Our Kuleana
Guided by a deep respect for the land and inspired by the ocean, The Ritz-Carlton Oʻahu, Turtle Bay honors the ancient Hawaiian values of responsibility and care for the land. Spanning 1,300 acres, with over 1,100 acres preserved for conservation, the resort is situated within a sanctuary of untouched beauty. From secluded beaches to lush forests and rugged coastlines, it offers peaceful escapes where nature thrives.
The ʻĀina (Land) and Moana (Ocean)
Turtle Bay's lush landscape has more than 50,000 native flowers, shrubs, trees, and other floral and fauna (many of which can be found nowhere else). Ōhai, Ālula, and Pohinahina are just a few Hawaiian species blooming within the resort.
Located between Kahuku’s majestic Mauka (mountains) and the endless expanse of the Makai (ocean), lies a sprawling 468-acre Kuilima Farm. This expansive farm serves as a vibrant hub, providing high-quality produce and cultural learning opportunities.
Turtle Bay is also home to an amazing diversity of native species and wildlife:
- The resort's namesake the Honu (Pacific Green Sea Turtle) are frequently seen in Kawela Bay, sunning themselves on the beach or swimming along surfers and kayakers.
- The endangered Hawaiian monk seal can be found on our secluded beaches but keep your distance as these beautiful creatures are on the Federal endangered list. According to some sources, there are only about 1,100 left in the wild.
- Committed to conservation, we're part of the Hawaiian Island Humpback Whale National Marine Sanctuary. From December through May you can see them frolicking just off our shores.
- This is where over 70 bird species live, including the Moli (Laysan Albatross), ‘Alae ‘ula (Hawaiian Moorhen), and ‘Alae kea (Hawaiian Coot).
While admiring these animals from a distance, please adhere to conservation laws. Dive into unforgettable experiences like surfing, kayaking, and bird watching tours to connect with Hawaiʻi's vibrant marine ecosystem.
Sustainability Practices & Initiatives
Each second Saturday, we collaborate with the North Shore Community Land Trust on sand dune restoration at Kahuku Point. We also host regular clean-ups and partner with organizations like Sustainable Coastlines, Surfrider Foundation, and Parley Hawaii.
- Food Waste: The resort donates leftover meals to local organizations, with any unsafe food being repurposed by farms.
- Post-Consumer Biodegradable Items: To reduce waste, all cups are either reusable or made from biodegradable materials.
- Bio-Diesel Conversion: Partnering with Brigham Young University, the resort converts used kitchen oil into biodiesel to fuel the university's vehicle fleet.
- Ocean Friendly Restaurant: Alaia, our signature restaurant, is recognized by the Surfrider Foundation for its sustainable practices that prioritize ocean conservation.
In December 2013, Turtle Bay became the first resort on Oahu to install a solar roof, reducing fossil fuel use and cutting carbon emissions by the equivalent of planting 350 acres of forest. The installation saves 1,000 barrels of oil annually. In 2021, solar panels were added to each Ocean Bungalow cluster to further enhance sustainability.
Our Energy Management System automatically adjusts chillers and air conditioning in unoccupied areas. Each room is equipped with a monitor that allows for temperature settings upon check-in or before events/functions.
To conserve freshwater, the golf courses use treated wastewater, which nourishes saltwater-tolerant paspalum turfgrass. This turf acts as a natural herbicide against weeds and helps cleanse the recycled water, filtering nutrients and contaminants as it moves into the underground aquifer, which also supplies the resort’s potable water.
Recycling efforts at the resort have significantly increased, with 1.8 tons more recycled annually and a 0.4-ton reduction in waste each month. Designated recycling centers are available for both guests and staff. Green waste from foliage is transformed into mulch, and a small portion is used in composting with horse manure for landscaping.
The Linen Program refreshes bed linens after the third night of each guest's stay to reduce water and detergent use. Towels are only replaced if left in the bathtub. Restrooms and showers across the resort have been upgraded to conserve water in toilets, urinals, and showers, leading to a significant reduction in water usage.
Resort pools now use natural salt water instead of chlorine, reducing the environmental impact. This saline system eliminates the need for manufacturing, transporting, and storing traditional pool chlorine, which is less eco-friendly.
There are four E-Vehicle charging stations available on-site for resort guests and visitors. Additional fees will apply.