This course recently completed a major renovation. During this transition, course data may reflect a mix of pre- and post-renovation yardages, hole configurations, or routing. The Caddie Report monitors these changes and periodically reassesses the course as a reliable new baseline is established.
Mauna Kea, newly restored by Robert Trent Jones Jr., delivers the most storied oceanfront round on the Big Island. Expect thrilling vistas, polished conditions, and strategic shot demands that make it a can’t-miss for traveling golfers.
Mauna Kea’s architecture has long been celebrated as the pinnacle of Hawaii resort golf—a triumph of sculpted landforms, bold bunkering, prominent elevation shifts, and strategic seaside angles. The complete 2025 Robert Trent Jones Jr. restoration preserved the dramatic routing while reimagining all greens, fairways, and bunkers for a modern era. Perched on volcanic bluffs with multiple holes routed along the surf and others threading high inland ridges, the course is both a visual spectacle and an intellectually engaging challenge, where wind, approach angles, and nerves rule the day.
Mauna Kea is a generational Jones family masterpiece—first by Robert Trent Jones Sr., later renewed by Rees Jones and Robert Trent Jones Jr., each layering new vision atop the volcanic bones.
Mauna Kea’s headline hole is a heroic par 3 over an awe-inspiring Pacific cove, demanding a soaring tee shot to a distant green clinging to the volcanic cliffs. The wind swirls, and the visual intimidation is unforgettable.
Select enough club for the full forced carry—don’t get greedy with a tight right pin; center green is always a win.
Anything short or right is Pacific-bound—indecision equals instant penalty.
Exceptionally maintained turf and greens; recently upgraded with seashore paspalum throughout.
Moderate resort pace—often unhurried, but early tee times yield the best rhythm.
Upscale, welcoming resort with laid-back island hospitality; every detail signals a special-occasion golf day.
Morning tee times offer calmer winds and the best light for ocean views, especially on the iconic front nine.
Prepare to play knockdowns, flighted shots, and creative recoveries—Hawaii’s breezes are an ever-present factor.
The course is a beast from the back—play the tee set that matches your comfort zone for the most fun.
Bring extra sunscreen, a water bottle, and adapt to shifting wind directions.
Course opens, designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr.
First Mauna Kea Resort Pro-Am held
Major redesign by Rees Jones
Complete tee-to-green renovation begins
Grand reopening after Robert Trent Jones Jr. redesign
Mauna Kea is a living showcase of the Jones family design legacy—Robert Trent Jones Sr. set the original vision, Rees Jones modernized the playability, and Robert Trent Jones Jr. has now rejuvenated every angle of this Big Island classic.
The legendary 3rd hole, requiring a full carry over a Pacific cove, has left generations of golfers breathless—some relive their albatross, most retell tales of their ball’s brief sea voyage.
Since 1973, the Mauna Kea Pro-Am has lured golf lovers and visiting pros to test their games and forge unforgettable friendships amid volcanic backdrops.
The 2025 renovation introduced new turf, rebuilt greens, and a fresh architectural spark—honoring the course’s history while making it shine for the next wave of players.
The third hole was the world’s first over-ocean par 3 when it debuted in 1964.
The Mauna Kea Resort Pro-Am has run uninterrupted for over 50 years.
Volcanic black rock outcroppings and native flora shape multiple strategic angles.
Every phase of the course’s redesign has kept it among Hawaii’s best.
The entire course was re-turfed with eco-friendly seashore paspalum in 2025.
Same resort family, bold elevation and views
Both courses offer excellent variety and luxury conditions
Ultra-exclusive feel; highly acclaimed routing
Accessible, fun play for all skill levels—ideal add-on
Kohala Coast / Mauna Kea Resort area for easy access to all major courses
Courses with the most similar DNA profile — matched by deviation shape across all eight playing characteristics.
Why it matches: There is real overlap here. Makena Golf & Beach Club shares a memorable sense of place, making it a compelling counterpart to Mauna Kea Golf Course.
Why it matches: There is real overlap here. Aurora International Golf Club shares a memorable sense of place, making it a compelling counterpart to Mauna Kea Golf Course.
Why it matches: If Mauna Kea Golf Course is your kind of course, Wailea Golf Club (Gold Course) is worth a look because it makes the landscape part of the experience.
Community Sentiment
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