The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua

We spent 3 nights at the resort. Unfortunately for the hotel, the Kapalua golf courses were closed due to a water dispute and looking out over dry/brown golf greens detracted from the overall experience of staying at this resort. The common areas are lovely and up to typical Ritz Carlton standards (especially the fitness center, which is top-notch). The guest rooms are where the age of this resort is apparent..:while tastefully decorated, the bathrooms feel very much out of the late 1980s, technology to operate room controls is a bit dated and the room’s air conditioner sounded like an airplane when it turned off or on. On the plus side, the hotel offered a variety of activities (many without extra charges) and all the hotel staff were friendly and helpful.

I recently stayed at the Ritz-Carlton Maui for two nights. While the property has potential, it didn’t deliver a five-star experience compared to other resorts I’ve stayed at (Four Seasons, Wailea Beach, Westin). Pros: Our suite upgrade was spacious and nicely appointed. The grounds and location are beautiful. Cons: Check-in: Only one person at the desk, with a long line of frustrated guests waiting. It took us 20 minutes just to check in. The associate was kind, but didn’t explain amenities—so we missed the breakfast buffet and didn’t even know there was a spa. Room details: Dirty dishes were put away in the cabinet, and several outlets in the kitchen didn’t work (we couldn’t even plug in the coffee maker). Service levels: Service was consistently slow across the property. At the pool and bar, there was only one person trying to keep up. At the Banyan Tree bar, it looked run down compared to the photos, so we canceled our dinner reservation there. At the lobby restaurant, we sat for nearly 30 minutes before anyone brought menus, despite staff walking by repeatedly. When we finally were helped, the server was lovely—but the delay was unacceptable. Overall: This resort doesn’t match the standard of a true five-star hotel. That level of service and polish is what justifies five-star prices, and when it’s not there, the value isn’t either. If you’re going to charge Ritz-Carlton rates and call yourself five-star, the experience has to live up to the name—and here, it simply didn’t.

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!