Planning on visiting the islands but not sure where to stay in Maui? Fret not, here is the 411 of the island!
Maui island is the second biggest Hawaiian island and is divided into five main areas: Central Maui, East Maui, South Maui, West Maui, and Upcountry Maui. Each area offers a variety of attractions for everyone to enjoy.
Each area has something unique to offer its visitors and I have to say all are pretty incredible. My personal favorite is South Maui, but I love the beauty of East Maui and their amazing boutique hotels. All in all the problem of deciding where to stay in Maui is a great problem to have.
The Ultimate Guide – Where to Stay in Maui [+ Pro Tips]
Where to stay in Central Maui:
Most people that are visiting the island will find themselves starting out here, arriving at the Kahului Airport. This area is where most of the population of Maui resides, and offers lots of different interesting attractions to discover.
The most popular thing to see is the Iao Valley State Park. Here you can do several hikes, including Maui’s iconic Iao Needle landmark, which is a super beautiful hike and incredibly easy. You can also visit the town of Wailuku and explore their local shops, restaurants, and historic sites!
If you’re planning on staying in Central Maui check out these hotels:
- The Old Wailuku Inn:
A well kept old-fashioned bed and breakfast! They are perfectly located with an easy drive to south-west beaches, and the Haleakala National Park is just an hour drive away! They are known for their delicious, not to be missed, homemade breakfast featuring fresh and locally grown ingredients. – Check Prices Here! - Iao Valley Inn: A locally owned bed and breakfast only two minutes away from the Iao Valley State Park! It offers guests breathtaking views of Hana without having to leave the inn! You’ll feel like you have the whole island to yourself. – Check Prices Here
*Pro Tip – If you are looking to stock up on supplies for your trip (food, beach items, sunscreen, etc…) this is where the Costco, Target & Walmart are located. We always stop off at Target as the first stop on our trip to Maui, it is not the most glamorous
Where to Stay in East Maui:
This side of the island is the depiction of what people imagine Maui to look like. There are plenty waterfall pools hiding in rain forests, pineapple stands, and beautiful sea cliffs. It also is home to the famous Road to Hana – a must-see for all travelers! We just took the road to Hana with our kids and it was one of our most favorite days on the island. It takes you through waterfalls, thick jungle canopies, bridges, and panoramic views of Maui’s coast! Another popular sight to see is the Pools of Oheo.
If you’re planning on staying in East Maui check out these hotels:
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Travaasa Hana Maui
One of the most remarkable resorts in Hawaii! It is located on the very eastern tip of the island so you will be one of the first to see the sun rising overhead. It is surrounded by green grass, palm trees, and beaches! They offer stand up paddling, coconut husking, throw net fishing, outdoor yoga, and meditation. They have something for everyone, the adventurer, fitness junkie, and those looking to immerse themselves in the Hawaiian culture. Check Prices Here
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Hana Ocean Palms
This resort is the perfect holiday home for those vacationing in Maui. It is located 5.5 miles away from the Wai’anapanapa State Park! Guests can enjoy a private garden at the resort where they can enjoy a peaceful afternoon picnic or an early morning yoga session!
South Maui:
On this side, you’ll find the sunniest, driest area on the island! This is probably one of the more popular places for people when they are looking where to stay in Maui.
There are miles of beautiful beaches to enjoy on lazy days and even some romantic nights. Some popular attractions include their immersive underwater aquarium at the Maui Ocean Center in Maalaea and enjoy golfing at world-class courses in Wailea. While you’re here stop by the Makena Beach State Park and visit one of the islands best beaches.
Pro Tip – Also, on this side of the island is the secret little Turtle Town where you can literally see turtles in knee deep water. Check out my article on the Secret Turtle Town Here
Resorts in the area:
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Grand Wailea – A Waldorf Astoria Resort. (You can check out my full review of Grand Wailea Here)
This is the one place we stay year after year. And if you have kids, this should definitely be on your radar. You’ll have vacation experience like never before. 7 Inter-connecting waterslides lead you down Grand Wailea’s Magnificent Pool. The pool also has their very own water elevator (the only one of its kind). This beachfront hotel offers 40 acres of beautiful tropical Hawaiian gardens, and a plethora of activities to indulge in! It is the destination for a Hawaiian getaway. They offer personal concierge services to help plan, execute, and personalize any special occasion. As a part of your stay, you’ll receive a tropical flower lei greeting upon arrival, a 45-minute photography session, yoga classes, admission to SCUBA clinics twice a day, use of beach cruiser bikes, and beach umbrellas to use on Wailea Beach. They even offer free breakfast at Grand Dining Room and free dinner at Humuhumunukunukuapua’a for kids ages five and younger with a paying adult! It also is surrounded by plenty of restaurants and even a shopping center. If you have the money and have kids, this is the place to stay. Click Here to Check Prices!
