Where To Stay In Maui

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Maui is known as “The Valley Isle” and is the second-largest Hawaiian island. Locals proudly proclaim, “Maui no ka ‘oi,” which means Maui is the best, and Condé Nast Traveler readers have voted Maui the “Best Island in the U.S.” for more than 20 years. From long stretches of golden beaches to the gorgeous winding Hana Highway, there is something for every traveller. Deciding where to stay in Maui will depend on your budget and type of vacation you’re looking for. 

Adventure awaits hikers at Iao Valley State Park, and food lovers can experience authentic Hawaiian food at Old Lahaina Luau. If you have deeper pockets, you can enjoy luxurious amenities in world-class accommodation. For budget-conscious travellers, Maui offers excellent options without sacrificing ambience, quality, and extraordinary beauty.

The island’s five main regions are West, Central, Upcountry, East and South. Each region’s unique character and history offers a rich Hawaiian culture, historical sites and breathtaking nature. We lay out the pros and cons of each region and provide suggestions for luxury, mid-range, and budget accommodation to help you plan your visit.

Where To Stay In Maui

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West Maui

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A cloudy summer day at Napili Bay, West Maui, Hawaii.

West Maui draws the most travellers with budget-friendly to luxury preferences as the region has stunning beaches, including Kaanapali Beach and Napili Bay.

Kaanapali Beach is 3 miles (4.8 km) long and has a wide stretch of golden sand beach with clear water for snorkelling and swimming.

For seclusion and tranquillity, head to Napili Bay on the northwest side of Maui.

Golfers can enjoy Kapalua Golf – Plantation Course and Kaanapali Golf Courses, with stunning ocean views and West Maui Mountains in the background.

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Whaling village from the 1800’s with the West Maui Mountains in the background.

Lahaina, the most famous town in West Maui and the former capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom, was once a whaling port and a missionary hub.

These days, Old Lahaina Town has charming historic buildings from the 1800s and famous landmarks like the Lahaina Banyan Court and the Baldwin Home Museum, showcasing the history of Maui’s prominent missionary families.

Pros

  • Stunning beaches such as Kaanapali Beach and Napili Bay are easily accessible.
  • Cultural attractions such as Old Lahaina Town and the Baldwin Home Museum are conveniently in the middle of town.
  • World-class resorts like The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua and Montage Kapalua Bay are for visitors who want convenience without sacrificing top-quality amenities.

Cons

  • Crowded during peak tourist seasons of December through March and June through August.
  • Pricey accommodation and dining options with a touristy vibe that gives off a less authentic Hawaiian vibe.
  • Heavy traffic on the Honoapiilani Highway, which connects Maalaea, Lahaina, Kaanapali, and Kapalua.

Where To Stay In West Maui

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Olivine Pools rocks and ocean in West Maui.
Luxury Hotel – The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua

The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua, has a grand and elegant appearance, with a Spanish-Moorish design that features stunning archways, courtyards and lush tropical gardens.

Enjoy high-quality service and luxurious amenities at this breathtaking location for ultimate pampering and relaxation.

What you can expect:

  • Concierge service.
  • Direct access to the beach.
  • A fitness centre and classes.
  • Snorkelling, kayaking and paddleboarding.
  • Tennis courts with private lessons and clinics.
  • Outdoor adults-only pool and a kids’ pool with a water slide.
  • Complimentary shuttle service within the Kapalua resort area.
  • Children’s program with supervised activities and games for kids.
  • Full-service spa offering massages, facials, and body treatments.
  • Room service and private dining options, including romantic dinners on the beach.
  • Championship golf courses, including the Plantation Course, are home to the PGA Tour’s Sentry Tournament of Champions.
  • Restaurants and bars, including fine dining at The Banyan Tree, all-day dining at The Terrace, beachside dining at The Beach House, Japanese food at Kai Sushi, and live music and cocktails at Alaloa Lounge.

The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua is at 1 Ritz Carlton Drive, Kapalua, HI 96761.

Midscale Hotel – Napili Sunset Beach Front Resort

Napili Sunset Beach Front Resort is a peaceful and quieter getaway with breathtaking beachfront views.

