Hole 15 at Kapalua Resort (Plantation course)
- Par
- 5
- Yardage
- 555 yds
- Stroke index
- 6
- Hazards
- 2 bunkers
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 38 yds deep × 39 yds wide
Scorecard yardage is for Championship tees. The aerial shows its labeled reference position; distance rings measure to the green.
Championship tees · Par 5 · 555 yards
The plan for No. 15
The 15th hole at Kapalua Resort's Plantation course presents a strategic par 5 that demands precision over power across its 555 yards. This straight-away layout may appear straightforward, but the absence of traditional hazards places premium emphasis on course management and green-reading skills. The hole's deceptive challenge lies in its small, subtly contoured putting surface that rewards accurate approach shots while punishing those who miss their target. With trade winds swirling through the Maui landscape, club selection becomes crucial on the final approach to this diminutive green complex. Smart players will favor position over distance, setting up manageable angles for their third shot to this demanding target that has tested PGA Tour professionals during the Tournament of Champions.
Off the tee
The opening shot should prioritize finding the fairway center, as the straight layout provides a generous target line down the middle. Driver is typically the play for most golfers, but consider wind conditions carefully - into the wind, you'll need every yard you can get, while downwind conditions might call for a more controlled 3-wood to ensure proper positioning. Aim for the heart of the fairway, as the lack of significant hazards means your primary concern is maintaining an optimal angle for your second shot. The elevated tees here can create optical illusions, so trust your yardage and commit to your target line.
Approach & recovery
Your second shot strategy depends heavily on your driving distance and current wind conditions. Longer hitters may have an opportunity to reach the small green in two, but the risk-reward calculation must account for the challenging target size. Most players should plan for a layup shot that leaves a comfortable wedge distance to the pin - typically laying up to around 100-120 yards out. Focus on the center-left portion of the fairway for your layup, as this provides the best angle into the small green. Club selection for the layup is crucial: take enough club to clear any rough areas but not so much that you run through the ideal landing zone.
On the green
The small green demands precision on your approach shot, whether it's your second or third. Pin position becomes critical here - when the flag is tucked, play to the center of the green and take your two-putt par. The putting surface can be affected by wind, so read putts carefully and pay attention to grain direction, which typically runs toward the ocean. Uphill putts will be slower than they appear, while downhill putts can get away quickly on this firm surface. Leave approach shots below the hole whenever possible.
Watch for
- Sand — Crossing center (center)
- Woods — Crossing center (center)
Hole 15 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 6,837 sq ft
How did Hole 15 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Championship tees · 555 yards.
Can this par 5 be reached in two?
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At 555 yards, A true three-shot hole for most players. Position your layup to leave a comfortable wedge distance.
How big is the green on hole 15?
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The green is fairly large with multiple pin positions. Lag putting becomes important on longer putts.