Let’s face it, Maui is an island that’s on nearly everybody’s bucket listing. And for good cause. With lovely seashores, spectacular waterfalls, and epic hikes it’s truly exhausting to seek out an excuse to not go. After visiting the island a number of instances we discovered probably the most time-consuming and troublesome process is definitely discovering the perfect locations to remain in Maui and the place to base your self on the island.
Regardless that you’ll discover a vary of luxurious beachfront resorts and mid-range boutique inns together with trip leases full of helpful facilities dotted round Maui, it actually pays to plan prematurely. Not solely can or not it’s troublesome to get a rental automobile, however securing a resort might be simply as difficult.
Prime Locations To Keep In Maui
We put collectively this information that can assist you along with your trip planning in an effort to resolve what’s the finest place in Maui the place you wish to base your self to see the perfect of this wonderful island. You’ll have the prospect to decide on 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.
Earlier than we get began let’s get you conversant in the structure of the island. This may aid you see the place issues are positioned in addition to aid you resolve if you wish to be within the extra widespread areas of South Maui and West Maui or have a extra inland expertise within the Upcountry.
The place is the Finest Space to Keep in Maui?
Maui is a simple island to navigate. It’s damaged up into 6 predominant areas which we’ll spotlight and allow you to know the place we expect are the perfect locations to remain.
No matter which neighborhood you select to remain in Maui, there is no such thing as a scarcity of wonderful views. Though not a giant island, Maui is finest explored while you hire a automobile. It means that you can cowl extra of the island and offers you the liberty to benefit from the Maui tradition.
Every 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 because of the vary of resorts, whereas East Maui is extra distant, with few inns however is a relaxing getaway.
1. West Maui (Lahaina, Kaanapali, Napili, and Kapalua)
West Maui, dwelling to the historic city of Lahaina, a former whaling village and Hawaiian royal capital, boasts of a wealthy historic and cultural context. Right now, Entrance Road, Lahaina’s predominant thoroughfare, thrives with distinctive retailers, numerous eating places, and artwork galleries, and is a middle of vibrant nightlife. Additionally in West Maui, you can find Ka’anapali Seaside 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 isn’t just restricted to its beautiful seashores and splendid lodging. It additionally contains a dramatic panorama outlined by the West Maui Mountains, or Mauna Kahalawai, providing a ton of trails for climbing and alternatives for out of doors lovers to soak up every little thing Maui has to supply. Furthermore, the stretch of shoreline alongside Freeway 30 delivers gorgeous views of the ocean, neighboring islands, and even humpback whales in the course of the winter months.
The perfect locations to remain in West Maui cater to a variety of preferences. Luxurious seekers might be drawn to the upscale resorts of Kaanapali and Kapalua, full with full-service spas, championship golf programs, and beachfront eating. These on the lookout for a extra native expertise would possibly want a trip rental in Lahaina or a boutique resort, the place they will get pleasure from being near native points of interest, retailers, and eating places.
As for Napili, dwelling 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 company the prospect to snorkel or dive within the turquoise waters.
Simply north of Lahaina, you’ll discover the well-known Kaanapali Seaside. The expansive white sands stretch across the shoreline, providing loads of room to seek out your personal slice of heaven. Whenever you aren’t buying and selling the turquoise ocean for the gentle sand, head to the north finish, the place you’ll uncover Black Rock. On arrival, it’s possible you’ll spot individuals leaping off the cliff face into the deep water beneath. Be at liberty to affix or embark on some improbable snorkeling.
Really useful Accommodations in West Maui
2. South Maui (Kihei, Wailea, and Makena)
After West Maui, South Maui is the preferred vacation spot on the island. Simply 20 minutes from the airport, it’s simply accessible with the seaside, eating places, and retailers proper in your doorstep. Those who 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 comparison with different components of the island, making it a seaside lover’s haven. And let me inform you the seashores in South Maui are among the many most interesting in Hawaii. Wailea Seaside, as an example, is legendary for its golden sands, clear waters, and glorious swimming situations.
Makena Seaside, also called Massive Seaside, is likely one of the largest seashores in Maui and is widespread for picnicking, swimming, and generally big-wave browsing. However the perfect 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 inns. With a beautiful mixture of facilities like nice eating places and golf programs, Wailea Resorts cater to {couples}, honeymooners, and even households. Wailea can also be dwelling to the one adults-only resort on Maui like the luxurious resort 4 Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea. Get pleasure from a calming trip, some with waterfront infinity-edge swimming pools, personal seaside entry, and loads of upscale eating places inside strolling distance.
Such lovely seashores and luxurious resorts don’t come low cost. The main downside for South Maui is the value level, though it’s possible you’ll discover a budget-friendly trip rental in Kihei. Vacationers must also remember that lots of their chosen water adventures, resembling whale-watching boat excursions, will depart from Maalaea Harbor, a few 20-minute drive away.
Really useful Accommodations in South Maui
3. Maui’s North Shore (Paia and Haiku)
With the 2 hottest areas of Maui lined, let’s take a look at the island’s North Shore, which provides a larger perception into some of the spectacular Hawaiian islands. Nearer to the pure wonders of Maui, however slightly farther from a number of the higher swimming seashores, the North Shore is all about shutting off from the world and respiration within the serenity.
West Maui and South Maui are massive resort areas, with helpful facilities on website. But when your crew isn’t a giant fan of that sort of journey, then the North Shore can also be an ideal various.
Maui’s North Shore, encompassing Paia and Haiku, is a mecca for surfers and windsurfers from all over the world, particularly on the legendary Ho’okipa Seaside Park. The realm has a bohemian vibe with artwork galleries, boutique retailers, and natural cafes. Paia, sometimes called the “windsurfing capital of the world,” is a quaint city with a mix of Hawaiian and plantation-era influences.
Households can get pleasure from quite a few family-friendly inns and laid-back eating in Pa’ia with loads of hearty fare on supply. The primary exception to the rule is arguably the perfect restaurant on Maui, Mama’s Fish Home.
I discussed that the North Shore isn’t famend for its stress-free swimming seashores, however it’s dwelling to world-class waters for adventurous souls. All alongside the North Shore, you’ll discover some distinctive browsing experiences for those who know their means round some gnarly breaks.
There’s a cause the North Shore is dwelling to a number of professional tour occasions. When exploring the tide swimming pools at Ho’okipa Seaside, you may even see a bunch of windsurfers benefiting from the coastal winds. They should have heard that the seaside 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 dwelling to a handful of upscale boutique inns the place you possibly can bask within the splendid views away from the crowds. Hand-in-hand, roam the comfy city of Pa’ia and alongside the seashores the place the waves tumble down alongside the night solar.
Really useful Accommodations On The North Shore
4. East Maui
From the crest of the North Shore area, the Street 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. However having it in your doorstep is likely one of the predominant promoting factors for this a part of Maui.
East Maui is a group of waterfalls flanked by rainbows and climbing trails by way of 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.
As soon as 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 shocking black sand seaside, sea arches, and blowholes. Hana additionally serves because the gateway to the Kipahulu District of Haleakala Nationwide Park, the place you possibly can hike by way of bamboo forests and swim within the Swimming pools of ‘Ohe’o.
Lodging in East Maui are restricted in comparison with different areas and primarily encompass trip leases, small inns, and some luxurious choices. Staying in Hana means that you can expertise previous Hawaii, with its slower tempo and close-knit group. It’s the proper vacation spot for nature lovers and people searching for a extra genuine Hawaiian expertise.
For the trekkers amongst us, a number of the finest hikes in Maui might be discovered within the japanese area. These embrace the unbelievable Pipiwai Path and the trek to Wailua Falls. It isn’t exhausting to see why East Maui is the perfect vacation spot for those who wish to get out and about. Commerce the nightlife and resort expertise for climbing boots and distant seashores to see a rugged however equally gorgeous a part of Maui.
