Where To Stay In Maui – Hawaii Travel Guide 2021
Are you trying to decide where to stay in Maui for your summer vacation?
It can be difficult trying to decide if you should stay on West Maui or South Maui – I am here to assure you there are accommodations for every type of traveler no matter which side of the island you decide to make a home.
If this is your first time planning a trip to Maui you might be confused as where to stay on Maui? Which area has the best beaches? Should you stay in a resort or a smaller boutique hotel? Should you rent an Airbnb or a privately owned condo?
I’ve explored Maui dozens of times, therefore, I know where to find the best luxury hotels, off the beaten path hotels including 5-star luxury accommodations, all-inclusive resorts for the entire family, and the best budget-friendly hotels in Maui.
There are two major areas in Maui – The West which has most of the luxury hotels and resorts while the Southside has more budget-friendly accommodations.
Many of the luxury hotels and resorts are located along the west coast near Ka’anapali which is why we decided to make the Westin Kaanapali Ocean Resort Villas our home for 5 days we were vacationing on Maui.
Best Hotels in Maui
West Maui is home to spectacular resorts, shopping, restaurants, a wealth of activities, and some of the most amazing sunsets in the world.
After driving a few minutes down the Honoapiilani Highway you’ll find yourself in the heart of Kaanapali Maui.
Whether you’re staying in the area or day Trippin around the Island the Kaanapali Beachwalk is always a must-visit.
The links in this post may be affiliate links. That means that if you click them and make a purchase, this site makes a commission. It will have no impact on the price you pay or the experience of your purchase.
You will find families playing on the beach, shoppers strolling in and out of clothing boutiques or visitors simply soaking in the view, and people watching
On this side of the island, resorts melt into one another, and it doesn’t take long to lead you to Kapalua, known for championship golf and private getaways.
West Maui Facts
- Great weather 24/7
- Some of the best beaches on the island
- Great shopping
- Luxury accommodations
- Overcrowded and touristy
- Especially crowded during the holiday season
- Far from the Hana Highway and Haleakala
1. Montage Kapalua Bay
Montage Kapalua Bay is set in picturesque Kapalua Bay, this oceanfront 24-acre resort boasts spacious suites with free WiFi and full kitchens. An outdoor pool, restaurant, and spa, and wellness center are offered on-site.
For the golf enthusiast, Kapalua Golf Club Bay Course is just 7 minutes’ walk away, while the state-of-the-art Kapalua Golf Academy is 1.3 km away. Kaanapali Beach is 9 km away. Kahului Airport is 27 km away.
At Montage Kapalua Bay, you will feel embraced by genuine island hospitality and authentic culture.
At every turn, the spirit of Hawaii merges with your own to create pono — a true sense of balance and harmony — as you relax and enjoy all‐suite accommodations, inspired cuisine, championship golf, watersports, and an award-winning Hawaii-inspired spa.
Driving Directions to Montage Kapalua Bay
From Kahului Airport (OGG) – approximately a 65+ minute drive
• Follow HI-380 and HI-30 S to Napilihau St in Napili-Honokowai for 33 miles
• Turn left onto Napilihau St
• Turn right onto Lower Honoapiilani Rd
• Turn left onto Bay Dr
• Continue straight to stay on Bay Dr
Google Map Directions
From Kapalua Airport (JHM) – approximately a 10-12 minute drive
• Turn right onto Akahele St
• Turn right onto HI-30 E
• Turn left onto Napilihau St
• Turn right onto Lower Honoapiilani Rd
• Turn left onto Bay Dr
• Continue straight to stay on Bay Dr
Google Map Directions
2. Westin Ka’anapali Ocean Resort Villas
Westin Ka’anapali Ocean Resort is set between North Ka’anapali Beach and the mountains of West Maui, this Lahaina, Hawaii resort features 6 outdoor pools. It has spacious villas with views of the ocean or island.
Westin Ka’anapali Resort has 3 restaurants and 2 bars serving an array of cuisine from Italian at Pulehu to American at Pailolo Bar and Grill.
