1. Cavendish Golf Course, Lanai
Oracle founder Larry Ellison didn’t make his billions by giving things away. But he happens to own the island of Lanai, and Lanai happens to be home to this charming, hilly nine-hole track, where everyone plays for free.
2. Wailua Golf Course, Kauai
What Wailua often lacks in country-club conditions it makes up for with its tournament-caliber layout—its 18 holes have played host to three USGA Amateur Public Links Championships.
3. Ala Wai Golf Course, Oahu
You can’t call your Hawaiian golf experience complete until you’ve experienced Ala Wai, a thrumming Waikiki muni that used to rank among the busiest courses in the U.S. Though not as jam-packed as it once was, it’s still crowded enough that starters have been known to instruct two players in the same group to hit simultaneously from the tee box.
4. Pali Golf Course, Oahu
Set on the island’s windward side, along the slopes of the Koolau mountains, Pali combines lush surroundings with postcard views of Kaneaohe Bay.
5. Hilo Municipal Golf Course, The Big Island
There are no bunkers on this scenic 18-holer. No ponds either. But if you’re into hazards, there’s an active volcano looming nearby.
