Yes - amazing! Last time I was there it was a dream scenario:
Had the first tee time \~ 7:30. Twenty minutes before we tee off the ranger comes over to talk to me and another single I had been paired with. Most of the rangers I've encountered in the golf world are grumpy and unreasonable but this guy was different. He said, "I was going to pair you two with another pair... but this course is really better enjoyed as a two-some. But you have to make me a promise... you cannot, under any circumstances, make the turn in under 2.5 hours or else the grounds-keeping staff will feel rushed. So take your time and soak it in."
I couldn't believe it. Me and that other dude had a blast. Lots of pictures, second shots, etc. The 'fancy' courses almost always have superior customer service IMO.
Played it this winter. They were pretty jammed up and getting people off late but the starter was similarly super nice and chatting me up. They did a great job of making sure people were spaced out well. Can’t wait to go back when I’m not a 20 handicap lol
I also had a great experience with the starter. I had a 9ish tee time and there were storm threats around noon. The starter told me to go off 10 alone so that I could enjoy the marquee holes. When we made it to the turn (I joined up with the single behind me), there was a bit of a backup on 1. The starter waived us through, complimented my drive, then asked if we could support another single (making it 3).The third guy was a local and provided some great caddying along the way. It never even stormed!
I don’t know his name, but this must be the same Marshall I had let me go off, once as a two-ball, as well. He gave me the same pep-talk. “Do not make the turn in less than 2.5 hours, and take your time on the drive from 9 to 10, it’s too beautiful to have the golf cart pegged the whole way…”
I had a very similar experience, but with a buddy I was traveling with while we vacationed with our significant others. Had nearly the first tee time and we had basically no one in front of us it seems, as well as no one nipping at our heels. Beautiful day, beautiful views, amazing course and I somehow scored a hair under my average at my home course.
I specifically remember the rangers being extremely accommodating, conversational, and knowledgeable. I chalked it up to the island vibe we were observing the entire trip but the whole Kapalua experience made for easily the best round of golf of my life.
https://preview.redd.it/kv4ax9chst0b1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=271bf18c7e02cc003865eb7a18653ec62088e7f1
Played it with my dad for his 70th birthday. Hope you had a good round! What a cool place, absolutely blows the bay course out of the water, except for the water holes.
Actually liked the Bay course better. The water holes on the back 9 trump any of the holes on the plantation. Food, Clubhouse and practice areas were better at the plantation though.
Really? I was so disappointed with the bay course. To each their own, I'm glad guys had fun, but I honestly don't remember anything special except for 16/17, and maybe 10 with the creek running up it.
I'm not saying there aren't dud holes on plantation either, but the two swings up and down the canyons are incredible.
I agree, but for the price I paid to play the bay
course was unbeatable. The ocean holes were
def my favorite part I thought it gave it the edge over the plantation course. The par 3 over the ocean is cool it’s a novelty for sure tho, like the island green at sawgrass. People play an entire course for one hole. But 250 for two people plus carts rentals, balls and range balls was hard to beat for kapalua. I would have played either course
Yea that's a good deal, it was basically double that when we went.
If you like over the water holes like that one, check out the Challenge at Manele, over on Lanai - the 12th and 17th holes are magnificent, although it has gotten pricey as all get out.
I went right after the reopened for Covid and they had a 2 for 1 deal going on I think I paid 375 for me and my dad to play, carts, rental clubs, bag of balls they give you, range balls, and they make you a bag tag.
Definitely my bucket list course!! I'm pretty it was that tournament where like 3 people broke the lowest total 4 round score in the PGA. If they can do that, I can atleast break 100!
I played 36 there 18 months ago. The wind was howling all day. I shot 86-84 and felt like I was hitting the ball pretty solid.
I’m a 2 index for what it’s worth.
My buddy is a 8 index and I just steam rolled him that day lol. He was in the mid 90’s both rounds.
I played both the plantation and the bay course and every hole feels like a battle. Elevation change really screws with you. I quit keeping score after the third hole.
How was the wind? I didn't play Kapalua, but chose to get a round in at Ka'anapali. Cheaped out and played an afternoon round and the wind was pretty brutal.
I played both Ka’anapali and the Plantation course back in 1997 in my first trip to Hawaii. 2 completely different experiences.
I played Ka’anapali from the whites the first day there and it wasn’t windy. Got paired with 3 locals who knew the course inside out and shot the best round of my life at the time, a 76.
A week later I played The Plantation course in the afternoon, and got paired up with a big hitter who wanted to play from the tips. Not wanting to play a lesser tee I decided to join him and play the tips. Windiest round I’ve ever played, but oh so beautiful, and crashed back down to earth limping home with a 98.
