Prime Snorkeling Conditions, Alfresco Dining Experiences and Exciting Springtime Events Await at The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua

After months of chilly weather, May offers the perfect excuse to swap sweaters for swimsuits and escape to paradise. With warm temperatures, fewer crowds than in the summertime and a host of unique seasonal experiences, Maui in May is the ultimate island getaway. Whether you’re craving a romantic retreat, thrilling outdoor adventures or a serene beachfront escape, there’s no better place to experience it all than The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua.

Located on Maui’s stunning northwest shore, Kapalua is known for its pristine beaches, world-class golf courses and lush tropical landscapes. At the heart of it all, The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua offers an unparalleled luxury experience. From gourmet dining and world-class golf to an exclusive lūʻau and access to some of the island’s best outdoor adventures, this Hawaii resort is a dream destination for travelers seeking both relaxation and excitement this spring.

With seasonal events, cultural celebrations and unbeatable natural beauty, here are seven reasons why May is the perfect time to book your Maui trip.

 

Couples’ Escapes + Babymoons

For couples seeking an intimate retreat this May, The Ritz-Carlton’s Kapalua Romantic Retreat offer is the perfect excuse to escape to the island. This exclusive package sets the stage for romance, starting with a chilled bottle of premium bubbly upon arrival. The indulgence continues at the spa, where couples or babymooners can unwind with a 60-minute relaxation massage designed to rejuvenate both the body and mind.

Beyond the spa, guests enjoy Club Lounge access, where personalized service and gourmet refreshments elevate the experience. Whether you’re celebrating a honeymoon, babymoon or just a well-deserved getaway, this offer ensures your time in Maui is as luxurious as it is memorable. Be sure to book a minimum two-night stay to take full advantage of these romantic perks.

 

Exciting Springtime Events

Be sure to make reservations in advance to secure the best seating.

May brings a vibrant lineup of entertainment and culinary experiences, making it a prime time to visit The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua. The Kapalua Concert Series takes center stage at Alaloa Lounge, featuring live music every night with an elevated performance on the first Friday of each month. On May 2, Honolulu-based musician Tavana, a Nā Hōkū Hanohano Award nominee, will serenade guests with soulful rock and blues—best enjoyed with a craft cocktail in hand. With no cover charge, this intimate concert series is a must for music lovers.

For food and wine enthusiasts, the Kapalua Wine & Chef Series at Banyan Tree is a can’t-miss Maui event in May. Every second Saturday of the month, MICHELIN-starred chefs and top culinary talents craft exquisite four-course dinners perfectly paired with award-winning wines. Exclusive dishes from these collaborations remain on the menu throughout the month, offering a lasting taste of Maui’s premier dining scene. May 10 will feature Chef Mawa McQueen from the Michelin Guide-recommended Mawa’s Kitchen in Aspen, highlighting Afro-Mediterranean cuisine with French-American flair.

To round out the festivities, the Tales of the Kapa Moe Lūʻau transports guests into Hawaiian culture with mesmerizing hula, fire knife dancing and a feast of traditional island flavors. The immersive storytelling and live performances make this an unforgettable way to experience the spirit of Hawaii.

 

Outdoor Recreation at Its Finest

For those who love staying active, The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua offers world-class golf, tennis and pickleball in an unmatched tropical setting. Tee off at the Plantation Course, home to the PGA TOUR’s Sentry Tournament of Champions, or enjoy a leisurely round at the Bay Course, known for its oceanfront holes and panoramic views.

Tennis and pickleball enthusiasts will find their paradise at the Kapalua Tennis Garden, where daily drop-in play provides the perfect way to meet fellow players. However, if you’re looking for more variety, challenge your friends to bocce ball, shuffleboard, cornhole or a friendly game of basketball—all available at the resort.

 

Thrilling Outdoor Adventures

Maui’s natural beauty is best explored through adventure, and Kapalua offers countless ways to get your adrenaline pumping. Hop on an ATV and traverse rugged trails with Maui Off-Road Adventures, or take in breathtaking coastal views on horseback at Ironwood Ranch, where scenic rides weave through valleys, forests and pineapple fields.

For those who crave a sky-high experience, Kapalua Ziplines boasts Maui’s only all-dual zipline course, allowing you to soar side by side over lush landscapes. Prefer to keep your feet on the ground? Join a Helewai Eco Tour, where expert naturalists lead you through the Honolua Ridge Hike. This trail offers an immersive journey into Maui’s rich history, culture and native plant life.

 

Alfresco Dining + Culinary Experiences

Dining during the springtime, dining at The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua is an experience in itself. You’ll enjoy ocean views and open-air settings, enhancing every meal. Savor the island’s bounty at Banyan Tree, where coastal cuisine highlights fresh, locally sourced ingredients. At Alaloa Lounge, indulge in handcrafted cocktails and sushi while soaking in Maui’s famous sunsets. For a casual beachfront vibe, head to Burger Shack, where juicy burgers and thick milkshakes come with a side of ocean breezes.

For those looking to elevate their culinary skills, the resort offers immersive experiences. Try sushi-making classes with Chef Naoto Matsumoto and mai tai mixology sessions. Here you’ll learn the secrets behind crafting Maui’s most iconic cocktail. Wine lovers can also enjoy sunset wine tastings at Banyan Tree. These tastings are led by a certified sommelier who guides guests through a curated selection of world-class wines.

 

Hiking, Snorkeling and Sea Turtle Sightings

Maui’s crystal-clear waters and diverse marine life make it a haven for snorkelers, especially in May. Kapalua Bay and DT Fleming Beach are prime spots for spotting Hawaiian green sea turtles, known as honu. Enjoy watching the turtles as they bask on the shore or glide through the reef. The calm ocean conditions in May also offer excellent visibility. Its an ideal time to snorkel alongside tropical fish and vibrant coral formations.

For those who prefer land-based exploration, the Kapalua Coastal Trail offers a breathtaking hike along Maui’s rugged shoreline. Nature lovers can also join the Coastal Hike & Tidepool Exploration. This activity follows ancient lava fields and ends with an up-close look at Maui’s tide pools and marine creatures. For a moment of quiet reflection, head to the Labyrinth Walk at Makaluapuna Point for a peaceful escape. This serene spot offers a meditative setting with panoramic ocean views that invite relaxation.

 

Spring Blooms in Upcountry Maui

In May, Maui’s upcountry region bursts into color as Jacaranda trees blanket the hillsides with vibrant purple blooms. The best way to experience this natural spectacle is by taking a scenic drive through Makawao and Kula. Here these striking trees create a dreamlike landscape. Whether you’re biking through rolling pastures or taking a leisurely drive, the Jacaranda bloom is a breathtaking sight. This vibrant display serves as a beautiful reminder that spring has arrived in paradise.

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Save the Date: Kapalua Wine and Food Festival

If your Maui getaway plans extend into summer, be sure to attend the 44th annual Kapalua Wine and Food Festival. This event is happening from July 10-13, 2025. You won’t want to miss this, as it’s the longest-running food and wine festival in the U.S. This premier Maui festival brings together world-class vintners, celebrity chefs and Hawaii’s top culinary talents. Buy your tickets for an unforgettable weekend of indulgence. 

Attendees enjoy interactive wine tasting seminars, intimate winemaker dinners, and exclusive samplings of rare, premium wines from around the world. Renowned chefs like Maneet Chauhan and Rick Moonen join Maui’s best restaurants to create unforgettable gourmet experiences. This festival is the perfect chance to sip, savor, and mingle with some of the biggest names in the industry.