Poolside fare is available at Auntie’s Kitchen. Snacks, drinks and souvenirs can be purchased at the resorts’s markets, Pu’ukoli’i General Store or Kai Ala Market.
Free shuttle service is provided by Ka’anapali Ocean Resort to area attractions including Whalers Village and downtown Lahaina. Kapalua West Maui Airport is 4 km away.
3. Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa
Discover the ultimate Kaanapali Beach hotel – Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa. Surrounded by 40 lush, beachfront acres, our breathtaking Maui hotel presents an astonishing array of delightful ways to spend your days and nights.
Frolic in the water playground, pamper yourself at the spa, play championship golf and tennis, scuba, ride the waves, even spend an evening with the heavens.
Feast on the beauty of nature, priceless art collection, and in the delectable restaurants.
4. The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua
Escape to Maui for a true Hawaiian experience at The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua, a AAA Five-Diamond beachfront resort where cultural and environmental appreciation combines with world-class service and facilities.
Enjoy golf, water sports, spa, and more.
On-property and nearby recreational activities include a basketball court, swimming, surfing, boogie boarding, sailing, kayaking, outrigger canoeing, stand-up paddling, whale watching, snorkeling, hiking and more.
Kapalua Resort shuttle available for transportation to nearby beaches, restaurants, shopping and golf courses within Kapalua Resort.
5. The Westin Maui Resort & Spa
The Westin Maui Resort & Spa is on Ka’anapali Beach and features an on-site luau and classes on hula dancing and lei making. The rooms include a flat-screen TV.
The Spa and Resort Westin Maui features 4 restaurants and bars which serve traditional Hawaii cuisine.
The restaurants range from Oceanside Restaurant, which serves dinner with beautiful sunset views, to Sea Dogs, which offers snacks and drinks.
The Maui Westin is adjacent to Whalers’ Village and 10 minutes from the Ka’anapali Golf Resort and Ka’anapali Golf Course South.
A free shuttle service is available to these locations and to downtown Lahaina, which is 4.8 km from the property.
Where To Stay in South Maui
The area called “South Maui” is a coastal strip which is on the south-west coast of the island. Starting in North Kihei, South Maui extends as far south as La Perouse Bay.
Most tourist flock to the areas of Kihei, Wailea and Makena which have some of the best beaches and luxury hotels the further south you go.
Several of the absolute best of Maui’s high-end resorts are concentrated in the Wailea area.
South Maui Facts
- Great weather 24/7
- Budget-friendly accommodations
- Decent beaches
- Not as much shopping
- Not as many upscale dining options
- Far from the Hana Highway and Haleakala
1. Grand Wailea
Hands down the most amenity-packed resort on Maui, the Grand Wailea – A Waldorf Astoria Resort is a destination all its own.
With 780 rooms, two massive pools, four restaurants, and a 50,000 square foot spa, the Grand Wailea wows with its grandiose scale.
The property attracts all kinds of travelers, from families with kids to honeymooners to travel bloggers to corporate types, so guests can expect nonstop crowds at any time of year.
2. Andaz Wailea
Andaz Wailea is the former site of the Renaissance Wailea, this modern luxury hotel opened in September 2013. Its decor is simplified elegance. The large infinity pools are amazing.
Retreat to Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort, a luxury hotel set on 15 beachfront acres. Immerse yourself in the island spirit with regional farm-to-table dining, direct access to Mokapu Beach, and rooms boasting tropical views.
Explore the exotic Polynesian culture and history of Maui during the resort luau experience, featuring an authentic ‘ohana-style meal and cocktails during the Feast at Mokapu.
3. Four Seasons
This Wailea hotel is the Four Seasons, so of course it is luxurious and the service is fabulous. They even come around and ask if you’d like to be sprayed with Evian water while you bask by the pool.
You might spot a celebrity there. But to me it is too quiet and the pools are not anything as wonderful as those at the Grand.
