Wailuku Best Places To Stay In Maui On A Budget
Wailuku is a charming town situated in Central Maui. It is close to the islands airport and is its commercial centre as well as the seat of government. This bustling and boisterous town is packed with charming local shops and delicious cafes, making it a fantastic place to enjoy a day.
This Hawaii town also gets our vote for where to stay in Maui on a budget because it has a high concentration of hostels and affordable hotels. By staying in Wailuku, you can enjoy all the best activities and attractions the island has to offer while ensuring you dont blow your budget.
Kaanapali Luxury Area On West Side Best For Family Honeymooner
This small town developed as a resort in the 1960s with a mile-long beach of the same name as its major attraction. It is on the west coast of Maui just north of Lahaina and less than 15 minutes by road south of Kapalua. It is more crowded than Kapalua but has more in the way of activities, useful if you have kids with you.
Kaanapali is the luxury area of West Maui. You will find hotels and condos along the stretch of beach and beyond in both directions. Major hotel brands selected this part of Maui for their hotels, including Hyatt, Marriott, Sheraton, and Westin. Their present hotels date back to the 1980s though original hotels sprang up two decades earlier.
There are a number of microclimates on Maui. You can get bright sunshine in one place and clouds just a short distance away. That certainly applies on this stretch of coastline.
Shops and other tourist facilities grew as hotel developments sprang up. Whalers Village is a shopping mall close to the beach where you will find several boutiques, quality restaurants, a whaling museum, and even hula lessons.
The popularity of Kaanapali with tourists ensures that there are good employment opportunities and hence little in the way of social issues and poverty.
Other attractions include Lahaina Snuba, Royal Kaanapali Golf Course, Whalers Village Museum, Drums of the Pacific Lu au, Hanakaoo Beach Park, Honokowai Beach Park, and Wahiku Park.
Best places to stay in Maui near Kaanapali:
Rounding Up Where To Stay On Maui
There you have it â an excellent selection of places to stay in Maui that will leave you with a lust to return. The soft sand between your toes, calm waves crashing, cocktails, and Hula dancing are just some of the things you can look forward to.
The serenade of a gorgeous sunset while staying in a luxurious hotel â is there a better way to relax? But before you experience it for yourself, look at our packing list for Hawaii to start planning your trip.
Be Prepared For Travel
Planning and preparing to go travelling is the boring part, but it has to be done and can have a huge impact on the success of your travels. Do it the easy way with our guides:
Recommended Reading: Places To Stay In Redmond
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. It is also one of the best places for luxury hotels in Hawaii!
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!
Frequently Asked Questions About Maui
What is the best area to stay in Maui?
Kaanapali, situated in West Maui is the best area to stay during your visit, known for its resort area and many activities. Kaanapali has some of the best beaches and restaurants in Hawaii.
What is the best side of Maui?
The west side is the best side of the island, this area is very green and picturesque, with the West Maui Mountains to admire and tropical scenery wherever you look. West Maui has the perfect weather and best places to stay.
What you should not miss on Maui?
Maui is known for the best snorkeling so you should try that when you visit Maui next time. You will find a snorkeling activity on every side of the island, no matter where you stay on the coast.
What are the best luxury hotels in Maui?
Four Seasons Resort and Hyatt Regency Resort & Spa are two fantastic options. The most luxurious resorts are located in Waiea so if you are looking for more options. Definitely check out this area.
This has been a rollercoaster! I hope you enjoyed my post on where to stay on Maui, this amazing vacation spot, and now know which part of the island better suits you and which beach you should check out! There are so many options for where to stay on Maui, it can get overwhelming but I hope that I was able to help you decide.
I know Ive given you tons of info about accommodations and options on where to stay on Maui island already but, I highly recommend these 2 that are my all-time favorites and Mauis best offerings.
Aloha,
Don’t Miss: Where To Stay In Cabo Pulmo
The West Side Of Maui Includes Kaanapali Honokowai Kahana Napili Kapalua And Lahaina
Kaanapali Beach is my favorite area of Maui to stay on. This is the luxury part of the west side of Maui. There are several large hotels with elaborate pools, grounds, and lobbies, plus a couple of large luxury condos. All of these hotels and condos in Kaanapali are within walking distance of each other, and of restaurants, all beach activities, Luaus, snorkeling, and the Whalers Village shopping center.
Honokowai, Kahana, and Napili are just north of Kaanapali Beach. They contain numerous large and small condo complexes that are less expensive than staying right on Kaanapali Beach, but they are not within walking distance of the big resort hotels and shopping and restaurants, and some of them do not have air conditioning or daily maid service. Most of these condo buildings are right on the beach.
