Travel Articles

I used to wonder why people would fly for 12 hours from the east coast of the U.S. to get to Hawaii when there are so many islands that are closer and easier to get to. Then, I was convinced to try it and spent a week on Maui. Boy did I feel silly! All it takes to justify the long trip is one sunset on the beach on Maui. It really is one of the most beautiful spots in the world and there’s a lot to do besides golf, but golf is why we’re here, so let’s get to it.

The Royal Kaanapali is a public course but I guarantee that you’ll feel very special when you walk out there
and start your round. The setting and the scenery are spectacular, so be sure to stay focused on your game. We’re playing the North Course today and it is a beauty. It’s laid out along the coastline so you can see the ocean from almost anywhere on the course and the Par 5 fifth hole takes you right down to the beach.

The first hole is a Par 5, 530 yard beauty that has water along the right side all the way from the tee to the green. It’s a dogleg right too and the conventional wisdom on this hole is to play your first and second shot a bit left of center. There’s a series of traps around the green on the left and right and a smaller one behind it. If this one didn’t leave you too weak in the knees, let’s continue.

The 473 yard, Par 5 fifth hole may be the prettiest on the course. The fairway bunkers you’ll see on the left when you’re teeing off are your first obstacle. Local pros say long hitters should probably try to carry them – so go for it if you can whomp your tee shot. Your second shot should be an unobstructed blast toward the green. If you’re hitting it straight, the only thing you need to worry about are the two bunkers guarding the front of the green and being distracted by the sound of the waves rolling up on the beautiful beach just off the fairway.

It’s a tough choice deciding which hole to talk about on this course, but the 17th is one you will really enjoy. It’s a 158 yard, Par 3 with a very pretty lagoon, with a fountain, between you and your destination. The word here is that if the Trade Winds are blowing the day you’re playing, use more club. Most errors tend to be short and left, so be careful! If you survive the 17th, you’ll really enjoy the last hole.

I didn’t win any trophys for my efforts at Kaanapali, but it sure was a memorable day. The surroundings are just magnificent and even if you’re a casual player, it’s well worth your time to play a round at this beautiful club.

Pete Cullen runs Great Web Resources. For more information about golf resorts and equipment, please visit: http://www.Great-Web-Resources.com/gpage33.html