A New Direction: The Montage Residences Kapalua Bay rebranded The Resort at Kapalua Bay

Posted by Courtney M. Brown on Monday, March 23rd, 2026 at 1:05pm.

The Resort at Kapalua BayThe Resort at Kapalua Bay & The Residences at Kapalua Bay

The Resort at Kapalua Bay is one of Maui’s premier oceanfront luxury residential resorts, set on 21 acres overlooking Kapalua Bay, one of the most celebrated beaches in Hawaii. Originally opened on May 31, 2009, the property has evolved into a flagship offering within Kapalua Resort real estate, known for its spacious residences, panoramic views, and world-class amenities.

Luxury Oceanfront Residences in Kapalua

The Resort at Kapalua Bay Residences feature some of the largest condominium floor plans in Kapalua, with expansive two, three- and four-bedroom layouts designed to maximize ocean views and indoor-outdoor living.

Each residence offers:

  • Sweeping views of Kapalua Bay, Namalu Bay, and Hawea Point framed by the islands of Molokai and Lanai
  • Large private lanais ideal for sunset and whale watching
  • Open-concept living spaces with luxury finishes
  • A residential-style experience with the amenities of a full-service resort

For those seeking a more flexible ownership option, fractional ownership opportunities are also available. These 1/12th ownership residences offer both fixed and floating weeks, providing access to luxury at a lower entry point.

A Premier Location on Maui’s West Side

Positioned along the West Maui coastline, the property enjoys one of the most desirable settings in Kapalua. Overlooking the crescent-shaped white sand beach of Kapalua Bay, the resort offers panoramic ocean views framed by the outer islands, along with direct access to beaches, coastal trails, and resort amenities.

Owners and guests enjoy:

  • Two resort-style swimming pools
  • Spa and Fitness Center
  • On-site dining
  • Full concierge and hotel services
  • A central location within the Kapalua Resort

The History of The Resort at Kapalua Bay:
Ritz-Carlton > Montage  > St. Regis

The property’s legacy is deeply rooted in Kapalua’s history as a luxury destination.

Kapalua Bay Hotel Era

Prior to its redevelopment, the site was home to the Kapalua Bay Hotel, a beloved oceanfront resort known for its understated elegance and prime location overlooking Kapalua Bay.

Ritz-Carlton Club & Residences (2009)

In 2009, the property was reintroduced as the Ritz-Carlton Club and Residences, Kapalua Bay, featuring:

  • 84 whole-ownership condominium residences
  • 62 fractional ownership residences
  • Large-format three- and four-bedroom floor plans

At launch, a portion of the residences were sold to private owners and Exclusive Resorts, while the remaining inventory was held during a challenging market cycle.

Repositioning as Montage Residences (2013)

Following a foreclosure in early 2013, the property was acquired by Island Acquisitions, which appointed Montage Hotels & Resorts as the management company.

A significant multi-million dollar renovation and repositioning followed, transforming the property into Montage Residences Kapalua Bay, one of Maui’s most prestigious branded residential resorts. Enhancements included:

  • The addition of Cane & Canoe, a signature ocean-view restaurant
  • An upscale bar and gathering space
  • Design elements that pay homage to the original Kapalua Bay Hotel

Recent Ownership & Management Transition (2025–2026)

In November 2025, investor Kemmons Wilson acquired the remaining residences along with the hotel and event spaces.

On March 14, 2026, the property officially transitioned from Montage management to Marriott International, marking the beginning of a new chapter.

A New Direction: The Resort at Kapalua Bay & St. Regis Transition

Now rebranded as The Resort at Kapalua Bay, the property is positioned for a planned transition to the St. Regis brand in 2027, aligning it with one of the most prestigious luxury hotel flags in the world.

As part of this transition:

  • The property is now managed by Marriott International and will be until the transition to the St. Regis Estates portfolio
  • The former Montage Spa has been reintroduced as The Spa at Kapalua Bay
  • Future enhancements are expected to further elevate the resort’s positioning within the global luxury travel and real estate market

Courtney M. Brown, R(S) & Team
Vice President
Island Sotheby's International Realty

 

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