Planning your dream vacation to Maui? You’re in for a treat! Choosing the right place to stay is key to unlocking the magic of this Hawaiian paradise. Two of the most frequently asked questions for first-time and returning visitors are: “What’s the best area to stay on Maui?” and “Which Maui resorts are the top choices?”
Having explored Maui extensively, including a memorable trip where I split my time between Wailea in South Maui and Ka’anapali in West Maui, I’m here to offer insights to help you decide. My personal experiences, including multiple stays in Wailea since that initial visit, have given me a deep understanding of what each area offers. In this guide, we’ll focus on the luxurious Wailea region and its exceptional resorts. For those interested in West Maui, you can find a dedicated guide here.
Maui’s main resort areas are primarily concentrated in South Maui, encompassing Wailea and Kihei, and West Maui, including Ka’anapali and Kapalua. Both coastlines boast stunning scenery and unique advantages, making either a fantastic choice for your Hawaiian getaway. The “best” area truly depends on your personal preferences and what you seek in a vacation.
- Wailea: If you envision a relaxed and upscale escape, Wailea in South Maui is your answer. Known for its tranquil atmosphere, you’ll find fewer crowds and less traffic here. Wailea is synonymous with luxury, featuring grand resorts, expansive beaches, and a more central location for exploring the island.
- Ka’anapali: For a more vibrant and action-packed vacation, West Maui’s Ka’anapali offers a livelier energy. This area is known for its walkability, with numerous activities and attractions within easy reach. While historically more budget-friendly than Wailea, it still provides a range of accommodation options. Lahaina town, once a culinary and nightlife hub, is undergoing rebuilding after the devastating 2023 wildfires.
Maui’s main resort areas, South Maui (Wailea and Kihei) and West Maui (Ka’anapali and Kapalua), offer distinct vacation experiences.
Wailea, South Maui: Luxury and Tranquility
Wailea is an oasis of sophistication and serenity. This master-planned resort community is characterized by its wide, pristine beaches, magnificent luxury resorts, and impeccably manicured golf courses. Along the Wailea coastline, you’ll find five distinguished 5-star resorts: the Fairmont Kea Lani, Four Seasons Maui, Grand Wailea, Wailea Beach Resort, and Andaz Maui. A picturesque beach walk meanders along the oceanfront, connecting these resorts and weaving through secluded beach coves, providing breathtaking ocean vistas at every turn. During my visits, I had the opportunity to personally tour each of these five exceptional resorts, and I’m excited to share my detailed insights and feedback.
Aerial view of Wailea coastline showcasing luxury resorts and beaches
Close-up of Wailea beach with calm turquoise water
Couple walking along the Wailea beach walk at sunset
Luxury resorts lining the beach in Wailea, Maui
Price Considerations: Wailea vs. Ka’anapali and Kihei
One significant distinction between Wailea and Ka’anapali is the price point. Wailea resorts are positioned at the higher end of the luxury spectrum compared to Ka’anapali, and consequently, they typically come with a steeper price tag. However, the elevated cost in Wailea translates to tangible benefits: enhanced luxury, more spacious accommodations and resort grounds, fewer crowds, larger beaches, less traffic congestion, and shorter drive times to Maui’s main attractions.
For travelers seeking a more budget-conscious option while still desiring a central South Maui location, Kihei presents an appealing alternative. During my first Maui trip in 2008, my family and I stayed at Mana Kai Maui in Kihei. While not as opulent as Wailea, we were delighted with our affordable one-bedroom oceanfront suite complete with a full kitchen. Kihei’s atmosphere is reminiscent of a Florida beach strip, characterized by a mix of condos and mini-malls, lacking some of the refined charm of Wailea. Nevertheless, with its seven miles of beautiful sandy beaches, Kihei is definitely worth considering if budget is a primary concern.
Sandy beach in Kihei, Maui with condos in the background
Kihei boasts seven miles of sandy beaches, offering a budget-friendly option in South Maui.