There’s plenty of space to find shady respite. Sit back in one of the 67 cabanas that face either the ocean or the pools, in one of 22 oceanfront sanctuaries or on one of our chaise lounges with umbrellas – all complimentary.
There are also six luxury cabanas at the adults-only serenity pool and four ocean-view cabanas near the fountain pool that can be reserved in advance.
Each of these cabanas offers a heightened level of service and amenities to maximize your enjoyment of the Resort.
4. Fairmont Kea Lani
The Fairmont Kea Lani is the only one of the south Maui hotels in which the rooms are all suites, and they are all well furnished.
The outside of the hotel has distinctive white turrets that make it stand out from the other Wailea hotels.
Imagine an island oasis where bright blue skies, a shimmering golden sand beach and an abundance of tropical blooms create a lush vibrant retreat for all.
Fairmont Kea Lani is this very special place, and we look forward to welcoming you with aloha to our oceanfront paradise.
Experience the Hawaii vacation of your dreams on Maui’s coveted Wailea coast at one of their all-suite and villa luxury resort and spa.
Hotels Near Hana Highway
Road To Hana Facts
The Road to Hana is more than just a great drive through a beautiful area of Maui. Most visitors tend to zip to and from Hana with a checklist of sights to photograph. This is the wrong way to do it.
Do your due diligence beforehand, decide on a few locations that look the most intriguing, and take your time at each location and if you decide to stay along the Road to Hana I have found the best hotels for your vacation,
- Close to the Hana Highway and Oheo Gulch
- Small beaches
- Very wet especially during the winter
- Far away from everything
1. Travaasa Hana
Travaasa Hana is a 47 plantation-style Ocean Bungalows line the coast and 23 low-rise bungalow Garden View Suites are spread apart along vast grassy grounds. The rooms are big and very comfortable.
We usually stay at the Garden Junior Suites, and we’re always surprised at how large they are. It feels like we’ve been upgraded each time, but really we’re in the least expensive rooms.
The Ocean Bungalows are even better. Most of them have ocean views and all have private lanais. They’re breath-taking and a great place to unplug.
Central Maui
Facts about Central Maui
- Plenty of shopping available
- Close to restaurants and hotels including the Hana Highway
- Limited accommodations
- Very wet
- A limited number of beaches
1. Maui Seaside Hotel
Discover paradise at the Maui Seaside Hotel where extreme play and relaxation combine to create the ideal Hawaiian vacation on the beautiful island of Maui.
Windsurf at Hookipa Beach, hike in Iao State Park, golf at Maui Lani, and explore local villages. Our oceanfront Kahului, Maui hotel offers affordable lodging with easy access to adventure and local culture!
2. Maui Beach Hotel
Maui Beach Hotel is located in Kahului and offers comfortable accommodation. There is also a fitness center with a swimming pool.
Maui Beach Hotel Kahului offers a range of amenities, including luggage storage, a 24-hour reception and a golf course. In sunny weather, an outdoor terrace provides an ideal place to relax.
Upcountry Maui
UpCountry Maui Facts
- Great scenery and proximity to Haleakala
- Lack of accommodation options
- Very limited variety of stores or restaurants
- No beaches
1. Paia Inn
Smack in the middle of funky Pai’a, this boutique inn provides a comfortable base in Maui’s happiest town. Trails from the inn lead out to the beach, and plenty of restaurants are located nearby.
Rooms range from a petite studio to a three-bedroom house on the beach.
Where Did I Stay in Maui?
Review of The Westin Ka’anapali Ocean Resort Villas
These stylish rooms at The Westin Kā‘anapali Ocean Resort Villas are spacious studio or one- or two-bedroom villa up to 1,230 square feet that offer many amenities that will make your stay much more relaxing.
The hubby and I didn’t feel like we were in a hotel because of the king-sized Westin Bed, full-sized kitchen appliances, flat-panel TVs, and let’s not forget the views. Our room had stunning views of the ocean and it was amazing.
