Mauna Lani Resort, North Course, Kohala Coast, Hawaii - Great Golf and Panoramic Views of the Ocean and Mountains

The Mauna Lani Resort boasts two golf course, with the North Course considered the more challenging and the one coveted by better players. The course is carved from the top of an ancient lava flow of sinuous, brown forms of pahoehoe (smooth lava), and features lush, rolling fairways and inviting greens.

The 18-hole, par-72 course plays to a maximum length of 6,938 yards with a USGA rating of 73.2 and a slope rating of 133. One of the biggest challenges for golfers is keeping the ball in the short Bahia grass on a course where groves of twisted kiawe (mesquite) trees abound on nearly every hole. Herds of feral goats also frequent the course, and golfers must be aware of such wildlife as the beasts move from hole to hole.

Some of the more noteworthy holes include the course's signature hole and one of the most distinctive. The par-3 No. 17 begins on an elevated tee that plays to a wide green situated like a bowl amid an "amphitheater'' formed of intimidating lava rock. At a mere 144 yards, golfers might be tempted to take this hole lightly. But a large bunker guards the front of what appears to be an inviting green, and ever-present and shifting trade winds add to the challenge.

Another noteworthy hole is No. 9, a long par-4 that plays toward the ocean. A wayward shot to the left is out of bounds as golfers approach the green, which is guarded on the right by water. Because of its length, 415 yards from the middle tees, most golfers face a daunting, full-approach shot to have any hope of making par.

Hole No. 14 is a short par-3 that plays to only 131 yards from the back tees. The challenge comes, however, as golfers tee off from a bluff to a green 30 feet below. The green is guarded by sand and water on the right as the putting surface juts into the hazard.

Mauna Lani Resort has received a Gold Medal Award from GOLF Magazine every year since 1988, and also played host to the Senior Skins Golf Game for 11 years.

The Mauna Lani Resort Golf Shop carries the latest in equipment and apparel, and the resort also offers instruction at its Mauna Lani Golf Academy. After a round of golf, Kickers Bar is available for light snacks and beverages.

In addition to golf, the resort features a uniquely Hawaiin spa that has been ranked by Travel & Leisure magazine as one of the "World's Best Spas.'' The Mauna Lani Spa features a wide array of treatments.

The resort also features a Fitness Club, with state-of-the-art equipment, classes - such as yoga, body sculpting, turbo kick boxing, and spinning - as well as a lap pool.

For dining, the resort offers several setting with stunning settings and views. The Bay

Terrace offers a garden-style setting and breakfast buffet to start the day. The Ocean Grill is a poolside venue that overlooks the ocean and offers lunch and evening cocktails. For more elegant dining, the Canoehouse features award-winning Hawaiian cuisine and fresh sushi.