There are many convenient and fun areas to stay on Maui, and the best one for you will depend on your preferences and the activities you plan to do during your trip.
If you’re single and looking to mingle, Kihei is a great area and close to lots of restaurants and beaches. Maalaea is lesser-known and still central if you want a quiet place to stay away from the children and parties. What’s your style?
Here are the most popular vacation locations people wanting proximity to the beach and shops:
- Lahaina: This historic and busy town on the west side of the island is a great base for exploring the nearby beaches, restaurants, and shops. It’s also within easy driving distance of the Kapalua and Kaanapali resorts, as well as the Iao Valley State Park. Fun place to visit but a bit too busy for me for an extended stay here.
- Kihei: Located on the south side of the island, Kihei is home to some of the best beaches on Maui, including Kamaole Beach Park, Wailea Beach, and Keawakapu Beach. It’s also close to the Wailea resort area and the Maui Ocean Center. Also a busy hub but has everything you need for your vacation and great beaches. Great if you’re in Maui to party with friends.
- Kahului: If you’re arriving on the island via the Kahului Airport, you may want to consider staying in this central location; keep in mind that the beach around Kahului is great for wind surfing but not a day at the beach. Kahului is home to several large hotels, shopping malls, and Costco, as well as the popular Maui Arts & Cultural Center. I’d rather stay somewhere quieter.
- Hana: If you’re looking for a more secluded and laid-back vacation, the town of Hana on the east side of the island may be the perfect fit. It’s known for its stunning natural beauty, including the Hana Highway, the Seven Sacred Pools, and the Red Sand Beach. This is old Hawaii and doesn’t have all the conveniences (shopping malls, chain restaurants) of west and south Maui, and is also a little cheaper. Hana is where I go to recharge.
Pros and cons of staying in each area of Maui
Maui is divided into several main areas, each with its unique features and attractions. No matter which area you choose, be sure to book your accommodation in advance, as popular spots can fill up quickly during peak travel months.
Lahaina/Kaanapali Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Beautiful beaches and clear waters for swimming and snorkeling
- Plenty of high-end resorts and restaurants
- Excellent shopping and entertainment options
- Rich in history, lively atmosphere, many dining and shopping options
- A variety of outdoor activities such as golfing, hiking, and zip-lining
- Close proximity to the famous “Road to Hana” scenic drive
Cons:
- Can be crowded with tourists, especially during peak season
- Higher prices for accommodations and activities
Wailea Accommodations, Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Luxurious accommodations, upscale resorts and fine dining restaurants
- Stunning beaches, quiet and peaceful, with calm waters for swimming and snorkeling
- Quieter and more relaxed atmosphere compared to Lahaina/Kaanapali
- Excellent golf courses and tennis facilities
Cons:
- Limited nightlife options
- More expensive than other areas of Maui, less local flavor
Kihei/Maalaea Pros and Cons
Pros:
- More affordable accommodations compared to Lahaina/Kaanapali and Wailea
- Good location for exploring other parts of Maui
- Great for water sports such as surfing, windsurfing, and kiteboarding
- Plenty of local restaurants and bars
- Close to attractions in Central Maui, such as the Maui Ocean Center and the Maui Arts and Cultural Center
Cons:
- Fewer upscale dining and shopping options compared to other areas, less nightlife in Maalaea
- Maalaea: limited dining and shopping options, not as scenic as other parts of the island
- Close to beaches but some beaches can be windy and rough, making swimming and snorkeling difficult
Paia Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Quaint and charming town with a unique and bohemian vibe
- Good location for exploring the Road to Hana and Haleakala National Park
- Plenty of shops and restaurants with a focus on local and organic products
- Beautiful beaches and great surf spots nearby
Cons:
- Limited accommodations, mostly small bed and breakfasts and vacation rentals
- Not as developed as other areas, with fewer resort-style amenities
Staying in Hana, Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Secluded and peaceful, with beautiful natural surroundings
- Great for those looking to disconnect from technology and unwind
- Plenty of hiking and water activities such as swimming and kayaking
- Good location for exploring the Road to Hana
Cons:
- Limited accommodations and dining options, mostly small bed and breakfasts and local eateries
- Can be a long and winding drive to get there from other parts of Maui
Upcountry (Makawao, Kula, and Pukalani) Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Cooler temperatures and lush greenery, perfect for nature lovers
- Plenty of hiking trails, botanical gardens, and farms to explore
- Quaint towns with charming shops and restaurants
- Great location for exploring Haleakala National Park
Cons:
- Fewer accommodation options compared to other areas
- Limited beach access
- Can be a longer drive to get to other parts of the island
Kapalua Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Beautiful beaches and excellent snorkeling spots
- Upscale resorts with luxurious amenities
- Plenty of outdoor activities such as golfing and hiking
- Quieter and more exclusive atmosphere compared to Lahaina/Kaanapali
Cons:
- Limited dining and shopping options
- Can be more expensive than other areas of Maui
Wailuku/Kahului Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Centrally located with easy access to other parts of Maui
- Historical and cultural attractions such as the Bailey House Museum and the Iao Valley State Park
- Plenty of local shops and restaurants
- More affordable accommodations compared to other areas, close to airport
Cons:
- No direct beach access
- Limited nightlife options
- Industrial area, not as scenic as other parts of the island
- Can be a bit crowded with traffic during peak hours
That gives you a good idea of the regions of Maui, but maybe you have more specific questions about where to stay with a young family. There are several great places to stay on Maui for families with young children.
