiian golf escape.
Top courses
Best golf courses in Big Island / Kona
Editor-picked layouts ranked by prestige, conditioning and player experience.
Hualalai Golf Course
Design by Jack Nicklaus · Par 72 · 7,100 yds
A Jack Nicklaus signature course with flawless conditioning, weaving through lava, lush fairways, and oceanfront terrain. Forecaddies are available and highly recommended for navigating this exclusive course.
ChallengingResort Championship$330–440
Waikoloa Beach Resort - Kings' Course
Design by Tom Weiskopf & Jay Morrish · Par 72 · 7,074 yds
A Scottish links-style course offering a unique contrast to the island's volcanic landscape. Take advantage of the extensive practice facilities before your round.
ModerateScottish Links$220–320
Stay & play
Where to stay in Big Island / Kona
Resort packages bundle lodging, rounds, range access, and on-site dining. Hotel-only options give you flexibility to course-hop.
Four Seasons Resort Hualalai
Luxury Resort
An ultra-luxury oceanfront resort known for its impeccable service and award-winning amenities.
Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection
Luxury Resort
A sophisticated resort blending modern luxury with Hawaiian cultural heritage amidst ancient fishponds and lava fields.
Waikoloa Beach Marriott Resort & Spa
Resort
A well-appointed resort with beautiful ocean views, pools, and convenient access to shopping and dining.
Courtyard by Marriott King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel
Mid-range Hotel
A comfortable hotel in the heart of Kailua-Kona, offering easy access to the town's attractions.
Off the course
Things to do in Big Island / Kona
Non-golf experiences worth building into your trip — from local landmarks to nature, food, and culture.
Snorkeling at Kealakekua Bay
Water SportsDiscover vibrant marine life and coral reefs in a protected marine sanctuary, often accessible by boat tour.
Mauna Kea Stargazing
SightseeingWitness incredible celestial displays from one of the world's premier astronomical sites at the summit or visitor center.
Kona Coffee Farm Tour
CulturalExplore local coffee plantations, learn about the growing process, and sample world-renowned Kona coffee.
Volcanoes National Park
Nature/SightseeingExperience diverse volcanic landscapes, steam vents, and potentially see active lava flows.
Luau at Mauna Kea Beach Hotel
Cultural/EntertainmentImmerse yourself in Hawaiian culture with traditional food, music, and dance at a classic luau.
Itineraries
Sample itineraries
Choose your trip length. Each plan is built around the marquee courses, with rest, dining, and travel days dialed in.
- 1
Day 1
Arrive & warm up
Land at KOA, transfer to your hotel, hit the range, and grab a casual dinner at Merriman's Waimea.
- 2
Day 2
Round 1 — Mauna Kea Golf Course
Morning tee time at Mauna Kea Golf Course. Lunch at the clubhouse, afternoon recovery, dinner at Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar.
- 3
Day 3
Final round & departure
Early tee time at Waikoloa Beach Resort - Kings' Course, light lunch, then transfer back to KOA.
Budget
Budget breakdown · per golfer
Realistic ranges sourced from current resort rates, public green fees, and group dining averages.
Lodging 4 nights · $514/nt | $2,056 |
Golf 3 rounds · $300 avg | $900 |
Food & drink ~$110/day | $440 |
Ground transport Rideshare + cart fees | $240 |
Flights Search Skyscanner for live fares | Variable |
| Estimated total · per golfer | $3,636 |
Season
Best time of year to visit Big Island / Kona
tropical
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul
Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Ideal Good Off-season
When to book: 3-6 months out
Dining
Where to eat in Big Island / Kona
From clubhouse classics to chef-driven dinners worth a reservation.
Merriman's Waimea
$$$$Hawaii Regional Cuisine
Farm-to-table dining with stunning views and a focus on fresh, local ingredients.
Brown's Beach House
$$$$Pacific Rim
Oceanfront dining at Fairmont Orchid, known for spectacular sunsets and exquisite seafood.
Tommy Bahama Restaurant & Bar
$$$American with Caribbean influences
A lively atmosphere with island-inspired dishes and classic cocktails.
Roy's Waikoloa Bar & Grill
$$$$Hawaiian Fusion
Chef Roy Yamaguchi's innovative take on Hawaiian fare, known for its fresh seafood.
Ulakana
$$$Japanese
Authentic Japanese cuisine and sushi in a relaxed setting inside Mauna Lani.
Da Poke Shack
$$Hawaiian
A popular, no-frills spot serving some of the island's freshest and most delicious poke.
After dark
Nightlife in Big Island / Kona
Where the buddy trips end up after the 19th hole.
Don's Mai Tai Bar
Bar
An iconic oceanfront bar at King Kamehameha's Kona Beach Hotel, famous for its strong mai tais.
Big Island Brewhaus
Brewery/Pub
A local favorite for craft beers, live music, and a casual, friendly atmosphere in Waimea.
Kona Brewing Co.
Brewery/Restaurant
Enjoy freshly brewed craft beers and pub fare at their original pub and brewery in Kailua-Kona.
Tee times
Book tee times in Big Island / Kona
Live inventory from GolfNow plus flight comparison from Skyscanner. Prices update in real time.
FAQ
Big Island / Kona golf trip FAQs
What is the best time of year to golf in Big Island / Kona?
+
Year-round (May, Sep, Oct, Nov). tropical
How much does a golf trip to Big Island / Kona cost?
+
Plan on $3,600–$10,600 per golfer for a 4-night trip including lodging, rounds, food and ground transport. Flights are extra.
What airport should I fly into for Big Island / Kona?
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KOA, about 52 miles from the resort area. Most national hubs offer non-stop service via KOA.
How many days should I plan for a Big Island / Kona golf trip?
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4 nights is the sweet spot — enough for 3 full rounds plus a rest or sightseeing day.
Is Big Island / Kona good for buddy trips?
+
Yes — popular with couples, seniors, buddies. Strong nightlife close to the courses.
Ready to book
Book your Big Island / Kona golf trip
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Trip snapshot
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