Nestled among 22,000 acres of pristine island, The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua might just be that perfect destination for both active and laid back travelers. The resort has been a favorite for couples and families for a long time as it offers that perfect blend of amenities that families are looking for while at the same time keeping up the luxury getaway standard that couples expect when traveling to Maui.
The resort has recently undergone a $100 million renovation during which nearly every element of the property was touched – from the guest rooms and restaurants to the pool areas and even the elevators – and seemingly every design choice emphasizes native Hawaiian culture.
Upon arriving at The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua, guests will be welcomed by bright and colorful native flora and fauna that flow into the all-new lobby lanai featuring unobstructed views of Honokahua Bay. The infinity-edge lanai is equally breathtaking as it is meaningful, honoring Hawaiian culture and telling the story of Kapalua.
The hand-carved wooden kapa panels adorning the space symbolize the six bays surrounding the resort that were favorites of the Hawaiian chiefs. The distinct lighting fixtures are inspired by ancient fishing traps, which were designed to catch fish for royalty. With multiple seating areas, complete with firepits, the lanai offers a lively and inviting atmosphere from sunrise to sunset.
“The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua is a special place for our guests just as Kapalua once was for the great Hawaiian chiefs,” said Clifford Nae’ole, Hawaiian cultural advisor at The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua.“Each element, no matter how big or small, has important significance in Hawaiian culture and we hope that our guests will enjoy them for both their beauty and meaning.”
Upon entering the sunlit lounge, guests are immediately transported to a tranquil indoor-outdoor sanctuary with commanding views of majestic Molokai and the 15th hole of the Bay Golf Course. Awash in calming hues with pops of bright tropical color reflecting the resort’s natural surroundings, this exclusive hideaway is a coveted private escape for the resort’s most discerning guests.
Embracing Maui’s natural beauty and rich cultural heritage, the new guest rooms, suites, and residences, all with private terraces, feature delicate sand tones and custom wood finishes, evoking a feeling of calm and serenity. Azure blue and deep green accents echo the captivating hues of the sparkling ocean and lush flora while floor-to-ceiling windows welcome the island environment inside creating a unique sense of place found nowhere else.
The Ritz-Carlton sophistication with a Hawaiian sense of place. The aesthetic continues into the hallways with rich, dark wood finishes and pops of color from the tropical-inspired carpeting
For guests looking to experience the beauty and wonder of Kapalua in an even more private setting, the Resort will debut The Fire Lanai Collection, a new premium room category in December. Located on the ground floor of the Napili Tower, each room will feature extended lanais with a shade trellis, a hammock, sun deck, and fire pit inviting guests to enjoy Maui indoor-outdoor living at its best.
A centerpiece of the sprawling open-air resort is the expansive 10,000-square-foot reimagined pool experience. Inspired by a famous natural lava rock formation in front of the resort at Makaluapuna Point, the resort’s three zero edge pools connected by cascading waterfalls, form a fleur-de-lis and are surrounded by lush tropical florals. The natural inspiration is meant to extend the beach feel from the shore onto the property. Each individual pool features in-water lounges, allowing guests to relax while keeping cool in addition to ample seating options around each one.
For those individuals looking for an even more luxurious and private experience, the resort recently debuted seven custom designed luxury cabanas and oasis beds. The new cabanas, with seating for up to eight guests, in hues of blues and green are inspired by the indigenous flowers and the natural beauty surrounding the property. Luxury cabana guests are well cared for by a personal cabana attendant and have access to a range of indulgences including a tropical fruit plate with house-made banana bread, sunscreen, unlimited water and soft drinks, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth speaker, flat screen TV, credenza with refrigerator, ceiling fan, and robes.
The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua proudly maintains the Honokahua Preservation Site, a recognized “wahi pana” (sacred site) that lies adjacent to the resort. This site serves as a destination where Native Hawaiians can gather to conduct ceremonies and rituals.
Image Source: theritzcarlton.com