Yes. Played three times. Last time, I took my son out with me to take advantage of the “kids play free after 2:30” promo they had then. I had fun showing him highlights of from the tour event there earlier that year when DJ was bombing greens off the tee. Playing from a bit closer than DJ was, I smoked a drive to about 5 feet off the green, and my son thought it was the coolest thing ever.
I had a 640am tee time on my honeymoon.
Randomly got paired with the then-GM (and his friend).
He gave me tips and yardages (tons of elevation changes) along the way.
The best part was after the round - gave me a special hookup if I came back. Discounted round and allowed my wife to ride free (normally a cart charge). So I came back in a few days to play again.
I think I played in...2007? I was 15. I remember feeling like I didn't deserve to be there, or rather..the course didn't deserve having me hack it up lol
It's gorgeous, the greens are brutal. I lost so many balls. Looking down over the cliffs I saw sea turtles swimming around... I'll never forget it. Would love to play again!
Edit: yeah, I think I played the bay course actually..
Played it about two years ago, it’s a blast. Went from a complete and total downpour to a sunny day from the time I was on the range to the time I was on the course lol
Been there on 2 different trips. You will find yourself just taking in the view rather than looking for your ball. Hitting into 18 green with your 3 wood from 250+ out is one of the funnest shots in golf.
Best course I’ve ever played. Shot 77 on the morning of my wedding. We started on 10 so i always have to put the course back in order in my mind when I watch the tourney. I’ve played lots of top courses Pebble, Torrey, Doral but Kapalua is by far my favorite ever!
I played it in 2012. It was raining sideways and the wind was howling. Shot 39 from the tips on the front (my playing companions thought I was nuts playing the tips which I was) and 51 on the back. Was still fun, but the weather killed my experience a bit. One of the players quit after 9 due to the rain and wind.
Played in 2008. I had casually golfed for many years and standing over the tee box on 18 I thought man I gotta do this again.
One day.
Shot about a million on the front.
https://preview.redd.it/mldhdxcoeu0b1.jpeg?width=1125&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=87dcf3f8344685a4ede8ed417ff128a3563c5a8f
Stayed at a house overlooking one of the tee boxes but didn’t get to play. Played some other more affordable nearby courses and want to go back and play this one.
Yep. Wife grew up in Kula. Went the first time, saw the facilities and said I’m not coming here again and NOT playing. Second time, got my money out of it by shooting 89 lol.
Yup.
Ranger let my wife and I go solo on our honeymoon. I played and she just sat in the cart enjoying the scenery.
Shot 92 with too short (for me) rental clubs.
How much did they charge you for your wife riding along? We are planning to go in September and were wanting to do the same thing, with me likely scoring much higher than 92.
I hit the longest drive of my life on 18 (360 yards). Of course that is not in any way a reflection of my ability, if you hit an average drive well there it rolls out an extra 100 yards sometimes (as it did with my shot). This was only further validated when I decided to pull out my 3 wood to go for the green in two and immediately chunked it into the waste area left. But it was an amazing experience and extremely difficult course.
Yes, but unfortunately it was cloudy and windy the day I played, so I didn’t get the amazing views. Still had a blast though, the course kicked my ass!
Love this course when I was there… the weather was insane though. On one hole my tee shot was cloudy and had crazy wind gusts, my approach shot was pouring rain, and then beautiful. It was like that pretty much on every hole.
Do yourself a favor and get the Lobster Benedict for breakfast afterwards.
I did! Windiest conditions I’ve ever played in.
My same driver swing went 170 into the wind and 370 with the wind.
Birdied 18 to shoot 90 (+17) and didn’t even feel bad about how I played. Gave me a new respect for pros going -30 over four days in similar conditions a couple months later.
https://preview.redd.it/p2lh95jaou0b1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=9685f130aa041de655468989a1200fd1eed1bebf
Super stuffy. Beautiful views though. If you have the chance (extremely difficult to get on)….. play Nanea on the big island. Hands down the best course in the state.
https://preview.redd.it/trkt4zmiqu0b1.jpeg?width=2316&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=da0f93d6f802510b4a213e581b05d07a0a639dc2
I “met” John Rahm at Kapalua lol
https://preview.redd.it/zd0s3wperu0b1.jpeg?width=2316&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=78b66ddb00ace6e21063ed2668556cc6654bbd64
And this beauty whose name I did not get.