View from our Room – Grand Wailea
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Maui Coast Hotel –
This hotel is a great place if you don’t want to break the bank but looking for something simple with beautiful views. Enjoy your stay in Maui at this wonderful hotel! The Maui Coast hotel was recently updated and it looks great. This is It truly has something for everyone to enjoy, from bicycles, a fitness center, swimming pools, two hot tubs and a shuttle service around Kihei and Wailea, and so much more! You can even join their daily activities seminar that will give you a run down of what there is to see and do on the island! Check Prices Here!
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Fairmont Kea Lani–
This resort has stunning ocean views, nice and spacious rooms, and is right on the beach. Also located in Wailea, the Fairmont Kea Lani has some of the most incredible services you will ever find. Here is my take on the Fairmont Kea Lani, if you have the budget, go for it. It is simply incredible, from the food to the service to the grounds, the hotel is simply breathtaking. Check Prices Here!
Photo Courtesy of Fairmont.com
West Maui:
Another incredibly popular place to look at when you are looking where to stay in Maui is West Maui. West Maui was once a retreat for Hawaiian royalty and home of the Hawaiian Kingdom. It has many top of the line resorts, shopping, restaurants, and the most beautiful sunsets on the island. While you’re staying here some worthwhile places to visit are shopping in Lahaina, the golf courses of Kapalua, the beauty of Honolua Bay, and the beaches of Kaanapali (a great place to do parasailing and also banana boats)
Hotels in this area:
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Westin Ka’anapali Ocean Resort Villas –
The Westin villas are great for large families as they have large rooms, often with a separate living area. This resort is a 3-minute walk from the beach! It offers free shuttle service for its guests and an onsite gift shop! You can play tennis, take a hike, hit the gym, or relax at the hotel’s pool! Check Prices Here!
- Lahaina Shores Beach Resort –
The only vacation condo rentals in Lahaina Maui that are located directly on the beach. It offers its guest the luxury of staying in a condo while still getting the amenities one would get at a hotel. They are also located near many different activities for vacationers to enjoy: golfing, shopping, winter whale watching, day spas, and so much more! Check Prices Here!
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Kapalua – The Ritz Carlton –
I have been fortunate enough to stay once at this incredible resort. The beauty of the grounds and area is hard to beat. The pools are peaceful and calming to the soul. I do advise that Ritz Carlton is very kid friendly, but I suggest going to another resort with the kiddos. If you are a golfer there isn’t a better place to stay as immaculate golf courses surround this magnificent hotel. Check Prices Here!
Photo Courtesy of Ritz Carlton
Upcountry Maui:
This is one of my favorite parts of Maui, and a great area if you are looking where to stay in Maui. Here you can enjoy golden beaches, rolling hills, and beautiful misty mountains. It surrounds Haleakala, the islands highest peak. Visitors can take farm tours, enjoy Maui-made wines, and visit a goat dairy. It is home to the paniolo, aka Hawaiian cowboys. Some must do’s on this side of the island are Paia, Haleakala National Park, and Kula.
Hotels in the area:
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Paia Inn
Voted the Most Romantic Hotel in Hawaii by Travel & Leisure, this boutique home-style hotel is located on the North side of Maui. It offers its guests beautiful, homey rooms! Paia Inn is great for those who are looking to stay somewhere with a less touristy feel and more of an at-home atmosphere. This inn offers amazingly unique rooms and private beach access. It is perfectly located right in the middle of Paia town, and guests can walk to all the restaurants in the area. This hotel is a lovely change from many of the resort-style accommodations in Maui, and gives its guest a chance to experience true Hawaii living.
* Pro Tip- Book this hotel far in advance as it books up very quick! – Check Prices Here!
Photo Courtesy of Paia Inn
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Nalu Kai Lodge –
This charming boutique-like hotel is located in the heart of Paia town. It is within steps to the beach and is known for its simple and comfortable rooms.
- Kuau Inn –This lovely bed and breakfast is the perfect home away from home for people to enjoy! It offers a delicious healthy breakfast for its guests. Some of its features include a full kitchen for its visitors to utilize. It is located just five miles from the Kahului Airport and is minutes away from the world-renowned Hookipa Beach, and at the start of the historic road to Hana.
Don’t Know what to Pack for Maui? – Check out My Ultimate Packing Guide to Maui
Looking for Where to Eat in Maui? – Check out Mommy Point’s Great Article on Dining in Maui
Pin for Later – Where to stay in Maui
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