[2023 GUIDE ] Best Places to Stay in Maui | Popular Areas

The best places to stay in Maui are near beautiful beaches, lush forests, and stunning views of the Pacific Ocean. When planning a trip to Maui, it can be helpful to consider the island’s different areas and what each has to offer. From the bustling resorts of Kaanapali to the secluded beaches of Hana, Maui is home to various neighborhoods and attractions.

In this blog post, we will explore the different areas of Maui and highlight some of the top things to see and do in each one. Whether you’re looking for adventure, relaxation, or a mix of both, there is something for everyone on this beautiful Hawaiian island.

Understanding the Different Areas of Maui

Maui is the second-largest of the Hawaiian Islands and is known for its diverse landscape and range of activities. When planning a trip to Maui, knowing a little about the island’s different areas and what each has to offer can be helpful.

1. West Maui: This area includes the towns of Lahaina and Kaanapali and is known for its beautiful beaches, luxury resorts, and world-class golf courses. The town of Lahaina is a historic whaling village with a lively waterfront and a range of shopping and dining options.
2. South Shore: The south shore of Maui includes the towns of Kihei and Wailea and is known for its beautiful beaches and luxury resorts, as well as its close proximity to some of the island’s top attractions.
3. Central Maui: The central region of Maui is home to the island’s largest city, Kahului, and the towns of Wailuku and Makawao. This area is known for its cultural and historical sites, such as the Bailey House Museum and the Maui Arts and Cultural Center. It is also home to the island’s highest peak, Haleakala.
4. East Maui: The eastern region of Maui is a more rural and secluded area known for its lush rainforests and beautiful beaches. The town of Hana, located on the island’s eastern coast, is a popular spot for hikers and nature lovers. The Road to Hana, a winding scenic drive through the island’s rainforests, is a must-do activity for many visitors to Maui.

1. West Maui

One of the most popular areas of Maui is the resort region of West Maui, which includes the towns of Lahaina and Kaanapali. This area is known for its beautiful beaches, luxury resorts, and world-class golf courses. The town of Lahaina is a historic whaling village with a lively waterfront and a range of shopping and dining options. Kaanapali Beach, located just north of Lahaina, is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Things to Do in West Maui

1. Kaanapali Beach

   A beautiful stretch of white sand beach popular for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports. In addition to its natural beauty, Kaanapali Beach is also home to a number of activities and events. The beach hosts a weekly sunset torch lighting and hula show, as well as a weekly farmers market featuring local produce and crafts.

2. Whalers Village

   A shopping and dining destination in the town of Lahaina that features a range of stores, restaurants, and cultural activities. The village is home to a number of luxury stores and boutiques, offering a range of high-end shopping options. From designer clothing and accessories to fine jewelry and home decor, there is something for every taste and budget. In addition to its shopping and dining options, Whalers Village is also home to a number of art galleries and studios showcasing the work of local artists. The village is a great place to find unique and one-of-a-kind souvenirs to take home.

3. Lahaina Harbor

   A historic whaling village with a lively waterfront and a range of shopping and dining options. In addition to its lively waterfront and shopping and dining options, Lahaina Harbor is also home to a number of cultural and historical sites. The Lahaina Heritage Museum, located in the harbor area, tells the story of the island’s history and culture and features exhibits on the island’s whaling industry and plantation era.

4. Kapalua Golf Club

   The course has hosted several professional tournaments, including the Hyundai Tournament of Champions and the SBS Tournament of Champions. It is considered one of the top golf courses in the world. It is known for its challenging course and stunning natural surroundings. The course is located in the Kapalua Resort area, nestled in the West Maui Mountains and overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

5. Lahaina Banyan Court

   The banyan tree is popular for picnics and people-watching. Visitors can sit under the tree’s shade or walk along the paths that wind through its branches. The Lahaina Banyan Court is also home to a number of historical markers and monuments, including a plaque commemorating the first Christian mission in Hawaii and a statue of King Kamehameha I, who united the Hawaiian Islands.

6. The Plantation Course at Kapalua

   The Plantation Course has hosted several professional tournaments, including the Hyundai Tournament of Champions and the SBS Tournament of Champions. It is considered one of the top golf courses in the world. The course is in the West Maui Mountains, offering stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the neighboring islands. The course’s hilly terrain and various elevation changes make it a challenging and memorable round of golf.

7. Black Rock

   This popular attraction in Maui is a rocky outcropping located at the north end of Kaanapali Beach in West Maui. The rock is a popular spot for snorkeling and diving, and is famous for its clear waters and abundant marine life. The waters around Black Rock are home to various marine life, including colorful fish, sea turtles, and dolphins. Snorkelers and divers can often see these creatures up close while exploring the area.

