Let’s face it, Maui is an island that’s on nearly everybody’s bucket listing. And for good purpose. With lovely seashores, spectacular waterfalls, and epic hikes it’s truly laborious to discover an excuse not to go. After visiting the island a number of instances we discovered essentially the most time-consuming and troublesome job is definitely discovering the very best locations to keep in Maui and the place to base your self on the island.
Even although you’ll discover a vary of luxurious beachfront resorts and mid-range boutique resorts together with trip leases full of helpful facilities dotted round Maui, it actually pays to plan in advance. Not solely can or not it’s troublesome to get a rental automotive, however securing a resort will be simply as difficult.
Top Places To Stay In Maui
We put collectively this information to enable you to along with your trip planning to be able to resolve what’s the finest place in Maui the place you need to base your self to see the very best of this wonderful island. You’ll have the possibility to select the solar and sand, surf alongside Maui’s North Shore, or enterprise inland to climb volcanoes and seize panoramic views of the West Maui mountains rising out of the ocean.
Before we get began let’s get you accustomed to the structure of the island. This will enable you to see the place issues are positioned in addition to enable you to resolve in order for you to be in the extra widespread areas of South Maui and West Maui or have a extra inland expertise in the Upcountry.
Our Recommendations for the Best Places to Stay in Maui
Where is the Best Area to Stay in Maui?
Maui is a straightforward island to navigate. It is damaged up into 6 foremost areas which we are going to spotlight and allow you to know the place we expect are the very best locations to keep.
Regardless of which neighborhood you select to keep in Maui, there isn’t a scarcity of wonderful views. Although not an enormous island, Maui is finest explored if you lease a automotive. It permits you to cowl extra of the island and provides you the liberty to benefit from the Maui tradition.
Each area in Maui has one thing completely different to supply. When weighing the professionals and cons of every, it’s necessary to know what kind of trip you take pleasure in essentially the most. South Maui is the go-to spot thanks to the vary of resorts, whereas East Maui is extra distant, with few resorts however is a relaxing getaway.
1. West Maui (Lahaina, Kaanapali, Napili, and Kapalua)
West Maui, residence to the historic city of Lahaina, a former whaling village and Hawaiian royal capital, boasts of a wealthy historic and cultural context. Today, Front Street, Lahaina’s foremost thoroughfare, thrives with distinctive retailers, various eating places, and artwork galleries, and is a middle of vibrant nightlife. Also in West Maui, you can find Ka’anapali Beach and Kapalua Bay, well-known for his or her world-class resorts, pristine seashores, and top-notch golf programs.
The great thing about West Maui is not only restricted to its attractive seashores and splendid lodging. It additionally encompasses a dramatic panorama outlined by the West Maui Mountains, or Mauna Kahalawai, providing a ton of trails for mountain climbing and alternatives for outside lovers to take in the whole lot Maui has to supply. Moreover, the stretch of shoreline alongside Highway 30 delivers gorgeous views of the ocean, neighboring islands, and even humpback whales in the course of the winter months.
The finest locations to keep in West Maui cater to a variety of preferences. Luxury seekers might be drawn to the upscale resorts of Kaanapali and Kapalua, full with full-service spas, championship golf programs, and beachfront eating. Those in search of a extra native expertise would possibly desire a trip rental in Lahaina or a boutique resort, the place they will take pleasure in being shut to native sights, retailers, and eating places.
As for Napili, residence to the enchanting Napili Bay, you’ll discover a laid-back ambiance amongst a set of small resorts and condos that don’t overtake the skyline. The neighborhood wraps round Napili Bay, providing company the possibility to snorkel or dive in the turquoise waters.
Just north of Lahaina, you’ll discover the well-known Kaanapali Beach. The expansive white sands stretch across the shoreline, providing loads of room to discover your personal slice of heaven. When you aren’t buying and selling the turquoise ocean for the mushy sand, head to the north finish, the place you’ll uncover Black Rock. On arrival, it’s possible you’ll spot folks leaping off the cliff face into the deep water beneath. Feel free to be a part of or embark on some incredible snorkeling.
Recommended Hotels in West Maui
The Ritz Carlton Maui
The Ritz-Carlton, Maui is an expensive resort nestled throughout the pristine Kapalua Bay on the northwest coast. Surrounded by lush greenery and white sand seashores, this elegant resort presents impeccable service and facilities together with a tri-level swimming pool, golf programs, a rejuvenating spa, and various eating choices. It is the final word in luxurious.
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Napili Kai Beach Resort
Napili Kai Beach Resort is an enthralling and tranquil oceanfront retreat in Maui, Hawaii. With its gorgeous white sand seaside, lush tropical gardens, and comfy lodging, the resort presents a peaceable and intimate setting for company to unwind and expertise the fantastic thing about Maui’s paradise.