What you can expect: 

  • Air conditioning
  • Daily housekeeping
  • Complimentary Wi-Fi
  • Outdoor swimming pool
  • Laundry facilities on-site
  • Non-smoking rooms available
  • Private balcony in some rooms
  • Complimentary beach towels and chairs
  • Kitchenette or full kitchen in some rooms.
  • Beachfront location with breathtaking views.
  • On-site BBQ facilities to enjoy cookouts with family and friends.
  • Family rooms are available for those travelling with children or large groups.

Napili Sunset Beach Front Resort is at 46 Hui Drive, Lahaina, HI 96761.

Mid-scale – Kaanapali Ocean Inn
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Kaanapali Beach with gentle waves and coconut trees.

Kaanapali Ocean Inn is steps away from Kaanapali Beach and has a simple yet comfortable wine surrounded by lush greenery and warm tones.

Visitors can choose from rooms with garden or ocean views.

Royal Ocean Terrace, the on-site restaurant, offers casual Hawaiian-style dining with indoor and outdoor seating options, beautiful ocean views, and live entertainment in the evenings.

Kaanapali Ocean Inn is within walking distance of shops, restaurants, and Kaanapali Beach.

What you can expect:

  • Free Wi-Fi.
  • Daily housekeeping.
  • Air conditioning in all rooms.
  • Private balcony patio with select rooms.
  • Poolside bar offering refreshing cocktails.
  • A complimentary breakfast buffet with pastries, fresh fruit, eggs, and coffee.
  • Outdoor swimming pool with a sun terrace surrounded by lush plants and flowers.
  • On-site restaurant and lounge with Hawaiian-inspired dishes prepared with fresh, local ingredients.

Kaanapali Ocean Inn is at 2780-A Kekaa Drive, Lahaina, HI 96761.

Central Maui

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Kahului Bay with Hotel, coconut trees, and Iao Valley and surrounding mountains in the distance on West Maui on a beautiful day.

Central Maui is home to Kahului, the island’s largest city and there’s an airport you can fly into. 

Maui Tropical Plantation is one of the largest historic sugar plantations in Hawaii and a popular attraction where you can learn about sugarcane and pineapple on a tram ride or take a zip line that runs above the plantation.

Another popular attraction is the Bailey House Museum, originally built in 1833 as the Wailuku Female Seminary, which Protestant missionaries later ran as a school for Hawaiian girls.

Known locally as The MACC, the Maui Arts & Cultural Center opened in 1994 to become a world-class multi-disciplinary arts facility.

If you’re looking for hiking trails in Central Maui, go to Iao Valley State Park for the Iao Needle that rises 1,200 feet (366 m) above the valley floor.

Pros

  • The perfect hub to explore Maui with convenient malls such as Queen Kaahumanu Center for restaurants and shopping.
  • Plenty of outdoor activities, such as hiking the Waihee Ridge Trail, golfing at the 18-hole course at The Dunes at Maui Lani Golf Course, and beachcombing at Kanaha Beach Park.
  • In addition to its historic sites, there are the Maui Ocean Center and Maui Nui Botanical Gardens.

Cons

  • Less scenic than other regions.
  • Less selection of attractions and outdoor activities than in other regions.
  • It has an industrial vibe and is not picturesque for travellers seeking a tranquil setting.

Where To Stay In Central Maui

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Beautiful slow-moving stream in the Iao Valley National Park in Maui, Hawaii.

Luxury Hotel – Courtyard by Marriott Maui Kahului Airport

Courtyard by Marriott Maui Kahului Airport hotel is convenient for visitors who want to be close to the airport and can serve as a home base for exploring Maui.

What you can expect:

  • Free parking.
  • On-site Starbucks.
  • Currency exchange.
  • 24-hour fitness centre.
  • On-site convenience store.
  • Swimming pool and hot tub.
  • On-site restaurant – The Gardenia Court.

Courtyard by Marriott Maui Kahului Airport is at 532 Keolani Place, Kahului, HI 96732.

