Manele Golf Course - Hole #17
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Manele Golf Course

4.9
·81 reviews·Lanai City, United States

A Jack Nicklaus masterpiece on Lanai, offering dramatic ocean vistas and challenging play for Four Seasons guests.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Morning

Calmer winds, cooler temperatures

CrowdLow
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Manele Golf Course - Hole #17

Manele Golf Course

Best Time

Morning

Calmer winds, cooler temperatures

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A Jack Nicklaus masterpiece on Lanai, offering dramatic ocean vistas and challenging play for Four Seasons guests.

4.9
(81 reviews)

"Hands down the most picturesque golf course I've ever played."

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TIP

Book Through Hotel

You must be a Four Seasons hotel guest to play. Staff can help book tee times.

Wind Factor

Lanai winds can be strong! Be prepared for challenging shots, especially on exposed holes.

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Ocean Vistas

Ocean Vistas

Every hole

Breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean from every single hole. A golfer's paradise.

Signature Gorges

Signature Gorges

Holes 7, 8, and 12

Iconic holes featuring dramatic tee shots over natural ravines and gorges. Precision is key!

Immaculate Conditions

Immaculate Conditions

Entire course

The course is consistently praised for its pristine condition, lush fairways, and well-maintained greens.

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Planning Your Visit

Hotel Guest Requirement

To play at Manele Golf Course, you must be a guest at one of the Four Seasons properties on Lanai. Book your stay and tee times well in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your preferred slot. Reddit

Embrace the Challenge

This Jack Nicklaus-designed course is known for its dramatic elevation changes and ocean vistas. Be prepared for precise tee shots over natural gorges and ravines, especially when the wind picks up. Reddit

Best Times

When
Morning
Why
Calmer winds, cooler temperatures
Crowd
Low
When
Late Afternoon
Why
Golden hour light, fewer golfers
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

reddit.com

The website for Jack Nickalus' Manele Golf Course in Lanai, Hawaii, says "tee shots over natural gorges and ravines must be precise." You don't say...

Book Through Hotel

You must be a Four Seasons hotel guest to play. Staff can help book tee times. Reddit

Wind Factor

Lanai winds can be strong! Be prepared for challenging shots, especially on exposed holes. Reddit

reddit.com

Manele Golf Course - Lanai, Hawaii

Capture the Views

Allow extra time for photos; the scenery is as much a highlight as the golf. Reddit

Stay Hydrated

Cold filtered water stations are available throughout the course to minimize plastic waste. Reddit

Tips

from all over the internet

Book Through Hotel

You must be a Four Seasons hotel guest to play. Staff can help book tee times. Reddit

Wind Factor

Lanai winds can be strong! Be prepared for challenging shots, especially on exposed holes. Reddit

Capture the Views

Allow extra time for photos; the scenery is as much a highlight as the golf. Reddit

Stay Hydrated

Cold filtered water stations are available throughout the course to minimize plastic waste. Reddit

Rental Clubs

High-quality Titleist rental clubs are available, including T100, T200, or T300 models. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.9
(81 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Manele Golf Course is overwhelmingly praised for its breathtaking ocean views, immaculate conditions, and world-class service, making it a truly unforgettable golfing experience. While the exclusivity and cost are factors, most visitors feel the stunning scenery and top-tier hospitality justify the price. The challenging design, especially with the wind, adds to its allure for serious golfers. Reddit

"I played Manele Golf Course while staying at the Four Seasons, with the hotel staff helping me book a tee time. I played as a single, and although I’ve seen many ocean courses, there haven’t been many as beautiful as this one. It truly felt like the course was surrounded by the ocean."

MAX KIM

"I would give this place 100 stars if I could!! Everything about this place is first class. The course is in phenomenal shape, the service is top notch, and facilities are outstanding! I never waited to play and no one waited on me, felt relaxed and could play at my pace. What makes this course stand out however is the views...every hole has a view of the ocean, such a beautiful golf course. Highly recommend this course. Thank you to the staff for the friendly hospitality. Look forward to going back!"

