Learning about local traditions and giving back on vacation in Kapalua, Maui.A recent trip to The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua for four days without my kids was a welcome break from the daily routine of juggling work and my daughters’ schedules. And as much as four days “off” in paradise was paradise, there were so many amazing offerings for families, that I found myself spending much of my time thinking, “My family would love it here.”
Luxury vacations are just that, a luxury, right? Taking a break to relax, enjoy family time, and travel to a new destination has many rewards. Family travel in Kapalua offers rewards far beyond the promise of a posh vacation.
Situated on the North West side of Maui, Kapalua is a natural wonderland. The gorgeous, redesigned beachfront Ritz-Carlton offers beautiful accommodations, delicious food, and many unique activities. With 463 newly-remodeled guest rooms, many with ocean views and balconies, the hotel offers a variety of choices for families. Standard rooms with 2 queen beds are large enough for a family to share and connecting rooms and suites are also available. Six restaurants and room service offer many options for dining, including children’s menus and some rooms have kitchens so guests can buy groceries at the local Honolua store and cook in-room!
The other option for accommodations in Kapalua are the Kapalua Villas. Located a short shuttle ride from the hotel the one, two, and three bedroom villas with kitchens, give families a bit more space to spread out. The Kapalua Shuttle can be used all day to get back to the Ritz-Carlton pool and restaurants.
And now for what makes this five-star vacation more special than any other that I have experienced: when building the hotel, Ritz-Carlton discovered the ocean front property was the site of a Hawaiian burial ground. They moved the hotel back far enough to honor the burial ground and the hotel’s cultural ambassador, Clifford Nae’ole, will give tours sharing his insight into Hawaiian culture. In the spring, the hotel hosts an Hawaiian art and culture festival and luau to honor the local traditions.
The hotel also maintains an organic garden of herbs fruits and vegetables. Guest can tour the gardens and learn to make healthy smoothies with Chef Mac McDowell.
A brand new spa celebrates Hawaii’s connection to water with grottos, outdoor showers, indoor and outdoor private treatment rooms, and a clear attention to detail that integrates the essence of Hawaii in each treatment — from massages, scrubs, facials and more.
As for kids activities, Kapalua offers beautiful beaches, hiking trails, and adventure sports. Kapalua Adventures offers ziplining for kids and adults (10 and up). At The Ritz-Carlton, in addition to a kiddie pool and play structure near the main pool, the property also features the Jean-Michel Cousteau Ambassadors of the Environment program. Kids and adults can learn about local plans and animals on rainforest hikes and about marine life while snorkeling and scuba diving.
Volunteer opportunities through the Ritz-Carlton Give Back Getaways include gathering and spreading seeds from native plants and beach clean-ups. Most activities are available for adults only or family groups. Several are set up for kids only to go with the naturalist — so mom and dad can indulge in a much-needed break.
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