Midscale Hotel – Maui Beach Hotel

Maui Beach Hotel is in Kahului, approximately 1.6 miles (2.5 km) by car from the airport and near restaurants and shopping.

The hotel has beautiful views of the ocean or the West Maui Mountains.

What you can expect:

  • Outdoor swimming pool.
  • On-site restaurant and lounge.
  • Meeting and banquet facilities.
  • Mini-fridge and coffee maker in all rooms.
  • On-site restaurant – Tante’s Island Cuisine.

Maui Beach Hotel is at 170 Kaahumanu Avenue, Kahului, HI 96732.

Mid-scale Hotel – Maui Seaside Hotel

Maui Seaside Hotel is in Kahului, approximately 3 miles (4.8 km) by car from Kahului Airport by car from the airport and convenient to restaurants and shopping.

What you can expect: 

  • Free Wi-Fi.
  • Free parking.
  • Air conditioning.
  • Laundry facilities.
  • 24-hour front desk.
  • Daily housekeeping.
  • Outdoor swimming pool and sundeck.
  • Refrigerator and coffee maker in all rooms.

Maui Seaside Hotel is at 100 W Kaahumanu Avenue, Kahului, HI 96732.

Upcountry Maui

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Elevation Sign at the Summit of Haleakala, Maui.

Upcountry Maui is on the Haleakala side of the island and between 1,000 to 3,000 feet (305 to 914 m) above sea level, which gives it cooler temperatures and Hosmer Grove, a cloud forest in Haleakala National Park.

The rural landscape is home to a few ranches, such as the remote Kaupo Ranch and 150-year-old Ulupalakua Ranch, featuring a winery and tasting room for visitors.

Visit the Haleakala Crater and Haleakala summit at 10,023 feet (3,055 m).

Makawao Town is known for its paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) culture and Komoda Store and Bakery is a local institution from 1916 serving delicious malasadas.

Alii Kula Lavender Farm offers a chance to stroll through fields of fragrant lavender.

Pros

  • Vast ranch lands and thriving art scenes.
  • Stunning natural beauty from the rolling hills to the sweeping otherworldly vistas.
  • Cooler temperatures are perfect for outdoor exploration, hiking and enjoying paniolo culture.

Cons

  • Limited beaches and ocean-related activities than other regions.
  • Not as many nightlife and entertainment options as in other regions, which can be a drawback if you’re looking for a livelier experience.

Where To Stay In Upcountry Maui

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The landscape of Poli-Poli, Upcountry Maui, Hawaii, USA.
Luxury Hotel – Lumeria Maui

Lumeria Maui is a luxurious alternative for travellers to Maui that offers classes and programs, including yoga, meditation, healing arts, horticulture and dance and movement therapies.

What you can expect:

  • Yoga studio and meditation garden.
  • Saltwater pool and hot tub.
  • Historic grounds and buildings.
  • Sun terrace with lounge chairs.
  • Onsite restaurant – The Wooden Crate.
  • Wellness spa with massage and healing arts therapies.
  • Classes and programs in yoga, meditation, healing arts and metaphysical studies, horticulture and culture, dance and movement therapies.
  • Guest rooms and suites for community students and island visitors seeking overnight accommodations while on retreat.

Lumeria Maui Retreat Center is at 1813 Baldwin Avenue, Makawao, HI 96768.

Midscale Hotel – Kula Lodge

Kula Lodge has five lodges near Haleakala National Park, Ulupalakua Winery, and the return route from Hana.

What you can expect:

  • Access to the hot tub and outdoor swimming pool.
  • Private lanai with garden or mountain views in some rooms.
  • Pet-friendly accommodations in certain rooms; fees may apply.
  • On-site restaurants (Kula Lodge Restaurant & Bar and Garden Terrace Restaurant)

Kula Lodge is at 15200 Haleakala Highway, Kula, HI 96790.

Budget Hotel – Peace of Maui Bed and Breakfast

Peace of Maui Bed and Breakfast is a serene, gated estate that has thrived for over 10 years.

The estate is 6.84 miles (11 km) or 15 minutes by car from Kahului Airport.