Kapalua is at the far north end of West Maui. It has a few condos and one hotel. But Kapalua gets more rain and wind than any other part of West or South Maui, so I would not recommend this area. Although some people disagree, in my opinion, this is not the best area to stay in Maui.
- Map of Maui with links to maps of each area
Do You Want Beachfront Or Pool View Locationlocationlocation
In Maui, prices for most accommodations are based largely on the location of the property and the view from each individual room. In researching where to stay on Maui, you will come across the following terminology to describe properties and room categories over and over again:
THIS is beachfront!
Beachfront means it is located right on the beach
Oceanfront means it is directly facing the ocean, but may or may not be on a beach
Ocean View means it offers a view of the ocean but is probably not directly oceanfront or beachfrontit might be located near the ocean , provide a side view to the ocean, or offer a more distant view to the sea
Partial Ocean View means there is a view of the ocean, but it is a side view or obstructed view, so you will not have a full-on panoramic ocean view
Mountain View, Garden View, Pool View, Golf Course View, and similar mean it offers those views, rather than a view of the ocean
Maui accommodation prices also vary depending upon whether you are traveling during high or low season. So if you are looking for the least expensive time of year, see The Best Time To Visit Maui for more details on Mauis tourism seasons.
- Looking for great places to stay on Maui? Youll save by BOOKING DIRECTLY with the owners/managers of these accommodations.
- Looking for Maui deals? Sign up here for our free monthly Maui Deals & Steals enewsletter with the latest book-direct deals from our advertisers.
Questions? Comments? Drop me a line:
Recommended Reading: Best Hotels To Stay In Houston Tx
What Type Of Accommodations Do You Want
Beachfront resorts on Kaanapali Beach
Hotels and Resorts: This is the most traditional type of tourist accommodation. Everyone knows what a hotel is, of course, and a resort is really just a more elaborate hotel, with upgraded amenities and facilities such as spas and golf courses. There are around 7,400 hotel rooms on Maui, ranging from small, simple hotels to extravagant luxury resorts. The majority of Mauis hotels and resorts are located in the primary resort areas of West Maui and South Maui, with a handful of smaller properties located in other regions of the island.
Condos And Villas Feature In-Room Kitchens
Bed & Breakfasts: Mauis cozy B& Bs, which are often family owned and operated, offer a personalized experience that is simply not possible at large resorts. At a B& B, you are renting a private room in someones home or possibly staying at a very small inn. There might be other guests present when you are there, or there might not. Breakfast is sometimes included , and other special amenities may be offered for guests, as well. On Maui, the legal definition of a B& B is a property that offers short-term rental of rooms or the entire dwelling where the owner lives on site. By law, Maui B& Bs are required to have a permit from the County however there are some illegal operations on the island, so beware. Maui B& Bs are a truly unique and special experience for travelers who want to enjoy a more grass-roots and authentic slice of island life.
Our Favorite Hotels On South Maui
- Four Seasons Wailea: Its hard to choose THE luxury hotel in South Maui, but if I have to name one, this is it. The service , the grounds , the pool . Everything here is top-notch. Book the Four Seasons Wailea here.
- Hotel Wailea: Ok we had to choose one more luxury hotel because this is the only adults-only resort in all of Hawaii. And this resort is luxurious. While youre not staying directly on the beach in Wailea, youre set on a bluff overlooking the ocean. And when you want to head to the beach? Just hop in a hotel car a Tesla to shuttle you down the hill. Book Hotel Wailea here.
- Residence Inn by Marriott: A solid mid-price hotel, the Residence Inn offers suites , and an area shuttle so you can get around easily. The rooms are spacious and they even have grills on the property so you can pick up food like freshly caught fish. Book the Residence Inn by Marriott here.
- Maui Coast Hotel: Located in Kihei, this hotel is across the street from the beach and is walking distance to restaurants and shopping. The rooms are large and the hotel offers free bike rentals to explore the area. Plus, free parking and laundry is always a plus in Hawaii! Book the Maui Coast Hotel here.
Read Also: Places To Stay In West Maui
Where To Stay In South Maui
South Maui is popular for a reason! First of all, its the driest and sunniest area of Maui.
It will take you just a half hour or so from the airport to reach Kihei, with miles and miles of beautiful sandy beaches for swimming and surfing. Lots of families congregate here due to the easy beach access from the many condos and hotels just opposite Kamaole Beaches I, II, and III.
Youll also find plenty of food trucks in this area and roadside malls selling bikinis and beach essentials.
A bit further south is Wailea, named after the goddess of canoe builders . Fancy waterside resorts abound here. Even if you dont stay, be sure to stop for sunset cocktails or a meal at the Andaz Maui Wailea Resort or the Grand Wailea Maui.