Things To Do at Westin Ka’anapali Resort
Imagine waking up each morning to coffee on your balcony and taking an early morning stroll and watching the sunrise while slipping your toes into the sand.
The Westin offers so much to do that you really don’t have to leave the property and the hotel will set up tours to spot humpback whales, hiking a tropical rain forest, 400-foot waterfall or exploring a dormant volcano. Take advantage of the following activities right on the property:
- Fitness Classes
- Hawaiian Culture Classes
- Spa
- Koi Fish Feeding Frenzy
- Live Music
- Westin Evening Ritual
Miles of sapphire-blue Pacific waters beckon beginner and expert surfers alike, while scores of emerald-green courses entice golfers to unforgettable games.
No visit is complete without taking in the beauty and diversity of Polynesian culture as told through the music, dance, and cuisine of an authentic Hawaiian luau.
Amenities at Westin Kaanapali Resort:
OCEANFRONT POOLS
Open Daily: North & South Pools: 6 a.m. – 10 p.m.
South Pool Water Slide: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Laze around either of the two oceanfront heated pools, both with rock waterfalls and soothing whirlpool spas.
At the North Pool, take in the beautiful Hawaiian surroundings from this quiet relaxation pool, which flows freely through connected lagoons.
At the South Pool, energize under the warm Hawaiian sun at the active main pool, which includes a water slide.
PIRATE SHIP POOL
Daily: 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.
A Pirate ship water feature with exciting slides, sprays, and streams—as well as a nearby beachside playground—makes this the perfect spot for your younger Keiki to enjoy fun in the sun.
CABANA MASSAGE
Available daily, 8 a.m.–6 p.m.
Unwind with warm tropical breezes and panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean and Molokai.
Ka’anapali Beach
The resort is located directly on the breathtaking white sands of world-famous Ka’anapali Beach.
Two full-service water sports centers are located at the North and South pools areas to help get you ready to take full advantage of snorkeling, snuba, scuba, paddle boarding, or any one of the other unforgettable excursions and water sports waiting for you.
Dining at Westin Ka’anapali Ocean Resort:
Pulehu an Italian Grill
Pūlehu, which means, “grilled” in Hawaiian, offers Italian favorites cooked over an open flame. As the region’s leading farm-to-table venue, sustainability with support for local farmers is essential.
Experience the woodstone oven where freshly baked pizzas are created with the freshest ingredients. Pūlehu also offers an Italian-inspired wine list, Italian beers, and cocktails to complement your selection.
Aunties Kitchen
Located poolside, Auntie’s Kitchen is the perfect place to take a break from the sun or enjoy relaxed dining featuring farm-fresh and local ingredients. Offering breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as, a daily Happy Hour throughout the week.
Pailolo Grill
Ideally situated poolside, Pailolo Bar & Grill is an oceanfront sports bar offering delicious, bistro-style fare.
With a classic menu including burgers, sandwiches, and salads, it’s the perfect place to unwind while cheering on your favorite teams.
You also can simply sit back and celebrate the magnificent views of the Pacific Ocean and neighboring islands with your favorite cocktail at the bar, while taking full advantage of the daily Happy Hour.
I would highly recommend going to Pailolo if for no other reason than to have the burger! I had the hot honey sriracha wings which were equally delicious. enjoy live entertainment 7 days a week.
Kai Ala Market
Renew your senses with a variety of light local and traditional choices in a modern market setting. All the fresh, local ingredients you need for a culinary masterpiece or quick family meal can be found here.
Stop by the Kai Ala Market to stock up on essentials or replenish your in-villa groceries, pick up ready-to-eat options, and grab last-minute ingredients or other necessities throughout the day.
Freshly marinated meats and island fish are available for grilling or in-villa cooking.
How To Get To Westin Ka’anapali Ocean Resort Villas:
Airport Information
Kahului/Maui (OGG)
Airport Phone: +1 808-872-3830
Hotel direction: 28 miles W
This hotel does not provide a shuttle service.
