Support The Site And Learn How To Travel The World On $10 A Day Check Out The Broke Backpackers Bible
Find out how YOU can support the site.
Were a big site with a big team and this job isnt always easy. But we do it because we love it we love providing epic and free content. We love the knowledge that our content keeps you adventuring. We dont ask for money, but if youd like to find out how you can help the site in more organic ways, click the button below. Thank you for your support
And for transparencys sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links. That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission . That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we dont believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!
Hana Highway Where To Stay In Maui For An Adventure
The road to Hana is a bucket list item in Maui that you have to check. Hawaiis most famous drive traverses over 600 curves and 54 bridges around the east coast. Youll wake up saying wow every 5 minutes and in a constant state of awe. Its a two-hour drive to Hana from the airport.
You havent seen all that Maui can offer if you havent driven the road to Hana. You can rent a car from the Kahului airport and from there it will take just over 2 hours. If you dont feel like driving in a foreign country or dont have a license, Ive got you covered, you can take a tour to Hana and still enjoy this adventure.
The road to Hana was rated a drive of a lifetime by National Geographic. There are many amazing spots where you can stop along the way, the Twin Falls is one of them, you can do some hiking here or even go for a swim. If you ever wondered what being in heaven feels like, then the Maui Garden of Eden is the place for you. Get up early so you dont find the roads too crowded, grab the camera, and drive through waterfalls, seascapes, and pools on the road to Hana.
Kaanapali: Where To Stay In Maui For A Honeymoon And With Family
There is a strip of hotels all next to each other, and its designed to be the main resort area for the island. You can even find a mall in this strip, so you really never have to leave. Some never do.
Theres a Westin, Sheraton, Kaanapali Beach Hotel,Hyatt, Aston, and more. They share the same strip of beach, which is known for the best snorkeling in Maui. The water is so clear blue and it really is a great view. This is where the black rock is.
We stayed at the Sheraton. Read a full review of the Sheraton Maui here. I had two days free in exchange for a review, but we ended up paying to stay longer because we did love it AND it is the best value for money. Only the Kaanapali Beach Hotel was a little cheaper but didnt look nearly as nice.
Compare hotels in Kapalua here& Airbnbs here
You May Like: Cheap Hotels Near Bradenton Fl
Day : Take A Helicopter Tour
If youve ever dreamed of a helicopter tour, this is the time to finally indulge your fantasy! Imagine watching hidden waterfalls rush down lush green cliffs at eye level as you dip and soar over jungled valleys. Look for spinner dolphins and whale flukes far below you in the turquoise sea.
Some helicopter tours explore the West Maui mountains while others head to the east side of the island for rain forested Hana. Its totally up to you!
This is a great way to see the real Hawaii, as your flight will be narrated by a local pilot. Always be sure to check the safety record of the tour you book.Check price and availability on this popular West Maui helicopter tour here.
What Are The Best Things To Do In Maui
Maui is one of our favorite Hawaiian islands because its the perfect mix of low-key yet full of activities. Some of the best things to do in Maui include taking a catamaran snorkeling trip to Molokini, driving the road to Hana, watching a luau, visiting Haleakala National Park, zip-lining, and going on a whale watching tour.
Recommended Reading: Best Places To Stay Around Phoenix
Best Bed & Breakfast In South Kihei: Maui What A Wonderful World Bed And Breakfast
If you love to support local communities when you travel, this bed and breakfast in Maui will be perfect for you. The adorable rooms are set in bungalows that give off a true Hawaiian vibe, and the husband and wife owner will do anything to make your stay more memorable. The location and hospitality will make you wish you could stay forever!
Best Places To Stay In Wailea
Andaz Resort
Spend your days relaxing pool side with a lava flow . Close to the best beaches on Maui and high end shopping. This is where to stay in Wailea.
Hotel Wailea
Fairmont Kea Lani
Koas has a great happy hour and is located at the adult pool. Walkable to the beach and a free shuttle to the shops at Wailea.
Four Seasons Resort Maui
You May Like: Budget Motel Bradenton Fl
Best Budget Hotel In Maui: Penthouse In Kihei
True budget hotels are hard to find in Maui. Condos are your best bet for finding quality accommodation at a cheap price, especially if you want to stay in the popular spot, South Maui.
Right across from Kamaole Beach II, in the cute town of Kihei, enjoy impressive views from your top-floor condo out into the turquoise Pacific Ocean. Open the windows and let the breeze sweep through your home away from home.
Aside from the views, the best part of this experience is that youre in a resort. Have built-in amenities at your disposal while easily being able to escape from it all and cook up your own feast in your full kitchen. Your condo also has an activity closet with beach chairs, coolers, and towels, so youll be ready for that first beach day.
