where is the best area to stay in maui, hawaii?

Where is the best area to stay in Maui?

By Carles Barcelo. Updated October 27, 2023

Looking for where to stay in Maui? Below, we will break down the best places to stay in Maui by area.

The Island of Maui is the second largest of the Hawaiian Islands and is known fondly as the ‘Valley Isle’. The island is popular with surfers and bohemian tourists that love the laid back atmosphere and wide array of arts and cultural activities. Of course, the highlight of the island is the beautiful collection of fine golden beaches that offer sun, sea and lots of surf. Hawaii is a surfer’s paradise, with the island of Maui providing some of the best spots in the state.

Lahaina and Paia are hotspots for surfers, with Hookipa beach in Paia a particular favourite for serious surfers. Wherever you stay on Maui, you will see surfers at every beach but there are resorts that offer more than great currents. Kihei in the south has great beaches for wandering and a fine selection of accommodation for all ranges. Wailea is popular for older couples that want to enjoy a beach holiday where they can enjoy a spot of pampering and a round of golf and Kapalua offers a fun holiday for a younger crowd that are not necessarily looking for a surfing holiday.

Centrally located Kahului has a much more local vibe and acts as the de facto capital of the island. As its home to the airport and harbor, it’s the most likely entry and exit point for most visitors. It’s home to a fine windsurfing beach and will also take care of your car rental and shopping needs.If you are interested in where to stay in Maui, you may also be interested in where to stay in Kauai, where to stay in Oahu or where to stay in Big Island

Best resorts to stay in Maui

Lahaina

Best area to stay in Maui for surfing

Situated on the western side of Maui, Lahaina is just 45 minutes from Kahului Airport and is known as Maui’s jewel in the crown. Lahaina has a proud Historic District that is now a National Historical landmark, with the Font Street area a particularly busy hub of museums and galleries. Whilst culture enthusiasts will love walking the streets of the Old Town, the highlight of any town in Maui are the beaches. Napali Beach and Ka’anapali Beach are the best in town; both lively surfing areas with a strong community spirit.

Summertime sees an influx of surfers, windsurfers and general water-sports enthusiasts booking into hotels or hiring small guesthouses, so that they can spend the summer in the sea.

There are many all-inclusive hotels and luxury apartments in the area, as well as laid-back budget accommodation that caters for students and backpackers. Nature lovers also love to stay in Lahaina, especially during the winter when they can enjoy whale spotting in the town that was once the centre of the global whaling trade.

Hotels in Lahaina

Recommended hotels in Lahaina:

The Westin Maui Resort & Spa: Located on the famous Ka’anapali Beach in Lahaina, The Westin Maui Resort & Spa offers a luxurious tropical retreat. With stunning oceanfront views, this resort features spacious rooms, multiple pools, and a world-class spa. Guests can indulge in a range of dining options, water sports activities, and cultural experiences. Perfect for couples and families seeking a beachfront escape with upscale amenities and convenient access to Lahaina’s attractions and shopping.

Ka’anapali Beach Hotel: Situated on the beautiful shores of Ka’anapali Beach, Ka’anapali Beach Hotel captures the authentic spirit of Hawaiian hospitality. With traditional island-inspired decor, this family-friendly hotel offers comfortable rooms, a beachfront pool, and a cultural center showcasing Hawaiian traditions. Guests can enjoy local cuisine at the on-site restaurants and participate in hula lessons and lei-making classes. Ideal for travelers seeking a genuine Hawaiian experience and a laid-back atmosphere.

Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa: Nestled on 40 acres of lush tropical gardens, the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa provides a luxurious escape in Lahaina. Offering elegant rooms with private lanais, this resort boasts multiple pools, a spa, and a championship golf course. Guests can dine at award-winning restaurants, attend traditional luau shows, and enjoy water activities such as snorkeling and paddleboarding. Perfect for couples, honeymooners, and discerning travelers seeking a refined and indulgent Maui experience.

Kihei

Best area to stay in Maui for best beaches

Maui is home to some of the world’s most attractive beaches and Kihei on the island’s south coast is the place to find a lot of them. This is true beachcomber territory. With a noticeable drier and sunnier climate than the rest of the island, the weather is a draw, as is the wide and enviable range of accommodation

Kihei has a wide range of condos, cottages and small hotels to suit any budget, many of which have direct beachfront access. These are supported by a good selection of restaurants, small malls and delightful farmers’ markets. Slightly south of Kihei is Wailea, which is home to some of the most upmarket and exclusive names in luxury accommodation, including the Four Seasons and Wailea Beach Marriott. The town of Kihei is about a 20-30 minute drive south of the island’s airport and the main town of Kahului. Those wanting to use Kihei as a base for exploring the island should note that any road trip to upland Maui in the west or Haleakala in the east will require transiting through Kahului.

Hotels in Kihei

Recommended hotels in Kihei:

Maui Banyan Vacation Club: Situated in the heart of Kihei, the Maui Banyan Vacation Club offers comfortable and affordable accommodations. The spacious condos feature fully equipped kitchens, private lanais, and access to the property’s outdoor pools, hot tubs, and barbecue areas. With its convenient location near beautiful beaches and a variety of dining and shopping options, this hotel is perfect for families and budget-conscious travelers seeking a relaxed stay in Kihei.

Maui Coast Condos: Offering a range of vacation rentals in various locations throughout Kihei, Maui Coast Condos provides an excellent option for those looking for a home away from home. The condos feature fully equipped kitchens, living areas, and amenities such as pools and barbecue facilities. Guests can enjoy the flexibility and convenience of self-catering while being close to Kihei’s attractions and beaches. Ideal for families, couples, and travelers seeking a more independent and personalized vacation experience.

Maui Sunseeker LGBT Resort: This adults-only boutique hotel is located in Kihei, offering a welcoming and inclusive environment for LGBTQ+ travelers. The hotel features individually decorated rooms with private lanais, a clothing-optional pool area, a hot tub, and a communal kitchen. With its proximity to LGBTQ+ friendly beaches and vibrant nightlife options, the Maui Sunseeker LGBT Resort is ideal for LGBTQ+ travelers seeking a comfortable and accepting atmosphere in Kihei.

Wailea

Best area to stay in Maui for couples and honeymooners

Wailea is a town in the south of Maui and is known for its fine beaches and world class golf courses. Wailea Beach is constantly winning awards and is a great place for snorkelling and water-sports; whilst neighbouring Ulua Beach Park is a hot spot for locals and tourists to take a morning walk or to indulge in a spot of beach yoga.

Once again, surfers love to stay in Wailea, although accommodation can be a little more expensive here. There are only a handful of hotels and they are all top class establishments, often with fancy restaurants and spas attached. There are, however, condominiums for hire around the Keawakapu beach area that are a little easier on the wallet. Wailea is a good spot to hang out at night in, with shops staying open until late and a great variety of traditional and modern restaurants offering everything from a snack to take on the beach to fine dining. The area is lively of a night but never too rowdy as the surfers want to stay in tip top condition so that they can make the most of the waves. Wailea is an all-round great place to go if you want to be pampered and waited on hand and foot, making it a great place for couples and honeymooners.

Hotels in Wailea

Recommended hotels in Wailea:

Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea: Nestled on the pristine shores of Wailea Beach, the Four Seasons Resort Maui offers a luxurious tropical retreat. The spacious rooms and suites feature elegant furnishings and private lanais with stunning ocean or garden views. Guests can indulge in world-class dining experiences, relax by the resort’s multiple pools, enjoy rejuvenating spa treatments, and take advantage of the championship golf courses nearby. Perfect for discerning travelers seeking a lavish and upscale beachfront getaway in Wailea.

Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort: Located along Mokapu Beach, the Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort offers a contemporary and vibrant atmosphere. The stylish rooms and suites feature modern amenities, private lanais, and ocean or garden views. Guests can unwind by the infinity pools, dine at the on-site restaurants, indulge in spa treatments, and participate in various water activities. The resort’s convenient location allows easy access to Wailea’s beautiful beaches and nearby attractions. Ideal for couples, families, and those seeking a trendy and sophisticated resort experience.

Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui: Situated on Polo Beach, the Fairmont Kea Lani offers a blend of luxury and Hawaiian hospitality. The spacious suites feature separate living areas, private lanais, and ocean or garden views. Guests can enjoy three swimming pools, a waterslide, a full-service spa, and multiple dining options. With access to championship golf courses, water sports activities, and nearby shopping and dining areas, the Fairmont Kea Lani is perfect for families, couples, and travelers seeking an upscale and indulgent stay in Wailea.

Kapalua

Best area to stay in Maui for snorkelling

Situated on the western most part of the island, Kapalua is a hotspot for experienced surfers. Currents can be very strong, so newcomers are advised not to surf here but there are plenty of other spots if you want to practise your skills. You can take surf lessons during the summer, when the winds are not as strong but you should still enter the sea with caution if you are wanting to surf alone.

Swimming and snorkelling are much safer activities to indulge in during the summer and the beaches themselves are very appealing. The expert surfing community comes together in Kapalua and the area enjoys a strong sense of community, where you can relax and have fun. As the area is off the beaten track, there are a couple of small hotels in the area and apartments to rent, for surfers wanting to spend the winter competing. If you are not staying in Kapalua, it is well worth the trip to enjoy being a spectator to the intense shows the surfers put on. Whilst the area is popular with a younger crowd, people of all ages will enjoy a stay in Kapalua and with a good road network, you can always explore the rest of the island, too.

Hotels in Kapalua

Recommended hotels in Kapalua:

The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua: Nestled amidst 54 acres of lush gardens and overlooking the Pacific Ocean, The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua offers a luxurious retreat in Kapalua. The spacious rooms and suites feature elegant furnishings, private balconies, and ocean or garden views. Guests can enjoy world-class amenities, including a championship golf course, multiple outdoor pools, a full-service spa, and exquisite dining options. With its serene surroundings and access to beautiful beaches and nature trails, The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua is perfect for luxury travelers seeking a tranquil and upscale escape.

Montage Kapalua Bay: Located along the picturesque Kapalua Bay, Montage Kapalua Bay provides an exclusive and refined experience. The luxurious residential-style suites feature upscale amenities, fully equipped kitchens, and spacious lanais with ocean or garden views. Guests can indulge in the resort’s stunning pool area, relax at the spa, savor gourmet cuisine, and take advantage of the championship golf courses nearby. With its unparalleled oceanfront location and impeccable service, Montage Kapalua Bay is ideal for discerning travelers seeking a sophisticated and lavish retreat.

Kapalua Villas Maui: Offering a range of spacious villas and condos, Kapalua Villas Maui provides a more relaxed and independent stay in Kapalua. The accommodations feature fully equipped kitchens, separate living areas, and private lanais with garden or ocean views. Guests have access to the resort’s pools, tennis courts, and barbecue areas. With proximity to Kapalua’s stunning beaches, championship golf courses, and hiking trails, Kapalua Villas Maui is perfect for families, groups, and travelers seeking a comfortable and flexible vacation experience.

Kahului

Best area to stay in Maui for cruisers

Kahului is Maui’s biggest settlement and the closest thing “The Valley Isle” has to a real city. If you hear a local mention that “they are going into town” it’s Kahului they are talking about. It’s home to the island’s airport and main harbour which welcomes visiting cruise ships. Shopping fans are well cared for with a plethora of malls.

Most holidaymakers will simply pass through Kahului on their way to the tourist centres on the west and south coasts - usually pausing long to rent a car or collect groceries. But the town has a few hidden gems, including Kanaha Beach Park, a particular favourite haunt of windsurfers and kitesurfers. Nature fans will be fascinated by the indigenous flora on display at Maui Nui Botanical Gardens and fauna at Kanaha Pond State Wildlife Sanctuary, home to two endangered Hawaiian bird species, the ‘Alae and the Ae’o. In terms of accommodation, Kahului and Central Maui is a good option for someone looking for a more local “real” Hawaii feel, rather than the grand resort settings you will find elsewhere on the island. In particular, there is a good selection of retreats and small inns close to Paia.