Wailea Beaches: Secluded Coves and Pristine Sands
While all beaches in Hawaii are public, the beaches surrounding the Wailea resorts offer a sense of exclusivity due to limited public access. This results in beaches that are generally less crowded compared to other areas. Unlike the long, continuous stretches of sand found in Ka’anapali, Wailea beaches are characterized by a series of picturesque coves, separated by lava rock outcroppings, that gracefully curve along the resort coastline. These cove beaches tend to be wider than the beaches in West Maui, offering ample space to relax and soak up the Hawaiian sun.
Polo Beach in Wailea with calm waters and palm trees
Polo Beach at the Fairmont Kea Lani in Wailea, known for its calm waters and beautiful scenery.
Drive Times: Wailea’s Central Advantage
Before diving into resort reviews, it’s helpful to consider drive times to popular tourist destinations from both Wailea and Ka’anapali. Wailea’s more central location generally translates to shorter drive times to most points of interest on Maui. In contrast, Ka’anapali is accessed by a single road, making drive times potentially unpredictable. Traffic congestion due to accidents or roadwork can lead to significant delays.
Exploring Wailea Resorts: Luxury at its Finest
This overview focuses on the six premier luxury resorts in Wailea, representing the most sought-after accommodations in South Maui. Resorts marked with an asterisk (*) indicate my ability to offer exclusive Virtuoso benefits or other luxury partnership perks, ensuring a VIP experience for your stay. My established relationships with personal contacts at each of these resorts mean you can expect red carpet treatment!
Fairmont Kea Lani*
Exterior of Fairmont Kea Lani resort in Wailea, Maui
Pool area at Fairmont Kea Lani with palm trees and ocean view
Fairmont Kea-Lani Selling Points: Spacious suites, recent renovations, expansive grounds, potential value, complimentary Outrigger Canoe experience, exceptional breakfast buffet (complimentary with Show Them the World bookings!).
The Fairmont Kea-Lani, an all-suite resort, distinguishes itself with its exceptionally generous room sizes. Starting at 860 square feet for their standard suite, you’ll enjoy the largest rooms on Maui, often available at attractive price points. Notably, the Fairmont is one of the few resorts that comfortably accommodates families of five (2 adults and 3 children) in their base-level suites. However, the Fairmont experience extends far beyond just spacious rooms. Set across 22 acres of lush tropical gardens and open spaces, this resort provides ample room for relaxation, recreation, and rejuvenation. To illustrate this sense of spaciousness, consider that the Fairmont houses 450 suites and villas on 22 acres, while the Westin Maui Resort & Spa in Ka’anapali (where I stayed during the second half of my 2021 trip) has 759 rooms on only 11 acres. The Fairmont’s expansive grounds, coupled with its roomy suites and wide beach, create an atmosphere of tranquility and relaxation.
For larger families or groups, the Fairmont offers luxurious 2 and 3-bedroom villas featuring full kitchens, laundry facilities, private plunge pools, and expansive lanais with grills. These oceanfront villas are ideally situated just steps from the beach and include a beautiful lawn area perfect for play and gatherings. While the standard suites can be reasonably priced, the villas are positioned at a premium price point.
Compared to other family-oriented resorts in Maui, the Fairmont’s pool complex is relatively understated, featuring one waterslide that is nonetheless fast and enjoyable. During our stay, we spent most of our pool time at the upper pool, conveniently located near the swim-up bar and the top of the waterslide. We rented a cabana there for two days when our itinerary was less structured. The lower pool near the waterslide’s base appeared busier and more kid-centric. For adults seeking a quieter environment, a dedicated serenity pool with a tranquility lounge area provides a child-free retreat. We also spent considerable time enjoying the ocean waves at the beach. The weather during the first part of our stay was quite windy, making wave play a highlight! We also took advantage of the resort’s complimentary Outrigger Canoe Experience and ukulele lessons.
