Bone-Dry Conditions at Kapalua Golf Course: What's Happening?

KAPALUA, Hawaii, Oct. 31, 2025 /PRNewswire/

If you’ve driven past the Kapalua Golf Course lately, you’ve probably noticed the fairways looking unusually dry — not what we expect from the lush home of the world-famous Sentry PGA Tournament.

The Short Version

It’s a water dispute.

Kapalua’s owner, TY Management, and Maui Land & Pineapple (MLP), the operator of the local water system, have been in conflict over the century-old Honokōhau Ditch System that supplies irrigation to the area. TY Management claims MLP hasn’t maintained it properly, leading to leaks and inconsistent flow. MLP points to the ongoing drought and low stream levels. TY also says it’s been blocked from using nearby wells that could have helped.

The Bigger Picture

Because West Maui is designated as a Water Management District, the state sets strict priorities when drought hits: cultural and traditional uses come first, then drinking water for residents, and finally irrigation for golf courses and resorts.

When conservation guidelines weren’t met, restrictions escalated from partial to a full irrigation ban this year. Both sides are now accusing each other of violating the rules, and it appears the matter will end up in court.

What It Means for the Sentry Tournament

The dispute doesn’t bode well for the PGA’s first event of the year — the Sentry Tournament of Champions, which Kapalua has hosted since 1999. It’s a major economic driver for the island, canceling the Sentry Golf Tournament is a travesty for Maui’s economy and tourism.

At this point, we understand that water service has been restored, suggesting some form of settlement has been reached — unfortunately, not soon enough to save this year’s event.

It’s a real loss for Maui: the Sentry Tournament brings not only vital economic activity but also four days of national television exposure showcasing the beauty of our island.

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