Patrick Mulloy

"Absolutely stunning. Everything about this course is world class. The clubhouse personnel were so helpful and accommodating. A special thank you to Samatha who helped us from beginning to end. The carts are world class. The course is in immaculate condition. The design is fun but challenging. The views are unbelievable. A round of golf I will cherish forever. If you like golf and can get to Lana’i, play this course. You will never forget it."

Tyler H

What People Like

Stunning ocean views
Immaculate course condition
First-class service

What People Dislike

Exclusive access requirement
High price point

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Manele Golf Course is located on Lanai. Access is typically via ferry from Maui or by inter-island flight to Lanai Airport. You must be a guest at a Four Seasons property on Lanai to play the course. Reddit

Yes, if you are staying at the Four Seasons, shuttle services are usually available to transport you to and from the golf course. Some guests prefer a scenic 20-minute walk back to the beach resort. Reddit

No, access to play Manele Golf Course is restricted to guests of the Four Seasons Lanai properties. Reddit

Most visitors arrive on Lanai via a scenic ferry ride from Lahaina, Maui, or by flying into Lanai Airport (LNY) from Honolulu (HNL) or Kahului, Maui (OGG). Reddit

The Manele Golf Course is adjacent to the Four Seasons Resort Lanai, making it very convenient for hotel guests. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

Green fees for Manele Golf Course are typically included for guests staying at the Four Seasons Lanai. Specific rates can vary, so it's best to inquire directly with the resort when booking your stay and tee time. Reddit

Tee times can be booked through the Four Seasons Lanai concierge or directly with the golf club when you confirm your hotel reservation. Booking in advance is highly recommended. Reddit

Discounts are generally not advertised, as the course is exclusive to Four Seasons guests. Package deals may be available when booking your resort stay. Reddit

While green fees are often part of a resort package, typically they include the round of golf. Cart rental and club rentals are usually additional costs. Reddit

The course typically opens early in the morning and closes around dusk. It's best to check with the Four Seasons Lanai for specific operating hours during your visit. Reddit

🎫 ⛳ Onsite Experience

The Manele Golf Course is considered challenging due to its dramatic elevation changes, ocean winds, and precise shot requirements over ravines. It offers a unique test for golfers of all skill levels. Reddit

Yes, scorecards are available at the pro shop. You can also find course maps and hole layouts online or through the resort's golf services. Reddit

Holes 7, 8, and 12 are particularly memorable for their dramatic drops and ocean views. However, every hole offers stunning scenery. Reddit

The course is known for having a low number of golfers per day, often between 20-40, ensuring a relaxed and uncrowded experience. Reddit

Manele Golf Course offers premium Titleist rental clubs, including models like the T100, T200, and T300. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The View restaurant at the Four Seasons Lanai offers excellent post-round dining with stunning views. The resort also has other dining options. Reddit

Yes, you can enjoy coffee, cookies, and fruit before your round at the clubhouse. The View restaurant is also available for meals. Reddit

The food at The View is highly praised, with recent chef changes improving the already excellent quality. It's considered some of the best dining at the resort. Reddit

Yes, cold filtered water stations are available throughout the course. Beverage cart service may also be available depending on the time and day. Reddit

The Four Seasons Lanai is known for its accommodating service. It's recommended to inform the restaurant staff of any dietary needs when ordering. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Every hole offers incredible photo opportunities with the ocean as a backdrop. The signature holes over the gorges are particularly photogenic. Reddit

Yes, the course is rarely crowded, allowing you to take your time and capture the stunning scenery without holding up play. Some visitors spend more time taking pictures than playing! Reddit

Early mornings and late afternoons offer beautiful lighting, with the golden hour providing a magical glow over the ocean and course. Reddit

Yes, professional cameras are welcome. The course's beauty makes it a dream location for photographers. Reddit

The elevated tees on holes 7, 8, and 12 provide dramatic perspectives. The general coastline views are spectacular from almost anywhere on the course. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

While Manele Golf Course is a premier golfing destination, it's important to note that access is restricted to guests of the Four Seasons Lanai. If your family is staying at the resort, the course offers a unique opportunity for parents to enjoy a round while children can be entertained at the resort's family-friendly amenities. Reddit The stunning ocean views and open spaces can also be captivating for younger visitors, even if they aren't playing. Consider booking a family activity at the resort that complements your golfing plans. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

