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Maui is an island of adventure.
It represents the best of Hawaii – nature at its unadulterated and spectacular best. But with the trappings of a major city notably absent from its shores, you may worry that the accommodation will be as adventurous as everything else on the island.
Thankfully there are a number of incredible resorts vying for your attention dotted across Maui. To assist in the search, we’ve listed some of the finest the island offers.
These are the best resorts in Maui.
For the Luxury Lover
You’re sweaty. You’re sore. You’re exhausted. That 11-mile crater hike was no joke, and all you need now is an excellent meal, a stiff drink, and a little decadence. Don’t worry; Maui has your luxury longings covered.
Ever had a facial using crushed black diamonds? That’s the level of opulence you’re working with at Four Seasons’ Maui resort. It’s expensive, but damn, it’s dazzling.
The Pacific Ocean might steal the center stage from virtually every point on site, but there’s an unruly amount of luxury amenities you can enjoy as you gaze out. The world-class spa features some extremely high-end experiences, like the diamond facial mentioned above, cryotherapy chambers, and a eucalyptus steam room, while some neat touches like free poolside sun cream (in 3 SPFs), adults-only infinity pools, and extraordinarily good restaurants round out what can only be an unforgettable experience.
If you’re going big, you can’t get any bigger.
We need to be specific on this property. The Grand Wailea is an excellent resort in Maui. The Hilton-owned hotel is an ever-popular option for luxury enthusiasts on the island, thanks to its world-class amenities. But it’s the resort’s luxury villas we’re focussing on.
Just across the road from the main lodge, Ho’olei is a set of three stunning homes that can house up to eight people. The sprawling spaces are perfect for group travelers that love resort amenities but hate resort life. Guests have access to the traditional hotel’s full facilities and even have a free shuttle to take them over if they’re not feeling the five-minute walk.
A secluded paradise, the Ritz Carlton Kapalua covers an astonishing 54 acres and revolves around a showstopping triple-pronged swimming pool. The resort is proud of its place in Hawaii and nods back to the rich culture of its surroundings at every possible opportunity. Interestingly, the original site for the hotel uncovered a Hawaiian burial ground and promptly changed its location.
Service is the best on the island from top to bottom, its restaurants are exceptional but unpretentious, and countless on-site experiences are available, including cultural tours, nearby hikes, and food festivals.
For the baller on a budget
Hawaii is not cheap. There’s no getting around it. When planning your trip, find your budget, accept the money’s going to disappear, and then enjoy every second the island gives you. To help with the budgeting, these resorts pack a luxury kick instead of a financial gut punch.
Kaanapali makes a compelling argument. Its pricepoint, although volatile, can sink as low as $270 making it one of the best-value hotels in the area. It’s been around for a while and knows service. One of the greatest compliments it receives is the cultural knowledge of its staff, as well as the attentiveness it exhumes at all times of the day.
It may not be as pretty as some flashy names, but it’s renowned for being the most Hawaiian hotel on the island. From the furniture to cultural activities, few hotels will immerse you in the local traditions like Kaanapali. That and you can book five nights here for the price of one in the Four Seasons resort.
A beautiful beach, clean, comfortable rooms, and a wonderfully reasonable price. All three await at The Mauian Hotel, and what else do you need?
It’s a simple affair, with generously sized studio rooms. They even come equipped with kitchenettes – even more opportunities to save a little money. Napili beach is just 350 feet from the property, and its location on the island puts you within striking distance of the action with your vehicle. These guys know what they’re doing.
Don’t be put off by the Pioneer Inn’s franchise label; it’s a unique little accommodation that’ll help build a memorable stay in Maui. Built in 1901, the historic building fosters a wonderful plantation-style experience rooted in comfortable simplicity.
While it lacks the beach access of some nearby competitors, the pool more than makes do for the loss. Its patio is a charming little area to relax, the on-site restaurant is popular with guests, and everything in the town of Lahaina is nearby. Plus, prices hover around the $300 mark, making it a far more affordable option.
The Inbetweeners
If you’re searching for the sweet spot between the insane luxury you can find on Maui and the more affordable spots, here you are. While nightly rates still run from $400 to $700 (way above average compared to the continental US), Maui is often a bucket-list trip that we’re happy to splash a little more cash on.
Get away from it all at Paia Inn. Located in the less-tourist town of Paia, where hotels are few and far between, the little boutique hotel is a gem. Quirky details like the old-fashioned vacancy sign out front and its definitively cozy appearance make it a drastically different choice when compared to the glitz of the higher-end properties.
The sushi restaurant isn’t to be missed, while daytime wanderings will take you to Paia Bay Beach, just 200 feet away. The outside patio faces the water, too – in case you don’t feel like starting far. Rooms fluctuate from $450 upwards, depending on the season.
Kulani is beautifully designed with a surfer mind. You’ll be at home throwing a tank top and flip-flops on here, but somehow never getting that low-budget feeling that comes with that vibe. Rooms are set inside quaint bungalows that open into sprawling, playfully furnished homes.
Guests are surrounded by Maui’s greenery, yet still only a five-minute walk from Lahaina’s restaurants, bars, and shops. The beach is a coconut’s throw from the bungalows, despite not being a waterfront property. Prices start in the high $300s, so watch your dates, and you might scoop a bargain.
There are no boundaries being broken at the Maui Ocean Club. But what it lacks in quirk or unique amenities, it makes up for by being a dependable, high-quality hotel. The guestroom views are epic, the pool is excellent, and the service is top-notch.
Those seeking something a little more memorable should check out the hotels above, but for reliability, the Ocean Club is perfect. Prices do vary, so consider your options if you have specific dates in mind.
by travelers, for travelers.
