Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua

This Ritz is a complete universe, one of those resorts where you can happily sit by the ocean with a book for 2 whole weeks and never leave the grounds. It rises proudly on a knoll, in a singularly spectacular setting between the rainforest and the sea. During construction, the burial sites of hundreds of ancient Hawaiians were discovered in the sand, so the hotel was moved inland to avoid disrupting the graves. The setback gives the hotel a commanding view of Molokai.

In 2008, the Ritz reopened after an extensive $160-million renovation that transformed the place into an even more elegant property, with a focus on a Hawaiian (vs. the former European) theme. All guest rooms now have the latest technology. The penthouse floor has been converted into Residential Suites (with kitchens, living rooms, and separate bedrooms), available for guests. If you can afford it, stay on the Club Level -- it offers the best amenities in the state, from French-roast coffee in the morning to a buffet at lunch, from cookies in the afternoon to pupu and drinks at sunset.

Other transformations include upgrades to the signature 10,000-square-foot, three-tiered pool; a new children's pool; an Ambassadors of the Environment Education Center (by Jean-Michel Cousteau); and a new 17,500-square-foot Waihua Spa, with 15 treatment rooms, saunas, whirlpool with lava-stone walls, and fitness center. Your children will enjoy the Ritz Kids program's wide variety of activities, plus the weekly "Ritz Kids Night Out" that allows parents to spend a quiet evening alone.

Facilities:
6 restaurants (including the Banyan Tree); 4 bars (including 1 serving drinks and light fare next to the beach); outdoor pool; access to the Kapalua Resort's 3 championship golf courses (each w/its own pro shop), golf academy, and deluxe tennis complex; fitness room; spa; 2 outdoor hot tubs; watersports equipment rentals; bike rentals; children's program; game room; concierge; activities desk; car-rental desk; business center; shopping arcade; salon; room service; in-room and spa massage; babysitting; same-day laundry service and dry cleaning; concierge-level rooms (some of Hawaii's best)

Note: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.

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