The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua

Just got back from a 4-night stay at the Ritz Carlton Maui. What an amazing experience. The entrance to the property is gorgeous, especially at night when they light the tiki torches. I can’t say enough about the valets, bell captains, housekeepers, front desk, room service, concierge, shop employees, etc. Definitely try the Burger Shack. Great food and amazing shakes. And the best seat in the house! Right on the beach with gentle breezes and a killer view. Just wish they were open for dinner! It’s a bit of a drive to get there, but once you arrive you never want or need to leave! There are so many activities it’s hard to choose — from hikes to bike trips to lei making classes. The staff really cares and it shows. My mom uses a walker and when we checked in late on a Sunday night we had a room that was a long walk. The next morning I asked the front desk if they had anything closer to the lobby. Next thing I knew we were upgraded to a stunning one bedroom suite with an ocean view and an easier walk for mom. That’s definitely 5 star service! Mahalo, Ritz Carlton Maui… you’re the best.

The property grounds are beautifully maintained. The staff were helpful but not very hospitable - more like just doing their job efficiently, checking boxes. Not sure a "resort" but maybe a large tropical hotel. Pool areas were nice but more of a pool area vs resort pool. Enjoyed the 6pm tradition in the lobby lounge but again seemed more transactional. The burger in the lobby lounge was good, wings were large (less flavor than expected for "Korean"). Enjoyed the residential suite oceanview room. The suite has a stovetop, kitchen island seating, mini fridge and dishwasher. Amy in the Ulana Terrace offered amazing service for breakfast.

This hotel went far beyond our expectations. The views were breathtaking to say the least, it doesn't hurt to have a hotel right next next to the surf and sand! The restaurants were amazing. We enjoyed a few drinks during happy hour and had dinner/light bites a few times while staying at the hotel. The club lounge was wonderful. The staff very kind, caring and professional. We cannot to go back!

The hotel is definitely one of the best located ones. The land and beautiful garden that belong to Ritz is massive and not comparable to competing hotels in Wailea. Although the building is classy and well maintained, you will feel that the layouts and facilities are old. For example, we stayed in a junior suite but there is only one bathroom unlike modern hotels. Also when you go there, try to avoid their breakfast. It was one of the worst breakfast for the money. You will have much better options nearby.

I really wish I could leave a better review because staying at The Ritz Carleton in Maui should be 5 stars, right?! The service and attention to detail with guest experience is just not there. Check- in: Nothing special during arrival, room wasn’t ready at check in when it was supposed to be, no one offered to help us with luggage or directed us where to go for the room when it was actually ready. Food- we went to dinner one night at the only restaurant for my birthday. There were two servers for the whole restaurant, which is already a struggle and doesn’t provide the ability for quality service. We finally received drinks and after being there an hour, still had not received our starters. We ended up ordering room service instead, which the restaurant manager courteously covered, but it was awful. It was at best low quality cafeteria food. When I told the hotel about our service and experience, their reply was “Mahalo for the feedback.” We traveled from Maui to the big island and checked into The Four Seasons and it’s exactly what you’d expect from a 5 star resort. I wish we would have stayed at the Four Seasons in Maui too!!