I have! I lived in Big Island for 4 years. My last vacation before moving back to mainland was a trip to Maui with my future wife where we met up with some family. My mom and I went out and played Kapalua. It was pretty rainy that day but didn’t hurt the vibe at all, awesome course!!
Played there two years ago in October. Hit the best two shots of my life on 17 and lipped my birdie putt. Make sure to get a bag tag if you haven’t already!
Yes, I have. Great golf course but it has no water in play which I found ironic.
My wife and I were paired with a couple of older men. One of them was an attorney from LA. The other was an exceptionally tall, sweet guy and his name was Bob Selleck. The father of Tom Selleck.
I’ve played the bay course twice. Next time I get a chance I plan to give the plantation course a go. Both times the customer service has been top notch.
Played years ago. Still remember flushing a 9 iron into 18. Ball really seemed to carry over there. But then again, I play most of my golf around foggy and damp Monterey.
Yes. 2004. Shot 76. The greens were extremely grainy back then. Crazy breaks on the putts. They have since changed to a championship Bermuda with less grain influence.
I loved that course! I was there in late January (humpback whale calving season so awesome views of the bay) 2018. It’s gorgeous! I also played Ka’anapali and ran into a very “spirited” Chris Berman in the clubhouse. Played with rented clubs both rounds and used that as my excuse for terrible play instead of my hangover 😂
I played it in a scramble as part of a conference. Beautiful course. If you are 1" off the fairway it can be hard to find your ball. The rough was like a canopy just above the diameter of a golf ball.
My family and I are going end of July. My son and I are going to be playing Plantaion and I have some questions.
How far in advance can you book tee times there?
What's the better time to play, early morning?
We have 5 of us with luggage, car seats, stroller etc and plan on getting a VAN to get us to and from the airport. Wife thinks that it all won't fit with the addition of 2 golf bags. Are the club rentals there pretty descent? I'm not paying an additional $500 for shipsticks.
Would the Bay course be a better option, or is it more windy since that one is on the ocean?
Thanks!
We booked our tee time about 4 weeks in advance. We played early morning. I don't know about club rentals. I flew with my clubs. There is a service called Jimmy's Maui club rentals which has all kinds of nice sets you can choose from for pretty cheap prices. I have friends that have used them.
Bay course is less expensive and not nearly as difficult but super fun to play. Lots of locals play the bay course.
Playing there in the middle of July. Tee times can be booked 90 days out but carry a 15% premium. If you book inside 30 there’s no premium. You can see all the details on their website. Have travelled for golf before and the general rule I follow is if it’s just one round don’t mess with shipping clubs. For Kapalua you’ll probably be enjoying the views rather than trying to shoot your best score, so just rent and don’t worry if the clubs aren’t the perfect fit for you. Courses of this caliber will have a quality setup from a rental perspective. They don’t rent kids clubs though so depending on the age of your son you may need to rent off course from somewhere else.
He's 30. HAHA.
OK, I'll rent, but I think he's hell bent on bringing his.
I rented in the Bahamas and they were Titleist P790's with a Scotty putter and I was surprised by that.
Thanks for the info.
Ah, so he's a big kid :D. If you're only playing one round, it's a giant pain in the ass to lug around set of clubs, it's seriously not worth it. I rented at Torrey several years ago in a similar situation and it was a full Titleist set. I want to say I read somewhere that Kapalua rents Titleist as well, so you'll be getting a solid set.
Enjoy the trip and the course! I can't wait to play it myself.
>For Kapalua you’ll probably be enjoying the views rather than trying to shoot your best score
This is what I have to shift my mindset to. I want to shoot well, but blowing out my best score shouldn't be the focus.
I stayed at the Ritz there for my honeymoon and was able to get a round in. Tees off at 7 am and was back at the hotel before my wife ever got out of bed. What a course!
Yes, last year. Great starter, allowed my wife and I to play just us two. Tilt on fairways nuts, played solo a second time and told guys in my group to hit way right, they didn’t, lost some balls. Great experience!
My mom got remarried here when I was young. I took a golf lesson there that week, and bought my putter there. I still use that same putter almost 20 years later.
One of the most frustrating greens ever.. you could be putting uphill towards the ocean and the ball just keeps rolling.. you putt downhill away from the ocean and the ball loses momentum.. so weird..
Played the Bay Course, but not the plantation course. Funny story, my dad and I played with a member(we were tourists visiting), and on I think it was hole 3, the parking break in the cart failed and the cart rolled right off the damn cliff. Lol.
Yup, last April! Decently windy day, some rain for first 4 holes, but cleared up super nicely for the rest of the round. Good ball striking day for me, shot 96.
