For scratch golfers Waiehu is a breeze and has been the site of the Men’s USGA Publinx Qualifier on many occasions. This is the easiest course on Maui for bogey golfers. Ladies will find more challenge here than on four other Maui courses. Wind is a big factor but doesn’t hurt too much because it comes in from the side, and most of the course’s holes route parallel to the sea. The front plays mostly level with the exception of one par 3, which plays downhill. The back rolls more with holes playing in the direction of all four cardinal points of the compass—a hallmark of a good layout.

This used to be the cheapest game in town, and for locals, it still is. But even if you can swing a 4pm tee time at Maui nui for $11, is paying five or six holes there comparable to this? Not on your life. Waiehu has more bang for your buck than any golf course in what I’ll call the ‘value’ price bracket. It is no frills to a tee, but then are you really a golfer or is your priority to get a mani-pedi on the side? To live or visit the tropics and not imbibe in what is the most old Hawaii vibe there is begs to ask: ‘what gives?’ But, truth be told many do not play here, including yours truly, enough.