The tournament move will form a dynamic two-event Hawaiian swing next March, pairing the Lotte Championship on Maui with the inaugural Nanea Cup in Kailua-Kona. Featuring a $3 million purse, the relocated event reflects the LPGA’s broader ambition to elevate its global schedule by partnering with world-class venues steeped in professional golf heritage.
Historic Venue Transitions From PGA Tour to LPGA Following Abrupt Departure
The PGA Tour’s signature Sentry event enjoyed a prominent 25-year history at the Plantation Course at Kapalua Resort, establishing Maui as a premier destination on the professional circuit. However, that relationship came to an abrupt end in April when PGA executives announced the organization would have no tournament presence in Hawaii for the upcoming season.
The decision followed the cancellation of the 2026 Maui tournament, which was forced off the schedule due to persistent drought-like conditions across the Kapalua course. Although the course reopened to the public last November, growing concerns on the PGA Tour’s side were not sufficiently quelled to prevent the organization from moving away from the island.
Hawaii Swing Pairs Relocated Lotte Championship With Inaugural Nanea Cup
Stepping into the void, the LPGA Tour will relocate the Lotte Championship from Hoakalei Country Club in Honolulu—where Thailand’s Jeeno Thitikul won last week—to its new home on Maui. The event will partner with the newly established Nanea Cup in Kailua-Kona to create an exciting two-tournament Hawaiian swing scheduled for next March.
With a substantial $3 million purse allocated for the 2027 edition, the venue change provides the tournament with a prestigious new backdrop. The shift marks a major expansion of top-tier women’s professional golf across the Hawaiian islands.
LPGA Leadership Praises Deep-Rooted Heritage of Kapalua Plantation Course
LPGA Commissioner Craig Kessler expressed enthusiasm for the relocation in an official news release, highlighting the importance of securing venues with rich historical significance. Kessler noted that as the organization strengthens the LPGA Tour schedule, iconic locations like Kapalua represent exactly what the tour seeks for its marquee competitions.
The commissioner extended gratitude to both Lotte and Kapalua Resort for their commitment to making the strategic move possible. He also offered sincere thanks to Hoakalei Country Club for hosting the event over the past five years while expressing excitement for building a successful future at the new Maui location.
Kapalua Prepares for New Chapter in Professional Tournament Golf
The arrival of the Lotte Championship ensures that championship golf will continue to thrive on Maui despite recent schedule disruptions. Local organizers and golf enthusiasts have welcomed the LPGA’s arrival, anticipating strong international field participation and substantial global broadcast coverage.
As preparations begin for the 2027 event, the Plantation Course at Kapalua Resort begins an exciting new chapter. The partnership reinforces Hawaii’s enduring role as a pivotal hub for elite professional golf competitions.