- Alternate transportation: Speedi Shuttle; fee: 78 USD (one way) ;reservation required
- Estimated taxi fare: 100 USD (one way)
Driving directions
- Travel on Keolani Place
- Follow signs to Airport Road merge onto Highway 380 (Kuihelani Highway)
- Turn left onto Highway 30 (Honoapiilani Highway) towards West Maui/Lahaina
- Continue on Highway 30 towards Kai Ala Parkway
- Turn left onto Kai Ala Parkway
- The resort will be on the right
Kapalua Airport – Maui (JHM)
Airport Phone: +1 808-665-6108
Hotel direction: 2.5 miles SE
This hotel does not provide a shuttle service.
- Estimated taxi fare: 18 USD (one way)
Driving directions
- Exit the airport and turn right onto Akahele Street
- Turn left onto Honoapiilani Highway/HI-30 West
- Turn right onto Kai Ala Drive
- The resort will be on the right
Save Money on Flights to Maui and Travel for Less!
Flights to Maui can be extremely expensive, and I’m always on the lookout for ways to save some money on both flights and hotels.
Click here to check out my Travel Hacks on how to save money on airfare to Maui, Hawaii.
How to Get to Maui From the OTHER Hawaiian Islands
If you are already on one of the other Hawaiian islands here are additional options for you to consider as you plan your trip to Maui:
- Travel there via an inter-island flight…
- Take a Hawaiian cruise that makes a stop at Maui.
- Inter-island flight.
Activities & Things To See in Maui:
There is so much to see and do in Maui that our schedule was jammed packed every day. I normally don’t like to plan activities but I didn’t want to leave anything out of this epic trip.
While there are tons of guided tour options we decided to do everything on our own versus hiring a guide mainly because we wanted the freedom to be on our time.
- Snorkeling in Kapalua Bay,
- Rented a convertible and drove the entire Road to Hana (with a stop at Island Style Tacos at Nahiku Marketplace
- Hiked to the Nakele Blowhole.
- Black Sand Beach
Things to Know Before Visiting Maui:
Adjust your clock
The Hawaiian Islands runs on the Hawaii-Aleutian time zone (UTC-10) and does not observe Daylight Savings Time.
If you are coming from the US, you can expect to be 3 hours behind the West Coast.
Pack casual and for the season
When packing for Hawaii, I suggest erring on the side of casual. Even in the finest restaurants, you will find that most women will have on sundresses and sandals while men will have on khakis and a nice linen shirt.
The island of Maui has something for everyone. It is a common misconception that the perfect place to stay in paradise comes with a costly price tag but the Westin Ka’anapali is great for families on a budget.
Drift off to the sound of gently crashing waves knowing that you are getting a deluxe experience without the price.
While you are encouraged to enjoy the delicious cuisine of the many restaurants in Maui I suggest saying money by taking advantage of the fully-equipped kitchen and stock up on some groceries.
There are a number of local grocery stores and farmer’s markets that will inspire you to add the taste of the islands to your favorite dishes!
More Than Just Sandy Shores
While your island home from home lays steps from the white-sandy shores of Ka’anapali Beach there are a number of exciting adventures and activities that are calling your name!
From hiking one of the green mountain slopes to tackling the infamous Road to Hana, there is a tropical oasis for you to discover.
Rent a Jeep
I suggest skipping the guided tours and rent your own drop-top or Jeep. It so much fun being on your time and going at your own pace to discover Maui.
Remember to stop and buy snacks, sodas, and bug spray for your road trip.
Conclusion of where to stay in Maui
Choosing where to stay in Maui is easy. I hope I had provided you with great options from both the west side and the south side of the island
I suggest sticking to the western and southern coastlines if you want to stay where other visitors are staying along with being closer to the beaches.
Whether you stay on the drier leeward side (south and west), or prefer the lusher windward side (north and east) – it’s hard to go wrong picking a location to stay on Maui.
