Hawaii
Hawaii 2025: Mauna Lani lives up to its name with breathtaking golf
Hawaii’s Mauna Lani has spectacular par-3s, views
No matter what your score, these two holes will be lodged in your memory for years to come.
(Editor’s note: Although the PGA Tour’s 2026 Sentry Tournament of Champions at Kapalua was canceled, golf in Hawaii is very much alive and well. As the year comes to a close, Golfweek has been highlighting some of the state’s incredible courses and views.)
WAIMEA, Hawaii — A few decades ago, Ross Birch was a 20-something with big golf dreams and plenty of time to chase them. One day, he found himself walking outside the ropes alongside Jack Nicklaus during a practice round for the PGA Senior Skins Game at Mauna Lani. The setting was pure paradise — crystal-blue waters lapping against the shores of Hawaii’s two-course resort.
Nicklaus had played the South Course as part of the event’s 10-year run, which also featured legends like Arnold Palmer, Raymond Floyd and Lee Trevino. But when the Golden Bear turned his attention to the North Course — a layout dotted with large trees in the middle of fairways — even the 18-time major champion was flummoxed.
“What the hell is with these trees?” Nicklaus said, eyeing the first hole, a dogleg right guarded by a towering kiawe tree, a tropical cousin of mesquite.
Birch laughed and warned him there were plenty more surprises ahead. Nicklaus threw up his hands in disbelief, then motioned for Birch — who was working at another Big Island course at the time — to join the group.
“It was one of the greatest days of my life,” Birch recalls, “walking this incredible course with one of the greatest players ever.”
Today, Birch shares that story often in his role as Mauna Lani’s director of golf, a position he’s held since 2022. An affable host and solid player, he sprinkles anecdotes like this throughout an afternoon on either of the resort’s stunning seaside courses. And at Mauna Lani, there’s no shortage of tales to tell.
Despite the cancellation of the 2026 The Sentry, golf in Hawaii is thriving. Here, the game becomes an experience — teeing off on courses carved into volcanic landscapes, challenging seaside holes where waves crash just beyond the green, and soaking in panoramic views that stop you in your tracks. With more than 70 courses across the islands, every round is an adventure.
But Mauna Lani offers something truly special.
The North Course
Opened in 1988, the North Course is a mature track, its rolling fairways framed by weathered lava beds and kiawe forests. Trees often stand boldly in the middle of fairways, forcing creative shot-making, while trade winds add another layer of challenge. On the ninth hole, a par-4 near the water, strong gusts can turn an approach into a test of nerve.
Wildlife adds to the charm — and the challenge. Feral goats frequently wander across fairways, a quirky hazard that once caused serious backups. In fact, the state held a lottery in 2021 to relocate some of the herds, which had become invasive in the nearby Historic Park. That park, Pu’uhonua o Hōnaunau, holds deep cultural significance as a place of refuge for defeated warriors and civilians during times of battle.
Survive the wildlife and navigate the narrow fairways, and you’ll reach the course’s crown jewel: the par-3 17th. From elevated tees, you’ll fire toward a green cradled in a dramatic lava bowl—a natural amphitheater and one of the most unforgettable shots in Hawaii.
The South Course
For those who prefer a more forgiving layout, the South Course delivers equally stunning views with fewer trees but newer, jagged lava flows. Opened in 1981, it’s a sensory feast — and home to two of the most spectacular par 3s you’ll ever play.
No. 7 demands a long iron or fairway wood to reach a green perched beside the ocean, with water hugging the left and a tall tree guarding the right. A well-placed bunker offers a lucky bailout for those who flirt with disaster.
Later, the shorter 15th hole tests your nerves with a mid-iron carry over an inlet to a green framed by palms and water. It’s no wonder this hole ranks among the most photographed in the country. No matter what your score, these two holes will be lodged in your memory for years to come.
Short course and more
As if the two courses don’t offer enough to keep a golfer fully engaged, Mauna Lani’s short course is the perfect way to spend some time before sunset, or to get the kids out on the course before a day at the beach.
The WikiWiki short course is best played in flip-flops or with no shoes at all. Lined on the outside by towering palms, the course was originally part two holes from the main complex, but have since become a perfect way to enjoy tropical breezes for an hour or so, preferably with a Kona Big Wave or a dragonfruit margarita in hand.
We played the course as a group, two teams playing rotating shots, and the laughs and smiles were consistent. The short course sits up on a slight perch, so the winds are even more severe and the views of the Mauna Kea, the state’s highest point, are breathtaking.
Other amenities
Golf may be the star at Mauna Lani as the South Course is currently No. 13 on Golfweek’s Best Courses You Can Play in Hawaii and the North Course sits at No. 6, but the resort offers experiences that linger long after the final putt. One highlight? A sunrise canoe paddle that stirs the soul. Before dawn, our group pushed off into the gentle surf, working hard for 15 minutes to break free from the incoming waves. Then, as the first light crept over the mountains, our guides shared stories of the island’s heritage — how generations of Hawaiians gave thanks each morning to the sun and all it provided. It’s a moment that blends effort, beauty, and deep cultural connection — an unforgettable way to start the day.
