The Vibe
The Makai Course at Princeville is an aesthetic masterpiece situated on Kauai’s lush, dramatic North Shore. It was Robert Trent Jones Jr.’s first solo design, and he captured the essence of Kauai beautifully. The course is characterized by a brilliant pacing and rhythm, transitioning from serene, tropical inland holes framed by lakes and native woodlands, out to staggering, wind-battered cliffs overlooking the Pacific Ocean and Hanalei Bay.
A massive renovation in 2009 replaced the greens with Seashore Paspalum, making the playing surfaces immaculate and incredibly green. The backdrop of the jagged, emerald-green Na Pali Coast mountains gives the course a cinematic quality. It’s resort golf executed at the highest possible level—challenging enough to engage the scratch golfer, yet wide and playable enough to ensure a joyous round for the vacationer.
The Vault Line — Strategic Insight
The transition from the inland lakes to the dramatic coastal cliffs makes this one of the most rhythmically satisfying rounds in Hawaii. Adjust your trajectory on the coastal holes—the trade winds are heavier than they feel.
Quick-Glance Summary
Par
72
Yardage
7,223
Architect
Robert Trent Jones Jr.
Region
North Shore, Kauai
The Access Intelligence
Access Reality
Open - Public Access
Open to the public. Guests of the 1 Hotel Hanalei Bay enjoy preferred rates and access. Booking well in advance (up to 60 days) is highly recommended during the peak winter months when Kauai is flooded with snowbirds.
Tactical Strategy Guide
Key Hole Intel
Hole 3 (Par 3, 181 yards): Playing directly toward the ocean, the green is perched on a peninsula. The wind is usually in your face, requiring at least two extra clubs.
Hole 7 (Par 3, 213 yards): The signature hole. A terrifying carry over a deep chasm in the cliffs. The bailout is left, but the right side of the green falls directly into the ocean. Trust a low, driving punch shot if the trades are blowing strong.
Hole 14 (Par 4, 344 yards): A brilliant short par-4 hugging the coastline. Long hitters can try to drive the green, but the penalty for missing right is a lost ball in the Pacific.
The Insider FAQ
Are there multiple courses here?
The Makai Course is 18 holes. There used to be a Woods 9 (making 27 holes), which is now mostly used for disc golf. The nearby legendary Prince Course is currently closed for a massive renovation.
What is the Sunset Golf Cart Tour?
It’s a highly popular option where non-golfers (or golfers who want to relax) can rent a cart in the late afternoon for a guided or self-guided tour of the course to watch the sunset from the signature 7th hole.
Does it rain often?
The North Shore of Kauai is the wettest part of the island. Quick, passing showers are common, especially in the winter, so pack a light rain jacket. However, the Seashore Paspalum grass handles moisture exceptionally well.
Are the greens difficult to read?
The Makai uses Seashore Paspalum, which has far less grain than traditional Bermuda. The ball rolls truer, meaning what you see is generally what you get.