Every year, Golf Digest publishes its list of Hawaii’s top 20 golf courses.
*Drum roll….*
Once again, Nanea Golf Club on the Big Island has claimed the coveted No.1 spot, a position it’s held since 2013! I recently had the rare opportunity to play there, and I have to say, Nanea definitely deserves the top spot.
Set high on the slopes of Hualālai, Nanea is an immersive experience in exclusivity, artistry, and nature’s raw beauty.
Big Island Dominates Golf Digest’s 2025 Rankings
Here’s a look at the latest top 20 from Golf Digest, with 8 of the top 20 courses located on the Big Island:
-
Nanea Golf Club : Big Island
-
Manele Golf Course : Lanai
-
Kapalua Plantation : Maui
-
Kukio Golf Club : Big Island
-
Mauna Kea Beach Hotel Golf Course : Big Island
-
The Club at Hokuli‘a : Big Island
-
The Club at Kukui‘ula – Kauai
-
Makai Golf Club : Kauai
-
Waialae Country Club : Oahu
-
Kohanaiki Golf & Ocean Club : Big Island
-
Hualālai Resort : Big Island
-
Poipu Bay : Kauai
-
Ocean Course at Hōkūala : Kauai
-
Wailea Gold : Maui
-
Mauna Lani South : Big Island
-
King Kamehameha : Maui
-
Mauna Lani North : Big Island
-
Wailea Emerald : Maui
-
Kapalua Bay : Maui
-
Turtle Bay : Oahu
Why Nanea is the Cream of the Crop
Nanea isn’t only Hawaii’s best- it’s also ranked #59 nationally. Designed by David McLay Kidd for Charles Schwab and George Roberts, it draws inspiration from the great links courses of the UK and Ireland. It’s a true golfer’s club- no homes, no distractions—just the game in its purest form. Caddies are mandatory, and trust me, that’s a good thing.
The moment you step onto the course, you’re surrounded by contrasts: deep black lava flows, vibrant green fairways, the azure Pacific, and white bunkers sculpted into the terrain. The elevation brings cool breezes and dramatic ocean views from nearly every hole.
A Personal Round to Remember
Playing Nanea was a masterclass in course strategy. The slopes, angles, and optical illusions created by the natural topography and bunkering make every shot a thoughtful decision. Without a seasoned caddie like Mike, I’d have been completely lost! Mike helped me navigate the nuances of the course and guided me to a satisfying 88.
The clubhouse, meanwhile, is a stunning tribute to Hawaiian heritage. Its architectural form echoes the island’s five sacred volcanoes, and its position atop the property offers views as dramatic as the course itself.
Luxury, Privacy, and the Golf Lifestyle
What truly sets Nanea apart is its sense of privacy and privilege. It’s not open to the public, and neither are three other top Big Island courses in the top five: Kukio, Kohanaiki, and Hokuli‘a. Only Mauna Kea is public among this elite group.
For discerning homebuyers and golf fanatics, golfing on the Big Island is about belonging to a community where world-class recreation meets world-class living. These beautiful courses don’t just offer beautiful properties; it offers a life well played.
Where to Play Publicly on the Big Island
If you’re not a member, don’t fret! You can still experience premier golf on the Big Island, through some of the most amazing public courses. Consider heading to:
-
Mauna Kea Beach Hotel Golf Course
-
Mauna Lani South Course
-
Mauna Lani North Course
-
Hualālai Resort (with hotel stay)
These offer stunning play and access to some of the most iconic views in Hawaii. Also check out my blog about 5 best ocean holes in the Big Island.
Final Thoughts
Whether you’re a serious golfer or simply someone who appreciates the finer things, Nanea represents the pinnacle of Big Island lifestyle. It’s rare, refined, and deeply rooted in the land. Playing here was a privilege and it’s one that reminds me how special it is to live on this incredible island.
Ready to Live the Big Island Lifestyle?
If you’re considering a home near Hawaii’s top courses—whether in Kukio, Hualālai, Mauna Lani, or Mauna Kea—we’re here to help you find a property that matches your dream lifestyle.
👉 Explore our listings or contact us for a private consultation.