There’s a reason both locals and visitors gravitate to the Clubhouse Bar. Perched on the second floor overlooking the practice facility, it offers sweeping ocean views and a relaxed vibe — the perfect spot to toast the day with craft cocktails and island-inspired bites.
Craving something more indulgent? Head to the nearby CanoeHouse, where Japanese-inspired cuisine meets a breathtaking oceanfront setting. Menu highlights include a melt-in-your-mouth Wagyu ribeye, local mushrooms like lion’s mane and ali‘i with koji barbecue and cashews, and the showstopper: The King Tower — a lavish spread of poached lobster, Kaua‘i shrimp, Hokkaido scallops, Japanese uni, local sashimi, oysters, and snow crab. It’s a feast as unforgettable as the view.
In Hawaiian, Mauna Lani means “mountain reaching heaven.” And after a day — or even a week — on these breathtaking shores, no matter what your scorecard says, you’ll drift off with a full belly and an even fuller heart.
HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – The search for Honolulu’s next police chief is moving into the next phase.
The Honolulu Police Commission announced it has narrowed the candidate pool to six semi-finalists, selected from an initial list of 11 applicants identified by a recruitment firm.
“The commissioners feel these six applicants exhibited the leadership and management skills necessary to lead an organization as large, complex and critical to the community as the Honolulu Police Department,” said member of the Honolulu Police Commission, Chair Laurie Foster.
“Those qualities were identified in part by surveys and stakeholder interviews conducted by the recruitment firm,” she added.
The names of the semi-finalists have not been released. Officials said confidentiality is being maintained at this stage to encourage applicants who may still be employed elsewhere.
The candidates will next be interviewed by stakeholder panels made up of community members and others who interact with the Honolulu Police Department.
The commission is expected to select finalists during a May 6 meeting, with those names to be announced afterward.
Finalists will then participate in additional interviews and a public appearance before the commission votes on the next police chief at a public meeting scheduled for May 20.
Copyright 2026 Hawaii News Now. All rights reserved.
Pending Home Sales Increased From February to March in the U.S.
Despite higher mortgage rates, pending home sales in the U.S. were up 1.5% in March from the prior month while recording a 1.1% year-over-year decline, according to the National Association of Realtors. On a monthly basis, pending home sales were up in the Northeast and South, while they declined in the Midwest and West. Year-over-year contract signings, however, were down in every region but the South. Realtor.com
‘Untouched’ Scottish Island Selling for £350,000
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Iran War Puts a Pause on Hawaii’s Housing Market Recovery
Hawaii’s housing market was set to be on the road to recovery this year, with local interest rates predicated to decline. However, the war with Iran has caused rates to shoot back up, diminishing buyer confidence. Hawaii’s high concentration of condos and second homes keeps Hawaii’s average mortgage rates slightly higher. Pacific Business News
Unlivable Waterfront Home Outside Melbourne Sells for A$2.38M
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Hawaii offers a wide range of small towns across its islands, each with its own draw. The state has hikes among active volcanoes near Volcano Village and long stretches of coastline like Waimanalo Beach on Oahu. One town below sits on a crescent-shaped bay that has drawn visitors for decades. Another holds a winery on volcanic slopes. The list ahead covers seven small towns spanning beach and inland Hawaii.
Hanalei
On the north shore of Kauai, the census-designated place of Hanalei is known for a laid-back atmosphere, a crescent-shaped bay, and a small collection of shops and restaurants. Hanalei Beach is a stretch of fine sand and clear water, and has been featured in films including The Descendants and South Pacific. It has been ranked among the state’s best beaches, with picnic tables, good surfing, and kayaking all within reach. Within walking distance is the Hanalei Inn, a small retro-style lodging near downtown.
Further into town is the Wai’oli Mission House, a historic two-story missionary home built in 1837 and preserved as a museum. Tours run from 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, covering the lives of the missionaries who lived there. Near Black Pot Beach is Pat’s Taqueria, a Mexican food truck serving Hawaiian-style tacos, burritos, and quesadillas within walking distance of the Hanalei Pier. Locals and visitors both favor it for its locally sourced ingredients.
Pāʻia
In the north of Maui is Pāʻia (also spelled Paia), a walkable community with local surf shops, restaurants, and ocean views. Lower Pāʻia Park is one of the more photographed beaches in the state, with calm waters good for snorkeling, surfing, and swimming. Basketball courts, a skatepark, and a youth center sit nearby. Near the beach, the Surf Club is an event venue for weddings, dinners, and corporate or private functions, with a short walk back to downtown.
