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Wailea Blue Golf Course - Deep Research Report

Deep Research Report

Last updated: April 22, 2026

What it is

The Wailea Blue Golf Course is one of three championship 18-hole golf courses located within the Wailea Resort on Maui's south shore. Designed by Arthur Jack Snyder and opened in 1972, it is Wailea's original golf course and is often referred to as "The Grand Lady" of the resort. It features wide fairways, coral sand bunkers, cooling fountains, tropical blossoms, and incorporates natural elements like lava rock walls from ancient Hawaiian villages. The course is a par-72, measuring 6,545 yards from the championship tees, though it offers multiple tee boxes to accommodate various skill levels.

Visitor experience

Travelers choose the Wailea Blue Golf Course for its classic Hawaiian resort golf experience, offering a blend of challenge and fairness. It is known for its picturesque views of the Pacific Ocean, neighboring islands, the dormant Mount Haleakalā, and Wailea's luxurious residential communities. From certain points, such as the 12th tee box, visitors may even spot humpback whales during winter months. The course is generally considered more forgiving than its sister courses, the Gold and Emerald, making it a good option for higher handicappers, juniors, and those seeking a relaxing holiday round rather than an intense challenge. Despite its relaxed reputation, it is well-maintained with resort-level service and beautiful landscaping, including fountains, flowers, and lush wide fairways. The course allows for golf cart rentals, which are typically included in the green fees.

Logistics

  • Area and Access: The Wailea Blue Golf Course is located at 100 Wailea Ike Dr, Kihei, HI 96753, in the Wailea resort area of South Maui. It has its own clubhouse and pro shop, distinct from the shared clubhouse of the Gold and Emerald courses.
  • Reservations: Advance tee times are recommended and can be booked online or by calling the Wailea Golf Club.
  • Timing: The course is open daily year-round. A typical round of 18 holes can be completed in about 4-5 hours, though some golfers report faster play, especially later in the day. The course can be enjoyed as a half-day or anchor activity.
  • Parking: Parking is available at the clubhouse.
  • Permits/Fees: Green fees apply. Carts are included in green fees. Club and shoe rentals are available. Junior rates may be offered.
  • Dress Code: Proper golf attire is required, including collared shirts and golf shorts or slacks. Denim, tank tops, T-shirts, beach sandals, and slippers are not permitted. Soft spikes are required for golf shoes.
  • Amenities: The course has a clubhouse, pro shop, restaurant, bar, practice green, and driving range (hitting from mats into a net). Golf lessons and clinics are also available.

Safety and cautions

  • Sun Protection: Maui's sun can be intense. Visitors should use sunscreen, wear hats, and stay hydrated throughout their round.
  • Hydration: Carry sufficient water, especially on warm days. Refreshment cart services are available.
  • Wildlife: Be aware of local wildlife, although specific hazards on the course are not highlighted in general visitor information.
  • Pace of Play: While often described as more relaxed, be mindful of the pace of play to avoid inconveniencing other groups. The course may pair single players or twosomes to form larger groups.
  • Course Conditions: Like any golf course, conditions can vary due to maintenance or weather. Some reviews mention occasional brown spots or muddy areas, though overall maintenance is generally well-regarded.

Editorial take

The Wailea Blue Golf Course is an excellent choice for travelers looking for a quintessential Hawaiian resort golf experience without the intense challenge of championship-level play. Its stunning ocean and mountain views, well-maintained fairways, and accommodating design make it ideal for casual golfers, families (some junior rates and "kids play free" specials after 3 pm have been noted), couples, and those new to the game. Golfers who prioritize scenic beauty and a relaxed pace over a rigorous test of skill will particularly enjoy the Blue Course. It's also a good option for those seeking a slightly more affordable golf experience in Wailea compared to the Gold and Emerald courses.

