Ka'anapali Kai Golf Course

Ka'anapali Kai Golf Course is a West Maui resort course with ocean views, lava rock features, rolling fairways and a more relaxed layout than the Royal Course.

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.

Key Features

West Maui resort golf course in the Ka'anapali area
Shorter and more relaxed than the Royal Ka'anapali Course
Ocean views, West Maui Mountain views and resort scenery
Rolling fairways, lava rock features and trade-wind conditions
Course history connected with Arthur Jack Snyder, Robin Nelson and Nelson & Haworth
Convenient for visitors staying in Ka'anapali, Lahaina, Napili and Kapalua
Close to Ka'anapali Beach, Whalers Village and other West Maui resort areas
A scenic option for golfers who want a resort round without the longer championship feel of the Royal Course

Frequently Asked Questions

Why is it called the Kai Course?

Kai means sea, and the name fits the course's West Maui setting near Ka'anapali Beach, where several holes have ocean views and open resort scenery.

How is Ka'anapali Kai different from the Royal Course?

The Kai Course is generally shorter and more relaxed, while the Royal Course is the longer championship layout. Many golfers choose Kai for a lighter resort round with plenty of scenery.

Who helped shape the Kai Course?

The course began as an executive layout associated with Arthur Jack Snyder and was later reshaped with work connected to Robin Nelson and Nelson & Haworth.

What makes the course feel different from Central Maui golf?

Ka'anapali Kai plays through a resort landscape close to the ocean, with West Maui Mountain views, lava rock, palms and trade winds rather than the open dune terrain found in Central Maui.

What should photographers look for on the course?

Look for views toward the ocean, the West Maui Mountains, lava rock edges and late-day light across the fairways, especially when clouds gather around the slopes above Ka'anapali.