Wabisabi Soba and Sushi is a sushi restaurant on the Hana Highway known for its 100 percent buckwheat Jyuwari soba noodles. The interior and garden lean Japanese, and the restaurant is BYOB. The Rip Curl Surf Shop in downtown stocks swimwear, boardshorts, surf accessories, hats, surfboard covers, and apparel for anyone heading out to the waves.
Waimanalo
On the east side of Oahu is Waimanalo, a community with a three-mile stretch of beaches, a laid-back culture, and an agricultural character. At the eastern end of town is Sea Life Park Hawaii, an aquarium and animal sanctuary home to dolphins, sharks, sea lions, native fish, rays, and birds. Visitors can interact with animals in the water, visit penguin habitats, meet sea lions, and see sea turtles. Waimanalo Beach is a wide stretch of white sand backed by the Ko’olau Mountains, with turquoise water for swimming and surfing, and Waimanalo Beach Park shaded by ironwood trees. Parking is limited, especially on weekends and holidays, so arriving early is best.
Further inland, Olomana Golf Links is an 18-hole par-72 course with the Ko’olau Mountains in the background. Former U.S. President Barack Obama has played here, and professional golfer Michelle Wie trained on the course. The Waimanalo Forest Reserve is farther still, with quiet hikes on trails such as the ‘Ohana Trail and the Maunawili Ditch Trail, home to wild birds, small mammals, and reptiles, along with views of Maunawili Falls within the 500-acre reserve.
Volcano
Volcano, or Volcano Village, sits as the gateway to Hawai’i Volcanoes National Park in a cool, damp rainforest setting. The park is home to two active volcanoes: Kīlauea, one of the most active volcanoes in the world, and Mauna Loa, the largest shield volcano in the world. The rest of the park holds geographical features that often require multiday trips to reach. Visitors can view lava eruptions, hike, and explore the rolling hills of the Kahuku Unit.
In the heart of town, the Lava Lodge at Hale Kilauea offers cottages for visitors exploring the park. Each cottage has a small tropical garden. The hotel is within walking distance of the Lava Rock Cafe, which serves burgers, pancakes, and local Hawaiian dishes. Volcano Winery is one of only a few wineries in the state, with views of Mauna Loa and a rare chance to taste Big Island wines on the Big Island itself.
Lānaʻi City
At the center of the island of Lānaʻi is Lānaʻi City, a plantation town with historic homes, local restaurants and shops, and a walkable center. On Lanai Avenue, Dreams Come True Bed and Breakfast is a renovated property with mountain views and a garden. Further up in town, the Lānaʻi Culture and Heritage Center preserves the island’s history, traditional cultures, and plantation past through photographs and artifacts.
The Lānaʻi Art Center is within walking distance of the Culture and Heritage Center. It serves as a studio space for local artists, features a gallery, offers classes and workshops, and is the island’s main community arts program. On the outskirts of town is the Koloiki Ridge Trailhead, a roughly 5-mile trail that follows old cattle paths and opens up to panoramic views of the island.
Honokaa
On the northeastern coast of the Big Island is Honokaa, a census-designated place with plantation-era architecture and a role as gateway to Waipi’o Valley. The Honokaa Heritage Center is a museum covering the town’s history, with research materials and exhibits of photographs and artifacts. The center hosts the Hāmākua Sugar Days Festival every October, dedicated to the state’s plantation history with parades and a festival fair. South of the heritage center is the Hāmākua Country Club, a nine-hole course and one of the oldest on the island, set 1,200 feet above sea level with views of the Pacific Ocean. Carts are available for rent, and the course hosts tournaments.
Waipi’o Valley is just west of town. It was the boyhood home of King Kamehameha and is considered one of the most sacred places on the Big Island. Trails such as the Muliwai Trail lead into the tropical valley, where coconuts, green bananas, and papayas grow. Note that valley access is currently restricted to Hawaii residents.
Makawao
Upcountry from Paia is the census-designated place of Makawao, a community with boutique shops, art galleries, and an upcountry character. Makawao Public House is a gastropub serving local fare and paying tribute to the town’s past. On Baldwin Avenue, Banyan Tree Bed and Breakfast sits on 2.5 acres of gardens with cottages for stays, a short drive from local restaurants and shops.
On the southern outskirts of town is the Kahakapao Loop Trail, a 5.9-mile route in the Makawao Forest Reserve that is a popular hiking and mountain biking spot. At roughly 4,000 feet, the rainforest setting offers a cooler alternative to a beach day. At the northern edge of town, the Hui No’eau Visual Arts Center operates as a cultural hub with a gallery, classes, workshops, a gallery shop, and exhibits by local community members.
Small-Town Hawaii
Hawaii’s small towns provide a different side of the state from the major resorts, with local character, natural features, and regional history. Makawao draws visitors to the Makawao Forest Reserve. Volcano offers access to two of the state’s most active peaks. Waimanalo’s white-sand beach anchors the east side of Oahu. Each of these communities offers something different from the others, but all share a strong sense of place.
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