Nestled on the Kohala Coast, Mauna Lani, Auberge Resorts Collection, offers an idyllic golf and ocean experience in Hawaii.
With breathtaking views and exceptional weather year-round, this destination is a top choice for golf enthusiasts seeking to escape the stresses of daily life.
The serene setting, highlighted by the rise of Mauna Kea, provides a tranquil backdrop for both golf and relaxation.
For those looking to reset their minds and bodies, this island getaway might just be what you need.
Golfers can look forward to playing on two of Hawaii’s premier oceanfront golf courses, Mauna Lani’s South and North courses.
Renowned for its consistent sunny weather, guests can enjoy temperatures ranging between 65°F and 80°F throughout the year, making it America’s best golf weather destination.
It’s rare to need an umbrella when teeing off at Mauna Lani, as the courses consistently deliver splendid conditions.
The South course, measuring 6,924 yards, is particularly popular due to its stunning ocean views and trio of impressive holes along the coastline.
The par-3 15th hole, often referred to as the most photographed golf hole in Hawaii, offers an incredible view where golfers tee off over crashing waves.
Ross Birch, the general manager of Mauna Lani Golf, attests to the joy golfers feel after a round on this spectacular course.
In contrast, the North course presents a more strategic challenge at 6,913 yards.
Golfers must navigate trees and black lava rock, making for a different level of difficulty than the South course.
The North layout briefly touches the ocean at the second and ninth greens, but its signature hole, the 17th, features a unique 132-yard par-3 carved from a bowl of black rock.
A notable piece of history, Mauna Lani hosted the Senior Skins Game from 1990 to 2000, with its original routing weaving together holes from both courses.
Even legends like Jack Nicklaus faced challenges on the North, proving there is no shame in struggling with its tighter fairways.
For those staying at the resort, the WikiWiki Short Course and driving range recently became complimentary as part of the resort fee, making it accessible for quick practice or a casual game.
Though currently designed for fun, there are plans to upgrade the Short Course into a more challenging experience akin to popular par 3s found at other high-end resorts.
During a recent visit, it was impressive to witness how much Mauna Lani has evolved with a $200 million renovation, completed in January 2020.
The hotel, once reminiscent of the 1970s, now boasts a modern and elegant appearance, making it a perfect place for relaxation.
Guests can enjoy mesmerizing views from oceanfront rooms while observing the splendid Hawaiian sunsets.
Dining options abound, with five different restaurants offering a variety of culinary experiences.
The open-air HaLani is especially popular, where the breakfast buffet is hard to resist.
For those indulging on Sundays, brunch includes fresh seafood and delicious sweets that invite one back for seconds.
Dining at CanoeHouse at sunset is a must, with the ambiance created by flickering tiki torches enhancing the overall experience.
Favorites such as Lobster Tempura, Sugar Snap Peas, and Poke are sure to please any palate.
In between golf rounds or relaxing by the three pools and pristine beach, guests can take leisurely strolls, encounter sea turtles on black sand beaches, or ride bikes to a nearby outdoor shopping center.
A guided snorkeling adventure proved to be the highlight of a recent visit, despite concerns over potentially murky water.
The guide, Jade, showcased her expertise as she led just the couple through the cove to a nearby reef.
Happily following a sea turtle and swimming among colorful fish, the moment offered a profound sense of connection to the ocean.
In that blissful setting, thoughts of bogeys, bills, and inflation floated away with the gentle waves, offering a much-needed escape.
Overall, Mauna Lani is the ideal destination for those looking to unwind, indulge in great golf, and appreciate the beauty of Hawaii.
Whether you’re seeking a rejuvenating retreat or a fun family getaway, this resort invites you to experience the best of what the island has to offer.
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