Makalei at Makalei Golf Club

Makalei Golf Club sits on the slopes of Hualalai volcano above Kailua-Kona on the Big Island of Hawaii, occupying land that rises from approximately 1,800 to 2,850 feet in elevation. Dick Nugent designed the course in the mid-1990s, routing it through terrain that transitions from open volcanic rock and native grasses at the lower elevations to cooler, forested upland areas where eucalyptus and Norfolk pines frame the holes. The dramatic elevation changes create a distinctive playing experience, with several holes offering views across the Kona coast toward the Pacific.

The routing takes advantage of the natural topography, with holes playing both up and down the mountain slope. The volcanic landscape provides a stark contrast to the resort courses along the coast, and the cooler temperatures at elevation make for comfortable conditions. The property's varied terrain includes lava rock outcroppings, natural ravines, and changes in vegetation that give different sections of the course distinct characters.

Makalei operates as a semi-private facility, serving both members and daily-fee play. The course appeals to golfers seeking an alternative to the coastal resort layouts, offering a more rugged, upcountry Hawaiian golf experience. The setting provides a sense of seclusion despite its proximity to Kailua-Kona, and the elevation gain throughout the round creates strategic variety in club selection and shot-making demands.