Kapalua Bay Course
A visually stunning golf course on Maui's coast, offering breathtaking ocean views and memorable holes, especially the iconic 17th.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cooler temperatures and fewer crowds
Kapalua Bay Course
Best Time
Cooler temperatures and fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A visually stunning golf course on Maui's coast, offering breathtaking ocean views and memorable holes, especially the iconic 17th.
"The views from this green are about as good as it gets in golf for me."
Play with a friend
You might get paired with a PGA Tour player! :star:
Consider the 36-hole discount
Play Bay Course with Plantation for a replay discount. Easier than Plantation! :moneybag:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Oceanfront Holes
Holes 17 & 18
Stunning cliff-top par 3s with breathtaking ocean views, often featuring whales breaching.
Scenic Fairways
Throughout the course
Enjoy lush landscapes and panoramic views of the Pacific, making every shot a picturesque moment.
Driving Range Experience
Bay Course Driving Range
Warm up with incredible ocean vistas, a dream start to your round.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Water Restrictions Impacting Conditions
Bay Course vs. Plantation Course
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Play with a friend
You might get paired with a PGA Tour player! :star:
Consider the 36-hole discount
Play Bay Course with Plantation for a replay discount. Easier than Plantation! :moneybag:
Check course conditions
Drought impacts fairways. Be aware of drier conditions before booking. :warning:
Spectacular 17th hole
A cliff-top par 3 with amazing views. Perfect for a memorable shot! :camera: 
Tips
from all over the internet
Play with a friend
You might get paired with a PGA Tour player! :star:
Consider the 36-hole discount
Play Bay Course with Plantation for a replay discount. Easier than Plantation! :moneybag:
Check course conditions
Drought impacts fairways. Be aware of drier conditions before booking. :warning:
Spectacular 17th hole
A cliff-top par 3 with amazing views. Perfect for a memorable shot! :camera:
Rental clubs can be top-tier
You might get a surprisingly high-end set of rental clubs! :golf:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise Kapalua Bay Course for its stunning ocean views and the memorable experience of playing its scenic holes, particularly the cliff-top 17th. While the staff are consistently friendly, the course's conditions have been impacted by drought, leading to drier fairways and tee boxes, which some find disappointing given the price point. The Bay Course is often seen as a more accessible and visually appealing alternative to the pricier Plantation Course.
"You may have not heard but there is a drought on West Maui. Played an early morning round and the staff could not have been any nicer. The course is not what you would except at this price point. The greens are in decent shape but most of the fairways/Tee boxes are yellow/dead grass. To be honest this course should not be open or at least golfers should be warned ahead of time. I certainly would have not played it, had I known the conditions."
Arash Shahangian
"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."
Troy Lynette
"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."
Lindsey Franco
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Kapalua Bay Course is located on the west coast of Maui. Driving is the most common way to reach it, with ample parking available. It's also a short walk from the front door of the Ritz-Carlton Kapalua.
While public transportation options exist on Maui, they may not offer direct or convenient routes to the Kapalua Bay Course. Renting a car or using ride-sharing services is generally recommended for ease of access.
For exploring the Kapalua area, including the golf courses, a rental car offers the most flexibility. Some resorts may offer shuttle services within their property.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Green fees can vary, and it's advisable to check the official Kapalua Golf website for the most current rates. Playing the Bay Course alongside the Plantation Course may offer a discounted rate.
Yes, booking tee times in advance is highly recommended, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred time. You can typically book online through the Kapalua Golf website.
Playing both the Bay Course and the Plantation Course on the same day might qualify for a 36-hole replay discount.
Green fees typically include your round of golf. Rental carts, often equipped with GPS, are usually provided and may have an additional fee.
There might be a rider fee to bring a non-playing guest on the cart, even with a high green fee. It's best to confirm this policy when booking.
🎫 ⛳ Golf Experience
The Bay Course is generally considered easier than the Kapalua Plantation Course, making it more accessible for a wider range of golfers.
The 17th hole is a famous cliff-top par 3 with stunning ocean views, often cited as a highlight.
Due to drought, the course may be experiencing watering restrictions, leading to drier fairways and tee boxes. Conditions can vary, so it's wise to check recent reviews or contact the course directly. +1
Yes, golf club rentals are available. Some visitors have noted that the rental sets can be surprisingly high-quality.
Yes, golfers have reported seeing whales breaching from the oceanfront holes, particularly the 17th.
📸 📸 Photography
The oceanfront holes, especially the 17th, offer incredible backdrops for photos. The scenic fairways and driving range also provide picturesque opportunities.
Generally, you can take photos from most areas accessible to golfers. Be mindful of other players and course etiquette.
There are typically no specific restrictions on personal photography, but professional shoots may require prior arrangements.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a tee time during a period when whale watching is likely. The driving range also offers a more relaxed environment for younger family members to practice their swings with a fantastic view. If your family isn't keen on a full 18 holes, inquire about options for shorter rounds or simply enjoying the clubhouse and surrounding areas. The snack shop has been noted as excellent, and the overall experience is often described as a blast.
💰 Budget Travelers
Playing the Bay Course is generally less expensive than the Plantation Course, making it a more accessible option. Consider visiting during the off-season or looking for twilight rates, which might be available and offer a reduced green fee.
💍 Couples & Romantic Getaways
+1 Imagine enjoying a leisurely game with the Pacific as your constant companion, perhaps even spotting whales breaching in the distance. Consider booking a tee time around sunset for an even more magical experience.
After your game, you can enjoy the amenities at the clubhouse or explore nearby dining options. The Montage Kapalua also offers special events like wine-paired dinners with ocean views, which can be a perfect romantic addition to your golf getaway. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Kapalua's Golf Courses
The Bay Course, on the other hand, offers a more accessible and arguably more scenic experience for many. Designed by Arnold Palmer and Francis Duane, it winds through rolling hills and features dramatic cliff-top holes, particularly the iconic 17th. While still a beautiful and enjoyable challenge, it's generally seen as less demanding than the Plantation Course, making it a great option for those seeking breathtaking views and a memorable round without the extreme difficulty.
+1Many visitors opt to play both courses, often taking advantage of a 36-hole discount. This allows golfers to experience the distinct personalities of each course and enjoy the full Kapalua golf experience. The driving range at the Bay Course also offers a spectacular warm-up with ocean views.
+1The Impact of Drought on Kapalua Bay Course
While the staff are noted for their friendliness and the course's natural beauty remains, the drought is a factor that visitors should be aware of. Some reviewers have expressed disappointment with the conditions, suggesting that golfers should be forewarned.
+1It's always a good idea to check recent course reports or contact the pro shop directly before your tee time to get the most up-to-date information on course conditions. This will help manage expectations and ensure you're prepared for the unique challenges presented by the current environmental situation.
Memorable Moments on the Bay Course
+1 This hole alone is a significant draw for many visitors seeking iconic Hawaiian golf experiences.Beyond the signature holes, the entire Bay Course layout offers a visually stunning journey. The fairways meander through beautiful Hawaiian landscapes, providing a picturesque setting for every shot. Even the driving range offers a spectacular warm-up experience with panoramic ocean views, setting a positive tone for the round.
+1For some, the experience is elevated by unexpected encounters, such as being randomly paired with a PGA Tour player, adding a unique celebrity element to their game.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit