Hole 13 at Kapalua Resort (Plantation course)
- Par
- 4
- Yardage
- 407 yds
- Stroke index
- 4
- Hazards
- 4 bunkers
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 40 yds deep × 43 yds wide
Scorecard yardage is for Championship tees. The aerial shows its labeled reference position; distance rings measure to the green.
Championship tees · Par 4 · 407 yards
The plan for No. 13
The 13th hole at Kapalua Resort's legendary Plantation course presents a deceptively straightforward par 4 that demands precision over power. This 407-yard test plays straight ahead with no significant hazards, yet its 4-handicap rating reveals the subtle challenges that await. The elevated tee provides stunning views across Maui's dramatic landscape, but players must focus on finding the optimal position for their approach to the small, well-protected green. The absence of water and bunkers shifts emphasis to course management and green-reading skills. Wind conditions, typical of this clifftop Hawaiian venue, can dramatically alter club selection and strategy. What makes this hole memorable is its pure golf challenge – no tricks or gimmicks, just solid shot-making rewarded on one of golf's most scenic stages.
Off the tee
The key to success starts with selecting the right club off the tee to leave your preferred approach distance. Most players should consider hitting less than driver to ensure they're in their comfort zone for the second shot. A 3-wood or hybrid that leaves you with a mid-iron approach often proves more effective than a driver that forces an awkward wedge distance. Target the center of the fairway without overthinking lateral positioning - the straight design allows for aggressive accuracy down the middle. Focus on tempo and solid contact rather than extra distance, as course management becomes critical with the small green ahead.
Approach & recovery
The small green is the hole's primary defense and demands your full attention on club selection. Take extra time to factor in wind conditions, as the elevated Maui location can create swirling breezes that affect ball flight significantly. Aim for the center of the green regardless of pin position - the small target makes aggressive pin-hunting a high-risk strategy. A controlled mid-iron or long-iron shot that finds the putting surface anywhere gives you a legitimate birdie opportunity, while missing the green often leads to difficult up-and-down scenarios.
On the green
With limited real estate to work with, lag putting becomes essential. Focus on getting your first putt within a comfortable two-putt range rather than being overly aggressive. The small surface means even modest breaks can take putts well off line. Read putts carefully from multiple angles, as the compact green can hide subtle slopes that become magnified over short distances. Conservative putting strategy typically yields better results than aggressive lines on this tight target.
Watch for
- Sand — Crossing center (center)
- Woods — Crossing center (center)
Hole 13 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 8,662 sq ft
How did Hole 13 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Championship tees · 407 yards.
What's the best strategy off the tee?
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For this 407-yard par 4, most players will hit driver to set up a comfortable approach.
How difficult is hole 13?
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This hole is a good scoring opportunity for most golfers. Key challenges include: large green requiring good lag putting.
How big is the green on hole 13?
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The green is large and can play quite long. Three-putt territory if you don't manage your approach distance well.