The PGA Tour cancels The Sentry 2026 due to ongoing drought and water shortages in Kapalua, starting the new season in Hawaii with the Sony Open.
The long-standing staple of the PGA Tour calendar, The Sentry at Kapalua Resort, will be missing in 2026. The reasons lie literally in the ground – or more precisely: the lack of water. The ongoing drought on Maui, combined with irrigation restrictions and numerous logistical challenges, led to the decision not to hold the tournament. This marks the end of the PGA Tour’s usual season opener at a course renowned since 1999 for spectacular drives and stunning Pacific backdrops.
Water supply cut – course conditions unsuitable for PGA Tour
By August 2025, it was clear that the Plantation Course faced serious challenges. Water supply was nearly completely halted, forcing the closure of both courses at Kapalua. Even after partial easing of restrictions, the available water was too limited to restore the course to its usual condition. The PGA Tour dispatched agronomy teams, but their verdict was unanimous: no tournament could commence under these conditions. An alternative venue was considered but quickly deemed unrealistic due to transportation, infrastructure, and scheduling issues.
What’s next for the season opener?
The return of The Sentry in 2027 remains uncertain. Behind the scenes, the PGA Tour is working on a new schedule and is contemplating moving the season start to February to allow more focus and less competition with the NFL. Tiger Woods leads the committee crafting proposals for a modernized structure. No final decision has been made yet.
Meanwhile, the Sony Open in Honolulu will take over the season-opening role, starting January 15 at the Waialae Country Club. This change represents more than a minor calendar shift for the PGA Tour. For many years, The Sentry was the event where the previous year’s champion and top 50 players welcomed the new year in a relaxed atmosphere. Now, the season launches directly with a full field. Whether and when The Sentry will return remains open – one thing is certain: 2026 will be quiet in Kapalua.