Planning A Trip To Maui | The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua

Three Tiered pool with ocean view Kapalua Maui

Planning Your Trip

Radiantly beautiful Maui — Hawaii’s second largest island — is one of the world’s most sought-after locations. Offering sparkling beaches, gorgeous sunsets, locavore dining and eco adventures, the island has something for everyone. The only conundrum? You may start planning to extend your trip as soon as you arrive.

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What To Pack

For more than a thousand years, Hawaiian culture developed independently from outside influences. Spanning cultural, culinary, artistic and spiritual practices, its origins are in the Polynesian people who first voyaged to Hawaii. Learning about and respecting these diverse traditions, from traditional healing to the art of hula, is at the soul of any meaningful Hawaiian journey. A little advance research will deepen your understanding — though once you arrive, you’ll find a warm introduction to the islands’ traditions from the Ladies and Gentlemen of the resort, including the hotel’s cultural adviser, Clifford Nae’ole.

Resort Essentials

Famed for its stunning beaches, crystal-clear waters and miles of hiking trails, Maui beckons visitors to experience the outdoors.

Pack swimwear, sunscreen, a sun hat, sunglasses, sandals and casual wear or a chic cover-up for long days at the beach. Bring a lightweight jacket as well as long pants (men) and one or two going-out dresses (women) for evening.

Bring running shoes for working out (along with your usual fitness attire) and hiking. Take along one dressier pair of shoes for any business meetings or evenings out.

Don’t forget to have your camera (even if it’s just your smartphone camera) with you for every photo op. A waterproof case keeps your valuables dry and lets you take underwater photos, too.

Beach Vacation

Let the spirit of Aloha guide you on a mellow coastal escape to Maui, nature’s playground.

Plan to wear your swimwear with sandals and a cover-up or casual wear to the beach. Bring plenty of sunscreen, water and your favorite reading material in your beach bag. You can rent neoprene/wetsuits and watersports gear at the beach.

If you’re traveling with little ones, consider gear such as kid-friendly sunscreen, swim diapers, beach toys, hats and rash guards. A lightweight beach tent provides a shady place to play or nap.

If you’ll be island-hopping, packing cubes are a great way to stay organized without having to unpack in every destination. A nylon laundry bag separates your clean and dirty clothes — you can throw a wet swimsuit into it, too.

Day Trips

Plan for a few scheduled day trips in advance; otherwise, you may just decide to never leave the beach.

A sunrise or sunset hike up Mount Haleakala, Maui’s amazing dormant volcano, is a must. Aside from sturdy walking shoes, you’ll need warm layers — socks, hat, scarf, fleece jacket and long pants.

Bring sun hats, sunscreen and sunglasses for hiking (such as to Maunalei Arboretum), ATV rides or a whale-watching boat ride.

Carry a backpack or cross-body bag to hold your daily essentials, including electronic devices and extra water, while keeping your hands free.

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What To Reserve

A Kapalua itinerary is almost impossibly forgiving. Simply lounging on the beach and gazing out at the horizon does wonders for the soul. But there are a few experiences you won’t want to miss.

Dining Reservations

The Maui dining scene is as vibrant as they come, with top-notch local ingredients and traditions to draw from, and a bevy of chef-led establishments making waves. The latest buzz is around the newly reimagined Banyan Tree restaurant at The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua featuring a talented new chef, Isabelle “Bella” Toland. Classic Hawaiian recipes are deconstructed and redesigned with a local twist using Mediterranean cooking techniques to develop a menu that will enliven your senses through the ways of the islands. Fresh seafood is the star of the show, with dishes like the locally caught Fisherman’s Choice and the signature Mahi Mahi.

Spa Appointments

Long famed for its ancient healing energy, Maui is rich with native botanicals and restorative traditions that inspire and inform its modern five-star spa experience. Waihua (pure water) is the defining theme of The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Kapalua, where spa-goers can enjoy both indoor and outdoor treatments — including in private “hale” rooms for two — incorporating Hawaiian herbs grown in the hotel’s own organic garden. Signature treatments incorporate local traditions such as Lomilomi massage and pohaku wela (hot stones) as well as advanced skin-care techniques and ESPA products.

Cabanas

Take in Kapalua’s dreamy coastline and technicolor sunset from the shade and privacy of your own luxurious cabana. At The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua, guests choose from two distinctive offerings to accommodate their group: Oasis Day Bed, for three guests or a Poolside Cabana Suite, the ultimate luxury experience for up to eight guests that includes a dedicated cabana attendant, seasonal tropical fruit, refreshing tray-passed bites, a selection of magazines, unlimited water and soft drinks, house sparkling wine, a credenza with refrigerator, a flat-screen TV and more.

Outdoor Excursions

Beyond surfing, sunning and sipping, there are two land activities worth planning in advance. The first is a hike in Haleakala National Park, to the lip of its famed volcanic crater. The summit offers spectacular views of the blazing sky at sunrise and sunset, though darkness yields its own treat: a glittering firmament of shooting stars. The second is a drive on Maui’s Hana Highway, the 52-mile, winding jungle road as famed for hairpin turns and one-lane bridges as for unforgettable scenery: lush plant life, deep gorges and valleys, gushing waterfalls, expansive ocean views. It might even inspire you, as it did Georgia O’Keeffe, to pick up a paintbrush in pure astonishment.