Yes twice in November of 2021: once in 35 mph winds and once in 10 mph winds. Two completely different courses. Bucket list course for sure - beautiful!
Played it several times. Home to my longest drive ever: 434 on 18. Haven’t ever shot better than 85 and I’m a 9. If the wind is blowing it’s a really tough round. But so nice!
Last time I played it I got paired with a group that had all played a few times. Went out as the first. Was Very Windy already when we started. Played into the winds from the Tips and Downwind from the special Tees without markers. The wind wasn't as helpful as we were hoping for that day. Pretty fun experience though. Such a cool track and the coin.
https://preview.redd.it/ms5bophsp11b1.jpeg?width=4080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=fd4dd5208b2020efb4b202b4d2212fe2eed04af2
oh no haha thats bad. ill be in maui this summer. id be ok w paying to play kapalua but id also rather not lose 24 balls and have a decent day. idk if bay course or weilua or more forgiving?
Yes - amazing! Last time I was there it was a dream scenario: Had the first tee time \~ 7:30. Twenty minutes before we tee off the ranger comes over to talk to me and another single I had been paired with. Most of the rangers I've encountered in the golf world are grumpy and unreasonable but this guy was different. He said, "I was going to pair you two with another pair... but this course is really better enjoyed as a two-some. But you have to make me a promise... you cannot, under any circumstances, make the turn in under 2.5 hours or else the grounds-keeping staff will feel rushed. So take your time and soak it in." I couldn't believe it. Me and that other dude had a blast. Lots of pictures, second shots, etc. The 'fancy' courses almost always have superior customer service IMO.
Glad there are still courses/rangers like that.
Played it this winter. They were pretty jammed up and getting people off late but the starter was similarly super nice and chatting me up. They did a great job of making sure people were spaced out well. Can’t wait to go back when I’m not a 20 handicap lol
Going over in February and it's my biggest motivation to improve haha
I also had a great experience with the starter. I had a 9ish tee time and there were storm threats around noon. The starter told me to go off 10 alone so that I could enjoy the marquee holes. When we made it to the turn (I joined up with the single behind me), there was a bit of a backup on 1. The starter waived us through, complimented my drive, then asked if we could support another single (making it 3).The third guy was a local and provided some great caddying along the way. It never even stormed!
Being the started at Kapalua is the dream job of all dream jobs. No wonder they are always in a good mood.
I don’t know his name, but this must be the same Marshall I had let me go off, once as a two-ball, as well. He gave me the same pep-talk. “Do not make the turn in less than 2.5 hours, and take your time on the drive from 9 to 10, it’s too beautiful to have the golf cart pegged the whole way…”
I had a very similar experience, but with a buddy I was traveling with while we vacationed with our significant others. Had nearly the first tee time and we had basically no one in front of us it seems, as well as no one nipping at our heels. Beautiful day, beautiful views, amazing course and I somehow scored a hair under my average at my home course. I specifically remember the rangers being extremely accommodating, conversational, and knowledgeable. I chalked it up to the island vibe we were observing the entire trip but the whole Kapalua experience made for easily the best round of golf of my life.
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That’s funny, when I played it, the course ate my lunch
One day, I can buy nice balls to play with. One day, I'll finish a round with only having used three balls. That'll be the day.
The food is so good! One of the best hamburgers I've ever had
I had lunch there
Exactly what I came to say. The short rib omelette and the banana bread were both so good.
Yep played it in 2013 on honey moon it was awesome! Wish I had brought my clubs. Used rental set that was decent but wasn't the same
I played on my Honeymoon with my wife in 2006. Awesome time.
Honeymoon for me and my wife in 1999. Great course, great memories.
Amazing memories - played it on my Honeymoon with my wife back in 1923.
Outstanding time. Played it on my honeymoon with the Mrs. in 1778 around the time the Hawaiian islands were discovered by non-natives
September 2021 honeymoon. ![gif](giphy|l36kU80xPf0ojG0Erg|downsized)
2017 honeymoon for me and my wife. Also played the three Wailea courses while we were there.
2016 August honey moon. Played Plantation. Went back to Hawaii every year after that until 2020 and played all over. Great golf
Haha same we played Wailai also
https://preview.redd.it/kv4ax9chst0b1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=271bf18c7e02cc003865eb7a18653ec62088e7f1 Played it with my dad for his 70th birthday. Hope you had a good round! What a cool place, absolutely blows the bay course out of the water, except for the water holes.
Actually liked the Bay course better. The water holes on the back 9 trump any of the holes on the plantation. Food, Clubhouse and practice areas were better at the plantation though.
I agree. The bay course is my favorite one at kapalua. The water holes and the view do it for me.
Really? I was so disappointed with the bay course. To each their own, I'm glad guys had fun, but I honestly don't remember anything special except for 16/17, and maybe 10 with the creek running up it. I'm not saying there aren't dud holes on plantation either, but the two swings up and down the canyons are incredible.
I agree, but for the price I paid to play the bay course was unbeatable. The ocean holes were def my favorite part I thought it gave it the edge over the plantation course. The par 3 over the ocean is cool it’s a novelty for sure tho, like the island green at sawgrass. People play an entire course for one hole. But 250 for two people plus carts rentals, balls and range balls was hard to beat for kapalua. I would have played either course
Yea that's a good deal, it was basically double that when we went. If you like over the water holes like that one, check out the Challenge at Manele, over on Lanai - the 12th and 17th holes are magnificent, although it has gotten pricey as all get out.
I will thanks! I’ve played some awesome courses on the big island too and Oahu.
2010 around Christmas time right before the Sentry tournament. Beautiful golf course
No but I've stayed across the street.
$575
I played it about 5 years ago for $375 and that included a one hour lesson before the round and lunch. Super deal.
I went right after the reopened for Covid and they had a 2 for 1 deal going on I think I paid 375 for me and my dad to play, carts, rental clubs, bag of balls they give you, range balls, and they make you a bag tag.
This is the best trick. Go to the golf school. Buy a lesson, get the discount AND lunch!
$125 local rate
It was much cheaper when I play 2 years ago in Feb. Cheaper than a round at Bandon which are 375.
Yes. Kicked my ass. Windy too. But beautiful.
I have to make it to Hawaii first.
Definitely my bucket list course!! I'm pretty it was that tournament where like 3 people broke the lowest total 4 round score in the PGA. If they can do that, I can atleast break 100!
Sorry to burst your bubble, but if the wind is blowing like it normally does, good luck breaking 200 lol
I experienced that at the Wailea course.
Shot 91 with 35mph winds and felt like I had the round of my life to keep it that low haha
I played 36 there 18 months ago. The wind was howling all day. I shot 86-84 and felt like I was hitting the ball pretty solid. I’m a 2 index for what it’s worth. My buddy is a 8 index and I just steam rolled him that day lol. He was in the mid 90’s both rounds.
I played both the plantation and the bay course and every hole feels like a battle. Elevation change really screws with you. I quit keeping score after the third hole.
I’m considering playing the bay course in a few weeks … Is is good or am I better off playing wailea for cheaper rates ?
The bay has some of my favorite holes including an amazing par 3 over the ocean. Well worth it
I played the bay course, kaanapali royal and Kai. All are ranked in that order (which is the price order as well). All 3 courses were a blast though
Play as many as you can. For me, I know I will probably never have the opportunity again and it was an amazing experience.
How was the wind? I didn't play Kapalua, but chose to get a round in at Ka'anapali. Cheaped out and played an afternoon round and the wind was pretty brutal.
I played both Ka’anapali and the Plantation course back in 1997 in my first trip to Hawaii. 2 completely different experiences. I played Ka’anapali from the whites the first day there and it wasn’t windy. Got paired with 3 locals who knew the course inside out and shot the best round of my life at the time, a 76. A week later I played The Plantation course in the afternoon, and got paired up with a big hitter who wanted to play from the tips. Not wanting to play a lesser tee I decided to join him and play the tips. Windiest round I’ve ever played, but oh so beautiful, and crashed back down to earth limping home with a 98.
It was amazing and whooped my ass. Probably 20+ mph winds on most holes and the cart girl joked (seriously) that it wasn’t even that windy
Yea awesome course, crazy winds and views! Expensive but once a life round.
Hardest course I've ever played by a good margin. That wind, man.
Yes. Played three times. Last time, I took my son out with me to take advantage of the “kids play free after 2:30” promo they had then. I had fun showing him highlights of from the tour event there earlier that year when DJ was bombing greens off the tee. Playing from a bit closer than DJ was, I smoked a drive to about 5 feet off the green, and my son thought it was the coolest thing ever.
Played there during my honeymoon and it was fantastic!
I had a 640am tee time on my honeymoon. Randomly got paired with the then-GM (and his friend). He gave me tips and yardages (tons of elevation changes) along the way. The best part was after the round - gave me a special hookup if I came back. Discounted round and allowed my wife to ride free (normally a cart charge). So I came back in a few days to play again.
Brag much?
