The PGA Tour continues its early-season run with the Sony Open in Hawaii, scheduled for January 15–18, 2026, at the historic Waialae Country Club. Played in Honolulu, the Sony Open traditionally follows the season-opening Tournament of Champions and serves as the first full-field event of the calendar year.
A Key Stop in the Early PGA Tour Calendar
The Sony Open occupies a unique place on the PGA Tour schedule. Unlike invitation-only events, it features a full field, giving a wide range of players — established stars, rising talents, and qualifiers — the opportunity to make an early impact. For many golfers, strong results in Honolulu set the tone for the long season ahead and can provide valuable FedExCup momentum.
Held on the island of Oahu, the tournament combines competitive significance with a relaxed but demanding setting, where ocean breezes and firm fairways test precision more than power.
Waialae Country Club: A Course That Rewards Accuracy
Waialae Country Club is one of the Tour’s classic venues, known for its par-70 layout, narrow fairways, and small, well-protected greens. Unlike longer modern courses that favor distance, Waialae consistently rewards accuracy off the tee, sharp iron play, and confident putting.
Wind conditions often play a decisive role, particularly in afternoon rounds, forcing players to manage trajectory and club selection carefully. Historically, winning scores tend to be low, but mistakes are quickly punished, keeping leaderboards tight throughout the four days.
What’s at Stake This Week
The Sony Open offers more than just a trophy. Players compete for:
- PGA Tour victory status
- FedExCup points critical to season-long standings
- Improved positioning for future signature events and majors
For younger players and those outside the top tier, Honolulu represents one of the earliest chances in 2026 to secure career-changing results. Veterans, meanwhile, often use the week to sharpen competitive rhythm after the offseason.
A Tournament with Tradition
The Sony Open has been a fixture in Hawaii for decades and is one of the longest-running events on the PGA Tour calendar. Its role as the bridge between the holiday break and the mainland swing has made it a familiar and respected stop for players and fans alike.
Crowds at Waialae typically bring a mix of local enthusiasm and international attention, reflecting golf’s global appeal early in the season. The relaxed island atmosphere contrasts with the high stakes on the course, creating a distinctive start-of-year energy.
Looking Ahead
As play begins on January 15, the Sony Open in Hawaii will once again signal that the PGA Tour season is fully underway. With four days of competitive golf ahead, Waialae Country Club is set to challenge the field and reward those who combine patience, precision, and consistency.
By the time the final putt drops on January 18, the early outlines of the 2026 PGA Tour season will be clearer — shaped, in part, by who thrives on one of golf’s most familiar and demanding January stages.