Princeville at Hanalei - Prince Course, Kauai
The Prince Course at Princeville is a championship-level golf experience set high above Kauai's north shore, offering panoramic ocean views, deep ravines, and lush tropical scenery. Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., this 18-hole layout is known for its elevation changes, strategic bunkering, and five sets of tees per hole, making it both beautiful and challenging for all skill levels.
The St Regis Princeville Resort is situated on a rolling plateau on Kauai’s northern shoreline, high above the Pacific Ocean and Hanalei Bay. As well as the Makai Golf Club, the resort is home to the Prince Golf Course, a magnificent facility that also enjoys stunning ocean views from its 300 feet vantage point in 390 acres of tableland above the Pacific. This excellent course was rated as "Hawaii's No. 1 Golf Course" by Golf Digest, but it was its amazing design rather than its scenic setting that earned it this accolade. Like Makai, Prince Golf Course was designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr who used all the natural elements available to him – tropical jungle, deep ravines, streams, and a waterfall – and turned the rolling terrain into a challenging links-type golfing experience that has no equal.
The Prince Golf Course recently re-opened after extensive renovations where its bunkers and various other amenities were upgraded. It is an 18-hole, par-72 golfing challenge that climbs upwards over sloping hills and careers downwards. The tough layout requires players to plan their shots carefully and deliver them with precision. A unique aspect of this course is that each hole has five different tees, which allows players to customize their game to match their own skills and experience. The different tees at Prince Golf Course are a good way for players to track and improve their game because this design allows individuals to choose a more difficult tee-off option on return visits.
On this course the back nine begin with the creative 'Burma Road' hole, which is actually the tenth hole – a par-5. This turns at an angle of over 90° to the left and has a deep ravine all the way along the full length of its left side protecting the green. The par-3 seventh hole, which overlooks Anini Beach some 165 feet below, is the signature hole at Prince Golf Course. All in all, there are some pretty challenging obstacles on this most scenic of golf courses.
Amenities at the Prince Golf Club are excellent. As well as a driving range and putting green, visitors can avail of club rental services, GPS, golf lessons, and expert advice from professional staff. The pro shop offers a range of golf-related merchandise – clothing, equipment, and just about anything players might require. Food and beverages are available on a daily basis from the on-site restaurant.
Key Features of the Prince Course
- Championship design: Rated #1 in Hawaii by Golf Digest, designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr.
- Dramatic terrain: 390-acre layout with ravines, waterfalls, and jungle-lined fairways
- Flexible tee options: Five tee boxes per hole for customizable difficulty
- Signature hole: The par-3 7th overlooking Anini Beach, 165 feet below
- Top-tier amenities: Pro shop, GPS carts, driving range, lessons, and on-site dining
Frequently Asked QuestionsWhy is the Prince Course so highly rated?Its challenging layout, dramatic elevation changes, and stunning scenery have earned it consistent praise, including Golf Digest's #1 course in Hawaii. What makes the terrain of this course unique?The course winds through jungle, ravines, and rolling hills, offering varied elevation and lush scenery throughout all 18 holes. Can beginners play this course?Yes, with five sets of tees per hole, players can choose a layout that suits their skill level, although some holes remain quite challenging. Is the Prince Course open to the public?Yes, visitors can book tee times. Club rentals, lessons, and practice facilities are also available to guests. Are there food and beverage options?Yes, the on-site restaurant offers meals and refreshments for golfers and guests throughout the day. |