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Itineraries

A vision of lush land, pristine beaches and crystal, blue water, Maui has a well-earned reputation as a destination for adventurers and relaxation seekers alike. From swimming under waterfalls and sailing past whales to enjoying farm-to-table fare and handcrafted cocktails, there’s truly a Maui for everyone. And at the heart of it all is The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua, a secluded island resort that exudes the Aloha spirt and captivates guests with thoughtful amenities. Whether it’s your first trip or your 50th, there’s always something new to discover on the Valley Isle.

Top Things to Do

From spas to snorkeling, discover the best things to do, eat, and see in Maui, Hawaii. If the world is your oyster then consider The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua in Maui your gleaming pearl. Perched on the shore of the Pacific, this Hawaiian resort is the epitome of paradise. Here, blogger Karina Reske answers the call of the ocean alongside explorer Jean-Michel Cousteau.

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Eco Adventures

In a place where the land is the lure, it’s no surprise that Maui has a long history of environmental stewardship. The island is home to pristine beaches, awe-inspiring mountains and stunning waterfalls, as well as a strong farm-to-table food movement that inspires chefs to draw from the bounty of the land. Gain a deeper sense of connection to the natural wonders and cultural traditions of Hawaii at The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua, a secluded Maui resort that both embraces nature and pampers guests with luxury amenities.

Dining tables and umbrella drinks with beach in background.

Day 1

Morning

Set Sail. Embark on a snorkeling excursion to the neighboring island of Lanai’i, home to Hawaii’s longest and healthiest coral reef, where sea turtles and dolphins abound. And don’t worry about grabbing breakfast beforehand — you’ll enjoy fresh fruit, pastries and Kona coffee as you sail across the Au’au channel.

Midday

Lunch, Alfresco. Head back to The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua for casual beachside dining at the Burger Shack, where burgers and fries are served alongside a soundtrack of crashing waves.

Afternoon

Pool Time. After your morning of exploration, enjoy an afternoon of relaxation with a cabana rental at the resort pool. Daybeds, lounge chairs and drink service make it easy to unwind.

Evening

Dinner and a Show. Don your finest island wear for an evening of traditional Hawaiian fare, song and dance at a traditional Polynesian Luau. From the iconic hula dance to an awe-inspiring flame-throwing performance, it’s an experience like no other.

Day 2

Morning

Breakfast, Your Way. Enjoy dining at Ulana Terrace, where a full buffet is served overlooking manicured gardens, the resort’s three-tiered pool and the Pacific Ocean. Don’t miss the bloody mary bar, where you can craft your perfect brunch beverage.

Explore More. Find adventure along the Kapalua Trail with The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua’s Ambassadors of the Environment program, which helps foster an appreciation and respect for nature in guests of all ages. The naturalists on staff will guide you through an exploration of tide pools, beaches and bays on this coastal hike.

History Lesson. If your stay falls on a Friday, join the resort’s resident Hawaiian cultural advisor for a walking tour of the nearby Honokahua Preservation Site, the sacred grounds that lay adjacent to the resort.

Midday

Local Fare. Head to island-favorite Mama’s Fish House for lunch, where fresh fish are delivered daily by local anglers (whose names are listed on the menu) and the dishes comprise the catches of the day. Opt for the simply grilled preparation, served with macadamia nut pesto and sun-dried tomato pesto.

Walk It Off. Explore the town of Paia, where stylish boutiques, hip coffee shops and upscale yoga studios dot the streets. Peruse the fashions at Imrie, a family-owned fashion boutique dedicated to elevated beachwear.

Afternoon

Ride Off Into the Sunset. View the brilliance and tranquility of a Maui sunset from the back of a horse. An experienced guide will help bring your ride to life — as you travel through history-rich Hawaiian valleys and ancient home sites, you’ll learn about the island’s ancient beginnings, all while the sun begins to dip below the horizon.

Evening

An Island Feast to Remember. Tuck into dinner at the Banyan Tree restaurant where classic Hawaiian recipes are deconstructed and redesigned with a local twist using Mediterranean cooking techniques. Fresh seafood is the star of the show, with dishes like the signature Mahi Mahi.

Day 3

Morning

On the Run. Fuel up for a full day with a grab-and-go breakfast of homemade pastries and locally sourced coffee from Kai Cafe.

Climb High. No visit to Maui is complete without a trip to Haleakala Crater, an awe-inspiring dormant volcano. The 4-mile hike will take you to both sides of the mountain, where the differing environments spark a deeper appreciation for the power of the natural world.

Midday

An Afternoon Pick-Me-Up. Relax on the patio at The Plantation House, where you can nosh on local favorites like the fresh fish tacos while overlooking the fairways of the award-winning Plantation Golf Course.

Afternoon

Spa, Aaah. After a morning of hiking, an afternoon at The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Kapalua is well-deserved. Book the Lomilomi massage, which is based on the traditional Hawaiian concepts of working with the body, mind and spirit.