Manele Golf Course is an exclusive, high-end experience, and therefore not typically considered a budget-friendly option. Access is tied to staying at the Four Seasons Lanai, which is a luxury resort. Reddit If you're looking for a more economical golf experience on Lanai, you might explore other local options or focus on enjoying the island's natural beauty and public beaches, which are free to access. Reddit

❤️ Couples

For a romantic getaway, Manele Golf Course offers an unparalleled setting. Imagine playing a round with breathtaking ocean vistas as your backdrop, followed by a fine dining experience at The View restaurant. Reddit The uncrowded nature of the course allows for a relaxed and intimate experience, perfect for couples who enjoy golf or simply appreciate stunning natural beauty. Consider booking a twilight tee time for a romantic sunset round. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

Manele Golf Course is a photographer's dream. The dramatic cliffs, turquoise waters, and meticulously manicured fairways provide endless opportunities for stunning shots. Reddit Don't rush your round; allow ample time to capture the iconic holes and panoramic ocean views. The golden hour light in the morning and late afternoon is particularly magical for photography. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Jack Nicklaus Design

The Manele Golf Course is a masterpiece designed by golf legend Jack Nicklaus. It masterfully integrates the dramatic natural landscape of Lanai into its layout. Nicklaus utilized the island's rugged coastline, natural ravines, and prevailing ocean winds to create a truly unique and challenging golfing experience. The course is renowned for its "risk-reward" holes, where players must decide whether to take on challenging carries over gorges or play it safe. This thoughtful design ensures that every round is memorable and engaging, regardless of skill level. Reddit

Each of the 18 holes offers a distinct perspective of the Pacific Ocean, with many featuring stunning panoramic views. The course's strategic bunkering and undulating greens add another layer of complexity, demanding precision and thoughtful shot-making. The challenge at Manele is not just about distance, but about navigating the natural elements and executing precise shots. Reddit

Playing Manele is often described as an experience at Koele (referring to the island's higher elevation and cooler climate, though Manele is coastal), but with the added drama of the ocean. The course's commitment to maintaining its pristine condition, coupled with its world-class design, makes it a bucket-list destination for golfers worldwide. Reddit

Navigating the Challenge: Wind and Terrain

The Manele Golf Course is famous for its challenging terrain and the ever-present Lanai winds. Tee shots over natural gorges and ravines demand accuracy, and the wind can significantly alter club selection and trajectory. Reddit Travelers often note that when the breeze picks up, even seemingly straightforward shots can become incredibly difficult, requiring a golfer's full concentration and skill. This dynamic element ensures that no two rounds are ever the same, offering a fresh challenge each time you play. Reddit

Beyond the wind, the course's layout features significant elevation changes. This means you'll encounter uphill and downhill lies, adding another layer of complexity to your game. The fescue rough, particularly on shots that go long, can be unforgiving, making accurate approaches to the greens crucial. Understanding these elements is key to enjoying the challenge at Manele and appreciating the strategic brilliance of the course design. Reddit

The Exclusive Experience: Four Seasons Hospitality

A significant aspect of playing the Manele Golf Course is the exclusive experience provided by the Four Seasons Lanai. Access to the course is limited to guests of the resort properties, ensuring a more intimate and less crowded atmosphere. Reddit This exclusivity translates into exceptional service, from the moment you arrive at the clubhouse to your final putt. Staff members like Samantha, Kendric, Sam, Will, and Gary are frequently mentioned for their outstanding hospitality, going above and beyond to make guests feel welcome and valued. Reddit

The resort's commitment to quality extends to the amenities. The carts are described as "world class," and the availability of premium Titleist rental clubs means you don't have to compromise on your equipment. Furthermore, the thoughtful inclusion of cold filtered water stations throughout the course demonstrates a commitment to sustainability and guest comfort. This seamless integration of world-class golf with top-tier hospitality creates a truly unforgettable experience. Reddit

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