More Budget Hotels in Maui:
Best Hotel In Wailea: Wailea Beach Resort
This magnificent resort is absolutely jam-packed with family-friendly activities including a kids pool, movie theatre, and play centre. It also offers a variety of daily excursions that the whole family can enjoy! The hotel features top-notch dining selections and an adults-only infinity pool that overlooks iconic Wailea Beach. This one is not to be missed!
Recommended Reading: Holiday Inn Express Houghton Lake Mi
Fairmont Kea Lani Resort
South Maui
Hands down one of our favorite places to stay on Maui, The Fairmont Kea Lani is Hawaiis only all-suite and villa luxury oceanfront resort. This outstanding resort exemplifies the authentic spirit of aloha. At the Kea Lani, you will find an exceptional Hawaiian cultural program, an award-winning spa, and four amazing restaurants for your dining experience.
Guest will appreciate the luxurious accommodations at the Kea Lani. Relax and enjoy the extra space that these 860-1100 sq ft. all-suite rooms offer. The staff will most definitely comfortably accommodate your familys needs. For larger family needs, the resort offers Luxury Beach Villas, just steps away from Polo Beach. These two and three bedroom villas offer 1800 and 2200 sq. ft. of well-appointed living space. Featuring full entertainment systems complete with multiple flat screen TVs, a full gourmet kitchen with dining area, and a fully furnished private courtyard with a BBQ and plunge pool.
Savor island-inspired cuisine and cocktails at Ko restaurant, voted Best Hawaii Regional Cuisine in Maui No Ka Oi Magazine 2018. The Kea Lani Restaurant serves up a delicious breakfast buffet to start your day, and guest can enjoy lunch and dinner poolside at AMA Bar & Grill. If you are on the go, pick up homemade salads, sandwiches, and treats for your island excursions at Caffe Ciao Bakery.
Day : Drive The Epic Road To Hana
The Hana Highway is a 64 mile long stretch of absolutely stunning highway on the east side of Maui connecting Kahului to the town of Hanna at the eastern tip of the island.
Its the most famous drive in all of Hawaii. So you gotta go! This narrow road winds over 59 bridges through lush, tropical foliage with breathtaking views of sheer cliffs, turquoise ocean, waterfalls galore, and black sand beaches. Rumor is that there are 620 curves on this road!
Its quite easy and safe to drive but it might not be for you if you or someone in your group has a fear of heights.
This drive is all about the journey. Not the destination. If you do this as a day trip, plan on a half day driving to Hana and a half-day back, spending no time in Hana itself.
Grab a coffee in cute little Paia and head out. Recommended stops include: Twin Falls , rainbow Eucalyptus grove , Hookipa Beach Park to watch the windsurfers, Maui Garden of Eden and Waianapanapa State Park for the black sand beach.
Please know your limits and respect the power of the wilderness here. There are frequently flash floods in this area that have required rescues of hikers.
The bamboo forest here is beautiful but its also the #1 rescue spot on the Road to Hana. In fact, its recently been officially closed. So be smart, be safe, and avoid a helicopter rescue.
Also Check: Staying In The Presence Of God
South Maui Is Where To Stay For A Luxury Experience
One of the two most popular areas for where to stay in Maui, South Maui is a tourist destination and home to many luxury hotels and condos.
Made up of several towns including Maalaea, Kihei, Wailea, and Makena with small differences between the towns as well.
Maalaea is a more peaceful spot on a scenic harbor to Kiheis shopping, dining, and activity options across the street from its beaches.
Wailea and Makena are home to many luxury hotel options and resort communities with upscale shopping and golf courses along the beach.
Wailea resorts are most costly and spread further apart than those available in Kihei.
The highlight is the relaxing no rush vibes of the area with resorts right on the beach while Kihei has lower prices, resorts across the street from the beach, more traffic but also more shopping and dining in closer proximity.
If verdant plant life and natural surroundings with cool breezes are what you prefer South Maui might not be your top choice as this part of Maui is the driest visit with the most consistent sun and warm weather.
Upsides: One of the most tourist-friendly areas. A short 20-minute drive or shuttle from the airport. Lots of beaches, shops, and restaurants. Consistently sunny warm weather.
Downsides: The tourist-friendly nature of the area may make it busier. The verdant nature of Hawaii is further away.
Best Hotels in South Maui
Affordable: Leinaala 204 Condo
Check Rates: Booking.com
Mid-Range: Wailea Beach Resort
Check Rates: Booking.com
Best Areas To Stay In Maui
Maui is a relatively small island and if you are spending a long stay then you may also break your holiday into two locations.
Before talking about the best areas to stay in Maui let me spend a couple of lines talking about the weather.
The average temperatures are year around very mild and warm, with a top of 85F during the day and 67F during the night.
The biggest difference is in the seasons: raining, between December and February, and dry, between April and October. Of course, the weather can be unpredictable during the shoulder seasons.
In saying this, the west coast tends to have almost twice as much water as the south coast. In fact, the south coast is actually sunny most of the year.
Here below a map of the island with the best areas to stay.
