Westin Ka’anapali Offers “Ice” Skating By the Sea

By Vanessa Wolf

The synthetic “Polar Rink” in New York City. Photo courtesy Things To See NYC.

Do strains of “Let it Snow” and “Baby It’s Cold Outside” strike you as out of place here on Maui?

Maybe not so much anymore, as the Westin Ka’anapali Ocean Resort Villas will be opening a hybrid-ice skating rink starting tomorrow, November 28.

Dust off your dazzling Michelle Kwan knock-off dress, as the resort will be transforming its outdoor lawn into a winter wonderland.

They aren’t just talking about snowflake cutouts, holiday lights, or white “snow” from a can either, but a 1000 square foot hybrid ice skating rink, a first here in the islands.

According to the resort’s general manager Angela Nolan, the skating rink will comfortably hold up to 20 people.

“This unique idea was introduced by Robert Megargle, the resort’s director of food & beverage who had implemented a similar program in partnership with BH Skating International in downtown Manhattan,” said Nolan.

“The rink’s surface is made with a synthetic polymer and finished with a natural glide for a real ice feel, allowing the use of ice skates. This is an environmentally sound alternative to real ice as it doesn’t need refrigeration units, generators or electricity,” she further elaborated.

The skating rink is open to guests as well as the public beginning tomorrow through January 2nd.

There is a $15 fee for 30 minutes access to the rink (Editor’s note: there is some confusion about the duration – the official documentation says $15 for one hour but when we called in they said 30 minutes). Since you probably didn’t pack or bring them when you moved here, you’ll likely be relieved to learn that the $15 fee includes skate rental.

Skating hours are Mondays to Fridays from 4 to 9 p.m. and from 1 to 9 p.m. on weekends.

Children must be at least 7-years-old and 42 inches or taller.

The entire rink can be rented for private parties, as well. Rates for two hours – including skate rental – start at $1,500.

Dying to show off your old Peggy Fleming moves to your friends in a more adult setting?

On New Year’s Eve, the rink will be a featured part of the Westin Kaanapali’s “Skate Into The New Year” party. The skating rink will be featuring New Year’s decor, music and special lighting, but wear some knee pads and maybe a helmet, as holiday cocktails will be available at the event as well.

Are you a local artist – sculptor, poet, mime, slack key guitar player, tattoo artist, photographer, pastry chef, performance artist, sand castle builder or comedian – with an interesting story to tell? Know of a great band, artist, author, filmmaker, or event coming to town? Have an idea for a fun or thought-provoking story? Get in touch: we want to hear from you. -Vanessa (@mauinow.com)