Pros and cons: South Maui is sunny, laid back, and theres great shopping. Plenty of great day tours depart from here.
On the flip side, the consistently sunny days and gorgeous beaches mean plenty of other tourists. Its also not as lush as the other side of the island if youre looking for lush jungle hikes.
The Top 3 Things You Need to Pack for Maui
Go ProThe #1 thing I wished Id brought on my first Maui visit.
Keen shoesFor crossing streams, muddy hikes, and avoiding sharp coral in the ocean.
Here are my picks for South Maui:
1. Kihei Penthouse Ocean View from Every Room
Hanan A Jan 2021
2. Hyatts Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort
Just a stones throwa 10-minute walk, actuallyfrom all the beautiful Shops at Wailea, too.
The South Side Of Maui Includes Wailea And Kihei
Wailea has luxury hotels and condos. They are spread out a little more than the luxury hotels and condos on Kaanapali Beach, so some people like the slightly quieter atmosphere, but others dont like the fact that you cant easily walk to all the big hotels and restaurants and shopping centers like you can in Kaanapali. Though, this isnt true of all Wailea resorts. The Grand Wailea, Four Seasons, Andaz, , and many high-end condos are all next to each other There are 3 different luaus all within a few minutes walking distance, but the most popular is the Grand Wailea Luau.
Kihei is north of Wailea. It has numerous large and small condo complexes that are less expensive than staying in Wailea. Many of these do not have air conditioning or daily maid service. And most Kihei condos are across the street from the beach, rather than right on the beach. Kihei tends to be congested with heavy traffic. Kihei does have many family restaurants. But due to the fact that many condos here are less expensive than some in other areas, many people do think that Kihei is the best area to stay in Maui.
- Map of Maui with links to maps of each area
Read Also: Places To Stay In Wakeeney Ks
Best Luxury Hotel In Maui: Grand Wailea Resort
A member of Waldorf Astoria Resorts, Grand Wailea is the ultimate luxury resort in Maui. Those after an unforgettable vacation, whether youre a family or on your honeymoon, can enjoy over 40 acres of tropical gardens with private access to the stunning Wailea Beach.
From the moment you walk into the enchanting lobby, youll embark on a luxurious experience as memorable as the Maui sunset. Your accommodations will feature a private and furnished terrace, with the bathroom enveloped by Italian marble and the chance to soak in the inviting bath.
There are several on-site restaurants to choose from, but for date night dont pass up an evening at Humuhumunukunukuapuaa. Set above a romantic oceanfront you can sample local cuisine as the stars glisten and the water sparkles.
Grand Wailea Resort also comes with a full-service spa. Offering a wide range of calming treatments, Spa Grande also features a hydrotherapy bath circuit. For families, head to the Wailea Canyon water park with 9 outdoor pools, a lazy river, caves, and a water slide.
More Luxury Hotels in Maui:
The Old Wailuku Inn At Ulupono
If you’re the type of person who likes to connect with locals while traveling or have fond memories of staying with a host family during a study-abroad program, you’ll want to book the Old Wailuku Inn. This warm, welcoming hotel feels as if you’re staying at a friend’s tt’s house with a home-cooked breakfast served daily, and modest rooms with beds covered in traditional Hawaiian quilts.
The central location is more residential than Lahaina or Wailea and removed from the typical tourist areas for a more one-of-a-kind experience. When you’re ready for the beach, it’s a 20-minute drive to the south shore.
Don’t Miss: Best Area To Stay In Tijuana
Kahului The Capital Of Maui Home To Mauis Main Airport
Kahului with its international airport Kahului Airport , deep harbor, shopping, and industrial districts is the main conurbation on Maui. The climate is semi-arid and hot, with Kahului sheltered from the prevailing trade winds. Kahului faces north across the bay of the same name.
Todays town has a limited history. The plague wiped out the population in 1900 so what you see now is a development funded by the sugar company. The Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum tells the story of the sugar plantations on Maui and the influence they had on the life of the locals.
Remember sugar also attracted workers from several parts of the world, hence the current diversity of Mauis population. It is not really among the main tourist destinations on Maui but there are still reasons why you might choose it as a base for your holiday.
The best shopping in Maui is certainly in Maui with the largest of the malls named after Queen Elizabeth Kaahumanu. It has some attractions including Kanaha Beach County Park, and the Maui Arts and Cultural Center, and Kanaha Pond State Wildlife Sanctuary.
If you want recreational facilities, head to the County Park. It has a lovely beach and the swimming is good. There are picnic areas, the chance to windsurf or fly your kite or play volleyball.
Best Hotels in Maui in Kahului: