Let’s face it, Maui is an island that’s on nearly everybody’s bucket checklist. And for good cause. With stunning seashores, spectacular waterfalls, and epic hikes it’s really laborious to discover an excuse not to go. After visiting the island a number of occasions we discovered probably the most time-consuming and troublesome job is definitely discovering one of the 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 lodges together with trip leases full of useful facilities dotted round Maui, it actually pays to plan in advance. Not solely can 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 along with your trip planning in an effort to resolve what’s the finest place in Maui the place you need to base your self to see one of the best of this wonderful island. You’ll have the prospect 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 acquainted with the structure of the island. This will enable you see the place issues are situated in addition to enable you resolve if you’d like to be in the extra standard 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 important areas which we’ll spotlight and allow you to know the place we predict are one of the best locations to keep.
Regardless of which neighborhood you select to keep in Maui, there isn’t a scarcity of fantastic views. Although not an enormous island, Maui is finest explored while 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 totally different to supply. When weighing the professionals and cons of every, it’s essential to know what sort of trip you get pleasure from probably the most. South Maui is the go-to spot thanks to the vary of resorts, whereas East Maui is extra distant, with few lodges 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 important thoroughfare, thrives with distinctive outlets, various eating places, and artwork galleries, and is a middle of vibrant nightlife. Also in West Maui, you will see 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 opulent 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 out of doors lovers to take in every thing Maui has to supply. Moreover, the stretch of shoreline alongside Highway 30 delivers beautiful views of the ocean, neighboring islands, and even humpback whales throughout the winter months.
The finest locations to keep in West Maui cater to a variety of preferences. Luxury seekers shall be drawn to the upscale resorts of Kaanapali and Kapalua, full with full-service spas, championship golf programs, and beachfront eating. Those on the lookout for a extra native expertise may favor a trip rental in Lahaina or a boutique resort, the place they’ll get pleasure from being shut to native sights, outlets, and eating places.
As for Napili, residence to the enchanting Napili Bay, you’ll discover a laid-back ambiance amongst a group of small resorts and condos that don’t overtake the skyline. The group wraps round Napili Bay, providing friends the prospect 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 delicate sand, head to the north finish, the place you’ll uncover Black Rock. On arrival, you could spot folks leaping off the cliff face into the deep water under. Feel free to be a part of or embark on some implausible snorkeling.
Recommended Hotels in West Maui
The Ritz Carlton Maui
The Ritz-Carlton, Maui is an opulent resort nestled throughout the pristine Kapalua Bay on the northwest coast. Surrounded by lush greenery and white sand seashores, this elegant resort gives 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 beautiful white sand seashore, lush tropical gardens, and comfy lodging, the resort gives a peaceable and intimate setting for friends 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 seashore resort gives a cushty and genuine Hawaiian expertise. Guests can get pleasure from ocean views, cultural actions, scrumptious eating choices, and direct entry to the beautiful seashore. 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 preferred vacation spot on the island. Just 20 minutes from the airport, it’s simply accessible with the seashore, eating places, and outlets 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 elements of the island, making it a seashore lover’s haven. And let me let you know the seashores in South Maui are among the many most interesting in Hawaii. Wailea Beach, as an example, is legendary for its golden sands, clear waters, and glorious swimming situations.
Makena Beach, often known as Big Beach, is among the largest seashores in Maui and is standard for picnicking, swimming, and generally big-wave browsing. But one of the 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 largest focus of luxurious resorts and luxurious lodges. With an exquisite 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 luxurious resort Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea. Enjoy a calming trip, some with waterfront infinity-edge swimming pools, personal seashore entry, and loads of upscale eating places inside strolling distance.
Such stunning seashores and luxurious resorts don’t come low-cost. The main downside for South Maui is the worth level, though you could discover a budget-friendly trip rental in Kihei. Vacationers also needs to bear in mind that a lot of their chosen water adventures, corresponding 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 gives beautiful ocean views, impeccable service, and comfy, elegant rooms. Its famend spa, connoisseur eating experiences, and number of actions guarantee each rest and journey, making it a perfect Hawaiian keep.
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Sunset Paradise Luana Kai
This property has a non-public pool, situated 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 friends profit from complimentary WiFi and personal parking accessible on-site.
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3. Maui’s North Shore (Paia and Haiku)
With the 2 hottest areas of Maui coated, let’s have a look at the island’s North Shore, which gives a better perception into one of the crucial spectacular Hawaiian islands. Closer to the pure wonders of Maui, however slightly farther from among the higher swimming seashores, the North Shore is all about shutting off from the world and respiration in the serenity.
West Maui and South Maui are massive resort areas, with useful facilities on website. But in case your crew isn’t an enormous fan of that sort of journey, then the North Shore can also be an excellent various.
Maui’s North Shore, encompassing Paia and Haiku, is a mecca for surfers and windsurfers from around the globe, particularly on the legendary Ho’okipa Beach Park. The space has a bohemian vibe with artwork galleries, boutique outlets, and natural cafes. Paia, usually referred to because the “windsurfing capital of the world,” is a quaint city with a mix of Hawaiian and plantation-era influences.
Families can get pleasure from a variety of family-friendly lodges and laid-back eating in Pa’ia with loads of hearty fare on supply. The important exception to the rule is arguably one of the best restaurant on Maui, Mama’s Fish House.
I discussed that the North Shore isn’t famend for its stress-free 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 people who know their approach round some gnarly breaks.
There’s a cause the North Shore is residence to a number of professional tour occasions. When exploring the tide swimming pools at Ho’okipa Beach, you may even see a bunch of windsurfers making the most of the coastal winds. They will need to have heard that the seashore 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 lodges the place you possibly can bask in the sumptuous views away from the crowds. Hand-in-hand, roam the comfortable 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 gives a novel retreat for these looking 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 type. Its prime location gives quick access to Maui’s North Shore seashores, eclectic outlets, and native eateries. The customized service and comfy ambiance make it a pleasant hideaway.
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Nalu Kai Lodge
The Nalu Kai Lodge in Paia gives 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 seashore 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 among the important promoting factors for this a part of Maui.
East Maui is a group 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 surprising black sand seashore, 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 group. It’s the proper vacation spot for nature lovers and people looking for a extra genuine Hawaiian expertise.
For the trekkers amongst us, among the finest hikes in Maui will be discovered in the japanese area. These embody the unbelievable Pipiwai Trail and the trek to Wailua Falls. It isn’t laborious to see why East Maui is the best vacation spot for people 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 beautiful 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 japanese shoreline. Surrounded by lush rainforest and pristine seashores, it’s the epitome of a tropical paradise. The resort’s spacious cottages, wellness facilities, and concentrate on Hawaiian tradition enable friends 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 perfect alternative for vacationers looking for a peaceable retreat shut to nature. With comfy lodging, lush environment, and shut proximity to waterfalls and seashores, it gives a real style of Hawaiian paradise.
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Bamboo Inn On Hana Bay
Bamboo Inn on Hana Bay gives a country, intimate expertise in Hana, Maui. Its three oceanfront suites, crafted from bamboo, exude tropical appeal. With direct entry to Hana Bay, friends can relish the rugged great thing about the world. The Inn’s welcoming ambiance and beautiful 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 identify Upcountry suggests, heading inland brings an enormous elevation achieve as you ascend in 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, usually above the clouds, which is a surreal expertise. The park additionally gives 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 standard residence to the Paniolo. You may argue that the Paniolo have 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 seashore day for a customary rodeo present in Makawao.
Central Maui, encompassing cities like Kahului and Wailuku, serves because the island’s business middle. It’s usually 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 plush Iao Valley State Park, identified for the enduring Iao Needle.
One of one of the best issues to do, and a significant cause vacationers base themselves in Upcountry Maui, is to hike to the summit of Haleakala. From anyplace on the island you possibly can see the large volcano looming overhead. It checks out that such a peak can be residence to one of the 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 alternative for vacationers looking 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 offers a cushty base. Its location additionally gives quick access to discover Maui’s sights.
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The Beautiful Kula Lodge
Kula Lodge gives beautiful views of the island from its elevated location. The lodge offers rustic, comfy lodging and a restaurant serving recent, locally-sourced delicacies. Its proximity to Haleakala National Park makes it a superb alternative for these in exploring the pure great thing about Maui.
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Haleakala Princess Estate
Perched on the slopes of Haleakala it gives a tranquil retreat with breathtaking views. The spacious, well-appointed lodging are surrounded by lush gardens, creating a non-public paradise. It’s a perfect alternative for households or teams looking 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 is dependent upon what you’re on the lookout for. 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 on the lookout for sunny climate, stunning seashores for swimming, and opulent lodging, you may favor South Maui.
Which a part of Maui has one of the best seashores?
Both South and West Maui supply implausible seashores, every with their very own distinctive enchantment. 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 facet of Maui is hottest?
West Maui and South Maui are usually the preferred 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 counsel it in order to see all that Maui has to supply. Some elements of the island are simpler to discover in a automotive. We have rented one every time we’ve visited and have been glad we did.
Which lodges are closest to Kahului Airport?
Some standard lodges shut to Kahului Airport embody 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 finances vacationers. But there are methods for you to lower your expenses with out sacrificing your expertise in paradise.
One of one of the best methods to lower your expenses in Maui is to keep in a condominium. 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 a wide range of decisions for getting round Maui. You can base your self in a sure location and embark on day excursions. Many lodges can have shuttles to native locations corresponding to outlets and sights. These are extra prevalent in West and South Maui.
There are 14 bus routes across the island, with the world round Hana being serviced the least. A one-way fare for all routes will value $2 with a day cross going for $4.
However, if you’d like to see as a lot of Maui as doable, then you will want to rent a automotive. This shall be one of the best ways to drive the Road to Hana and see the extra distant areas in Maui’s Upcountry.
In conclusion
In the top, one of the 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 on the lookout for, 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 probably 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.