Month: October 2021

Best Places to Golf in Kapalua and Kaanapali

Sure, Maui is famous for its pristine beaches and luxury resorts, but this island paradise has a lot more to offer when it comes to recreation. Aside from surfing and snorkelling, Maui is also a world-class destination for golf, especially on the west side of the island, home to Kapalua and Kaanapali. So, it comes as no surprise why real estate in West Maui is in such great demand! Here are several courses in West Maui that are favorites of many homebuyers here:

The Plantation Course
The Plantation Course at Kapalua Bay is a 7,411-yard golf course that is often at the top of many “best golf courses in Hawaii” lists. Set on the gentle slopes of the West Maui Mountains, close to Kapalua Bay, this world-class golf course is surrounded by stunning scenery and opens to the sweeping views of the ocean. The area is also home to numerous luxury condominium residences, such as the Kapalua Bay Villas, a lavish development located in the heart of the Kapalua Resort. Every January, the Plantation Course is host to the PGA Tour’s Sentry Tournament of Champions. During this time of the year, thousands of people flock to the island to witness this spectacular sports event. The Plantation Course has hosted some of the most popular players in the history of golf, such as Justin Leonard, Vijay Singh, Ernie Els, and the legendary Tiger Woods. The Plantation Course’s 18-holes laid across a long-winded course present some challenges even to professional players. However, its expansive fairways and generous greens make it a wonderful place to enjoy a round of golf for players of all skill levels.

The Bay Course at Kapalua
Another popular golf course that has hosted several major professional golf tournaments is the Bay Course at Kapalua. Beautifully landscaped and overlooking stunning views towards the island of Molokai, this iconic property has hosted more than 20 professional golf tournaments since it opened in 1975. Designed by architects Francis Duane and Arnold Palmer, the Bay Course is very popular, yet it still maintains a down-to-earth, friendly vibe. The Bay Course is the original golf course within the grounds of Kapalua Bay and has hosted some of the best players in golf history. Even though the Bay Course at Kapalua is user-friendly for the average golfer, the course’s signature hole, the only hole on Maui to play over the ocean, can prove to be challenging for most golfers. If you are looking for a uniquely challenging course surrounded by breathtaking views, you should not miss the opportunity to play at The Bay Course at Kapalua.

Royal Kaanapali Golf Course at the Kaanapali Resort
Designed by famed golf course architect Robert Trent Jones Sr., the Royal Kaanapali course has been one of Maui’s most visited golf courses since it opened in 1962. This 18-hole course is about 6,700 yards, stretching from Maui’s western coastline at sea level before winding towards the foothills of the West Maui Mountains. One of the best features of the Royal Kaanapali is the 5th hole, which takes players directly down to the famous Black Rock Beach. This golf course has a rich history over the years, having been host to the LPGA Kemper Cup and Champions Tour Kaanapali Classic. Arnold Palmer, one of the world’s most famous golfers, is even said to find the Kaanapali Royal’s 18th hole to be one of the most challenging finishing holes he has ever played!

Kaanapali Kai Course
Set on Maui’s West Coast, the Kaanapali Kai Golf Course is one of the most versatile golf courses on the island. Known for its scenic views and easy-going vibe, this course caters to golfers of all skills, from beginners to professionals alike. Here you can play a round of golf amongst the course’s gentle slopes and wide-open spaces, all while surrounded by the gorgeous ocean views stretching out to the islands of Molokai and Lanai. This 18-hole golf course was originally designed by architect Arthur Jack Snyder back in 1967. Since then, it has undergone several renovations, and in 2005, it was re-designed by architect Robin Nelson. Although the terrain is somewhat similar to that of the Royal Kaanapali Golf Course, it features gentle slopes that run up and down on the fairways.

Ready to purchase your dream home on the golf course in Kapalua? Contact me today!

Moving to Maui Tips

Are you thinking of moving to Maui? Relocating to Maui is a dream shared by many people around the world. Who wouldn’t want to spend every day on a sandy beach, listening to waves and soaking up the incredible views around you? As we all know, moving to the most isolated population center in the world does bring with it a unique set of minor challenges; most of which I hope to assist you in overcoming with this handy guide to moving to Maui:

Know the Basics
Before you move to Maui, take time to visit the island and explore the area you plan to call home. For instance, if you want to live in West Maui, check out the neighborhoods around Kapalua, Kaanapali, Kahana, etc. and get a feel for the local community. As one of the best islands in the world to live in, Maui is home to many neighborhoods that cater to an exceedingly diverse community; with homes in Kaanapali and Kapalua often in great demand. But before you decide which area of Maui best suits your needs, get a glimpse of the neighborhood first and see what it’s like to live there. The goal is to have a solid picture of the area you will soon call home. In addition, find out what the weather is like in the area you’re interested in as well as Maui has quite a diverse geography. For instance, if you don’t like lots of rain, then the West and South sides of the island are great areas to consider. These areas include Lahaina, Kaanapali, and Kapalua in West Maui, as well as the areas of Wailea and Makena in South Maui. Another bonus for those looking to live in any of these areas; the beach is usually just a few minutes away from your front door when you choose to live here!

Cost of Living
Another thing to consider when moving to Maui is the cost of living. The cost of living on Maui trends towards the higher end of the spectrum. While many whom are looking to purchase a home here may have no problem paying higher prices for most things here, it is advisable to seek out information on how much essential items and services tend to run here, and plan ahead accordingly.  In addition to material costs, do remember that shipping items to Maui also takes longer than most places in the continental United States as well.

Other Factors to Consider
There are several other important factors to consider when moving to Maui: One such factor is crime. Just as virtually any other human inhabited place on earth has its share of crime among its populace, so too does Maui. However, Maui typically enjoys a lower rate of crime per capita than other US states, making Maui a great choice to live for virtually for anyone. If you are moving here with young children, or are planning to start a family here, Maui has a number of noteworthy private schools to consider enrolling your child in. With private schooling available in West Maui and Upcountry Maui, you will have great options available for your children regardless of what part of the island you decide to move to.

What to Bring When Moving to Maui
When relocating to Maui, it’s a good idea to keep things as minimal as possible. If you do find yourself needing to ship large items, heavy items, or a large amount of items, this can be done via ocean freight to the islands. One item you will definitely want to ship here is your car(s.) Much of Maui trends more towards a rural lifestyle; as such having reliable transportation here is essential. If you are bringing your pets, then be aware that Hawaii has specific policies for importing pets. It is possible to bring your furry friends with you, but you will want to plan this well and be prepared to quarantine them for a period of time. You may also need to make sure that their vaccinations are up to date and that you have copies of their vet records.

Ready to make your move to Maui? Contact me today with any moving questions you may have, and let me help you find the home of your dreams here on Maui! Mahalo!