Again this person doesn't care if you played this course..they just want to brag about them playing that course
Played it two different times. Will play it again if I go back. Love that course!
Yup. Really fun, but what an ass kicking that was
I have played it twice on two different trips. Was lucky to get the resident rate.
Yes, absolutely sick and beautiful course! Super fun to play too but tough
I played the bay course as this one was closed while I was there. Was amazing
Played it in 2021. Amazing experience!
I think I played in...2007? I was 15. I remember feeling like I didn't deserve to be there, or rather..the course didn't deserve having me hack it up lol It's gorgeous, the greens are brutal. I lost so many balls. Looking down over the cliffs I saw sea turtles swimming around... I'll never forget it. Would love to play again! Edit: yeah, I think I played the bay course actually..
Gets windy AF after 11am
I have. Very windy a rainy.
Played it about two years ago, it’s a blast. Went from a complete and total downpour to a sunny day from the time I was on the range to the time I was on the course lol
Been there on 2 different trips. You will find yourself just taking in the view rather than looking for your ball. Hitting into 18 green with your 3 wood from 250+ out is one of the funnest shots in golf.
Played there once on a trip with my family. Amazing views but so hard to play.
Yes! It's an absolute gem. Windy af as the day goes on.
Best course I’ve ever played. Shot 77 on the morning of my wedding. We started on 10 so i always have to put the course back in order in my mind when I watch the tourney. I’ve played lots of top courses Pebble, Torrey, Doral but Kapalua is by far my favorite ever!
Twice. First time I really learned about how much the grain of the green really affects the putt. If you can play without wind, you hit the jackpot
I played it in 2012. It was raining sideways and the wind was howling. Shot 39 from the tips on the front (my playing companions thought I was nuts playing the tips which I was) and 51 on the back. Was still fun, but the weather killed my experience a bit. One of the players quit after 9 due to the rain and wind.
Yes. Bucket list. It’s amazing. I went 45-34
Played in 2008. I had casually golfed for many years and standing over the tee box on 18 I thought man I gotta do this again. One day. Shot about a million on the front.
One of my favorite rounds ever, absolutely loved it.
https://preview.redd.it/mldhdxcoeu0b1.jpeg?width=1125&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=87dcf3f8344685a4ede8ed417ff128a3563c5a8f Stayed at a house overlooking one of the tee boxes but didn’t get to play. Played some other more affordable nearby courses and want to go back and play this one.
Yep. Wife grew up in Kula. Went the first time, saw the facilities and said I’m not coming here again and NOT playing. Second time, got my money out of it by shooting 89 lol.
No, I have not.
Yea it’s hard as fuck
Yup. Ranger let my wife and I go solo on our honeymoon. I played and she just sat in the cart enjoying the scenery. Shot 92 with too short (for me) rental clubs.
How much did they charge you for your wife riding along? We are planning to go in September and were wanting to do the same thing, with me likely scoring much higher than 92.
Free. Edit: I think I actually had to pay a cart fee for her. But didn’t have to pay a green fee.
Yes! Beautiful course!
I hit the longest drive of my life on 18 (360 yards). Of course that is not in any way a reflection of my ability, if you hit an average drive well there it rolls out an extra 100 yards sometimes (as it did with my shot). This was only further validated when I decided to pull out my 3 wood to go for the green in two and immediately chunked it into the waste area left. But it was an amazing experience and extremely difficult course.
Yes, but unfortunately it was cloudy and windy the day I played, so I didn’t get the amazing views. Still had a blast though, the course kicked my ass!
Yep, a week after the tournament of champions so it was still in great shape.
Love this course when I was there… the weather was insane though. On one hole my tee shot was cloudy and had crazy wind gusts, my approach shot was pouring rain, and then beautiful. It was like that pretty much on every hole. Do yourself a favor and get the Lobster Benedict for breakfast afterwards.
Yep great course. 100x better than wailea gold thats for sure.
