Hole 9 at Kapalua Resort (Plantation course)

Par 5 • 521 Yards • Lahaina, Hawaii

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Challenging

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.

Tees:

521y521y490y401y

Green:26y × 38y

Fairway @250y:49y wide

11 Bunkersright dogleg

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Kapalua Resort (Plantation course)

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Hole Stats

Par: 5
Yardage: 521 yds
Green: 5658 sq ft
Bunkers: 11
Course Slope: 140
Course Rating: 75.6

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A dependable fairway wood can turn this par 5 into a real birdie chance.

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Strategy Tips

tee shot

Target the center of the fairway with your driver, as you'll have a generous 61-yard-wide landing area at the 200-yard mark. This sets up the ideal position for your second shot on this reachable par 5.

approach

If going for the green in two, be aware that the fairway narrows significantly to just 49 yards wide at the 250-yard mark. Accuracy becomes critical for longer hitters attempting to get into prime position for an eagle attempt.

green

The green measures 26 yards by 38 yards (5,658 sq ft), providing a substantial target for approach shots. Use the generous green size to your advantage by aiming for the center and letting your natural shot shape work toward pin positions.

hazard warning

Bunkers positioned at 483.5 yards from the tee guard the green complex. If laying up on your second shot, ensure you stay well short of this distance to avoid these greenside hazards and leave yourself a comfortable wedge approach.

approach

At 521 yards, this par 5 is reachable in two shots for longer hitters, but consider the risk-reward carefully. The narrowing fairway and greenside bunkers make accuracy paramount - sometimes laying up to your favorite wedge distance is the smarter play.

train this shot at home

This 521-yard par 5 is ideal for working on your driver accuracy. Launch monitors from $600 let you practice this exact shot with real course data from home.

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Scoring Tip

Scoring on par 5s starts with a smart second shot. Laying up to your favorite wedge distance gives you the best birdie chance.

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Frequently Asked Questions

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.

Can I practice hole 9 on a golf simulator at home?

Yes — many modern launch monitors and simulators include real course data for Kapalua Resort (Plantation course). You can play this exact par 5 shot-by-shot at home. Entry-level options like the SkyTrak+ (around $2,500) and Garmin Approach R10 (around $600) support course play, while premium systems from Trackman and Foresight offer tour-level accuracy. Most systems pay for themselves in a season or two versus green fees and range balls. Shop home golf simulators →