What you can expect: 

  • Cool breezes from the slopes of Haleakala.
  • Self-serve breakfast stocked in the pantry with granola bars, oatmeal, and seasonal fruit such as bananas, papaya, star fruit mango, lemons and tangerines, coffee, hot cocoa, tea, and filtered water.

Peace of Maui Bed and Breakfast is at 1290 Haliimaile Road, Makawao, HI 96768.

East Maui

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View of the Hana ocean coastline on Maui from Kuloa Point Trail in Haleakala National Park, where Oheo Gulch Estuary flows into the ocean near the Kipahulu Visitor Center.

East Maui is home to the famous Road to Hana, a 52-mile (83.6 km) drive of 620 bends and 59 one-lane bridges that zigzag past tiny towns, lush landscapes, plunging cliffs and breathtaking waterfalls.

Stop at Paia town to pick up provisions for the long drive if you’re travelling clockwise towards Hana.

Then stock up at the end of the road before heading out 10 miles (16 km) to the Kipahulu section of Haleakala National Park or Pools of Oheo in the Oheo Gulch.

Pros

  • Historical sites such as the Kahanu Garden and Piilanihale Heiau.
  • Road to Hana is easily accessible from various entry points along East Maui, giving visitors the flexibility to hop on and off on the long journey.
  • Stunning natural beauty filled with lush rainforests, cascading waterfalls, and dramatic landscapes such as the black sand beach of Waianapanapa and the bamboo forest at the end of Pipiwai Trail.

Cons

  • The location is more remote and isolated, making it essential to plan and bring supplies.
  • High traffic during peak season from December to April can be frustrating. 
  • Road to Hana can be challenging for drivers, with narrow roads, sharp turns, and the potential for heavy rainfall and flash floods, leading to road closures and dangerous driving conditions.

Where To Stay In East Maui

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Windsurfers at Hookipa Beach east Maui, Hawaii, USA.

Luxury Hotel – Hana-Maui Resort

Lush gardens, stunning ocean views, oceanfront dining options, and a world-class spa surround Hana-Maui Resort.

The luxurious suites are a home away from home, with lavish amenities such as plush bedding, flat-screen TVs, and private lanais.

Dining options at the resort include Kauiki, which uses locally sourced ingredients, and the Paniolo Lounge, where visitors can enjoy casual meals and cocktails.

What you can expect:

  • World-class spa.
  • Concierge services.
  • 24-hour fitness centre.
  • 24-hour business centre.
  • An outdoor pool and hot tub.
  • On-site dining options – Kauiki and Paniolo Lounge.

Hana-Maui Resort is at 5031 Hana Highway, Hana, HI 96713.

Midscale Hotel – Heavenly Hana Paradise

Heavenly Hana Paradise is a secluded retreat with two cosy cottages surrounded by fresh coconut, mango, pineapple, papaya, avocado, lime, lemon, and ripe banana trees.

Relax on the covered terrace with a plush wicker dining area surrounded by fresh ginger, gardenia, and lush greenery.

The cottages are 1 mile (1.6 km) or 10 minutes by car to the centre of Hana.

What you can expect:

  • Picnic area, BBQ facilities.
  • An outdoor terrace with furniture 
  • Beach chairs and umbrellas.
  • Board games and puzzles.

Heavenly Hana Paradise is at 4575 Hana Highway, Hana, HI 96713.

Budget Hotel – Bamboo Inn On Hana Bay

East Maui is remote, with most accommodations sparsely available in parts of the region.

But take it from a local who suggests a bed and breakfast at the end of the Road to Hana – this one is a gem!

Bamboo Inn On Hana Bay offers three oceanfront suites with breathtaking views of Hana Bay toward the Waikoloa peninsula, the easternmost point on Maui.

What you can expect:

  • Queen-size bed and fold-out queen-size sofa couch.
  • Oceanfront deck with a private jacuzzi.
  • Sweeping 270-degree view of Hana Bay from Kauiki Hill to Waikoloa Point.
  • Service bar with a microwave, small refrigerator, and a large walk-in shower with a jetted shower bar.

