The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua Offers Luxury And Unforgettable Experiences

From the moment you step into the fragrant, warm lobby of the Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua, it feels like you have arrived at an extravagant paradise. You are welcomed with a traditional lei and fruit juice, and after a simple check-in process, you are escorted to your room where you have a chance to ask any questions about your accommodations or the property. The attentive staff ensure everything just flows seamlessly, and the Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua is a luxurious getaway in every sense of the word. Here are a few things that you should know if you’re considering a stay.

A Respect for History and Culture

Thanks to the resort’s $100 million transformation that was completed in 2022, the guest rooms and suites look and feel brand new. There were also changes made to ensure that the resort best reflects the stories, culture, and history of Maui.

Hawaiian culture is a part of every aspect of a stay at The Ritz-Carlton Maui. It was originally envisioned as a beachfront property. However, when the excavation process started in 1987, workers found a burial ground where Hawaiians had been buried more than 2,500 years ago. Since this was discovered to be such an important historic and spiritual site, efforts were made to preserve the site and honor its history. The resort now maintains the Honokahua Preservation Site.

Plans to make the Ritz-Carlton a beachfront resort were scrapped. Instead, the builders moved inland with their plans. Now it’s an ocean-view resort. Guests can still enjoy visiting the beach and going back to their ocean-view rooms or suites.

Onsite Activities

Guests can often plan a walking tour to the Honokahua Preservation Site, which is otherwise closed to the public. Classes in lei-making and hula dancing are provided at the hotel for all ages. The onsite spa offers treatments that are inspired by ancient Hawaiian traditions. For a day of relaxation with every comfort you could want, you can rent a cabana by the pool.

36 Holes of Championship Golf

Whether you play golf for fun every now and then or are serious about the sport, you’re sure to be enthralled by the majestic golf course at the resort. The two championship golf courses provide breathtaking scenery and challenging games. Lessons are available from top teachers for those who want to improve and learn more about golfing.

Delicious Dining Options

With a plant-forward menu and incredible vegan options, it’s easy to eat well and healthily at The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua. One restaurant you shouldn’t miss is the Banyan Tree. You can dine outdoors and enjoy the beauty that surrounds you at the property. Some highlights of their menu are the Hawaiian tofu and the grilled ali’i mushrooms.

For a fun indulgence without any guilt, the decadent vegetarian burger at The Burger Shack will be a burger you’ll be longing to taste again well beyond your trip. The veggie burger at the Olu Cafe is also tasty.

Overall, the Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua is happy to accommodate special dining needs and requests. Be sure to let them know about your needs when you arrive to ensure that you have all the current information to enjoy the best meals during your stay.

Ambassadors For The Environment

During your stay at the Ritz-Carlton, enjoy being introduced to some of the cultural traditions of Hawaii through Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors For The Environment. Some of the fun educational adventures you can experience include going for a coastal hike, exploring tide pools, or taking an e-bike tour.

Give Back To Maui

After the horrible 2023 wildfires in Maui, The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua reopened on October 8, 2023, and it’s been going strong and welcoming guests with open arms since then. One of the best ways to support Maui as it continues to still recover is to visit and support local businesses. While you’re staying here, you can look to Maui Nui First for places to shop, dine, and relax while supporting the community and local businesses.

Clifford Nae‘ole, the Hawaiian cultural advisor for The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua, has worked hard for decades to develop an authentic cultural program that educates guests and helps them understand more about how they can best show respect for Hawai‘i and Hawaiians during their time on the island. Nae‘ole explained that the concept of “Aloha” is giving even more than you receive, and that spirit is perfectly embodied here.

Many guests choose to volunteer during their time on the island. Hands On Maui can help coordinate the volunteer efforts that best work for visitors and best benefit the local community.

Savor The Holidays at The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua

Maui is gorgeous year-round, and there are many good reasons why many families decide to make a visit to the island a big part of their holiday traditions. In fact, the festive season might be one of the most joyful times for families to share time at the resort. Instead of snowfall and frigid temperatures, guests are treated to majestic beaches and warm ocean breezes.

Holiday traditions have a marvelously Hawaiian twist. Apple cider is served each afternoon at the lobby lanai. Activities include festive flower crown making and Christmas magnet decorating. On Christmas Eve, families can enjoy a breakfast with Santa Claus and also attend a fun storytelling event with Santa. Special holiday-themed treatments are offered in the luxurious spa, and guests can shop at a holiday pop-up market for unique Hawaiian gifts.