The Ka'anapali Kai Golf Course is located on land that was once home to a sugarcane plantation. Originally built as an executive course and later redesigned in the 1970s by architect Arthur Jack Snyder, Ka'anapali Kai is one of two championship courses at the Ka'anapali Resort. It is shorter, narrower, more forgiving, and has a lower slope rating that its sister course, the Royal Ka'anapali. Following another renovation by course architect Robin Nelson in 2008, Ka'anapali Kai played host to the ladies of Golf Channel’s Big Break Ka'anapali.
With superb views of the West Maui coast and of neighboring islands Molokai and Lanai, this is an 18-hole, par-70 course. At 6,388 yards, it is made up of subtle, undulating greens that are equally suitable for beginners and seasoned players. Some of the special features that make this course an enjoyable experience are the lava rock boundaries, the gulches, and natural canals. Native flora adorns the course – bougainvillea, hibiscus, and plumeria – and many of the fairways are lined with coconut trees and Norfolk Pine. The course has a forward set of "Hibiscus" tees and many of the holes are tucked away into the mountainside. Round strategy is considered more important than distance on this scenic and player-friendly course.
All the usual amenities associated with a top-rated golf resort are available at Ka'anapali Kai. The usual club and cart rental service is available, and there is a Golf Academy where newcomers can book in to learn the game or existing players can book some tuition to improve their game. Group tournaments and outings are catered for and these can be tailored to specific requirements. The shop offers a fine selection of apparel, equipment, giftware, and logoed merchandise. There are also bar and restaurant facilities on site. Above all, perhaps, Ka'anapali Resort is a hub of social activity where people can get together in small or large groups to play, chat, relax, and have fun.