Bamboo Inn On Hana Bay is at 4869 Uakea Road, Hana, HI 96713.

South Maui

South Maui is known for its sunny beaches and Kihei is Maui’s largest city. 

Makena Beach State Park, also known as Big Beach for being one of Maui’s largest undeveloped beaches, has fishing, snorkelling and swimming.

Big Beach in the south of Wailea is an excellent alternative to the crowds of Kaanapali and Lahaina, and Little Beach is a small cove without amenities and no lifeguard.

The Molokini crater is a small, crescent moon-shaped island that rises 160 feet (49 m) above reef-filled waters and is 3 miles (4.8 km) from Maui’s southwestern coast, which can be reached by boat for snorkelling and diving.

If you’re looking for a luxurious stay, head to Wailea’s luxury resorts and enjoy a hit at Wailea Golf Club’s three award-winning golf courses, Gold, Blue and Emerald.

Pros

  • The largest collection of luxury resorts and world-class golf courses.
  • Kihei offers activities, restaurants, shopping, and nightlife for every budget.
  • Home to Maui’s most beautiful beaches, such as Wailea and Makena Beaches, and Molokini crater for snorkelling and diving.

Cons

  • More commercialised than other regions of Maui, making it feel less authentically Hawaiian.
  • Limited transportation options can be challenging for visitors travelling without a car.
  • Peak season attracts large crowds from December through April and June through August, making activities and accommodations more expensive.
Luxury Hotel – Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

The Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea is on 15 acres (6 ha) of lush landscape with beautifully appointed suites with various views of the garden, ocean, or mountains. You can enjoy personalised service and a private bar.

The resort has gorgeous views from the pools and award-winning restaurants, top-rated golf courses, and spa treatments.

What you can expect:

  • Tennis courts.
  • Beachfront access.
  • Three outdoor pools.
  • Complimentary kids’ club.
  • Spa featuring a variety of treatments and services.
  • Complimentary fitness classes and personal training.
  • Complimentary beach activities, including snorkelling and paddleboarding.
  • Exclusive Club Floor accommodations with personalized service and private lounge access.
  • Four restaurants, including Ferraro’s Bar e Ristorante, DUO Steak and Seafood, Spago, and Lobby Lounge.

Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea is at 3900 Wailea Alanui Drive, Wailea, HI 96753.

Luxury Hotel – Hilton Grand Vacations Club Maui Bay Villas

Hilton Grand Vacations Club Maui Bay Villas is a three-minute walk from Kalepolepo Beach Park, a 4-minute walk from the Hawaiian Islands Humpback Whale Sanctuary, and 2.5 miles (4 km) from Elleair Maui Golf Club.

Visitors can enjoy private balconies overlooking the sprawling 28-acre (11 ha) coconut grove against the backdrop of Maalaea Bay.

What you can expect:

  • Hot tub.
  • BBQ grills.
  • Fitness centre.
  • Concierge services.
  • Children’s activities.
  • Outdoor swimming pool.
  • Complimentary shuttle to nearby attractions.
  • On-site restaurant and bar – Ocean’s Bar & Grill.

Hilton Grand Vacations Club Maui Bay Villas is at 575 S Kihei Road, Kihei, HI 96753.

Luxury Hotel – Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort
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Main swimming pool at Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort,
Budget Hotel – Days Inn by Wyndham Maui Oceanfront

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Yahnny Adolfo San Luis
Yahnny Adolfo San Luis has travelled to over 50 countries as a professional photographer, writer, endurance athlete, and adventure travel guide. Her favourite destinations have been sailing and trail running in Greenland; photographing wild horses in Cappadocia, Türkyie; canyoning and kayaking in Asturias, Spain; sea kayaking and hiking in Lofoten, Norway; surfing and sailing in Hawaii; and trekking and enjoying farm-to-table experiences in the Carpathian Mountains of Romania. She also volunteers as a sustainable travel advocate and is a freelance journalist. Yahnny calls Hawaii, Philadelphia, and Sweden her home but frequently travels to wherever work takes her.