Since I visit Hawaii regularly, I often get asked where to stay in Maui. While you can drive to any part of the island within a few hours, it’s best to situate yourself in an area that will minimize the time you spend in a car.
If you’re trying to narrow down the best areas to stay in Maui, let me help. I’ll give you a map of the island, highlight the best areas depending on your travel style, and suggest specific hotels and rentals to book. By the end you’ll know exactly where to stay in Maui and be able to move onto the fun part: planning your trip activities!
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Where to Stay in Maui
Jump to an area to learn more about its pros and cons and get suggested accommodations:
You can also skip to the summary for the best places to stay in Maui based on attributes like price, location, snorkeling, etc.
Kā’anapali
Kāʻanapali is in west Maui to the north of Lahaina. It’s always important to plot places you’re looking to stay on the map because, confusingly, many of them advertise their location as “Lahaina” when in fact they’re in Kāʻanapali or more north in Napili/Kapalua.
Think of Kāʻanapali as the resort center of west Maui. It’s where you’ll find all of the popular chains like Sheraton, Westin, Marriott, etc. Most of them are next to each other, connected by a path that runs right along the beach.
This is where to stay in Maui if you prefer the familiarity of resort amenities like gyms, fancy pool areas with cabanas, and activities for kids, but don’t want to break the bank booking super swank hotels. You never need to leave the resort if you don’t want to given its prime location on the pristine Kāʻanapali Beach, but it’s still a close drive to Lahaina, Napili, and Kapalua if you want to explore.
Since most of the accommodations are concentrated together, this area is touristy. I’ve walked the path the connects all the resorts and was completely overwhelmed by the number of people crawling all over the pool chairs and beach. However, some people like that thrum of activity, or are willing to deal with crowds in order to get ambiance.
On one end of the beach walk path is Kāʻanapali Beach and on the other is Black Rock Beach. Both are excellent for snorkeling in generally calm waters, particularly Black Rock. Anyone can visit these beaches, but the parking is a nightmare if you’re not staying at the nearby resorts.
Besides the gorgeous beaches, Kāʻanapali is home to Whalers Village. This outdoor shopping complex has a bunch of stores, restaurants, and nightlife. While the majority of the stores and restaurants are chains, there are a few good spots for picking up local souvenirs. Whalers Village is also a popular departure point for snorkeling excursions.
Location wise, Kāʻanapali is well situated for exploring both the northern and southern parts of west Maui. But if you want to explore south Maui, the North Shore, or the Road to Hana in east Maui, it adds quite a bit of driving time. It takes ~45 minutes to get to Kihei, ~50 minutes to get to the airport, and ~1 hour to get to Paia and the start of the Road to Hana.
Pros
- Lots of brand-name resorts with luxe hotel amenities and grounds
- Prime access to beautiful beaches with great snorkeling
- Near a popular shopping complex so you don’t need to leave
Cons
- Crowded and touristy
- Mostly chains, so not supporting or experiencing Hawaiian businesses
- Farther away from other parts of the island
Best places to stay in Kā’anapali
Westin Nanea Ocean Villas
link to book | get directions | cost: ~$800/night | bedrooms: 1-3 | bathrooms: 1-2 | best for: upscale resort vibes for groups with less crowds
People are drawn to the Westin because of this Marriott brand’s reputation, but the Nanea location specifically is sought after given its location. You’ll be right on the beach and have that typical grand resort feel, but it’s a bit north of the busy Kāʻanapali Beach area so you won’t feel as overrun by tourists.
Another perk of this hotel is that they have villas with up to 3 bedrooms and 3 bathrooms. Most hotels require you to book separate rooms or be ok with sofa/cot sleeping arrangements to accommodate big groups. Not the Westin Nanea, though.
The resort boasts multiple pools, hot tubs, fitness classes, onsite dining, a spa, and activities for the whole family. So if you want that resort feel from a recognizable brand, but prefer to be a bit off the main drag alongside the other hotels, this Westin is a great choice.
Noah’s Hideaway
link to book | get directions | cost: ~$800-$900/night | bedrooms: 1 | bathrooms: 1 | best for: couples
This is a luxurious bed and breakfast just a 5-minute walk from Kāʻanapali Beach. That means you get all the ambiance of the beaches, but less of the crowds that you’d get if staying at the popular beachfront resorts. You also get breakfast every morning of your stay.
You may never want to leave the romantic grounds. There’s a heated pool with a hot tub and plenty of space to lounge. You’ll also find a barrel sauna perfect for relaxing after a day of hiking. Or check out the billiards and board games for a little bit of friendly competition.
Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa
link to book | get directions | cost: ~$650-$700/night | bedrooms: 1 | bathrooms: 1 | best for: that quintessential resort experience
The Hyatt Regency on Kāʻanapali Beach has the quintessential Maui resort vibe. It’s not astronomically expensive compared to other hotels, but it has luxury amenities you’d expect from a Hyatt.
You’ll have access to 40-acres of grounds, a large portion of which is covered with various pools, hot tubs, cabanas, and lounge areas. You’re right on the beach for each access, but there’s also a ton to do on the property. You’ll find an onsite spa, restaurants, shops, activities, games, fitness center with classes, and more. There’s also a nightly luau so you’ll never be wanting for entertainment.
Napili / Kapalua
Travel farther north in west Maui and you’ll hit Napili followed by Kapalua. Now we’re entering an area of contrast with my absolute favorite snorkeling on the island (there are so many sea turtles!).
Let me explain what I mean by an “area of contrast”. On the one hand you’ll find some of the ritziest places to stay on the island…no really, the Ritz-Carlton is located here.
However, it’s also home to a lot of local neighborhoods and smaller beachfront hotels. Similar to Lahaina, these resorts lack the amenities of name-brand resorts but they’re a way to get beachfront rentals for less money. And the beaches in Napili and Kapalua are better than the ones in Lahaina.
With great beaches comes some drawbacks, the main one being crowds. People not staying in the area come here for snorkeling, which makes parking a challenge. If you stay here, you won’t have to battle others for a parking spot but you will have to share the beaches.
Napili and Kapalua are perfectly located for exploring the northwest coast of Maui, my absolute favorite spot for views and a great Road to Hana alternative. However, it’s farther away from other parts of the island. You’ll need to drive about an hour to get to the airport, Paia, or Kihei. So I find this area best for people who plan to stay in west Maui.
Lastly, Napili and Kapalua is where to stay in Maui if you love golf. This is where the main golf courses are on the island, many of which host national competitions.
Pros
- Best snorkeling and beaches
- Affordable beachfront accommodations
- Also home to some of the fanciest resorts like the Ritz
- Easy access to northwest Maui hikes and viewpoints
- Located by golf courses
Cons
- Beaches are crowded and parking limited
- Takes ~1 hour to get to other popular areas of the island
Best places to stay in Napili & Kapalua
The Ritz-Carlton
link to book | get directions | cost: ~$1,200-$1,400/night | bedrooms: 1 | bathrooms: 1 | best for: the ultimate luxury experience
The Ritz-Carlton is one of the fanciest hotels you can stay at in west Maui. The property sprawls across 22,000 acres with literally everything you can think of: golf courses, multiple restaurants, wellness classes, a spa, impressive pools, beachfront access, zip lining…the list is endless.
While I’ve never stayed at the Ritz, I’ve visited a few times because I really like their spa. Before the pandemic you used to be given full access to their grounds with treatments. From spending countless hours hanging out on their property, I can tell you it’s complete magic.
There are a bunch of relaxing cabanas, multiple pools for all ages, poolside service, shuffleboard, tennis, a golf cart down to the water, snorkel equipment…honestly it gives you a glimpse of how the 1% live and I don’t hate it!
Napili Kai Beach Resort
link to book | get directions | cost: ~$450/night | bedrooms: 1-2 | bathrooms: 1-2 | best for: affordability
To really highlight why the Napili/Kapalua area is one of contrast, let’s compare the ~$450/night Napili Kai Beach Resort to the $1,200+ Ritz. Is Napili Kai as fancy? No. Does it have as many amenities? Absolutely not.
However, it has prime access to two of my favorite snorkeling beaches in all of Maui: Napili Bay and Kapalua Bay. The hotel includes free parking so you don’t have to battle all the day trippers trying to find a spot in this more residential area of the island.
Plus, you still get access to a lot of amenities. You’ll find an onsite pool, hot tub, shuffle board, spa, putting green, and fitness room. There are also activities for kids, weekly Mai Tai and mini golf parties, and regular hula shows that support native Hawaiian organizations.
Okika Hale
link to book | get directions (exact location provided after booking) | cost: ~$900/night | bedrooms: 3 | bathrooms: 2.5 | best for: a home away from home
If you’re rolling with a bigger group and want a home feel vs. a resort, Okika Hale should be at the top of your list of where to stay in Maui. It has an update kitchen and bathrooms with decor that gives it a homey feel. There’s a huge garage full of everything you need for the beach, which is a short walk away.
Like any home, you’ll be able to enjoy creature comforts after a day of sightseeing. You can cook in the huge gourmet kitchen or outdoor barbecue, cuddle up to watch TV or DVDs, relax in the AC…there’s a lot to love about having space to spread out while on vacation.
Kihei
Let’s move to south Maui, which many would say is the best area to stay in Maui. It’s in the northern part of south Maui, which means it has great access to other areas of the island. It takes ~25 minutes to the airport, ~30 minutes to Paia and the Upcountry, and ~40 minutes to Lahaina.
Besides location, one of the biggest draws of Kihei is the overall vibe and breadth of things to do. The main street along the beach is thrumming with that quintessential shore feel. People are biking, skating, or beaching, and you’ll often hear music pumping. The crowd feels slightly younger, but Millennial and Gen X’ers won’t feel out of place.
Kihei is arguably the foodie destination of Maui, with so many awesome places tucked in the most random of strip malls across the street from the beach. I literally plan food crawls for lunch whenever I’m in the area so I can hit at minimum 3 places.
Besides eating, there are a ton of other activities that draw people to Kihei. There are a lot of beaches to choose from, some of which feel hidden. You can snorkel at them, but I find the water tends to be rougher that west Maui (particularly in winter). However, it’s calmer in the morning so you can still get your snorkeling on.
You’ll also be near one of my favorite hiking areas in Maui, Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve at the southernmost part of south Maui. Want to bike instead? Kihei is great for biking an has a bunch of rental options. Fancy recreational sports? There is a mini golf close by.
All in all I have a ton of love for Kihei. Since the beachfront resorts tend to be condo buildings, many of which are rented by the owner, it’s another more affordable area to get an oceanfront rental. However, this means you’re often lacking swankier amenities than what you’d find at the fancier resorts in Kā’anapali and Kapalua. But if you don’t mind leaving the property to fill your time, Kihei is where to stay in Maui.
Pros
- Good access to all parts of the island
- Lots of things to do
- Amazing restaurants
- A lot of great beach options
- Young, energetic vibe
- Affordable beachfront properties
Cons
- Resorts lack swank amenities
- Snorkeling can be hit-or-miss depending on weather
Best places to stay in Kihei
Mana Kai Maui Maui Resort
link to book with hotel | get directions | cost: ~$725-$850/night | bedrooms: 2 | bathrooms: 2 | best for: location
Mana Kai Maui Resort is right in the heart of Kihei on Keawakapu Beach, one of the nicest beaches in the area. Not only do you get prime beachfront access, but you’re near a lot of my favorite restaurants on the island.
The hotel features amenities like a pool, hot tub, lounger chairs, fitness center, yoga studio, BBQ, and gear rental. Like many Kihei-area hotels, the resort is older so many of the rooms won’t be the fanciest. You risk getting a less-updated room if you book directly with the hotel, so I prefer to find updated condos for rent on VRBO so I’m in control of the aesthetic.
Unit 402 and unit 503 are both excellent options for Mana Kai rentals you can book directly through VRBO. Both are two bed, two bath ocean view units that have a full kitchen, updated bathrooms, and great guest reviews.
