The Royal Ka'anapali Course, a Robert Trent Jones Senior design, opened in 1962 and has tested the skills of golf professionals and amateurs alike. A Par 71 stretching 6,700 yards, the Royal Course combines wide fairways and undulating greens, making it both distinctive and demanding.

Home of the Champions Tour Ka'anapali Classic for 14 years, the Royal Ka'anapali Course also hosted Shell's Wonderful World of Golf, the Canada Cup and LPGA Kemper Open, donning such golfing greats as Jack Nicklaus, Arnold Palmer, Gary Player, Chi Chi Rodriguez, Jan Stephenson and Betsey King. Over the last three years, Ka'anapali Golf Resort has invested over $13 million in renovations and infrastructure. Golf course architect, Robin Nelson, was brought in to oversee the rework of the Ka'anapali Kai Course and "nip/tuck" enhancements to the championship Royal Ka'anapali Course.

The Royal Kaanapali Course begins at sea level with a par 5 hole extending 550 yards. The course hugs the shoreline before winding its way to the West Maui Mountain foothills. Arnold Palmer called the 18th hole (par 4) one of the best and most challenging finishing holes he has ever played. The 449 yard hole plays longer than it looks, hugging the brackish water canal the entire length of the fairway and green, making it a memorable last hole.