8. Lahaina Jodo Mission

   The Lahaina Jodo Mission is home to a number of beautiful gardens and peaceful walkways, making it a great place to relax and escape the hustle and bustle of the island. The temple is famous for its beautiful architecture and is a popular spot for photography. Visitors can take pictures of the temple’s colorful gates, lanterns, and other decorative elements.

Popular Hotels and Resorts in West Maui

1. The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua: This luxury resort is located in the Kapalua Resort area and offers stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the West Maui Mountains. The resort features a spa, several restaurants, and a range of recreational activities, including golf, tennis, and swimming.
2. The Westin Maui Resort & Spa: This beachfront resort is located on Kaanapali Beach and offers a range of amenities, including a spa, a fitness center, and several restaurants and bars. The resort is also home to a lagoon-style pool and a water slide.
3. Honua Kai Resort & Spa: This beachfront resort is located on Kaanapali Beach and features luxurious one, two, and three-bedroom suites. The resort has a spa, a fitness center, many dining options, and access to a private beach.
4. Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa: This beachfront resort is located on Kaanapali Beach and offers a range of amenities, including a spa, a fitness center, and several restaurants and bars. The resort is also home to several pools, including a lazy river and a water slide.
5. The Kaanapali Beach Hotel: This beachfront hotel is located in Kaanapali Beach and offers a range of amenities, including a pool, a fitness center, and several dining options. The hotel is famous for its Hawaiian culture and traditions and offers daily cultural activities for guests.

2. South Shore

Another popular area of Maui is the island’s south shore, which includes the towns of Kihei and Wailea. This area is popular for its beautiful beaches, luxury resorts, and close proximity to some of Maui’s top attractions, such as the Maui Ocean Center and the Wailea Golf Club.

Things to Do in South Shore

1. Wailea Beach: Wailea Beach is a beautiful stretch of white sand beach located in the town of Wailea. The beach is famous for its crystal clear waters and perfect conditions for swimming and sunbathing. It is also famous for water sports, such as snorkeling and stand-up paddleboarding.
2. The Shops at Wailea: The Shops at Wailea is a shopping and dining destination located in the town of Wailea. The center features a range of stores, restaurants, cafes, and a weekly farmers market featuring local produce and crafts.
3. Wailea Golf Club: The Wailea Golf Club is a world-class golf course in Wailea. The course has three 18-hole courses: the Gold, the Emerald, and the Blue. The courses are popular for their challenging layouts and stunning natural surroundings.
4. Kihei Beach: Kihei Beach is a beautiful stretch of white sand beach located in the town of Kihei. The beach is famous for its calm waters and is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing. It is also popular for water sports, such as snorkeling and stand-up paddleboarding.
5. Kihei Town: Kihei Town is the main commercial area of the town of Kihei and is famous for its shopping and dining options. The town is home to a number of restaurants and cafes, as well as a weekly farmers market featuring local produce and crafts.

Popular Hotels and Resorts in South Shore

1. The Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea: This luxury resort is located in Wailea and offers a range of amenities, including a spa, a fitness center, and several restaurants and bars. The resort is also home to a number of pools, including an adults-only pool and a water slide.
2. The Grand Wailea: This luxury resort is located in Wailea and offers a range of amenities, including a spa, a fitness center, and several restaurants and bars. The resort is also home to a number of pools, including a water slide and a lazy river.
3. The Fairmont Kea Lani: This luxury resort is located in Wailea and offers a range of amenities, including a spa, a fitness center, and several restaurants and bars. The resort is also home to a number of pools, including an adults-only pool and a water slide.
4. The Wailea Beach Marriott: This beachfront resort is located in Wailea and offers a range of amenities, including a spa, a fitness center, and several restaurants and bars. The resort is also home to a number of pools, including a water slide and a lazy river.
5. The Mana Kai Maui: This beachfront resort is located in Kihei and offers a range of amenities, including a pool, a fitness center, and a number of dining options. The resort is famous for its laid-back atmosphere and is a popular spot for travelers who want to relax and unwind.

3. The Central Region

The central region of Maui is home to the island’s largest city, Kahului, and the towns of Wailuku and Makawao. This area is popular for its cultural and historical sites, such as the Bailey House Museum and the Maui Arts and Cultural Center. The central region is also home to the island’s highest peak, Haleakala, which offers stunning views of the island from its summit.