Hale Kai Ocean View Unit
link to book | get directions | cost: ~$475/night | bedrooms: 1 | bathrooms: 1 | best for: modern condo vibes
Hale Kai is a condo complex in north Kihei right on a quiet beach away from the crowds. The property is best for people who aren’t looking for resort luxuries, as the hotel itself is a bit old and the grounds aren’t as impressive as some others. For example, the pool is really small and there aren’t a ton of other amenities.
However, it has prime beach access, lounger chairs, and gorgeous views. Plus, like many of the resorts in Kihei, you can find updated units that are a cut above the others in the building. This condo I found is one of them. It was recently renovated with bright, airy decor and it has excellent guest reviews.
Maui Coast Hotel
link to book | get directions | cost: ~$400-$500/night | bedrooms: 1 | bathrooms: 1 | best for: a casual, affordable hotel
Maui Coast Hotel is a respectable 3-star hotel that has resort-like amenities at a lower price. For example, you’ll find a pool, hot tub, fitness center, and onsite restaurant. Plus they have some other great amenities like free bikes and a shuttle that can get you around Kihei and Wailea.
While you won’t be beachfront, this property is only a short walk from Kamaole Beach Park I and Charles Young Beach, the latter of which is my favorite because of its hidden gem vibe.
Wailea
Wailea is south of Kihei. Just as Kapalua is home to the swank resorts in west Maui, Wailea is south Maui’s answer to fancy resort living. The area is popular with honeymooners because it’s quieter with more space between resorts. If you need a frame of reference for what to expect ambiance-wise, season one of The White Lotus was filmed at the Four Seasons Resort at Wailea.
So this area should be on your list of where to stay in Maui if want to prioritize staying at upscale resorts with a lot of luxury amenities like pool-side service, concierges, spas, and less-crowded beachfront access. While in general I always prefer eating at independent restaurants, the eateries at Wailea-area resorts are better than your typical hotel fare. In fact, many people not staying at the resort still make a reservation at its restaurant and luau (if offered).
If you want to explore beyond the resort, though, Wailea may not be the best place for you. It’ll take ~40 minutes to get to the airport, ~45 minutes to Paia, and ~50 min to both Lahaina and the Upcountry.
These driving times are only about 10-15 minutes longer than if you stay in Kihei, which may not seem too bad. But where the inconvenience will add up is when you want to eat. Sure, there are a few good local restaurants in Wailea, but you’ll likely end up driving at least ~15 minutes to and from your hotel to Kihei for most meals.
Wailea is closer to Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve and Makena Beach, two popular destinations for beaching and hiking. There’s also a popular golf course and shopping center full of luxury brands if High Street shopping is your thing.
Pros
- Lots of luxury resorts with spas perfect for a honeymoon
- Quieter with less crowds
- Some of the better resort dining and entertainment on the island
- Near a golf course and luxury shopping center
Cons
- Far away from other areas of the island and things to do
- While less crowded, still feels touristy
- Expensive
Best places to stay in Wailea
Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort
link to book | get directions | cost: ~$950-$1,200/night | bedrooms: 1 | bathrooms: 1 | best for: a luxury hotel with good food
The Andaz Maui is one of the most impressive hotels in Maui. I’ve been there a few times for their spa and onsite dining, as they’re one of the few hotels in the area that actually have good food. In fact, there are 5 eateries including a steakhouse owned by celebrity chef Morimoto. Besides dining, Andaz Maui is known for having one of the better luau shows on the island.
You can dine or enjoy the luau right in the gorgeous pool area and catch magnificent sunsets. Or wait until daylight so you can really appreciate the infinity pools, hot tubs, and cabanas. If it’s a rainy day or you need some me time, there’s a state-of-the-art fitness center and spa.
Polo Beach Club
link to book | get directions | cost: ~$875-$1,200/night | bedrooms: 2 | bathrooms: 2 | best for: a quieter beachfront condo
Polo Beach Club is a hidden gem of a beachfront property in Wailea. First, it sits right on Polo Beach, a fantastic public beach that rarely gets too crowded. All of the units are 2 bedroom condos, so it’s perfect for families, friend groups, or couples traveling together.
