Mauna Kea Golf Course
Big Island of Hawaii
It's been more than 40 years since the Mauna Kea Golf Course was carved out of the arid lava fields on the Big Island's Kohala Coast, yet the 18-hole, par 72 Robert Trent Jones, Sr. design still ranks among the most beautiful courses in all of Hawaii. With rugged seaside terrain, 14 elevated greens, 120 bunkers and some tricky downhill tees, it's also one of the state's most challenging.
The signature hole at Mauna Kea is the par 3 third hole, which traverses a rocky bay with surf thundering in off the Pacific. Equally dramatic is the par 3 11th hole, which drops 100 feet into the wind from the tee to the green, with the ocean waiting just beyond to swallow overshot balls. Along the way, players can enjoy fine views of the Pacific and of snowcapped Mauna Kea, the 13,796-foot dormant volcano after which the resort was named.
The green fee is around $195, or $135 if you're staying at the resort, with reduced twilight rates available seasonally. Mauna Kea is a highly popular course, so book tee times as far in advance as possible.
808-882-5400
www.maunakeabeachhotel.com
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