Areas and Resorts in Maui that are Great for Families with Children
If you have young children and you want a vacation of amenities and convenience, you will likely narrow down your choices to West and South Maui.
Most expensive but kid-friendly: Wailea is known for its beautiful beaches and luxury resorts, and is an ideal choice for families with young children.
Kaanapali: This area on the west coast of Maui is also home to several beautiful beaches and resorts, and is a popular choice for families.
Lahaina: This historic town is located on the west side of the island and is a great place to stay for families with young children, though it can be a busy town. It has a laid-back atmosphere and is close to several family-friendly attractions, such as the Maui Ocean Center.
South Maui: This area is home to several kid-friendly beaches and resorts, and is a great choice for families with young children.
Kihei: This town on the south side of the island is known for its affordable accommodations and is a popular choice for families. It is also close to several kid-friendly beaches.
Families with young children can find a range of accommodations and activities that are tailored to their needs and interests in these areas. From quieter, more laid-back towns like Napili to more upscale resort areas like Wailea, there are plenty of options for families of all types and budgets.
Kid-Friendly Towns and Resorts in Maui
Maui is a great destination for families with young children, and there are several areas and accommodations that are particularly well-suited for families.
The various family-friendly resorts and hotels, such as the Westin Kaanapali Ocean Resort Villas, the Aston Kaanapali Shores, and the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa, offer fun things for families to do together, and activities for kids — including water slides, children’s pools, and kids’ clubs. For convenience there are several family-friendly restaurants and shops in these areas, as well as parks and playgrounds for kids to enjoy.
Napili is a quieter, more laid-back area on Maui’s west coast that is ideal for families looking for a more relaxed atmosphere. The beach is great for swimming and snorkeling, and there are several family-friendly restaurants and shops in the area. There are also several parks and playgrounds nearby.
Kaanapali is a popular resort area on Maui’s west coast that has plenty of amenities and activities for families. The beach is ideal for young children, with calm waters and plenty of sand to play on. There are also several swimming pools, a water park, and a variety of family-friendly restaurants and shops.
- The Westin Kaanapali Ocean Resort Villas is a popular family-friendly resort on Maui’s west coast that has several amenities and activities for families, such as a water slide, a children’s pool, and a kids’ club. The rooms are spacious and feature a kitchenette, making it easier to prepare meals for young children.
- The Aston Kaanapali Shores is a family-friendly condo resort on Maui’s west coast that has several amenities and activities for families, such as a swimming pool, a hot tub, and a kids’ pool. The condos feature a full kitchen, making it easier to prepare meals for young children. The beach is also great for swimming and snorkeling.
- The Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa is a popular family-friendly resort on Maui’s west coast that has several amenities and activities for families, such as a water slide, a children’s pool, and a kids’ club. The beach is also great for swimming and snorkeling.
Lahaina is a historic town on Maui’s west coast that has plenty of family-friendly attractions, such as the Maui Ocean Center and the Whalers Village shopping center. There are also several family-friendly restaurants and beaches in the area.
- Honua Kai Resort & Spa ia located in Lahaina on the island of Maui and known for its spacious suites ( ideal for families), as well as its on-site amenities, including multiple pools, a kids’ club, and a beachfront location.
Kihei is another popular area for families, particularly those looking for more affordable accommodations. The beach is great for water activities such as swimming, boogie boarding, and snorkeling, and there are several family-friendly restaurants and shops in the area. There are also several parks and playgrounds nearby.
- The Maui Coast Hotel is a family-friendly hotel in Kihei that has several amenities and activities for families, such as a swimming pool, a hot tub, and a kids’ pool. The hotel is also located near several family-friendly restaurants and shops, as well as parks and playgrounds.
Wailea is a more upscale resort area with several family-friendly hotels and condos. The beaches are great for swimming and snorkeling, and there are several swimming pools and water slides to keep kids entertained. There are also several parks and playgrounds in the area.
- The Grand Wailea is a luxurious and popular family-friendly resort on Maui’s south coast that has several amenities and activities for families, such as a water park, a lazy river, and a children’s pool. There are also several restaurants and shops on the property, making it easy to keep young children entertained.
More about where on Maui to stay.