The amenities are more condo-like than resort like, but that’s the best way to get beachfront access for less money. You’ll still find a pool, hot tub, barbecues, and lounge chairs, which is really all you need to enjoy a lovely Maui vacation.
You can book directly with the resort, but I always recommended booking through VRBO so you can find a unit updated to your liking.
Grand Champions
link to book | get directions | cost: ~$560/night | bedrooms: 2 | bathrooms: 2 | best for: a quieter condo stay that’s more affordable
If you want to stay in the swank area of Wailea but don’t want to pay the hefty resort prices, this condo is for you. It’s located inside Grand Champions, a Hyatt property. You’ll find a quaint pool, hot tub, and barbecue area similar to what you’d find in a condo complex back home.
This isn’t a beachfront property, but it’s a short walk to the beach. The condo owner has tastefully updated the property and provides everything you’ll need for a relaxing day at the beach.
Paia
Let’s move to the North Shore of Maui. Paia is a small town with a hippy-surfer vibe. In fact, this is where many surfing competitions are held in the winter. A popular activity is parking at one of the beaches skirting the downtown area to watch them catch a wave. Note that these beaches aren’t typically conducive for snorkeling given the rougher waters (particularly in winter).
There’s also a quaint downtown area with great shopping. While it’s overrun with tourists and crowded, most of the businesses offer handmade souvenirs right from Maui. For reference, I think there are more junky tchotchke shops in Lahaina than there are in Paia. That’s why I make a trek to Paia every year to do some shopping.
One of the main reasons Paia is so crowded is that it’s one of the two entrances to the Road to Hana. The traffic gets majorly backed up, making driving and parking in Paia a huge pain.
Still, many people like the more laid back, aloha nature of Paia and nearby towns like Haiku. So if that’s the vibe you’d prefer over the big fancy resorts, Paia could be your perfect place to stay in Maui. Especially since Paia is so close to Hana and the Upcountry, an equally laid back area of the island.
If you have a go-go-go personality, there isn’t a ton to do in Paia besides shopping and beaching. Additionally, while there are good locally-owned places to eat in the area, most of the best eats are in other parts of Maui. These factors may mean you’ll spend a lot of time driving to other areas of the island.
Pros
- Laid back surfer town vibe
- Great shopping
- Close access to the Road to Hana, Upcountry, and airport
- Perfect location for surfing and nature
Cons
- Not as much to do in the area
- Most of the great food is elsewhere
- Lacks fancy resorts with amenities
Best places to stay in Paia
Paia Inn
link to book | get directions | cost: ~$600-$1,000/night | bedrooms: 1-3 | bathrooms: 1-2 | best for: hipsters who love aesthetics and vibes
Paia Inn is a hip boutique hotel located right in downtown Paia. That means you’re in the middle of all the action, surrounded by shops, restaurants, and cool bars. That makes this spot where to stay in Maui if you’re young or young at heart.
Each beachside suite has its own unique decor. The inn itself has a few different amenities in the building, including a store, spa, outdoor taco hut, and cool indoor-outdoor restaurant called Vana. All guests also get free guest pass to nearby Fuzion Fit gym.
Note, if you have a big group, they also have a 3 bedroom, 2 bathroom guesthouse that runs about $2,500/night.
Kuau Kaiholo Beach House
link to book | get directions | cost: ~$650/night | bedrooms: 3 | bathrooms: 2 | best for: large groups
Kuau Kaiholo Beach House is right behind the famous Mama’s Fish House restaurant. While I think this restaurant is overpriced and not worth the hype, being near it has its advantages considering the gorgeous beach it sits on. You’ll get complimentary snorkel equipment with your stay so you can check out the tide pools on this quiet beach.
The home itself is well stocked with a gourmet kitchen, covered lanai, and plenty of space to spread out. The decor is homey and has a warm feeling thanks to the stunning paneling on the ceiling.
Kuau Plaza condo
link to book | get directions | cost: ~$360/night | bedrooms: 2 | bathrooms: 2 | best for: affordability
Kuau Plaza is a condo complex right on the busy Hana Highway. However, the beach near Mama’s Fish House only a short 1-minute walk away.
