
South Course
Mauna Lani Resort Golf

About this course
South at Mauna Lani whispers a tale of Hawaiian golfing innovation, carved into the Big Island's stark, black lava fields. Its distinctive landscape, a Modernist design by Homer Flint, offers a visual drama unlike almost any other course in the world. Wide fairways lined with kiawe trees beckon golfers to swing freely, while strategic bunkering demands thoughtful placement. Favoring those who can shape the ball from right to left, the South course punishes the occasional wayward drive into the unforgiving a'a lava rock. While not necessarily a household name on the global stage, the South Course stands as a testament to the singular allure of golf played against a volcanic backdrop. The 6th hole, a par three that plays over the Pacific, has been the site of many weddings, a truly unique destination for celebration and sport. The course's proximity to the Mauna Lani Bay Hotel adds to its appeal, offering easy access to luxury accommodations for those seeking a relaxed Hawaiian golf vacation. A local tradition involves tossing a golf ball into the ocean from the 6th tee box, a small offering to ensure a good round and a safe return.
Rankings
Ranked by CV ratings from golfers who've played this course. Positions are shown worldwide, by country, and by state; the Public column compares courses anyone can play.
Best in World
Best in USA
Best in HI
Quick facts
- Location
- Kohala Coast, HI, USA
- Access
- Public
- Year built
- 1981
- Holes
- 18
- Designer(s)
- H. Flint, R. F. Cain, Robin Nelson
- Par
- 72
- Length
- 6,924 yards
- Difficulty
- 73.3/127
- Course Vaults score
- 8.4
Getting there
The journey to Mauna Lani Resort Golf begins at Ellison Onizuka Kona International Airport (KOA) on the Big Island's western shore, roughly twenty-five miles south along the sun-scorched Queen Ka'ahumanu Highway. Private arrivals often utilize the same commercial field, though the resort's helipad accommodates those seeking a more dramatic entrance over lava fields and turquoise bays. The drive north traces the Kohala Coast's ancient volcanic landscape, where black rock meets impossibly blue water, before turning mauka toward the resort's lush oasis of emerald fairways and swaying palms - a startling contrast to the primal geology that surrounds it.

FAQ
Common questions about South at Mauna Lani Resort Golf
Ratings, design, and course details pulled from Course Vaults.
South at Mauna Lani Resort Golf has a Course Vaults score of 8.4 out of 10 based on 68 logged golfers.
South was designed by H. Flint, R. F. Cain, and Robin Nelson.
Yes. South at Mauna Lani Resort Golf is listed as welcoming public or guest play on Course Vaults.
Par at South is 72.
South plays 6,924 yards from the back tees on Course Vaults.
The slope rating at South is 127.






