The Challenge at Manele

Share Now:
Pin Share

High above the crashing surf of Hulopo’e Bay, Manele Golf Course is the premier 18-hole layout in Lanai, Hawaii, with a reputation for excellence in design and playability.

Built on lava outcroppings, the course features three holes on cliffs, which use the Pacific Ocean as a water hazard. The five-tee concept challenges the best golfers – tee shots over natural gorges and ravines must be precise.

The spectacular natural setting of The Challenge at Manele guarantees an unforgettable round for every golfer who plays here. Perched atop 200-foot cliffs, the course offers dramatic views of the ocean from all 18 holes. Lush, green fairways are bordered by black lava outcroppings, reminders of the ancient origins of Lana’i.

Carved out of the rugged coast, the Challenge at Manele sprawls across ancient lava fields, with 180-degree ocean panoramas from every hole. Red cliffs plunging down to blue sea, green fairways engulfing white sand traps, and blossoms from fissures in the black lava rock.

This was the palette of designer Jack Nicklaus, who shaped the 7,039–yard, par 72 championship course, carefully protecting and preserving the archaeological ruins within its borders.

Teeing off from the cliffs at Hulopoe Bay with the Pacific surging below, you face perhaps the world’s most unforgiving water hazard. The twelfth hole is nothing short of a leap of faith, with 200 yards of churning waves to cross.