Summary
Introduction to Maui’s Transformation
Maui is always a wonderful destination — but it is experiencing significant revitalization thanks to the ongoing transformation of The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua. With an investment of $100 million, the 466-room resort emphasizes a profound connection to Native Hawaiian culture.
Adjacent to the resort lies Honokahua, a historically significant site where around 2,000 Hawaiian ancestors were interred between 850 A.D. and the early 19th century. While redesigning the resort, there is a strong commitment to honor this sacred site and the local Hawaiian culture.
Cultural Integration and Aesthetic Enhancements
Recent enhancements include the introduction of live local music in the renovated Alaloa Lounge, beautifully designed with dark woods and rope accents. Guests now can also discover native plants in the gardens, which feature new informative placards, courtesy of landscape designer Steve Kodani and Maui’s Ha’ikū Landscape Corp. Furthermore, contemporary artwork by native Hawaiians is showcased across the property, including intricately hand-carved wooden Kapa panels and lighting inspired by ancient fishing traps.
During the planning stages, Clifford Nae’ole, the resort’s Hawaiian cultural advisor, played a pivotal role. “He collaborated closely with a team of local designers, architects, and builders to ensure that Hawaiian culture is honored and celebrated throughout the resort,” stated general manager Andrew Rogers. “Twenty-four respected cultural practitioners and stakeholders with ancestral ties to Maui or direct involvement in the preservation of Honokahua contributed valuable insights to the project’s development.”
Luxury Experiences and Club Upgrades
Other notable upgrades at the resort include new luxury cabanas and unique experiences available at the revamped 10,000-square-foot pool, complemented by the infinity-edge lobby lanai offering stunning views of Honokahua Bay. Additionally, a new ultra-luxurious room category, the Maui Fire Lanai Collection, will be available starting in November. These guest rooms in the ground floor of the resort’s Nāpili Tower provide direct pool access and private lanais, perfect for lounging, complete with hammocks and fire pits. Guests can also indulge in tropical-themed s’mores with all the necessary ingredients provided. The three infinity-edge pools that these new suites open up to are inspired by the striking natural lava rock formations at Makaluapuna Point in Kapalua.
The Ritz-Carlton Club experience is set to enhance its offerings with the debut of the Ritz-Carlton Club Lounge at the Anenue Room on July 1. Guests will enjoy five Hawaiian-inspired food presentations throughout the day. In addition to these culinary delights, the lounge offers opportunities for guests to participate in activities such as lei making, Hawaiian cooking classes, cultural storytelling, and musical performances by local artists.
