Hole 3 at Kapalua Resort (Plantation course)
- Par
- 4
- Yardage
- 380 yds
- Stroke index
- 3
- Hazards
- 9 bunkers
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 38 yds deep × 30 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 · 380 yards
The plan for No. 3
The third hole at Kapalua Resort's legendary Plantation course presents a deceptively challenging par 4 that epitomizes championship golf in paradise. This 380-yard test plays straight down a generous fairway framed by the dramatic Maui landscape, but don't let the lack of hazards fool you—the small green demands precision on the approach shot. Trade winds swirling through the West Maui Mountains add complexity to club selection, while the elevated tee provides stunning ocean vistas that can distract from the task at hand. The compact putting surface rewards accurate iron play, as missing the target leaves difficult recovery shots from the surrounding slopes. With its ranking as the third-hardest hole on the course, this strategic par 4 exemplifies why Kapalua Resort (Plantation course) has hosted the PGA Tour's season opener for decades, combining natural beauty with championship-caliber golf strategy.
Off the tee
The wide-open fairway invites an aggressive tee shot, but smart players focus on position over power. Target the center-left portion of the fairway to create the optimal approach angle. Driver is the obvious choice for most players, though longer hitters might consider a 3-wood or hybrid to ensure they stay in the ideal landing zone around 250-280 yards from the tee. The elevated tee provides extra carry, so factor in the additional distance when selecting your target. Pay close attention to wind direction - the prevailing trade winds typically blow from right to left, so aim slightly right of your intended target to account for drift.
Approach & recovery
With the small green as your target, precision trumps power on the approach shot. Most players will face a mid-iron to short-iron into the green, depending on tee shot distance and wind conditions. The compact green size means there's little room for error - focus on hitting the center of the green regardless of pin position. Club selection becomes critical in Maui's windy conditions. Take at least one extra club when hitting into the wind, and consider taking less club when the wind is helping. The elevated nature of many areas at Kapalua can create swirling winds, so observe the flag and nearby vegetation before commiting to your club choice.
On the green
The small green creates challenging putting scenarios, particularly when the pin is tucked near edges. Focus on lag putting to the center of the green when facing longer putts - the compact surface means most putts will have manageable breaks. Pay attention to the grain of the Bermuda grass, which typically grows toward the ocean. Putts with the grain will run faster and break more, while putts against the grain require firmer strokes. Morning rounds often feature slower greens due to dew, while afternoon conditions typically play faster.
Watch for
- Sand — Crossing center (center)
Hole 3 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 5,105 sq ft
How did Hole 3 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Championship tees · 380 yards.
What's the best strategy off the tee?
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For this 380-yard par 4, most players will hit 3-wood or driver to set up a comfortable approach.
How difficult is hole 3?
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This hole is a good scoring opportunity for most golfers.
How big is the green on hole 3?
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The green is medium-sized with moderate targets. Pay attention to pin placement when selecting your approach club.
What's a good score on hole 3?
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This hole is a medium-length test where par is a solid result. A straightforward par 4 where course management pays off.