In 2024, I had the privilege of participating in the Fairmont Kea Lani’s exclusive Rediscover Hawai’i Experience. This incredible opportunity not only allowed me to spend a week in Hawaii but also provided a fully planned and curated experience – a travel advisor’s dream!
The Fairmont hosted 25 travel advisors, event planners, and journalists from across the nation to showcase the resort’s impressive renovation and celebrate Hawaiian culture and Maui’s resurgence after the wildfires. Given my specialization in Hawaii travel and my close partnership with Fairmont Kea Lani, I was honored to be included on the invitation list.
A visit to Fairmont Kea Lani immerses you in their ʻohana (family). From the E Komo Mai welcome ceremony with nā kūpuna (respected elders) to paddling in the Pacific with a hoʻokele (navigator) and experiencing authentic Hawaiian culinary delights and aloha spirit, we felt like royalty embraced by this amazing family.
It’s clear that Maui and Fairmont Kea Lani hold a special place in my heart.
Fairmont Kea Lani's beachfront with outrigger canoes
Wailea Beach Resort*
Wailea Beach Resort Selling Points: Ocean proximity, intimate atmosphere compared to larger Wailea resorts.
The Wailea Beach Resort, a Marriott property, is ideally positioned just steps from the ocean, offering scenic luxury in a breathtaking destination. Uniquely located in Wailea, this resort is surrounded by the Pacific Ocean on all sides. I appreciate how the nine “hales” (Hawaiian for houses) follow the coastline, interspersed with small lawns and banyan trees between the rooms and the ocean. While the grandeur of many Wailea resorts can mean a longer walk from rooms to the ocean, Wailea Beach Resort offers the opposite experience, with oceanfront rooms mere steps from the water’s edge.
It’s important to note that Wailea Beach Resort is oceanfront, not directly beachfront, as it’s nestled between two stunning white sand beaches. However, its proximity to the water ensures that the walk to either beach is comparable in distance to that from the “beachfront” resorts in the area. Guests can easily access the expansive Wailea Beach in front of the Grand Wailea and Four Seasons, a popular spot for families. Alternatively, Ulua Beach offers a quieter, more secluded experience and boasts an excellent coral reef for snorkeling.
Wailea Beach Resort features three distinct pool areas across its 22 acres, including Hawaii’s longest hotel waterslide, an adult infinity pool with private floating cabanas, and a family-friendly infinity pool.
During a return trip to Maui in 2023, following a stay on Kaua’i, we chose Wailea Beach Resort and thoroughly enjoyed our experience. While we didn’t secure an oceanfront sundeck room – considered the best on the property – it’s definitely on our list for a future visit!
Wailea Beach Resort pool with ocean view
Beachfront rooms at Wailea Beach Resort
Sunset view from Wailea Beach Resort
Four Seasons Maui*
Four Seasons Maui Selling Points: Exceptional 5-star service and luxury, no resort fee.
The Four Seasons Maui is a perennial favorite among discerning travelers, with guests returning year after year. Its open-air beachfront setting, unparalleled service, and idyllic views are among the finest Maui has to offer. This terraced resort is positioned above Wailea Beach, one of the island’s largest and most beautiful beaches. Guests can enjoy complimentary cabanas facing either the ocean or pool, oceanfront sanctuaries, and numerous chaise lounges with umbrellas. The Four Seasons caters to both families and couples, featuring a separate adult-only serenity pool (which was under renovation during my October 2021 visit).
Standard rooms are a spacious 600 square feet, a generous size for Hawaiian resorts. While the Four Seasons commands a higher price point, it notably does not charge a resort fee, potentially saving you $50 or more per day compared to other Wailea resorts.
Grand Wailea, a Waldorf Astoria Resort*
Grand Wailea resort entrance
Grand Wailea's elaborate pool complex
Water slides and pools at Grand Wailea
Spa Grande at Grand Wailea
Humuhumunukunukuapua'a restaurant at Grand Wailea
Grand Wailea Selling Points: Disney-esque water park, Hawaii’s largest spa.
