Wailea Golf Club - Emerald Course

Wailea Golf Club Emerald Course is a South Maui resort golf course in Wailea, known for ocean views, tropical landscaping, lava-rock details and a Robert Trent Jones Jr. design.

Located on the south side of magical Maui, the Emerald is one of three golf courses at the Wailea Golf Resort, the other two being the Gold Course and the Old Blue Course. All three courses offer spectacular views of the ocean. Like its sister courses, the Emerald has won several prestigious awards, including being one of the first courses to be granted a “Top Fairways Award” by Golf for Women Magazine. The magazine identified the Emerald Course as being the most women-friendly golfing venue in the country, an accolade it has gone on to receive seven times.

Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr, the 18-hole, par-72 championship Emerald course is suitable for virtually every level of player. It is more modern than its neighbor the Old Blue, and is considered a little easier than the Gold Course. Although it is no walkover, the generous, carpet-smooth fairways and the four to six tee boxes on every hole, which allows players to tailor their game to their individual ability, makes this course more player-friendly than some others. It is perfectly suited to those who prefer recreational golf and a reasonable amount of challenge to a highly-competitive round that requires near-professional skill and intense concentration. While the eleventh hole is the longest, at 535 yards from the white tees, the par-4 sixth hole is one of the Emerald’s most memorable. Measuring 415 yards from the white tees, this is a downhill dogleg that takes the tee shot onto a generous green, but one that falls off dramatically in different directions into grass bunkers. This can create a tricky situation if the approach shot isn’t accurate. One of the most unique features and the most picturesque part of the Emerald Course can be found at the double green shared by holes No 10 and 17 and where there is a 2.7 million gallon brackish water lake. All in all, with its lovely tropical foliage and abundant ocean views, this is one of Hawaii’s most pleasant golf courses.

Rated among the country’s best golf courses by Golf Digest and Golf Magazine for the quality of its golf courses, accommodation, and welcoming spirit, the amenities at the Wailea Golf Resort are comprehensive. As well as locker rooms, cart, clubs, and shoe rental facilities, there is a practice facility where players can hone their skills, and a 12-acre training area where existing and aspiring golfers can enroll for professional tuition. The resort is home to a multiple award-winning pro shop with a fine selection of high-quality apparel, headwear, shoes, accessories, and equipment. As well as a lively bar, Gannon’s restaurant at the Wailea Golf Club offers some great indoor and outdoor dining options. With a contemporary menu full of Hawaiian flavors and locally-sourced fresh ingredients, the atmosphere is relaxed and the scenery beautiful. Functions, special occasions, and all types of events are also catered for.

Key Features

South Maui resort golf course in Wailea
Address is 100 Wailea Golf Club Drive, Wailea, HI 96753
Designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr.
18-hole, par-72 course
Opened in 1994
Known for ocean views from every hole
Part of Wailea Golf Club, along with the Gold Course and Old Blue Course
Tropical landscaping, lava-rock details and South Maui views shape the setting
Multiple tee choices make the course more approachable for different golfers
Wailea location is close to Kihei, Makena and Wailea resort communities

Frequently Asked Questions

Who designed Wailea Golf Club Emerald Course?

Wailea Golf Club Emerald Course was designed by Robert Trent Jones Jr., whose work emphasizes natural landforms, scenic routing and strategic shot choices.

How is the Emerald Course different from the Gold Course?

The Emerald Course is often described as the more scenic and forgiving of the two, while the Gold Course has a stronger reputation for strategic challenge and preserved lava-rock features.

Why is it called the Emerald Course?

The name reflects the course's lush landscaping, green fairways and tropical South Maui setting above the Wailea resort area.

What makes the views special?

The course sits on rising Wailea land with views toward the Pacific, Molokini, Kahoolawe and the southern Maui shoreline, especially from elevated holes.

Why do many vacation golfers like the Emerald Course?

The course combines resort scenery, wide views, multiple tee choices and a less severe layout than some championship-style courses, making it appealing for a relaxed South Maui golf course visit.