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Ka’anapali Beach Hotel
With its conventional Hawaiian hospitality and heat aloha spirit, the Kaanapali seaside resort presents a snug and genuine Hawaiian expertise. Guests can take pleasure in ocean views, cultural actions, scrumptious eating choices, and direct entry to the gorgeous seaside. It is a extra reasonably priced possibility in this space.
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2. South Maui (Kihei, Wailea, and Makena)
After West Maui, South Maui is the most well-liked vacation spot on the island. Just 20 minutes from the airport, it’s simply accessible with the seaside, eating places, and retailers proper in your doorstep. Those that arrive at this finish of Maui will normally select between both Kihei or the famed Wailea.
The climate in South Maui tends to be drier and sunnier in contrast to different components of the island, making it a seaside lover’s haven. And let me inform you the seashores in South Maui are among the many most interesting in Hawaii. Wailea Beach, as an example, is known for its golden sands, clear waters, and glorious swimming circumstances.
Makena Beach, often known as Big Beach, is without doubt one of the largest seashores in Maui and is widespread for picnicking, swimming, and typically big-wave browsing. But the very best half is that the coral reefs are wealthy in marine life, making snorkeling a must-do exercise. The Molokini Crater, {a partially} submerged volcanic crater, is a world-famous snorkeling spot simply accessible from South Maui.
Wailea has the most important focus of luxurious resorts and luxurious resorts. With a beautiful mixture of facilities like nice eating places and golf programs, Wailea Resorts cater to {couples}, honeymooners, and even households. Wailea can also be residence to the one adults-only resort on Maui like the posh resort Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea. Enjoy a soothing trip, some with waterfront infinity-edge swimming pools, non-public seaside entry, and loads of upscale eating places inside strolling distance.
Such lovely seashores and luxurious resorts don’t come low-cost. The main disadvantage for South Maui is the worth level, though it’s possible you’ll discover a budget-friendly trip rental in Kihei. Vacationers must also bear in mind that a lot of their chosen water adventures, equivalent to whale-watching boat excursions, will depart from Maalaea Harbor, a couple of 20-minute drive away.
Recommended Hotels in South Maui
The Fairmont Kea Lani
With its beachfront location, indulge in water actions or just unwind by the ocean. The spacious suites and villas, coupled with distinctive service, guarantee consolation. The various eating, world-class spa, and cultural actions present a complete style of paradise.
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The Four Seasons Resort
Overlooking the serene Wailea Beach, the resort presents gorgeous ocean views, impeccable service, and comfy, elegant rooms. Its famend spa, gourmand eating experiences, and number of actions guarantee each leisure and journey, making it a great Hawaiian keep.
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Sunset Paradise Luana Kai
This property has a personal pool, positioned in Kihei, inside simply lower than 1 km of Kalepolepo Beach and a 14-minute stroll from Mai Poina Beach. The air-conditioned lodging is 200 meters from Waipuilani Beach, and company profit from complimentary WiFi and personal parking out there on-site.
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3. Maui’s North Shore (Paia and Haiku)
With the 2 hottest areas of Maui coated, let’s take a look at the island’s North Shore, which presents a higher perception into one of the crucial spectacular Hawaiian islands. Closer to the pure wonders of Maui, however a bit farther from a few of the higher swimming seashores, the North Shore is all about shutting off from the world and respiratory in the serenity.
West Maui and South Maui are giant resort areas, with helpful facilities on web site. But in case your crew isn’t an enormous fan of that kind of journey, then the North Shore can also be an amazing different.
Maui’s North Shore, encompassing Paia and Haiku, is a mecca for surfers and windsurfers from all over the world, particularly on the legendary Ho’okipa Beach Park. The space has a bohemian vibe with artwork galleries, boutique retailers, and natural cafes. Paia, typically referred to because the “windsurfing capital of the world,” is a quaint city with a mix of Hawaiian and plantation-era influences.
Families can take pleasure in numerous family-friendly resorts and laid-back eating in Pa’ia with loads of hearty fare on supply. The foremost exception to the rule is arguably the very best restaurant on Maui, Mama’s Fish House.
I discussed that the North Shore isn’t famend for its enjoyable swimming seashores, however it’s residence to world-class waters for adventurous souls. All alongside the North Shore, you’ll discover some distinctive browsing experiences for those who know their means round some gnarly breaks.
There’s a purpose the North Shore is residence to a number of professional tour occasions. When exploring the tide swimming pools at Ho’okipa Beach, you might even see a bunch of windsurfers making the most of the coastal winds. They will need to have heard that the seaside can also be thought-about the windsurfing capital of the world.
As for {couples} who need their very own romantic escape, the North Shore is residence to a handful of upscale boutique resorts the place you possibly can bask in the luxurious views away from the crowds. Hand-in-hand, roam the comfy city of Pa’ia and alongside the seashores the place the waves tumble down alongside the night solar.
