The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
About The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua sits on a hillside above Honokahua Bay at the northwestern tip of Maui, inside the Kapalua resort area. Steps lead down from the grounds to the sand at D.T. Fleming Beach, and the views stretch across the channel toward Molokai.
Kapalua is greener, quieter and a little more remote than Wailea or Kaanapali. The resort pairs that setting with a three-tiered pool, a respected spa and an ocean conservation program run with Jean-Michel Cousteau. It suits couples, families and golfers who want a calm luxury stay and do not mind a longer drive from the airport.
At a glance
Highlights
- Setting above Honokahua Bay in quiet Kapalua
- Jean-Michel Cousteau eco-program
- Three-tiered zero-edge pool with waterfalls
- The Banyan Tree and its award-winning wine list
- Fire Lanai rooms with outdoor fireplaces
Amenities
Rooms and suites
The resort has 463 rooms and suites, ranging from deluxe rooms with resort or partial ocean views to Fire Lanai rooms with outdoor fireplaces and residential suites with one or two bedrooms.
Club Level rooms and suites include lounge access, and the Ritz-Carlton Suite and Royal Pacific Suite sit at the top of the range.
- Deluxe rooms (resort or partial ocean view)
- Fire Lanai rooms with outdoor fireplaces
- One- and two-bedroom suites
- One- and two-bedroom Residential Suites
- Club Level rooms and suites
- Ritz-Carlton Suite and Royal Pacific Suite
Restaurants and bars
Dining ranges from coastal cuisine at The Banyan Tree, the resort’s main restaurant, to casual burgers by the pool. The Banyan Tree is also known for its Wine Spectator-recognized wine program.
Kapalua is a small resort area, so most guests eat at the resort or drive south to Kaanapali for more variety. A rental car or a booked driver helps if you plan to eat out often.
- The Banyan Tree: coastal cuisine and an award-winning wine list
- Kai Cafe
- ‘Olu Cafe
- Burger Shack
- Alaloa Lounge
- Beach bar and poolside bar
Beach, pools and spa
The resort fronts Honokahua Bay, with steps to D.T. Fleming Beach. Its three-tiered, zero-edge pool complex is surrounded by black-rock waterfalls, and there is a separate children’s pool. Pools are open 24 hours.
Waihua Spa offers outdoor treatment areas and a shower garden. A 24-hour fitness center, yoga, fitness classes and Pilates round out the wellness options.
Activities and entertainment
The Jean-Michel Cousteau eco-program runs tours and weekly volunteer projects that teach guests about Maui’s reefs and environment. The Kapalua Coastal Trail starts close by and is good for morning walks.
Golf is a major draw in Kapalua, and the resort also offers tennis, pickleball, basketball, snorkeling, surfing and bike rentals.
Nearby bays such as Kapalua Bay and Napili Bay are popular for swimming and snorkeling when the ocean is calm. Ask the resort about current ocean conditions before heading out.
- Jean-Michel Cousteau ocean program
- Kapalua Coastal Trail walks
- Golf in Kapalua
- Tennis and pickleball
- Snorkeling and surfing
- Bike rentals
Who it’s best for
- Best for: couples and families who want a quieter luxury resort, nature lovers, and golfers.
- Consider another resort if: you want a short airport transfer or lots of nightlife nearby.
Getting there from Kahului Airport
The resort is about a 69-minute drive from Kahului Airport (OGG), one of the longer transfers on Maui. The route follows the coast through Kaanapali to Kapalua.
Given the longer drive, many guests pre-book a private transfer so they can relax after the flight. Kapalua Airport (JHM) nearby only handles small commuter flights.
Good to know
- Check-in from 4:00 PM, check-out by noon
- Internet access is included in the resort fee
- Nightly resort fee applies
- Pools open 24 hours
- Not all-inclusive
- Club Level lounge access in select rooms
Location of The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
FAQ about The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
Is The Ritz-Carlton Maui all-inclusive?
No. Meals and drinks are paid separately.
Is The Ritz-Carlton Maui adults only?
No. It welcomes families and has a children's pool and playground.
How far is The Ritz-Carlton Maui from Kahului Airport?
It is about a 69-minute drive from Kahului Airport (OGG).
How many restaurants does The Ritz-Carlton Maui have?
Dining includes The Banyan Tree, Kai Cafe, 'Olu Cafe, Burger Shack and Alaloa Lounge, plus beach and pool bars.
Is the resort on the beach?
It fronts Honokahua Bay, with steps down to D.T. Fleming Beach.
How many pools are there?
There is a three-tiered pool complex with three outdoor pools plus a children's pool.
Is there a resort fee?
Yes, a nightly resort fee applies and includes internet access.
What is the spa called?
The spa is Waihua Spa, with outdoor treatment areas and a shower garden.
What time is check-in?
Check-in starts at 4:00 PM and check-out is by noon.
Is The Ritz-Carlton Maui good for families?
Yes. It has a children's pool, family-friendly amenities and educational ocean programs.