Recommended Reading: Lodging In Winthrop Washington
Mauis Top 10 Off The Beaten Path
Mauis Top 10 Off the Beaten Path Things to do is a handful of Mauis best little known secrets. While visiting the incredible Island of Maui, make sure to take advantage of every option thats readily available to you. Plan ahead of time and book activities, tours, and vacation services on Maui. Set aside some time for new experiences so that you can customize your best vacation yet.
What Area Should You Stay In Maui
When you choose where to stay in Maui, its good to know what kind of experience you are looking for. The island of Maui is divided into six main regions. The main regions of Maui are West Maui, South Maui, Central Maui, North Shore, Upcountry, and East Maui.
Scattered throughout the regions of Maui are the incredible towns and villages that make this island such an incredible destination. However, certain areas such as West Maui and South Maui are more easily accessible and contain many of the most popular places to stay on Maui. In addition, towns such as Kihei and Lahaina are top-rated among those visiting Maui with kids.
For those who want to explore the famous Road to Hana, East Maui offers quaint villages and incredible black sand beaches. While many visitors to Central Maui tend to enjoy more off-the-beaten-path destinations such as Iao State Park.
Don’t Miss: Breakfast Winthrop Wa
Wailuku Great Place To Stay In Maui For Nature Lovers
Move further into Central Maui, and youll find the coastal views giving ways to more pastoral scenery.
It might not be the expectation most people have when they plan a trip to Hawaii, but the town of Wailuku has a special kind of magic, and its well worth a trip for anyone who wants to see more than just poolside cabanas.
Lush and surrounded by verdant trees and fields, Wailuku sits happily within the shade of the West Maui Mountains. Brace yourself though, because this isnt a resort town. While youll find plenty of welcoming people in Wailuku, its off the beaten trail for most vacationers.
Instead, its become a very popular place for former visitors now looking for a reasonable place on the islands to move to.
Much of the land is rural and residential, but that means that you can sometimes find some very large and very comfortable plantation-style houses at great prices.
Wailuku is located right in the middle of the Maui, so its generally not hard to get anywhere. But the main problem is that there isnt a whole lot to do around Wailuku.
Nature lovers will find a lot to love in the abundant hiking trails in and around Wailuku, but the town itself is pretty small.
That said, plenty of people fall in love with the idyllic small town feel of Wailuku. Market Street in downtown is unforgettable a stretch of quirky shops and eateries that really captures the eccentric feel of the town.
What To Bring To Maui
Ok, so when you are heading to Maui a few essential items come to mind: Swimsuit probably being at the top of the list! But, weve found that when heading to Maui the below items are equally essential! If you want a more comprehensive list, check out our full Maui Packing List and What to Wear on Maui page.
Also Check: Lodging Near Winthrop Wa
Kula Lodge & Restaurant
UpCountry
One of the very best panoramic views of the elusively gorgeous Island of Maui is from a prime vantage point in Kula, Maui. Lucky for the Kula Lodge and Restaurant, they have the most excellent piece of Upcountry Maui property for the most incredible view of the Valley Isle. Without a doubt, this location is magical. From here, guests can see the most southern part of the South Maui coastline stretch as far as the West Maui.
For years, the Kula Lodge has been a favorite destination for visitors and locals alike. The 5 Chalets are the accommodations provided by the Kula Lodge and are a perfect home-style place to stay for those that crave solace, comfort, and the closest lodging proximity to the Haleakala National Park. The Kula Lodge restaurant seats up to one hundred and fifty guests, with breathtaking views and a unique outdoor seating area that is nestled in a beautiful lush garden. This is a perfect location for a family gathering or wedding party or to stop with the family after watching the sunrise at Haleakala Crater for a delicious breakfast.
A stay at the Kula Lodge is most definitely an experience that will not soon be forgotten. The Upcountry areas of Maui are diverse in topography, rural Maui country culture, and unique offerings. Enjoy the many splendors of the Haleakala National Park, the Alii Kula Lavender Farm or Maui Wine just within a short drive away.
Tips On Choosing Where To Stay In Maui
May 1, 2021
Looking for where to stay in Maui? Then youve come to the right place. Maui is one of the most popular islands to visit in Hawaii for its unique landscapes and relaxing beaches.
There are so many options for hotels, resorts, and local homestays, it can get overwhelming, but we are here to make the process easier for you. A visit to Maui is an amazing experience and booking amazing accommodations can be a highlight of the trip as well.
Below, we will break down the best places to stay in Maui by area, price, and the feel of the area.
We will cover the pros and cons of each option and lay out the best places to stay. We want you to get an understanding of the unique vibe of each area in Maui so you can make a decision based on your interests.
There is something for everyone, from stunning beaches, bamboo forests, and we know there will be something for you too! This breakdown will help you get a feeling for which Maui hotel and area is best for you and your trip!
Also Check: Where To Stay In Bologna