The Outer Isles - The Final Frontier of Hawaiian Golf
For the true adventurer, the journey doesn't end on the main islands. Beyond lie two experiences at the farthest ends of the golfing spectrum: the ultimate in private luxury on Lanaʻi and the soul of untouched, authentic golf on Molokaʻi.
The choice between them says as much about you as a traveler as it does about your golf game. Are you seeking curated, five-star perfection or a raw, unmediated connection to the land?
🏝️ Lānaʻi: An Island of Exquisite Contrast
Lanaʻi offers a tale of two very different golf experiences, reflecting the island's own unique identity.
Manele Golf Course
Four Seasons Resort • Private • Jack Nicklaus
The Pinnacle of Luxury: This is the pinnacle of exclusive, luxury golf. A breathtaking Jack Nicklaus Signature design, Manele is built on dramatic lava outcroppings high above Hulopoʻe Bay. It features three holes perched on seaside cliffs, where the Pacific Ocean becomes the world's most beautiful and intimidating water hazard.
Access limited to Four Seasons resort guests, ensuring a serene and uncrowded round that feels like you have the entire island to yourself.
Cavendish Golf Course
Lanaʻi City • Public • Free Play
Charming Local Secret: In stark contrast to Manele's polished luxury lies one of Hawaii's most charming secrets. Cavendish is a 9-hole community course on the edge of Lanaʻi City that is completely free to play. You simply show up and tee off.
It's a quirky, beloved local spot that represents the authentic, non-corporate soul of the island. Playing a morning round at Manele and an evening loop at Cavendish is to experience the complete, compelling duality of Lanaʻi.
🌺 Molokaʻi: The Soul of Old Hawaiʻi Golf
If you want to experience golf stripped back to its purest essence, you go to Molokaʻi.
Ironwood Hills Golf Course
Kualapuʻu • Public • Honor System
Pure Golf Essence: This is the island's only golf course, a 9-hole layout set high in the hills near Kualapuʻu. The experience here is defined by what it lacks. There are no tee times. There are no golf pros. There isn't even a clubhouse.
You pay your modest green fee on an honor system, and you play. It is a relaxed, unpretentious, and deeply authentic round of golf. The course itself is a fun, plantation-style layout with surprising elevation changes and incredible views stretching all the way to Oahu on a clear day.
The Outer Islands: A Tale of Two Experiences
🏆 Lānaʻi Experience
- • Ultra-luxury Manele Golf Course
- • Jack Nicklaus Signature design
- • Four Seasons resort access required
- • Free Cavendish course in town
- • Ultimate contrast experience
🌺 Molokaʻi Experience
- • Authentic Ironwood Hills course
- • Honor system payment
- • No tee times or clubhouse
- • Plantation-style 9-hole layout
- • Connection to old Hawaii spirit
✈️ Getting There
- Lānaʻi: Ferry or flight
- Molokaʻi: Flight only
- Best for: Golf adventures
⛳ Course Styles
- Ultra-luxury resort
- Free community course
- Honor system golf
- Authentic local experience
🗺️ Main Islands
💎 Outer Isle Tip
These islands offer golf experiences you can't find anywhere else - from ultra-luxury to completely authentic local golf.
Perfect for golf adventurers seeking unique experiences