Recommended Hotels On The North Shore
Lumeria Maui
Lumeria Maui presents a singular retreat for these searching for tranquility and rejuvenation. This wellness-focused sanctuary options lush gardens, yoga courses, and holistic spa remedies. With a farm-to-table eating expertise and proximity to waterfalls and seashores, Lumeria is ideal for a restorative getaway.
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Paia Inn
The Paia Inn, located in the charming city of Paia, Maui, is an intimate boutique resort that captures a mix of contemporary consolation and bohemian model. Its prime location presents easy accessibility to Maui’s North Shore seashores, eclectic retailers, and native eateries. The personalised service and comfy ambiance make it a pleasant hideaway.
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Nalu Kai Lodge
The Nalu Kai Lodge in Paia presents an genuine Hawaiian expertise with a laid-back ambiance. Its prime location close to Maui’s North Shore makes it very best for surfers and seaside lovers. The lodge’s rooftop deck is ideal for socializing and having fun with ocean views. It’s a budget-friendly possibility with a contact of island appeal.
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4. East Maui
From the crest of the North Shore area, the Road to Hana begins its illustrious journey alongside the rugged coast of East Maui. The well-known drive is a must-do no matter the place you select to base your self on the island. But having it in your doorstep is without doubt one of the foremost promoting factors for this a part of Maui.
East Maui is a set of waterfalls flanked by rainbows and mountain climbing trails via rainforests and towering mountains. It’s a extra secluded and fewer developed a part of Maui, providing a tranquil escape from the bustling vacationer areas.
Once in Hana, you possibly can discover black sand seashores, freshwater caves, and botanical gardens. Wai’anapanapa State Park is a must-visit, that includes a shocking black sand seaside, sea arches, and blowholes. Hana additionally serves because the gateway to the Kipahulu District of Haleakala National Park, the place you possibly can hike via bamboo forests and swim in the Pools of ‘Ohe’o.
Accommodations in East Maui are restricted in contrast to different areas and primarily include trip leases, small inns, and some luxurious choices. Staying in Hana permits you to expertise previous Hawaii, with its slower tempo and close-knit neighborhood. It’s the proper vacation spot for nature lovers and people searching for a extra genuine Hawaiian expertise.
For the trekkers amongst us, a few of the finest hikes in Maui will be discovered in the jap area. These embrace the unbelievable Pipiwai Trail and the trek to Wailua Falls. It isn’t laborious to see why East Maui is the perfect vacation spot for those who need to get out and about. Trade the nightlife and resort expertise for mountain climbing boots and distant seashores to see a rugged however equally gorgeous a part of Maui.
Recommended Hotels in East Maui
The Hana Maui Resort
The Hana Maui Resort is a serene hideaway on Maui’s secluded jap shoreline. Surrounded by lush rainforest and pristine seashores, it’s the epitome of a tropical paradise. The resort’s spacious cottages, wellness facilities, and give attention to Hawaiian tradition enable company the chance to join with nature.
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Heavenly Hana Paradise
Heavenly Hana Paradise is a comfy mattress and breakfast nestled in the tranquil city of Hana, Maui. It’s a great selection for vacationers searching for a peaceable retreat shut to nature. With snug lodging, lush environment, and shut proximity to waterfalls and seashores, it presents a real style of Hawaiian paradise.
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Bamboo Inn On Hana Bay
Bamboo Inn on Hana Bay presents a country, intimate expertise in Hana, Maui. Its three oceanfront suites, crafted from bamboo, exude tropical appeal. With direct entry to Hana Bay, company can relish the rugged great thing about the realm. The Inn’s welcoming ambiance and gorgeous views make for a memorable keep.
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5. Upcountry / Central Maui (Kahului and Wailuku)
From one journey paradise to one other, depart the coast and head to the mountains for rural Maui. As the title Upcountry suggests, heading inland brings an enormous elevation acquire as you ascend in the direction of the sky to be among the many ranches, farms, and small villages.
One of the highlights of Upcountry is the Haleakala National Park, the place guests can witness the dawn from the summit, typically above the clouds, which is a surreal expertise. The park additionally presents quite a few mountain climbing trails via various landscapes together with cinder cones and rainforests. Furthermore, the agricultural richness of the area will be skilled via farm excursions and visits to native markets.
Upcountry Maui is the normal residence to the Paniolo. You might argue that the Paniolo had been the unique cowboys, whose ranching customs and traditions date again lengthy earlier than the famed cowboys of the Wild West. If you’re in Central Maui on July 4th, commerce the boozy seaside day for a customary rodeo present in Makawao.
