Looking out towards the neighbouring island of Moloka’i, expect quite the opposite experience from the luxury lineup of Wailea in this corner of Maui. Although there may be an impressive total of six bays with pristine beaches no more than a 10-minute drive away, guests here are much more likely to be found a little further beyond the sands, choosing to swim, snorkel or surf rather than sunbathe. That’s to say, to holiday here is to dive head-first into activities designed to entertain and educate on all things culture, cuisine and nature while simply spending time together. Ritz-Carlton have mastered the resort-style getaway without losing the love for a destination, and in Maui, the standout experience has to be the Jean-Michele Consteau ‘Ambassadors of the Environment’ programme, where guests are introduced to the natural beauty and cultural traditions of Hawaii.
Continuing the resort-style comforts indoors, the choice of where you rest your head lies between hotel or residential suites for a holiday vs. home-away-from-home atmosphere. The elevated Ritz-Carlton service spans the two of course, their reputation preceding the classic luxury comforts, club lounge and concierge expected in any Ritz-Carlton resort the world over – this one just so happens to be beside Honokahua Bay.
Banyan Tree Restaurant
Lobby fire pit
Fire Lanai Suite bedroom
Fleming Beach
Golf course
Adult-only pool cabanas
Adult-only pool
Coastal walk
Boasting front row seats to gilded Kahuwai Bay sunsets from its volcanic perch, both the location and iconic Rosewood prefix at this island institution make a stay here seem out of this world.
The homely welcome of ‘ohana’ is embodied at this boutique-feeling property; a beloved haunt of Elvis, some of the staff have been here since his heyday, and are still passionately sharing their heritage with inquisitive guests.