Hotels in Kahului

Recommended hotels in Kahului:

Courtyard by Marriott Maui Kahului Airport: Conveniently located near Kahului Airport, the Courtyard by Marriott Maui Kahului Airport offers a comfortable and convenient stay for travelers. The modern rooms and suites feature plush bedding, ergonomic workstations, and modern amenities. Guests can enjoy the outdoor pool, fitness center, and on-site dining options. With its proximity to the airport and easy access to Maui’s attractions, the hotel is an excellent choice for business travelers, transit passengers, and those seeking a comfortable and hassle-free stay in Kahului.

Maui Seaside Hotel: Situated near the oceanfront, Maui Seaside Hotel offers affordable accommodations in Kahului. The cozy rooms feature tropical-inspired décor, comfortable beds, and necessary amenities. Guests can relax by the outdoor swimming pool and enjoy the on-site restaurant. With its central location, the hotel provides easy access to Kahului’s shopping centers, dining options, and nearby attractions. It is a great choice for budget-conscious travelers, families, and those looking for a convenient base to explore Maui.

Maui Beach Hotel: Located just steps away from the beach, Maui Beach Hotel offers a relaxed and affordable stay in Kahului. The comfortable rooms feature Hawaiian-inspired décor, mini-fridges, and Wi-Fi access. Guests can enjoy the outdoor swimming pool, fitness center, and on-site restaurant. The hotel’s central location provides easy access to Kahului’s shops, restaurants, and attractions. It is a suitable choice for budget travelers, beach enthusiasts, and those seeking a convenient base to explore the island of Maui.

Paia

Best area to stay in Maui for windsurfing

Paia is a small community in upcountry Maui that is home to the windsurfing capital of the world, Hookipa beach. Professional windsurfers from all around the world head to Hookipa to compete with one and other and to share tips about their favourite sport.

The large North Shore waves make winter in Paia very busy, with beaches filled with surfers of all kinds, including Kite Surfers who are becoming more and more popular. With the trendy surfer crowd comes funky shops and cafés to cater for all of their needs, so expect a vibrant and colourful stay if you choose Paia.

Art galleries, live music venues, yoga studios and chill-out loungers make Paia a slightly bohemian place, where people from all walks of life can come to relax and party. Long and short stay rentals are popular with surfers but there are a number of good quality hotels to choose from too. Summer time can be a little quieter, if you are wanting a more low key holiday, where you can browse the local boutique shops or hang out at the beach to soak up the sun.

Hotels in Paia

Recommended hotels in Kahului:

Paia Inn: Situated in the heart of the charming town of Paia, Paia Inn offers a boutique hotel experience with a laid-back and eclectic vibe. The stylish rooms and suites feature unique décor, comfortable furnishings, and modern amenities. Guests can relax in the courtyard garden, enjoy the on-site restaurant, and take advantage of the complimentary beach gear. With its central location and proximity to Paia’s shops, galleries, and world-class surfing spots, Paia Inn is a perfect choice for travelers seeking a vibrant and artsy beach town experience.

Mana Kai Maui: Located on the outskirts of Paia and overlooking the beautiful white sands of Keawakapu Beach, Mana Kai Maui offers beachfront accommodations with stunning ocean views. The spacious condominium-style units feature fully equipped kitchens, private lanais, and access to resort amenities such as a swimming pool, barbecue area, and water sports equipment rentals. With its prime beachfront location and proximity to Paia’s vibrant town center, Mana Kai Maui is an ideal choice for beach lovers, families, and those seeking a relaxed and self-catered vacation.

Nalu Kai Lodge: Tucked away in a quiet residential neighborhood just a short walk from Paia’s town center, Nalu Kai Lodge provides a cozy and affordable stay. The lodge offers comfortable and clean rooms with shared bathrooms and communal kitchen facilities. Guests can relax in the outdoor garden area and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere. With its affordable rates and convenient location, Nalu Kai Lodge is suitable for budget travelers, surfers, and those looking for a casual and friendly accommodation option in Paia.