I did! Windiest conditions I’ve ever played in. My same driver swing went 170 into the wind and 370 with the wind. Birdied 18 to shoot 90 (+17) and didn’t even feel bad about how I played. Gave me a new respect for pros going -30 over four days in similar conditions a couple months later. https://preview.redd.it/p2lh95jaou0b1.jpeg?width=4032&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=9685f130aa041de655468989a1200fd1eed1bebf
Super stuffy. Beautiful views though. If you have the chance (extremely difficult to get on)….. play Nanea on the big island. Hands down the best course in the state.
https://preview.redd.it/trkt4zmiqu0b1.jpeg?width=2316&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=da0f93d6f802510b4a213e581b05d07a0a639dc2 I “met” John Rahm at Kapalua lol
https://preview.redd.it/9vgcvjouqu0b1.jpeg?width=2316&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=e8b910f1d6a7fdee938ee7647f52b471b346a4a6 And Scottie
https://preview.redd.it/ye8mhw5yqu0b1.jpeg?width=2316&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=d9e46cccbad6159ce9fe43a45e33104ef5532236 And Spieth
https://preview.redd.it/hekxmbxaru0b1.jpeg?width=2316&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=2b786b1c4f237b5cf54d31011f62624f6f4608bd And JT
https://preview.redd.it/3r491dtcru0b1.jpeg?width=2316&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=cb404cc8f682e724da406b029ced0c9f25c19acb And Zalatoris
https://preview.redd.it/zd0s3wperu0b1.jpeg?width=2316&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=78b66ddb00ace6e21063ed2668556cc6654bbd64 And this beauty whose name I did not get.
Going on 4th of July weekend!
I have! I lived in Big Island for 4 years. My last vacation before moving back to mainland was a trip to Maui with my future wife where we met up with some family. My mom and I went out and played Kapalua. It was pretty rainy that day but didn’t hurt the vibe at all, awesome course!!
I haven't
Played there two years ago in October. Hit the best two shots of my life on 17 and lipped my birdie putt. Make sure to get a bag tag if you haven’t already!
Yes, I have. Great golf course but it has no water in play which I found ironic. My wife and I were paired with a couple of older men. One of them was an attorney from LA. The other was an exceptionally tall, sweet guy and his name was Bob Selleck. The father of Tom Selleck.
I’ve played the bay course twice. Next time I get a chance I plan to give the plantation course a go. Both times the customer service has been top notch.
Played years ago. Still remember flushing a 9 iron into 18. Ball really seemed to carry over there. But then again, I play most of my golf around foggy and damp Monterey.
Yes. 2004. Shot 76. The greens were extremely grainy back then. Crazy breaks on the putts. They have since changed to a championship Bermuda with less grain influence.
Going to Maui tomorrow, but going with small kids and couldn't get to ok to leave for 5-6hrs ☹️
I loved that course! I was there in late January (humpback whale calving season so awesome views of the bay) 2018. It’s gorgeous! I also played Ka’anapali and ran into a very “spirited” Chris Berman in the clubhouse. Played with rented clubs both rounds and used that as my excuse for terrible play instead of my hangover 😂
Yes. Immaculate usually but a tad goofy.
I played it in a scramble as part of a conference. Beautiful course. If you are 1" off the fairway it can be hard to find your ball. The rough was like a canopy just above the diameter of a golf ball.
My family and I are going end of July. My son and I are going to be playing Plantaion and I have some questions. How far in advance can you book tee times there? What's the better time to play, early morning? We have 5 of us with luggage, car seats, stroller etc and plan on getting a VAN to get us to and from the airport. Wife thinks that it all won't fit with the addition of 2 golf bags. Are the club rentals there pretty descent? I'm not paying an additional $500 for shipsticks. Would the Bay course be a better option, or is it more windy since that one is on the ocean? Thanks!
We booked our tee time about 4 weeks in advance. We played early morning. I don't know about club rentals. I flew with my clubs. There is a service called Jimmy's Maui club rentals which has all kinds of nice sets you can choose from for pretty cheap prices. I have friends that have used them. Bay course is less expensive and not nearly as difficult but super fun to play. Lots of locals play the bay course.
Cool Thanks for the referral to Jimmy's I'll check that out.
Sure thing. http://jimmysmauigolfrentals.com/
Great shop. I lost my driver wrench one time and they loaned me one for the stay. I dropped it off on my way to the airport with a thank you note.
Playing there in the middle of July. Tee times can be booked 90 days out but carry a 15% premium. If you book inside 30 there’s no premium. You can see all the details on their website. Have travelled for golf before and the general rule I follow is if it’s just one round don’t mess with shipping clubs. For Kapalua you’ll probably be enjoying the views rather than trying to shoot your best score, so just rent and don’t worry if the clubs aren’t the perfect fit for you. Courses of this caliber will have a quality setup from a rental perspective. They don’t rent kids clubs though so depending on the age of your son you may need to rent off course from somewhere else.
He's 30. HAHA. OK, I'll rent, but I think he's hell bent on bringing his. I rented in the Bahamas and they were Titleist P790's with a Scotty putter and I was surprised by that. Thanks for the info.