Travelers seeking a highly challenging course or extensive practice facilities (the driving range hits into nets) might prefer the Wailea Gold Course. Don't confuse the Wailea Blue with its more challenging siblings, the Wailea Gold Course (known for its rugged features and strategic bunkering, designed by Robert Trent Jones II) or the Wailea Emerald Course (also designed by Robert Trent Jones II, known for its lush landscapes and being particularly women-friendly).

Source notes

What it is

The Wailea Blue Golf Course is an 18-hole championship golf course located within the Wailea Resort in South Maui. Designed by Arthur Jack Snyder and opened in 1972, it holds the distinction as Wailea's original course, often affectionately called "The Grand Lady." This par-72 course stretches 6,545 yards from the championship tees and is characterized by wide fairways, coral sand bunkers, decorative fountains, and tropical flora. Its design intentionally incorporates features of the natural landscape, including ancient lava rock walls.

Visitor experience

Travelers are drawn to the Wailea Blue Golf Course for its classic Hawaiian resort golf experience, which is noted for being both challenging and fair. Golfers can expect breathtaking panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, neighboring islands, and the majestic Mount Haleakalā. During winter months, it's possible to spot humpback whales from certain vantage points on the course, such as the 12th tee. The course is generally considered more accessible for a broader range of players, including higher handicappers, juniors, and those looking for a relaxed game, compared to the resort's other two courses. Despite being considered more forgiving, the course is meticulously maintained, offering lush landscaping, fountains, and high-quality resort services. Golf cart rentals are available and typically included in the green fees.

Logistics

  • Area and Access: The Wailea Blue Golf Course is situated at 100 Wailea Ike Dr, Kihei, HI 96753, in the Wailea resort area of South Maui. It operates with its own distinct clubhouse and pro shop.
  • Reservations: It is advisable to book tee times in advance, which can be done through the Wailea Golf Club's website or by phone.
  • Timing: The course is open year-round, seven days a week. A typical 18-hole round often takes between four and five hours, making it suitable as a half-day or anchor activity in a travel itinerary.
  • Parking: On-site parking is available at the clubhouse.
  • Permits/Fees: Green fees are required for play, with golf carts generally included in the cost. Club and shoe rentals are offered, and junior rates may be available, sometimes with "kids play free" specials after 3 PM.
  • Dress Code: Proper golf attire is mandatory for all players and riders. This includes collared shirts and golf shorts or slacks. Denim, t-shirts, tank tops, beach sandals, or slippers are not permitted. Only soft spikes are allowed on golf shoes.
  • Amenities: Facilities include a clubhouse, pro shop, restaurant, bar, practice green, and a driving range where golfers hit from mats into nets. Golf lessons and clinics are also available for those looking to improve their game.

Safety and cautions

  • Sun Protection: Due to strong Hawaiian sun, golfers should apply sunscreen regularly, wear protective headwear, and ensure adequate hydration throughout their game.
  • Hydration: Carry plenty of water. Refreshment carts circulate the course.
  • Pace of Play: While generally a more relaxed course, players should be mindful of keeping a good pace to ensure an enjoyable experience for all. The course reserves the right to pair smaller groups into threesomes or foursomes.
  • Course Conditions: While generally well-maintained, occasional minor imperfections such as brown spots or muddy areas can occur depending on recent weather or maintenance schedules.

Editorial take

The Wailea Blue Golf Course is particularly well-suited for travelers who seek a beautiful and enjoyable golf experience in Maui without the pressure of a highly competitive course. Its stunning ocean and mountain vistas, along with its forgiving layout, make it an excellent choice for casual golfers, families, juniors, and those who prioritize scenic beauty and a relaxed pace. It also offers a more budget-friendly option compared to the other two Wailea courses.

Travelers looking for a more intense challenge or extensive driving range facilities may find the Wailea Gold Course to be a better fit. It's important to differentiate the Blue Course from its sister courses: the Wailea Gold Course, known for its rugged and challenging design by Robert Trent Jones II, and the Wailea Emerald Course, also designed by Robert Trent Jones II, which is celebrated for its lush scenery and "women-friendly" design.

Source notes

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