The property doesn’t have a pool like other condo resorts in Maui, but the unit is bright and airy with everything you need. Wifi, TV, a private balcony lanai, and a full gourmet kitchen are yours to use during your stay.
Upcountry
If beaching isn’t important to you and you want to truly see how locals live, consider staying in the Upcountry. This isn’t the name of a town, but rather how locals refer to the collections of towns that dot the area climbing in elevation toward Haleakalā National Park. Kula, Makawao, and Pukalani are the towns you’d search to find vacation rentals.
The Upcountry is where most of Maui’s farming occurs. Foodies will love the farmers market, farm stands, and farm tours. There are a bunch of great places to eat, many Maui owned and using ingredients found right on the island. Everything is laid back and casual. Think food trucks, mom-and-pop restaurants, and convenience stores doling out seriously good grub.
Makawao is similar to Paia in vibe, but smaller with more locally-owned shops. This makes it my favorite shopping area on the island. In fact, since it’s only about 15 minutes away from Paia, I usually visit both spots in the same day.
Accommodations wise you won’t find any resorts here. This makes it less attractive to people wanting hotel amenities because you’ll only find farm stays and vacation rentals. However, since it’s away from the beaches, it tends to be more affordable.
However, you really need to want to explore the Upcountry and Haleakalā to make staying here worth it. It’s ~45 minutes to Kihei and over an hour to Lahaina and the rest of west Maui. Beaches are about 20 minutes away in Paia, but parking is limited at most of them.
Pros
- Less touristy and full of locally-owned businesses
- Best access to Haleakalā and hiking trails
- Plenty of farms to visit
- Good shopping in Makawao
- More affordable
Cons
- Far away from other areas in Maui
- At least ~20 minutes from a beach
- No hotels with resort amenities
Best places to stay in Upcountry
North sHore Lookout
link to book | get directions | cost: ~$225-$475/night | bedrooms: 1 | bathrooms: 1 | best for: chic bed & breakfast near downtown Makawao
North Shore Lookout is a modern bed and breakfast a short drive from Makawao and its quaint shops. Makawao is a great place to stay in the Upcountry because it’s on the edge and only a 15-20 minute drive to Paia and the coast.
You’ll get breakfast daily with fresh fruit grown right on the farm. Each room has its own private ensuite bathroom and plenty of space to spread out. You may never stay in your room though given the expansive and beautifully-manicured 9-acre property. Lounge by the pool with a book and take in the views of the ocean in the distance for the utmost relaxation.
The Duke’s Cottage is my favorite room, with more modern decor, an adorable hanging chair in the room, and a private lanai. However, if it’s not available you can also book the Pele Suite or Makani Suite that are a bit cheaper.
Luxury Upcountry Villa
link to book | get directions (exact location shared after booking) | cost: ~$745/night | bedrooms: 3 | bathrooms: 2 | best for: a quiet retreat in the forest
The Luxury Upcountry Villa is absolutely breathtaking. It’s a family home shared with the owner and one other unit, but everyone is separate so it feels like your own oasis. Since the pool and hot tub are reservable, chances are you won’t ever see anyone else.
There’s a sauna, TV, fireplace, laundry facility, and plenty of space for your group to spread out. If you feel like exploring, it’s a short drive from Makawao and nearby farms or trails. All in all, it’s the perfect peaceful retreat for an escape into nature.
Hana
I almost didn’t put Hana on this list of where to stay in Maui because it is remote. However, given many people at least drive through it to do the Road to Hana, I figured I’d add some details in case you’re thinking about booking a stay in this area.
Overall, I highly recommend you do not stay in Hana unless you’re looking for an off-the-grid escape or are only plan to stay a few days to explore the area. WiFi and cell service across all carriers is basically non-existent. Because the road is so harrowing, it takes forever to drive anywhere. And since there are very limited amenities like gas, food stores, and stores, so you need to plan ahead.
There’s no denying that the Hana area is beautiful, though. Nature lovers will enjoy the quicker access to some of the most breathtaking viewpoints, hikes, and waterfalls on the island. The whole area feels like one big hidden gem because there’s always something new to discover. You especially sense this in the entrepreneurial spirit of the locals setting up farm stands and interesting opportunities to make money off tourists.
