Wailea Golf Club - Gold Course, Maui
The Wailea Golf Club’s Gold Course can be found on the southern coast of Maui, about 17 miles from Kahului Airport, and it is considered the toughest of the 1,500-acre resort’s three golf courses. The other two courses are the Emerald Course and the Old Blue Course. With spectacular views extending to Molokini and the Pacific Ocean, the Gold Course has won many accolades, mainly from sources and publications such as Gayot, Golf Digest, Golf Magazine, Golfweek, and Zagat. Other honors include being voted one of best designed courses in the world (readers of Conde Nast Traveler), and a top choice in the “Best Golf Course” category (readers of The Maui News). The course was home to the Champions Skins Game for six years from 2001 to 2007.
The 18-hole, par-72 Wailea Gold Golf Course was masterfully designed by architect Robert Trent Jones II who strategically incorporated the rugged and natural terrain of the locality into the layout. The prehistoric lava rock walls on the site were carefully preserved during construction, a fact recognized by the Maui Historical Society. The resulting golf course is a real skills test requiring strategic planning and finesse. Referred to as a “thinking player’s” course, there are many risk-reward options open to players on this course with possibilities to use every club in the bag. However, with four to six tee boxes at every hole, the course generally suits players of almost all levels. One of the greatest player hazards or distractions on the Gold course is, perhaps, the stunning views, of which the par-3 eighth hole is a good example. Here, players face an unrivalled view of little Molokini and the Pacific Ocean as they tee off. With a dark papohaku wall positioned between the tee boxes and the fairway, and a ring of coconut trees and a white bunker protecting the manicured green, this hole requires every ounce of a player’s concentration. However, with a 200 feet elevation change from start to end, a more scenic Hawaiian view than the one found here is difficult to envisage.
A highly-rated golf resort, Wailea offers a superb range of amenities. In addition to cart, clubs, and shoe rental services, there is a comprehensive practice facility and a 12-acre academy offering professional tuition. The award-winning pro shop offers a wide selection of top-quality apparel, shoes, equipment, and accessories. The resort’s on-site restaurant and bar offers a wide range of local and contemporary fare with locally-sourced fresh ingredients in a relaxed and scenic atmosphere, with a choice of indoor or outdoor seating. The resort also caters for all types of functions and events.
