Hole 9 at Kapalua Resort (Plantation course)
- Par
- 5
- Yardage
- 521 yds
- Stroke index
- 1
- Hazards
- 11 bunkers
Aerial source not provided
Green size: 31 yds deep × 38 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 · 521 yards
The plan for No. 9
The signature finishing hole at Kapalua Resort (Plantation course) presents a deceptively challenging par 5 that has tested the world's best players during the PGA Tour's Tournament of Champions. At 521 yards, this straight hole may appear straightforward, but the small green complex demands precision on every shot. The generous fairway invites aggressive play off the tee, yet the diminutive putting surface punishes any approach shot that strays from its intended target. Trade winds swirling across the Maui coastline add an unpredictable element, making club selection crucial for the final approach. As the number one handicap hole, this finishing test separates contenders from pretenders, requiring both power and finesse to secure a closing birdie on one of Hawaii's most prestigious golf courses.
Off the tee
Your tee shot strategy should prioritize finding the fairway center, giving yourself the best angle for your second shot. A smooth driver or 3-wood that finds the short grass is far more valuable than an aggressive swing that might find trouble. Focus on a target line down the middle of the fairway, as this straight layout rewards accuracy over distance. The key is positioning yourself for a comfortable second shot, whether you're going for the green in two or laying up strategically.
Approach & recovery
The approach shot presents the hole's greatest strategic decision point. Stronger players may attempt to reach the small green in two, but this requires perfect execution given the target's size. For most golfers, a well-planned layup to your favorite wedge distance proves the smarter play. When laiing up, consider the pin position and approach angle - leaving yourself a full shot rather than an awkward in-between distance. If going for the green, aim for the center and accept any pin position, as the small target leaves little margin for error.
On the green
The small green demands precise putting and careful speed control. With limited real estate, lag putting becomes crucial - getting your first putt close is more important than being aggressive with longer attempts. Read the subtle breaks carefully, as even minor slopes are magnified on a smaller surface. Focus on leaving yourself uphill putts when possible, and remember that two-putting from anywhere on this green represents solid course management.
Watch for
- Sand — Crossing center (center)
- Woods — Crossing center (center)
Hole 9 Green Complex
Mapped green boundary
Green size: 5,658 sq ft
How did Hole 9 play?
How did this hole play today?
Frequently asked questions
Yardage reference: Championship tees · 521 yards.
Can this par 5 be reached in two?
↓
At 521 yards, A true three-shot hole for most players. Position your layup to leave a comfortable wedge distance.
How difficult is hole 9?
↓
This hole is a good scoring opportunity for most golfers.
How big is the green on hole 9?
↓
The green is medium-sized with moderate targets. The green is deeper than wide, so club selection is crucial. Pay attention to pin placement when selecting your approach club.
What's a good score on hole 9?
↓
This hole is a solid birdie opportunity with smart layup strategy. Most golfers can reach in three. Position your layup to leave a comfortable wedge.