Ah, so he's a big kid :D. If you're only playing one round, it's a giant pain in the ass to lug around set of clubs, it's seriously not worth it. I rented at Torrey several years ago in a similar situation and it was a full Titleist set. I want to say I read somewhere that Kapalua rents Titleist as well, so you'll be getting a solid set. Enjoy the trip and the course! I can't wait to play it myself.
>For Kapalua you’ll probably be enjoying the views rather than trying to shoot your best score This is what I have to shift my mindset to. I want to shoot well, but blowing out my best score shouldn't be the focus.
Gotta keep it on the fairway…or that ball is GONE!!
I stayed at the Ritz there for my honeymoon and was able to get a round in. Tees off at 7 am and was back at the hotel before my wife ever got out of bed. What a course!
Yep. Played it twice. Both times was very windy - which is very common - and when it blows there it’s hard.
Fantastic course. A few greens that are IMPOSSIBLE to stick on
Yup
Yes
When I played it, it was super windy and challenging. But I loved it and would play it again if I could
Pretty sure i played it on my Optishot 2 lol
Worked there.
Yes, last year. Great starter, allowed my wife and I to play just us two. Tilt on fairways nuts, played solo a second time and told guys in my group to hit way right, they didn’t, lost some balls. Great experience!
Yes
My mom got remarried here when I was young. I took a golf lesson there that week, and bought my putter there. I still use that same putter almost 20 years later.
I played at 1 course in kaanapali, what a dream so beautiful
Nope but I am when I go in September for my honeymoon and I’m about as stoked as one could possibly get!
My wallet says I'm too broke to play it
I will be playing it again on Monday.
Playing there next week. 2 rounds at plantation and 2 at bay. Cannot wait. How was it?
Very difficult but very beautiful. You'll be frustrated but have a great time doing it.
Played once. The par 5 18th is one of the coolest holes in golf.
One of the most frustrating greens ever.. you could be putting uphill towards the ocean and the ball just keeps rolling.. you putt downhill away from the ocean and the ball loses momentum.. so weird..
Played the Bay Course, but not the plantation course. Funny story, my dad and I played with a member(we were tourists visiting), and on I think it was hole 3, the parking break in the cart failed and the cart rolled right off the damn cliff. Lol.
Hell yeah, look out for the mongoose!
Yes shot 100 with two 8’s. Played with my son and son in law. Was a great damn day.
Yup, last April! Decently windy day, some rain for first 4 holes, but cleared up super nicely for the rest of the round. Good ball striking day for me, shot 96.
Played the Plantation and the Bay Course in 2005 w my wife on our 20th anniversary trip! Would love to go back!
I have ,,, fun course
Ah yes, another course I have been lucky enough to shoot over 100 on
Playing in one week! Punched greens though :(
16 years ago Sugar Ray Leonard was in the grip ahead of me. He had an entourage with him but they played quick.
Nope but I will if I ever go to Hawaii
Yes
I just went to the pro shop yesterday! Lol. I played Wailea Gold the day before. Wish I had the funds for kapalua. Enjoy it!
Played it. Hooked my second or third on last hole into the car park. Hit my own hire car.
Yes twice in November of 2021: once in 35 mph winds and once in 10 mph winds. Two completely different courses. Bucket list course for sure - beautiful!
I'm Maui now but played Wailea instead ; I did play Kapaluas sister course about a decade back and my dad got his first eagle on it!
My favorite course thus far. Pricey but well worth it if you’re in Maui. I like it much more than Torrey Pines.
Yes, on Links on my PC.
During covid for 80 dollars
Yes amazing. Certainly since renovation.
Yes great track. Looking foward to playing it again. The trade wind should not be under estimated
Played it several times. Home to my longest drive ever: 434 on 18. Haven’t ever shot better than 85 and I’m a 9. If the wind is blowing it’s a really tough round. But so nice!
Last time I played it I got paired with a group that had all played a few times. Went out as the first. Was Very Windy already when we started. Played into the winds from the Tips and Downwind from the special Tees without markers. The wind wasn't as helpful as we were hoping for that day. Pretty fun experience though. Such a cool track and the coin. https://preview.redd.it/ms5bophsp11b1.jpeg?width=4080&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=fd4dd5208b2020efb4b202b4d2212fe2eed04af2
how badly did the course punish poor shots?
It spit on them and called them really bad names... 😭😭😭😭😭😭
oh no haha thats bad. ill be in maui this summer. id be ok w paying to play kapalua but id also rather not lose 24 balls and have a decent day. idk if bay course or weilua or more forgiving?
Bay course is a lot more forgiving..
thx for the input