18 Jan The Ultimate Maui Travel Guide
For over 15 years, Maui has been our second home. We’ve visited the island more times than we can count—sometimes multiple times a year—and it’s the only place I can truly get my husband to unwind. From walking the Wailea beach path to discovering tucked-away beaches and unforgettable meals, we’ve fallen in love with every corner of this island. Whether it’s your first trip or your fifteenth, this comprehensive guide will help you experience the very best of Maui: from luxury resorts and iconic restaurants to baby-friendly travel tips and hidden gems.
Wailea (South Maui)Where to Stay
Wailea is synonymous with luxury. This resort-rich area is calm, sunny, and beautifully manicured—ideal for couples, families, and those seeking a slower pace.
Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort – Modern, sleek design, infinity pools with views for days, and one of the best breakfast spreads on the island.
Wailea Beach Villas – The ultimate home-away-from-home. Spacious, private, and perfect for families or groups traveling together. Check out our latest stay here!
Fairmont Kea Lani – All-suite luxury with a beachfront setting and exceptional service.
Four Seasons Resort Wailea – Beachfront, with impeccable dining options and luxury amenities that is a Four Seasons.
Marriott Wailea Beach Resort – A less pretentious family friendly spot with updated rooms, great pools, and easy beach access.
Hotel Wailea (Adults Only) – Boutique, intimate, and perched on a hillside with sweeping views. Ideal for couples looking to disconnect.
Bonus: Consider Airbnb’s & VRBO’s rentals for large or multi-family groups. Look for ocean-view villas with gourmet kitchens, lanais, and pool access. Airbnb Luxe offers beautiful properties across Wailea that rival resort stays.
Where to Eat & Drink
Wailea’s dining scene delivers everything from on-the-go casual to upscale culinary experiences.
Current Favorites Include:
Monkeypod Kitchen by Merriman – Lively, with farm-to-table plates and the best mai tai on the island (trust me).
Ka’ana Kitchen at Andaz – Inventive farm-to-table family style dishes. The Chef’s table for 2–4 is an unforgettable tasting experience.
Lineage – A fresh take on Hawaiian flavors with bold craft cocktails.
Restaurant at Hotel Wailea – Romantic dining perched above Wailea with phenomenal cuisine. The Birdcage is a must for pre-dinner drinks
The Pint & Cork – Casual sports bar in The Shops at Wailea. Go-to spot to catch a game with solid food.
Luigi’s Andiamo Pizza Kitchen – Low-key, great brick oven pizza.
Wailea Wine – Gourmet shop with curated wines, local beer, snacks, cigars, and specialty gifts.
What to Do
Beaches: Ulua, Wailea, and Polo Beach are calm and perfect for lounging or snorkeling.
Golf: Wailea Golf Club’s Blue, Gold, and Emerald courses are stunning
Wailea Beach Path: Perfect for morning walks or sunset strolls to and from dinner
Spas: Willow Stream Spa at Fairmont and Awili Spa at Andaz are my go-to for a serene setting and minimal crowds
Shopping: The Shops at Wailea for local boutiques, art galleries, and name brands
Luau: Grand Wailea’s Grand Luau, and Te Au Moana Luau at The Wailea Beach Marriott Resort
West Maui (Lahaina, Kaanapali, Kapalua)
The energy of West Maui is vibrant and fun, with golden beaches, cliffside views, and plenty of island culture. This area has been deeply impacted by the 2023 Lahaina fires, so supporting local businesses here matters more than ever.
Where to Stay:
Montage Kapalua Bay – One of Maui’s most exclusive resorts with spacious residential-style accommodations.
The Ritz-Carlton Kapalua – Nestled in lush greenery with a laid-back luxury vibe, this is a haven for spa lovers and golfers alike.
Westin Nanea Ocean Villas – Our timeshare home away from home! Family-friendly, full kitchens, and prime location on North Kaanapali Beach.
There are also high-end vacation rentals in Napili and Kapalua, offering space and seclusion for families or friend groups.
Where to Eat & Drink
Merriman’s Kapalua – For sunset views and upscale Hawaiian cuisine. Get there early for drink on the lawn!
Mala Tavern – Oceanfront (literally) and low-key yet casually chic. One of our favorites each trip.
Hula Grill –Hawaiian dining with feet in the sand. The live music is the perfect touch
Monkeypod Kitchen by
Merriman – Lively, with farm-to-table plates and the best mai tai on the island (trust me).
Aloha Mixed Plate – Open air patio, beachside setting for traditional Hawaiian fare.
What to Do
Explore Kapalua Coastal Trail
Golf at Plantation Course
Deep Sea Fishing Charter
Luaus: Old Lahaina Luau – Most authentic experience. Drums of the Pacific (Hyatt Regency) – High-energy and fun for kids.
Spas: Spa Montage Kapalua Bay – Tranquil, immersive treatments and lush spa garden.
The Ritz-Carlton Spa – Elegant setting and locally inspired therapies.
Beaches: Napili Bay – great for kids. Kapalua Bay – Protected cove and easy snorkeling. Kaanapali Beach – Bustling, iconic stretch
Paia (North Shore Boho Vibes)
Paia is quirky, artsy, and authentic—a stark contrast to resort zones, but equally wonderful.
Where to Eat
Mama’s Fish House – Book 4+ months in advance. Oceanfront fine dining with a nostalgic Hawaiian soul.
Nylos – Chef Jeremy Solyn creates a changing 5-course tasting menu based on seasonal ingredients. Daring, elegant, and unforgettable. One seating, Wed–Sat at 6:30 PM. Starts at $225.
What to Do
Browse local boutiques, surf shops, and yoga studios.
Stop by Paia Bay Coffee for morning fuel.
Nearby Ho’okipa Beach Park to watch pro surfers and turtles basking onshore.
Road to Hana
The iconic 64-mile drive along the east coast of Maui is one of the most beautiful journeys in the world.
Must-See Stops:
Twin Falls – Great for an early waterfall walk.
Ke’anae Peninsula – Aunty Sandy’s banana bread is a must.
Waianapanapa State Park – Black sand beach. (Reservation required.)
Wailua Falls – Easy stop with photo-worthy views.
Hana Farms – Roadside farm stand and café.
Hamoa Beach – Secluded and stunning.
Pro Tips:
– Leave early and pack snacks.
– Download an offline audio guide.
– Spend the night in Hana for a less rushed trip. Hana-Maui Resort is a great overnight option.
Final Tips & Recommendations
Weather: Maui is stunning year-round. Shoulder seasons (April–May and Sept–early Nov) offer fewer crowds.
Getting Around: Renting a car is essential.
Kids & Baby Travel:
BabyQuip – Rent baby gear (cribs, strollers, toys) delivered to your hotel or rental.
Target Curbside Pickup – Great for essentials on arrival.
Costco – Stock up if you have a kitchen or BBQ set-up.
Doona – If you’re flying with a baby, this stroller/car seat combo is a game changer.
Maui is full of magic. From luxurious moments in Wailea to scenic drives through Hana’s rainforest, every part of the island holds something special. After 15+ years of exploring it from every angle, I still find something new every time.
Whether it’s your first visit or your annual retreat, Maui never stops surprising you—and it always welcomes you back with aloha.
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