Go Beach Combing. With pristine white-sand beaches and crystal-clear water, nearby Honokahua Bay is the perfect place for an afternoon stroll.

Evening

Dine at a Maui Classic. Named a Best Maui Restaurant 24 years in a row by Honolulu Magazine, Lahaina Grill is an island institution, serving up dishes like Seared Lion Paw Scallops and Kona Coffee Roasted Colorado Rack of Lamb. For a truly special night, book the chef’s table set in the picture window overlooking bustling Lahaina. You’ll enjoy a completely personalized menu planned by the chef.

Island Adventures

On the western edge of Maui, a lush tropical oasis awaits. Visitors to Kapalua find welcoming shores and immense beauty, similar to what attracted the area’s first inhabitants. Hike through verdant rainforest, snorkel beneath the ocean’s shimmering surface, cycle down the face of a dormant volcano or simply relax on golden-sand beaches. At The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua, everything on your Maui must-do list is right at your fingertips.

Day 1

Morning

On the Run. Fuel up for an active day with a grab-and-go breakfast of homemade pastries and locally sourced coffee from Kai Cafe.

Catch a Wave. Ask the concierge at The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua to arrange a private surfing lesson. Maui is known for its beginner-friendly beaches, so no need to worry if you’re a novice.

Midday

Town and Country. Head into Old Lahaina Town for lunch at Kimo’s, a relaxed restaurant with one of the best patios in town. Opt for the coconut-crusted fish served with peanut sauce and pineapple salsa paired with a Maui Brewing Bikini Blonde Lager.

Afternoon

Beach Time. Honokahua Bay rests in front of The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua like a mirage — a half-mile stretch of pristine golden sand paired with glossy water is the perfect spot for an afternoon nap in the sun.

Evening

Set Sail. Embark on a sunset cruise, where you’ll enjoy delicious pupus and cocktails while watching the sun dip below the horizon from the deck of a catamaran.

Traditional Fare With Flair. Tuck into dinner at the Banyan Tree restaurant where classic Hawaiian recipes are deconstructed and redesigned with a local twist using Mediterranean cooking techniques. Fresh seafood is the star of the show, with dishes like the signature Mahi Mahi.

Day 2

Morning

Rise and Ride. Begin your day before the sun rises with an excursion to the summit of the world’s largest dormant volcano, Haleakala. Upon arrival at the crater, you’ll watch the sunrise before beginning a 28-mile bike ride down the slopes of the mountain, ending at the shores of the Pacific Ocean.

Breakfast With a View. Head back to The Ritz-Carlton for breakfast at Ulana Terrace, where a full buffet is served overlooking manicured gardens, the resort’s three-tiered pool and the Pacific Ocean.

Midday

Soothe Sore Muscles. After a morning of cycling, an afternoon at The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Kapalua is well-deserved. Book the Tropical Awa Nui Journey, which uses Hawaiian herbs and includes a full-body exfoliation, body wrap, Lomilomi massage, scalp massage and foot treatment.

Afternoon

Under the Sea. Spend the afternoon with sea turtles and tropical fish as you snorkel around Kapalua Bay, a protected marine preserve and home to Hawaiian Green Sea Turtles, with the Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment program.

Evening

Dinner and a Show. The sound of the conch, the beating of the drums and the echoes of a Hawaiian chant signal the start of the night at a traditional Polynesian Luau. Enjoy a menu of traditional Hawaiian fare as the performers take you on a journey of the islands through song and dance.

Day 3

Morning

Take the Plunge. Hop in the car with a guide and head from the hotel to a trailhead, where you’ll embark on a hike through lush rainforests. Your final destination? Dazzling waterfalls where you can jump from rock ledges into crystal-clear pools under the falls. Your guide will come prepared with lunch and snacks, as well as stories about the natural wonders of Maui.

Midday

Get a Different View. Soar high above the island on a helicopter tour. The 45-minute flight takes you over the waterfalls of the West Maui Mountains and breathtaking ocean cliffs on the neighboring island of Moloka’i.

Afternoon

An Afternoon Pick-Me-Up. Relax under a canopy of coconut palms at The Burger Shack and enjoy unobstructed ocean views. You can sip on your favorite tropical cocktail as you watch for whales jumping in the Pacific. This custom brew is a concoction of flavors that exude tropical aromas and blends a variety of hops to achieve its optimal citric taste. The combination of hops — cascade, citra, mandarina bavaria, and magnun — offers elements of ruby red grapefruit, peach, passionfruit, guava, lychee, and most notably, pineapple.

Evening

On a Roll. Ask a local where to get sushi and you’re likely to get the same answer over and over: Sansei in Kapalua. Pair the shrimp dynamite and panko-crusted ahi rolls with a warm cup of sake and you’re in for a good night.

Have a Nightcap, Hawaiian Style. End your day with The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua Signature Mai Tai or glass of wine at the Alaloa Lounge while you enjoy the live music that’s performed nightly.

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DATES (1 NIGHT)

Rooms & Guests

1 Room, 1 Adult

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