WATERFRONT RESORT REVITALIZED

Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows updates its calming, peaceful space in heart of Maui

BY ALISON BAILIN BATZ

In late 2022, Royal Lahaina resort on Maui's Kaanapali Beach – which became one of the first Maui resorts when it opened in 1962 – announced a sweeping update. Today, the resort, which is now under new ownership and new management but still independently and locally owned as it has been since opening day, has been rebranded to Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows, and that is just the beginning.

The upgrades to the quiet, stand-alone bungalows, which are original to the property, are chief among the renovation. There is only one other resort in Maui with bungalow accommodations, and the ones at Royal Lahaina are situated amidst tropical gardens and sprawling oceanfront lawns with views of either the resort gardens or the breathtaking coastline. Free from crowds, elevators, and a bustling lobby, they are meant to provide a calm, serene experience connecting guests directly to the elements. Set to debut this year and ranging in size from 350 to 1,250 square feet, the updated bungalows will feature a fresh, clean look that still feels like an inviting beachfront hideaway with contemporary island-inspired decor and a tropical color palette.

The new design aesthetic was inspired by the natural surroundings, with tropical patterns, textiles and finishes that embrace the history of the property with '60s midcentury-inspired furniture with a modern twist. Wallpaper designs, art and fixtures from local artisans are incorporated into the overall design. The bungalows come in various layouts, from rooms to studios and multiroom suites, and include amenities ranging from full kitchens to private pool and beach access in the Royal and Junior suites.

In addition to the bungalows, menus throughout the property have been reimagined, and there is a new communal, outdoor dining experience available called Kiawe Outdoor Under the Branches. Dinners at Kiawe Outdoor Under the Branches feature a five-course, prix fixe menu with optional wine pairings as well as special extra touches including Champagne sabering and authentic Hawaiian pupu platters. The resort also unveiled updated recreational programming including paddleboarding, snorkeling, kayaking, coconut classes, hula lessons, ukulele lessons, Polynesian dance-inspired Zumba classes, and seasonal pop-ups. Additionally, partnerships with established third parties to provide off-property adventures for sunset sails, island hopping, Road to Hana bike tours, waterfall swimming, rainforest hikes, and more are still intact.

Finally, Royal Lahaina has also announced a revitalized luau experience. The Myths of Maui Luau, which takes place on property nightly, features a traditional shell lei aloha greeting, Imu ceremony, and the unearthing of the pua'a (pig) followed by a feast of roasted pork and authentic Hawaiian cuisine. During the evening, guests will also enjoy hula dances, rhythmic drums of Polynesia, and fire knife dancing.

The 27-acre property, which offers two pools, a fitness center, an open-air restaurant, cultural activities, the award-winning Alana spa, and tennis courts, is preparing to open reservations to experience the new bungalows in coming months.

Learn more at www.royallahaina.com.