5 Best Golf Courses in Kona

Kona is not only celebrated for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural history but also for its exceptional golf courses. For enthusiasts of the sport, Kona offers some of the most picturesque and challenging courses in the world, each designed to blend seamlessly with its unique island terrain. This blog post will guide you through the top golf courses in Kona, highlighting what makes each one a must-visit for both seasoned golfers and those new to the game. If you're considering homes for sale in Kona, Hawai'i, proximity to these top-notch golf courses might just tip the scales in your decision.

Nestled on the slopes of Hualalai, Makalei Golf Club presents a challenging layout amidst an elevation that ranges from 1,800 to 2,850 feet. This elevation not only offers a comfortable playing temperature but also provides golfers with breathtaking views across the Kona coast. The course is renowned for its diverse terrain and wildlife, including peacocks and wild turkeys that roam freely. Makalei's natural beauty and demanding course make it a standout option for those looking for an unforgettable golfing experience near homes for sale in Kona, Hawai'i.

The Kona Country Club offers two distinct courses: the Ocean Course and the Mountain Course. Both courses boast stunning ocean views, but it’s the Ocean Course that captures the essence of golfing in Hawai’i with several holes running alongside the Pacific Ocean. After recent renovations, both courses have improved playability and aesthetics, further enhancing the golfing experience. The proximity of Kona Country Club to luxurious homes for sale in Kona, Hawai'i, adds to its appeal as a prime location for golf enthusiasts.

A private club designed by the legendary Rees Jones, Kohanaiki is an exclusive golfing destination. This meticulously crafted course is set among ancient lava flows, fishponds, and cultural landmarks, offering a golf experience steeped in Hawaiian history. The course is known for its pristine conditions and sustainable management practices, including a desalination plant and solar energy usage. For those in search of homes for sale in Kona, Hawai'i, Kohanaiki represents the pinnacle of luxury living paired with unmatched golfing facilities.

Home to the PGA Champions Tour's Mitsubishi Electric Championship, the Hualalai Golf Course is another Rees Jones masterpiece. Located at the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai, this course is carved out of black lava rock and offers spectacular ocean views from virtually every hole. The course is exclusive to resort guests and members, ensuring a serene and uncrowded golfing experience. This exclusivity makes nearby homes particularly desirable for serious golfers considering a purchase in Kona.

Designed by Robert Trent Jones Sr. and opened in 1964, Mauna Kea Golf Course has been consistently rated as one of the best golf courses in Hawai'i. Following a renovation by Rees Jones, it features updated bunkers, greens, and enhanced natural beauty without altering its original layout. The course's signature third hole requires a tee shot over the ocean and is one of the most photographed golf holes in the world. Homes near Mauna Kea allow residents to enjoy not only its historic course but also its world-class amenities and breathtaking setting.

Kona's golf courses offer diverse experiences that cater to all levels of golfers, from amateurs to seasoned professionals. Each course is designed with a deep respect for the natural landscape, providing not only challenging games but also stunning vistas that reflect the beauty of Hawai'i. Living near one of these top golf courses can significantly enhance the Kona lifestyle, combining luxury living with the convenience of world-class golf just minutes away.

For those looking to invest in homes for sale in Kona, Hawai'i, being close to these exceptional golf courses adds a layer of allure to your property choice. Whether you are a golf enthusiast or simply someone who appreciates the beauty and leisure of golf course living, Kona has superb offerings that merit consideration.

For more information on properties near these prestigious golf courses or to learn more about the golfing lifestyle in Kona, reaching out to Kris Hazard for professional real estate guidance can be invaluable. Explore these opportunities to not only find a perfect home but to embrace a lifestyle that combines relaxation, luxury, and sport in one of the most beautiful settings in the world.