Kapalua Golf - The Bay Course
Kapalua’s Bay Course offers an approachable 18-hole layout framed by sweeping ocean views and tropical landscapes. Its blend of strategy and natural beauty makes it perfect for golfers seeking a memorable Maui golf experience that balances challenge and enjoyment.
Course Overview
Kapalua Golf's Bay Course in Lahaina, Hawaii, offers an 18-hole, par-72 experience distinguished by stunning ocean vistas that frame much of the layout. As one of two championship courses at Kapalua Resort, the Bay Course contrasts the famed Plantation Course with a design that embraces a more approachable style for golfers of varying abilities. Set along the northwest coast of Maui, this course unfolds across gently rolling terrain with generous fairways, well-placed bunkers, and greens that invite strategic play without overwhelming the average player.
From tee to green, the scenery commands attention. Wide views of the Pacific Ocean provide a serene backdrop that shifts with the changing light and the occasional appearance of breaching whales, especially on the closing holes. The course captures a coastal ambiance, its layout incorporating subtle elevation changes and natural lava rock formations in select areas, giving glimpses into the island's volcanic origins without imposing harsh challenges.
Playability is a hallmark here. While the Bay Course offers a legitimate test of golf—demanding shot precision on holes bordered by water hazards and bunkers guarding receptive greens—it also rewards thoughtful club selection and a steady swing. Golfers looking for a balance between challenge and enjoyment will find the Bay Course’s fairways broad and forgiving but centered on strategy rather than sheer length.
Kapalua Golf’s commitment to quality extends beyond the fairways. The clubhouse features upscale amenities, including a pro shop stocked with premium gear and a snack shop noted for its convenience and variety. Golf carts are equipped with coolers and GPS screens, aiding navigation and providing comfort through tropical breezes. The practice facilities mirror the course’s high standards, supporting warm-ups and skill refinement.
This course appeals to travelers seeking a memorable Hawaiian golf outing that blends natural beauty with refined playability. Whether playing its scenic mid-length holes or enjoying the thoughtful layout designed for all skill levels, the Bay Course at Kapalua engages the senses while delivering a satisfying round surrounded by some of Maui’s most captivating ocean views.
Course Highlights
The Bay Course is renowned for its panoramic ocean vistas, particularly on holes 16 and 17, which overlook the Pacific and often showcase breaching whales. The course balances broad fairways with strategic bunkering and water hazards integrated naturally into its coastal setting. Amenities include golf carts with GPS and coolers, enhancing player comfort. Its approachable design allows a range of golfers to take pleasure in a championship-level round without excessive length or punishing difficulty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Guest Reviews
Kristina Kelso
Shave ice across the street super fluffy ice. Delicious flavors and the macadamia nut ice cream is really good. The Kapalua pro shop had so many choices, beautiful clothes. I wish I could win a shopping spree there!! A small selection of sale items. Jewelry, bags, head covers, tshirts, hats, towels, etc. everything golf you could shop for.
Troy Lynette
The views are very nice, but as a reasonably good golfer (I typically shoot about 85) I found the course just okay - too easy and not in the best shape. I decided to play the Plantation course a couple days later and it was EPIC! Absolutely worth the higher price.
Haochen Zhou
The clubhouse and practice facilities are exceptional. Service was also excellent, be sure to ask for a personalized bag tag. A very nice souvenir to your collection. However, I recommend directly playing the Plantation Course for the following reasons: 1. Course Design: • Several holes lack distinctive design, resembling straightforward layouts typical of your local muni courses. • While holes 16 and 17 offer impressive views, they may not justify the $250 tee time. IMO Grand Wailea Gold is a better choice with the same price. 2. Green Conditions: • The greens were patchy and inconsistently maintained, making them difficult to read. This did not happening at the plantation course or other course I’ve played in Hawaii. 3. Value Proposition: • If you’re prepared to spent $250 for a round, might as well pay another 200 to play the Plantation course and the experience challenges pros face.
Kaib Knight
Bay course... Disappointing, very rude, very condescending, discriminatory and dishonest... himakamaka! They offer Kama'aina, unfortunately at the expense of Aloha! If you're not paying the very overpriced, over-gouged tourist price, i'm not sure they even consider you a customer, i sensed that from the second minute into the phone call to book tee times. At no point was i spoken too or treated as a customer. Honestly for the big bucks they charge and for the way they treat you... not worth the one "signature hole" they have. As far as the bay course... honestly there are better courses on Maui that treat every one equally, less himakamaka, more worth the money and an all around great experience!
Lindsey Franco
Friendly staff, comfy golf carts with coolers and GPS for the course on a mini screen. The snack shop was excellent, and the bathrooms were really clean and nice. First time here, and it was a blast for us. What an experience! Do it! Weather and views were spectacular. We are from Oregon, so a little wind made it fun.
Austin Powers
Great course with some fantastic views and the course was in excellent condition overall. The greens can be a little tricky with lots of break but they were in great shape. 2 really gorgeous ocean holes with whales breaching in the background. I really hate the rider fee to bring my wife with such a high green fee but we had a great time.
Bryan Hood
My favorite course we played. The Plantation Course was very challenging, but the Bay was more friendly for an average golfer like me. Incredible views and lots of fun to play. It rained a little and the wind blew but we had a great time.
Cara Shaw
Destination golf at its finest. This course is in immaculate condition and every hole has a view. The course is fun and challenging but not punishing. Bucket list item.
Josh Forar
Megan Fricke
Book Your Round
Experience one of golf's most legendary courses
Direct booking • No commissions
Course Details
Access & Location
2000 Village Rd, Lahaina, HI 96761, USA
Kapalua Golf Clubhouse, featuring full pro shop and dining options
Walking is permitted and enjoyable along mostly gentle terrain; comfortable golf shoes recommended due to mild elevation changes.
Advance tee time reservations recommended, especially during peak seasons.
Nearby Courses