Really useful Accommodations in East Maui
5. Upcountry / Central Maui (Kahului and Wailuku)
From one journey paradise to a different, depart the coast and head to the mountains for rural Maui. Because the identify Upcountry suggests, heading inland brings a giant elevation achieve as you ascend in the direction of the sky to be among the many ranches, farms, and small villages.
One of many highlights of Upcountry is the Haleakala Nationwide Park, the place guests can witness the dawn from the summit, typically above the clouds, which is a surreal expertise. The park additionally provides quite a few climbing trails by way of numerous landscapes together with cinder cones and rainforests. Moreover, the agricultural richness of the area might be skilled by way of farm excursions and visits to native markets.
Upcountry Maui is the normal dwelling to the Paniolo. You possibly can 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. When you’re in Central Maui on July 4th, commerce the boozy seaside day for a customary rodeo present in Makawao.
Central Maui, encompassing cities like Kahului and Wailuku, serves because the island’s industrial middle. It’s typically the entry level for guests because of the predominant airport and harbor. Whereas it’s not a typical vacationer vacation spot, Wailuku has historic websites and the luxurious Iao Valley State Park, identified for the enduring Iao Needle.
The most effective issues to do, and a significant cause vacationers base themselves in Upcountry Maui, is to hike to the summit of Haleakala. From wherever on the island you possibly can see the enormous volcano looming overhead. It checks out that such a peak could be dwelling to the perfect 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. Scorching tip, the sundown is simply as mesmerizing, so long as you possibly can deal with the hike down at nighttime.
Really useful Accommodations in Upcountry / Central Maui
Finest Locations to Keep in Maui FAQ
What’s the nicest space to remain in Maui?
The nicest space is subjective and will depend on 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 remain in North or South Maui?
When you want a laid-back, native vibe with alternatives for windsurfing and beginning your journey to Hana, North Maui could possibly be your ideally suited vacation spot. When you’re on the lookout for sunny climate, lovely seashores for swimming, and splendid lodging, you would possibly want South Maui.
Which a part of Maui has the perfect seashores?
Each South and West Maui supply improbable seashores, every with their very own distinctive attraction. 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 typically the preferred amongst vacationers on account of their seashores, resorts, and points of interest.
Ought to You Hire a Automobile in Maui?
Though it’s not crucial to hire a automobile, we do counsel it to be able to see all that Maui has to supply. Some components of the island are simpler to discover in a automobile. We’ve rented one every time we’ve got visited and have been glad we did.
Which inns are closest to Kahului Airport?
Some widespread inns near Kahului Airport embrace Paia Inn, Courtyard by Marriott Maui Kahului Airport, and Maui Seaside Lodge.
Our Cash-Saving Suggestions for Maui
Everyone knows that Hawaii isn’t precisely a haven for funds vacationers. However there are methods so that you can lower your expenses with out sacrificing your expertise in paradise.
One of many finest methods to economize in Maui is to remain in a condominium. Many condos are part of native resorts granting entry to surrounding eating places, swimming pools, and seashores. They’re cheaper than resort rooms and include full kitchens so it can save you on consuming out.
Low season journey comes with decrease room charges and cheaper flights. Arrive between February and Might for strong climate and whale watching season with out the crowds and peak costs.
Getting Round Maui
After arriving at Kahului Airport, you’ll have a wide range of selections for getting round Maui. You may base your self in a sure location and embark on day excursions. Many inns may have shuttles to native locations resembling retailers and points of interest. These are extra prevalent in West and South Maui.
There are 14 bus routes across the island, with the realm round Hana being serviced the least. A one-way fare for all routes will value $2 with a day move going for $4.
Nonetheless, if you wish to see as a lot of Maui as doable, then you will have to rent a automobile. This might be the easiest way to drive the Street to Hana and see the extra distant areas in Maui’s Upcountry.
In conclusion
In the long run, the perfect place to remain on Maui is a mirrored image of your private preferences and what you wish to see and do. Whether or not 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 put your self central to the actions you wish to do probably the most.
Maui isn’t just 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 by way of this island paradise. These are the explanations we return time and again.
