Walking through the newly redesigned hallways at The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua, I was met with an overwhelming sense of calmness. It was almost as if they removed an entire wall of the main building to usher in the stunning natural beauty of Makaluapuna Point and the pair of neighboring bays. And because that was the intention, the mission was very much accomplished. Still, one element of this resort’s $100 million redesign had yet to be completed: The Club Lounge at the Anuenue Room.
An exclusive lounge is a lot like the wheel—there’s no need to reinvent it. However, resorts love to modernize and upgrade these amenities, especially when it comes to spoiling guests. But how do you spoil guests even more than a resort like The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua, already does? By creating a resort within a resort that offers even more dining options and experiences, of course.
The Club Lounge at the Anuenue Room recently opened its doors to guests, putting the finishing touch on the reimagining of a resort that already represents the best of Maui. However, like the island, this property evolves with creative new ways to entertain loyal guests.
Sticking with the overall renovation theme of regional authenticity, this lounge experience is anchored by cultural programming featuring local artisans and experts, and this is especially great for families looking to add a cooking class or art project to the itinerary.
When the day is packed with excursions and off-site shopping, guests will cherish the convenience of popping into the lounge for a quick meal, as each day will offer five food presentations, including breakfast and lunch, as well as snacks, hors d’oeuvres, and dessert. Snacks will be especially beneficial to any golfers who slept in and are late for a quick transport to the Bay Course. (And believe me, you don’t want to hit these links with an empty stomach.)
It sounds a little crazy, but some of us occasionally answer a work email or two during vacation, and in some cases company business breaks for no man. The lounge also offers a sense of serenity—a break from typical resort action—that, when paired with the business center, makes for a fine workation environment. The only drawback? The views of the Bay Course all but beg guests to head back to the pro shop for another round.
Any type of traveler is sure to love this elevated, luxurious concept, as couples and families with adult children will appreciate the cooking and cocktail classes. Children will beg to come back after they see the dessert and cookie displays alone, but parents feel satisfied knowing there’s an educational element with the arts and crafts.
But no one should be surprised at the variety and generosity on display here, because it’s simply another can’t-miss concept from a resort that is always on the mark.