Central Maui, encompassing cities like Kahului and Wailuku, serves because the island’s industrial heart. It’s typically the entry level for guests due to the principle airport and harbor. While it’s not a typical vacationer vacation spot, Wailuku has historic websites and the luxurious Iao Valley State Park, recognized for the long-lasting Iao Needle.
One of the very best issues to do, and a significant purpose vacationers base themselves in Upcountry Maui, is to hike to the summit of Haleakala. From wherever on the island you possibly can see the enormous volcano looming overhead. It checks out that such a peak could be residence to the very best view on Maui.
The expertise requires trekkers to get up lengthy earlier than daybreak and make the journey to the bottom of Haleakala. From there, hikers head up the mountain to seize an unforgettable panoramic dawn. Hot tip, the sundown is simply as mesmerizing, so long as you possibly can deal with the hike down in the darkish.
Recommended Hotels in Upcountry / Central Maui
Marriott Maui Kahului Airport
Marriott Maui Kahului Airport is a handy selection for vacationers searching for consolation and accessibility. Located close to Kahului Airport, it’s very best for brief stays or transit. With fashionable facilities, a swimming pool, and attentive service, it gives a snug base. Its location additionally presents easy accessibility to discover Maui’s sights.
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The Beautiful Kula Lodge
Kula Lodge presents gorgeous views of the island from its elevated location. The lodge gives rustic, snug lodging and a restaurant serving contemporary, locally-sourced delicacies. Its proximity to Haleakala National Park makes it a superb selection for these in exploring the pure great thing about Maui.
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Haleakala Princess Estate
Perched on the slopes of Haleakala it presents a tranquil retreat with breathtaking views. The spacious, well-appointed lodging are surrounded by lush gardens, creating a personal paradise. It’s a great selection for households or teams searching for a serene, luxurious escape shut to nature and adventures.
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Best Places to Stay in Maui FAQ
What is the nicest space to keep in Maui?
The nicest space is subjective and depends upon what you’re in search of. Wailea in South Maui for luxurious, Lahaina in West Maui for historical past and nightlife, and Hana in East Maui for seclusion and nature.
Is it higher to keep in North or South Maui?
If you favor a laid-back, native vibe with alternatives for windsurfing and beginning your journey to Hana, North Maui may very well be your very best vacation spot. If you’re in search of sunny climate, lovely seashores for swimming, and splendid lodging, you would possibly desire South Maui.
Which a part of Maui has the very best seashores?
Both South and West Maui supply incredible seashores, every with their very own distinctive attraction. South Maui tends to have quieter, much less developed seashores, whereas these in West Maui are sometimes adjoining to resorts and include extra facilities. .
What aspect of Maui is hottest?
West Maui and South Maui are typically the most well-liked amongst vacationers due to their seashores, resorts, and sights.
Should You Rent a Car in Maui?
Although it isn’t crucial to lease a automotive, we do recommend it in order to see all that Maui has to supply. Some components of the island are simpler to discover in a automotive. We have rented one every time now we have visited and had been glad we did.
Which resorts are closest to Kahului Airport?
Some widespread resorts shut to Kahului Airport embrace Paia Inn, Courtyard by Marriott Maui Kahului Airport, and Maui Seaside Hotel.
Our Money-Saving Tips for Maui
We all know that Hawaii isn’t precisely a haven for funds vacationers. But there are methods for you to lower your expenses with out sacrificing your expertise in paradise.
One of the very best methods to lower your expenses in Maui is to keep in a apartment. Many condos are part of native resorts granting entry to surrounding eating places, swimming pools, and seashores. They are cheaper than resort rooms and include full kitchens so it can save you on consuming out.
Off-season journey comes with decrease room charges and cheaper flights. Arrive between February and May for strong climate and whale watching season with out the crowds and peak costs.
Getting Around Maui
After arriving at Kahului Airport, you’ll have quite a lot of decisions for getting round Maui. You can base your self in a sure location and embark on day excursions. Many resorts can have shuttles to native locations equivalent to retailers and sights. These are extra prevalent in West and South Maui.
There are 14 bus routes across the island, with the realm round Hana being serviced the least. A one-way fare for all routes will price $2 with a day cross going for $4.
However, in order for you to see as a lot of Maui as potential, then you will want to rent a automotive. This might be the easiest way to drive the Road to Hana and see the extra distant areas in Maui’s Upcountry.
In conclusion
In the top, the very best place to keep on Maui is a mirrored image of your private preferences and what you need to see and do. Whether it’s luxurious, journey, tradition, or tranquility is what you’re in search of, Maui has one thing for everybody. In planning your keep, our suggestion is to place your self central to the actions you need to do essentially the most.
Maui is not only a vacation spot; it’s a journey that weaves into your being, leaving an indelible imprint. Cherish the island’s bounty, resonate with its tradition, and let the Aloha spirit information your journey via this island paradise. These are the explanations we return repeatedly.