The best part of any vacation is the mystery and the discovery, so start planning today and BOOK YOUR RESERVATION NOW at Westin Ka’anapali Ocean Resort and Villas.
Ready to plan your trip, grab my FREE Vacation Planner to help you plan your trip in the time it takes to watch your favorite TV show!
If you would like to donate to Passports and Grub click here!
Additional Articles For Traveling
Best Sandals Resort- Adult Only Vacation
15 Reasons To Vacation at Beaches Turks and Caicos
5 Of The Best Luxury Belize Resorts
What did you think about my Westin Kaanapali Ocean Resort and Villas Reviews? Have you stayed at Westin Kaanapali Ocean Resort and Villas? I would love to hear your thoughts so leave me a comment on Facebook, Twitter, or Instagram.
Are you also on Pinterest?
Why not save this post to your Pinterest board for later? I am also on Pinterest so feel free to follow Passports and Grub boards and get the latest pin directly
Wow. It looked absolutely beautiful. I love the Westin, so I imagine and see that everything was top notch.
I love the idea of being able to groceries stocked. Nothing like being on vacation and not having to worry about anything.
It was amazing and we didnt have to turn the air on at all just the wind from the ocean blowing on us every night. just amazing
The food looks amazing! I am sure l would love it. The rooms at the Westin also look warm and very inviting. I have been to Hawaii twice and really enjoyed both visits, but my favorite island is Kauai 🙂
Kauai is next on my list. I have heard so many great things about Kauai
I think I might need to make Maui my next Hawaiian island to visit! The sunset view from the Westin is perfection and all of the food looks so tasty!!
Hawaii was amazing and I am hoping to visit at least one more island.
The food looks delicious and the resort looks so relaxing! One of my co-workers got married recently and honeymooned in Hawaii. I think that’s where they stayed as well.
Great review! We have spent time in Honolulu, but we haven’t been to Maui yet. I think we’ll give the Westin a try. Thanks, Tomiko!
If you are going back make sure you check out the Westin. Everything was amazing
I haven’t been to Hawaii yet, but it is on my list possibly for next year. I’ve been researching the best places to stay, so I will definitely add this resort to my list. It looks very inviting and warm. And, the food looks amazing! I can’t wait! Thanks for sharing!
Looks beautiful! I’m sure you had lots of fun. The food looks mouth-watering, too!
You had me dreaming of a vacation doing nothing but chilling in that cosy room!
http://www.distinguisheddiva.com/2016/11/unboxing-of-afro-hair-and-skin-company.html
Everything looks great. The pictures are gorgeous. All of the food looks usual and colorful.
Maui looks beautiful and you stay looks amazing!
I’ve never been to HI because of the distance from NY but will pin this on my Places I wanna go board for my bucket list. You had me at private chef!
It looks like you guys enjoyed this vacay. The pictures are beautiful. I look forward to traveling here one day.
thanks! the flights are long but it is well worth the trip.
I am ready to go right now. Hawaii is my dream place to go, the flight is so long though. Your pictures are beautiful, the hotel sounds like a dream, and the food. That taco situation in one picture made my mouth water. I’m low key obsessed with Jeeps so I love that you suggested renting one.
I am planning a return trip now to Kaui and I cant wait. I have a Jeep wrangler myself. It’s a 95 but they are my favorite
Great post. Love these tips
I love the Westin! Such a beautiful hotel and overall lovely vacation.
I would that this is now a few years out from the original posting, but I thought it would be important to point out that the map and address you have posted is for the Westin resort Hotel in Lāhainā, not the villas.
The correct address is: 6 Kia Ala Dr. Lāhainā HI (https://maps.google.com/maps?oe=UTF-8&hl=en-us&client=safari&um=1&ie=UTF-8&fb=1&gl=us&entry=s&sa=X&ftid=0x79552b4af24cfb97:0xb8964cb2fe39f111&gmm=CgIgAQ%3D%3D) They have built another new resort extension within the last couple years, too!
Thanks! I will update and make corrections