Things to Do in Central Region

1. Iao Valley State Park: Iao Valley State Park is a beautiful natural area in Wailuku’s town. The park is famous for its lush tropical vegetation and features a number of hiking trails that lead to scenic overlooks and waterfalls. The park is also home to the Iao Needle, a tall, narrow rock spire that is a popular spot for photography.
2. Wailuku Town: Wailuku Town is the main commercial area of the town of Wailuku and is popular for its shopping and dining options. The town is home to a number of restaurants and cafes, as well as a weekly farmers market featuring local produce and crafts.
3. The Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum: The Alexander & Baldwin Sugar Museum is located in the town of Puunene and tells the story of Hawaii’s sugar industry. The museum features exhibits on the history and technology of sugar production in Hawaii and is a great place to learn about the island’s history and culture.
4. Maui Arts & Cultural Center: The Maui Arts & Cultural Center is a performing arts center located in the town of Kahului. The center hosts various concerts, performances, and events throughout the year, including music, dance, and theater. The center is also home to a number of galleries and studios showcasing the work of local artists.
5. Haleakala National Park: Haleakala National Park is a national park located on the island of Maui. The park is home to the Haleakala volcano, the highest peak on the island. The park offers a number of hiking trails and scenic overlooks, as well as opportunities for picnicking and camping. The park is also home to a number of endangered plant and animal species and is an excellent place for nature lovers.

Popular Hotels and Resorts in Central Region

1. The Grand Wailea: This luxury resort is located in Wailea and offers a range of amenities, including a spa, a fitness center, and several restaurants and bars. The resort is also home to a number of pools, including a water slide and a lazy river.
2. The Fairmont Kea Lani: This luxury resort is located in Wailea and offers a range of amenities, including a spa, a fitness center, and several restaurants and bars. The resort is also home to a number of pools, including an adults-only pool and a water slide.
3. The Wailea Beach Marriott: This beachfront resort is located in Wailea and offers a range of amenities, including a spa, a fitness center, and several restaurants and bars. The resort is also home to a number of pools, including a water slide and a lazy river.
4. The Mana Kai Maui: This beachfront resort is located in Kihei and offers a range of amenities, including a pool, a fitness center, and a number of dining options. The resort is known for its laid-back atmosphere and is a popular spot for travelers who want to relax and unwind.
5. The Westin Maui Resort & Spa: This beachfront resort is located in Kaanapali

4. The Eastern Region

The eastern region of Maui is a more rural and secluded area known for its lush rainforests and beautiful beaches. The town of Hana, located on the island’s eastern coast, is a popular spot for hikers and nature lovers. The Road to Hana, a winding scenic drive through the island’s rainforests, is a must-do activity for many visitors to Maui.

Things to Do in Eastern Region

1. Hana Highway: The Hana Highway is a winding, scenic road that stretches from Kahului to the town of Hana. The highway is known for its beautiful views and is a famous drive for tourists. Along the way, there are a number of attractions and activities to enjoy, including waterfalls, scenic overlooks, and hiking trails.
2. Hana Town: Hana Town is a small, laid-back town located on the island’s eastern side. The town is known for its natural beauty and is a popular spot for travelers who want to escape the hustle and bustle of the island. Hana Town is home to a number of small stores and restaurants, as well as a weekly farmers market featuring local produce and crafts.
3. Kahanu Garden: Kahanu Garden is a botanical garden in Hana’s town. The garden is home to a number of plant species, including tropical fruit trees, flowering plants, and ferns. The garden is also home to the Pi’ilanihale Heiau, an ancient Hawaiian temple.
4. Hamoa Beach: Hamoa Beach is a beautiful stretch of white sand beach located in the town of Hana. The beach is known for its clear waters and is a popular spot for swimming and sunbathing. It is also a popular spot for surfing, with good waves breaking on the reef.
5. Pa’ia Town: Pa’ia Town is a small town located on the island’s north shore. The town is known for its laid-back atmosphere and is a popular spot for travelers who want to relax and unwind. Pa’ia Town is home to a number of small stores and restaurants, as well as a weekly farmers market featuring local produce and crafts.

Popular Hotels and Resorts in Eastern Region

1. Travaasa Hana: Travaasa Hana is a luxury hotel in the town of Hana. The hotel is known for its laid-back atmosphere and offers a range of amenities, including a spa, a fitness center, and a number of dining options. The hotel is also home to a number of activities and experiences, such as guided hikes and cultural workshops.
2. Hotel Hana-Maui: Hotel Hana-Maui is a luxury hotel located in the town of Hana. The hotel is known for its laid-back atmosphere and offers a range of amenities, including a spa, a fitness center, and a number of dining options. The hotel is also home to a number of activities and experiences, such as guided hikes and cultural workshops.
3. The Wailea Beach Marriott: This beachfront resort is located in Wailea and offers a range of amenities, including a spa, a fitness center, and several restaurants and bars. The resort is also home to a number of pools, including a water slide and a lazy river.

Best Places to Stay in Maui Recap

Maui is a beautiful island with a wide range of attractions and accommodations to suit every traveler’s needs. From luxury resorts in Wailea to laid-back hotels in Hana, there are a number of great places to stay on the island. Whether you want to relax on a white sand beach, explore the island’s natural beauty, or participate in outdoor activities, Maui has something for everyone. No matter what area you choose to stay in, you’re sure to have a memorable and enjoyable vacation on the island of Maui.