Makena Golf and Beach Club (North & South Course)

Makena Golf & Beach Club is a championship golf destination in Makena, Maui, Hawaii, designed by Robert Trent Jones II. Originally built as a 36-hole facility, the club today operates as a private, members-only community managed by Discovery Land Company. The renovated North Course is currently in play; the South Course is no longer active. 

Set on the slopes of Haleakalā along Maui's southern coastline, the North Course plays across volcanic terrain shaped by lava flows, elevation changes, and expansive Pacific Ocean views. The design reflects Robert Trent Jones II's approach to routing in coastal environments, using natural landforms, wind exposure, and ocean vistas to shape strategy and play.

Resort Development & Design Philosophy

Makena illustrates Robert Trent Jones II’s approach to designing golf within complex coastal resort environments. The project required close coordination between course routing, residential planning, and hospitality development to preserve views, manage drainage, and enhance long-term property value.

This integrated approach reflects RTJ II’s broader work across resort destinations, where golf is used to shape both the landscape and the overall guest experience.

The project also reflects the RTJ II team’s integrated planning approach used throughout coastal resort developments worldwide. Working with architects, engineers, and environmental experts, the design aligned course corridors and elevations with surrounding residential and hospitality areas. This coordination enhanced property value while protecting natural views and drainage patterns.

Robert Trent Jones II’s Masterpiece

Robert Trent Jones II added nine holes to each side of the original layout to create a pair of carefully crafted courses sculpted on the seaside flanks of 10,000-foot Haleakalā, a dormant volcano. Many holes are terraced across sloping ground, playing over lava rock and through native kiawe trees.

As Robert Trent Jones Jr. noted, “Through careful planning and attention to technical engineering principles we were able to present many of the holes separately and apart from all others.” The result delivers commanding Pacific Ocean views and an immersive island golf experience.

The North Course

The 6,914-yard North Course entertains with mountain and crater views, rock walls, and natural gullies. Most fairways slope gently back toward the center, offering playability while preserving the natural terrain. From the scenic fourteenth hole, players can see four islands floating in the distance.

The North Course demonstrates RTJ II’s philosophy of creating player-friendly designs that incorporate significant natural challenges while maintaining strategic clarity.

The South Course

The South Course originally stretched to 7,017 yards with more open fairways and dramatic oceanfront holes. The 502-yard par-five tenth was considered among the best par fives in Hawaii, while the par-three fifteenth played downhill toward the Pacific. The South Course is no longer in play.

Environmental Stewardship

Environmental care guided every stage of development at Makena. The RTJ II team introduced discreet drainage systems, efficient irrigation, and preserved lava ridges as strategic and visual anchors. Native and drought-tolerant grasses conserve water while maintaining the natural character of Maui’s coastal slopes.

The Makena property presented numerous design challenges, including:

• Volcanic terrain with lava rock formations
• Significant elevation changes across the property
• Integration of native vegetation and natural features
• Balancing ocean views with playability considerations

These challenges were transformed into defining features that shape the Makena experience.

Practice Facilities & Amenities

The private club offers a complete practice experience for members including:

• Full driving range
• Premium putting greens
• Comprehensive facilities supporting play from practice through the 18th hole
• Spectacular views of four Hawaiian islands

From thoughtful design to ocean vistas, Makena Golf & Beach Club represents championship golf shaped by Maui’s natural splendor.

Makena’s influence extends far beyond Maui. Its lasting combination of challenge, visual drama, and ecological balance continues to shape resort development across the Pacific region. The course embodies Robert Trent Jones II’s enduring philosophy that golf should reveal the spirit of a landscape rather than dominate it.

Makena Golf & Beach Club — FAQs

Who designed Makena Golf & Beach Club?

Makena Golf & Beach Club (North & South Courses) was designed by Robert Trent Jones II and the RTJ II design team.

Where is Makena Golf & Beach Club located?

Makena Golf & Beach Club is located on Maui’s southern coastline near Wailea, on the slopes of Haleakalā.

Is Makena Golf & Beach Club open to the public?

Makena Golf & Beach Club is currently a private, members-only community managed by Discovery Land Company. The North Course has been renovated and reopened for members. The South Course is no longer in play. Public and resort access is no longer available.

When was Makena built and renovated?

The original layout opened in 1981, expanded in 1993, and underwent renovation in 2008.

How many courses does Makena have and what are the yardages?

Makena currently operates the renovated North Course, stretching to 6,914 yards. The South Course is no longer in play.

What makes the North Course unique?

The North Course terraces across volcanic terrain with lava rock and native kiawe trees, offering panoramic Pacific views and concealed cart paths to preserve sightlines.

What makes the South Course unique?

The South Course originally featured open rolling fairways and dramatic oceanfront holes, including the par-five 10th and the downhill par-three 15th. It is no longer in play.

What awards has Makena received?

Makena has been honored by Golf Digest, Golfweek, and GOLF Magazine, including Top Courses You Can Play in Hawaii, Top 100 Resort Course, and Silver Medal Resort recognition.

What type of golf setting is Makena?

Makena blends coastal tropical and parkland characteristics in a private coastal setting with expansive ocean views.