You’ll also find a surprising amount of places to eat given how remote the area is. While most of the restaurants are concentrated in Hana, there are some really great places run by locals. However, the aloha spirit runs deep here so hours are inconsistent and the use of social media or updating a website is rare.
What I find most interesting about Hana is that it’s remote and would be great for a more relaxed getaway. However, you still see a lot of people given the Road to Hana is one of Maui’s top tourist destinations. And since many tourists aren’t prepared to drive on such a winding and treacherous road, there’s often traffic back up (particularly the closer you get to Paia).
Lastly, east Maui is known for having unpredictable weather. It may be hot and humid or it could be cold and rainy. Possibly in the same day. Plus, most of the beaches are more for hiking than they are for lounging or swimming given the rougher waters. So this area caters more to the outdoor enthusiasts versus the beach bums.
Pros
- Access to beautiful hikes, viewpoints, and waterfalls
- Remote for those who want to escape
- A surprising amount of locally-run farm stands and food trucks/tents
Cons
- Lack of basic amenities like gas, food stores, etc.
- Terrible cell service and wifi
- Far away from the rest of the island
- Unpredictable weather
- Few lounge beaches or fancy resorts
- While remote, still feels overcrowded at times (particularly with traffic)
- Harrowing road not everyone is comfortable driving on
Best places to stay in Hana
Hana-Maui Resort
link to book | get directions | cost: ~$700-$1,500/night | bedrooms: 1 | bathrooms: 1 | best for: the only resort option on the Road to Hana
Hana-Maui Resort is the only 4-star hotel along the Road to Hana, so it’s the perfect spot to stay if you want a luxurious and remote escape. It’s also one of the few pet-friendly resorts on the island, which is surprising given its lush honeymoon vibes.
Like other Hyatt-owned resorts you can expect amenities like pools, hot tubs, a fitness center, spa, on-site restaurants, yoga center, library, cultural activities, concierge, tropical pathways, and wifi. There is also free parking, something you don’t often get at other resorts.
Given the remoteness of the area, a pro of this resort is that it’s actually near the town of Hana where there’s a concentration of restaurants (think food trucks, so casual). This makes it the perfect home base for after a day of exploring.
Plantation House
link to book | get directions (exact location provided after booking) | cost: ~$400/night | bedrooms: 1 | bathrooms: 1 | best for: a historic stay surrounded by lush foliage
This charming bungalow sits on 2 acres of pastoral land overlooking seaside cliffs. It’s surrounded by lush gardens perfect for relaxing after a day exploring the hikes, waterfalls, and viewpoints on the Road to Hana.
This 1900 home was actually once used by house managers during the sugar cane plantation days. It was restored to provide modern conveniences but still keep its historic spirit. You’ll find Brazilian mahogany floors, a claw foot soaker tub, and Koa wood bar and counter trim accents.
Hamoa Bay Bungalow
link to book | get directions | cost: ~$310/night | bedrooms: 1 | bathrooms: 1 | best for: couples
Hamoa Bay Bungalow is perfect for couples looking to escape from the stresses of the everyday world. You’ll be surrounded by lush landscape that you can enjoy from the screened lanai with plenty of lounge chairs and hammocks. Or take it all in while bathing in the outdoor lava stone shower.
The property doesn’t rent to anyone under 14 years old and mentioned that geckos and insects may get inside given the location, but it’s a small price to pay for the utmost luxury. Balinese-inspired architecture makes you feel like you’re on a tropical Southeast Asian island.
Lahaina
Lahaina experienced catastrophic fires August 9, 2023. It’s still rebuilding, so stay in another area during your trip to Maui. Please consider donating to help locals recover from devastating loss.
I used to always stay in Lahaina before the fires, so let’s start there. It’s in the southernmost part of west Maui. You can get to Kihei in ~35 minutes, the airport in ~40 minutes, and Paia in ~45 minutes.
I like staying in Lahaina for a few reasons. First, west Maui has the best sunsets, snorkeling, and whale watching. The calmer waters make it ideal for kids and not-so-strong swimmers like myself. I also find that the weather tends to stay sunny year round compared to other rainier areas.