Often referred to as the “Disney of Maui,” the Grand Wailea, a Hilton property, is the largest resort on Maui, encompassing 776 rooms across 40 acres. It’s renowned for its spectacular pools and water park. Prepare to spend your days immersed in this incredible pool area, featuring nine pools on six levels interconnected by a river with both whitewater rapids and gentle currents. With five intertwining slides, a Tarzan rope swing, a sandy beach pool, waterfalls, caves, the world’s first water elevator, and a swim-up bar, you might never want to leave the resort! This could be a challenge considering the abundance of experiences Maui offers beyond the resort. In addition to its impressive pool complex, Grand Wailea also boasts the largest spa in Hawaii.
All rooms offer ocean views from their lanais, and the lead-in category rooms are a spacious 640 square feet, larger than many Maui resort rooms (though not as expansive as the Fairmont suites). Grand Wailea shares Wailea Beach with the Four Seasons.
Andaz Maui*
Andaz Maui resort exterior with multiple pools
Modern and serene pool area at Andaz Maui
Beachfront access at Andaz Maui
Guest room interior at Andaz Maui with modern design
Morimoto Maui restaurant at Andaz Maui
Feast at Mokapu luau at Andaz Maui
Sunset view from Andaz Maui
Andaz Maui Selling Points: Beautiful, serene beachfront resort, adult-focused ambiance.
Escape to Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort, a luxurious Hyatt property nestled on 15 beachfront acres. Immerse yourself in the island spirit with farm-to-table dining featuring regional cuisine, direct access to Mokapu Beach, and guest rooms offering captivating tropical views. Andaz Maui is strikingly beautiful, with a modern and serene aesthetic. During a dinner at Morimoto at Andaz, my son even questioned why we weren’t staying there! The resort’s multi-tiered pool complex is visually intriguing. While families are welcome, Andaz Maui is generally geared more towards adults and honeymooners, creating a sophisticated and tranquil atmosphere.
Feast at Mokapu, the Andaz luau, offers a more intimate and smaller-scale experience compared to typical luaus, and it’s conveniently located right on the beach lawn. Guests at the Andaz pool or dining at Morimoto can even enjoy glimpses of the luau show. Speaking of Morimoto, the dining experience was truly exceptional!
Hotel Wailea, a Relais & Chateaux Resort (Adults-Only)
Hotel Wailea's lush tropical hillside setting
Adults-only pool at Hotel Wailea
Hotel Wailea Selling Points: Peaceful, kid-free luxury for adults, stunning views, hillside tranquility.
As Hawaii’s only luxury adults-only resort, Hotel Wailea offers a uniquely romantic and peaceful retreat nestled on a lush tropical hillside, 300 feet above the ocean. This 5-star resort is the only one in this review not situated directly on the Wailea Beach Walk. However, Hotel Wailea compensates with breathtaking 180-degree, unobstructed ocean views encompassing three Hawaiian Islands, dramatic mountain scenery, and 15 acres of Zen-inspired landscaped tropical gardens.
Given its elevated location, Hotel Wailea provides a complimentary shuttle service to and from the beach, along with beachside service for guests. While I haven’t personally toured Hotel Wailea, I have had clients who have stayed there and raved about its tranquil, luxurious atmosphere.
For my husband and myself, the Wailea area holds greater appeal than Ka’anapali due to its relaxed pace, minimal traffic and crowds, and overall peacefulness. Its central location also minimizes drive times to explore different parts of Maui. However, our children slightly prefer Ka’anapali’s livelier atmosphere, and they found the pool at the Westin Maui in Ka’anapali more kid-friendly compared to the Fairmont pools. It’s worth noting that our Ka’anapali experiences predate the recent wildfires, but we have returned to enjoy the Old Lahaina Luau since then.
Are you ready to plan your Hawaiian escape? I’m here to assist you in creating your perfect Maui vacation.
Heather Vergara, founder of Show Them the World Travel, is a travel expert with extensive experience in planning family vacations to Maui and other destinations.