While the best snorkeling beaches are in Kā’anapali to Kapalua a bit north, you still have great access to them from Lahaina. Plus staying in Lahaina means it’s easier to get to other parts of the island.
Editor’s note: Lahaina’s historic downtown didn’t survive the fires. I hope what I wrote below becomes true again after they rebuild.
Besides its prime location, I like staying in Lahaina because it has a walkable downtown area full of shops, restaurants, and bars. While it’s a bit touristy, there are still a bunch of shops selling locally-made souvenirs and excellent places to eat. Plus most of the businesses stay open late so it’s a fun vibe after a beach day.
You’ll notice that Lahaina is a port town with charming old buildings. The area was settled by missionaries in the 1830s who were attracted to its prime location on whaling routes. Historic buildings like the Baldwin House are still standing in downtown Lahaina, so history buffs will feel at home in this area.
Lahaina is also a great destination for foodies. As you get more familiar with the island, you’ll notice that many popular restaurants and breweries have two locations: one in Lahaina and one in Kihei in south Maui (more on this area later). In addition, Lahaina has a few working farms you can visit without having to drive to the Upcountry (more on this area later, too).
Lastly, let’s talk beaches. Other areas of the island have more impressive beaches, if I’m being honest. However, Lahaina still provides pretty views and smaller sandy shores, so it’s a prime spot for finding more affordable beachfront accommodations.
While inventory is lower than other areas of the island, the places you’ll find are less overrun by tourists. This also means less hotel amenities, but it’s perfect if you want to avoid crowds.
Pros
- Access to west Maui’s best snorkeling and whale watching
- Calmer waters
- Great restaurants and farm visits
- Historic downtown with shopping
- Affordable beachfront properties
- Less crowded accommodations
- Best west Maui location for getting to the rest of the island
Cons
- Slightly less impressive beaches
- Hotels have less amenities
- Far away from Road to Hana, Paia, and Upcountry
- Downtown area isa bit touristy
What about the Kahului area?
You’ll fly in and out of the Kahului Airport and notice a lot of hotels in the area or nearby Wailuku. While these towns have some of my favorite locally-owned restaurants on the island, this isn’t an area I’d typically recommend staying unless you need quick access to the airport for an early morning flight.
It’s perfect for easy access to most of the island, but this is where locals live and work. There aren’t many public beaches, shopping, or attractions, so most people don’t stay here. And I say give the locals some breathing room from all the tourists.
So, where is the best area to stay in Maui?
Hopefully you found this guide on where to stay in Maui helpful in determining your home base for your trip. If you ask me, my favorite place to stay in Maui is Kihei because of it’s proximity to other areas, restaurants, and affordability.
However, each area is “best” for different people depending on what they’re looking for. So here’s a breakdown of the best places to stay based on different peoples’ priorities.
| Best for luxury resorts | Wailea (south), Kapalua (west) |
| Best snorkeling | Kapalua, Napili, Kā’anapali |
| Best lounging beaches | All except Upcountry & Hana |
| Best overall price | Upcountry, Paia, Hana |
| Most affordable beach resorts | Lahaina, Kihei, Napili, Kapalua |
| Best restaurants | Kihei, Lahaina |
| Best for exploring the island | Kihei, Lahaina |
| Best for hiking/outdoors | Hana, Upcountry |
| Best for a remote escape | Hana, Upcountry |
| Least touristy | Upcountry, Kahului/Wailuku |
| Best for golf | Kapalua, Napili, Wailea |
| Best for surfing | Paia |
| Best for access to airport | Kahului/Wailuku, Paia |
Things to do in Maui
After you determine where to stay in Maui, start filling in your itinerary with these resources:
- Where the Locals Eat in Maui
- Easy Hikes in Maui with Stunning Views
- Best Snorkeling Spots in Maui
- Ultimate 5-Day Maui Itinerary
- Souvenirs from Maui You Must Bring Home
- My Favorite Shopping Spots in Maui
- The Ultimate Road to Hana Itinerary
- Kauai Itinerary: The Perfect Trip Add-On When Visiting Maui
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