Maui’s accommodations run the gamut from rural bed-and-breakfasts to opulent megaresorts, and in between there’s something for every vacation style and budget. The large resorts, hotels, and condominiums for which Maui is noted are on the sunny, leeward, southern, and western shores. They bustle with activity and are near plenty of restaurants, shopping, golf, and water sports. Those seeking a different experience can try the inns, B&Bs, and rentals in the small towns and quieter areas along the North Shore and Upcountry on the verdant slopes of Haleakala.
If the latest and greatest is your style, be prepared to spend a small fortune. Properties like the Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua; the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea; the sparkling Andaz Maui at Wailea; and condo complexes such as the luxe Wailea Beach Villas may set you back at least $600 a night.
Although there aren’t many of them, small B&Bs are charming. They tend to be in residential or rural neighborhoods around the island, sometimes beyond the resort areas of West Maui and the South Shore. The B&Bs offer both a personalized experience and a window into authentic local life. The rates tend to be the lowest available on Maui, sometimes less than $200 per night.
Apartment and condo rentals are ideal for families, groups of friends, and those traveling on modest budgets. Not only are the nightly rates lower than hotel rooms, but eating in—all have kitchens of some description—is substantially less expensive than dining out. There are literally hundreds of these units all over the island, ranging in size from studios to luxurious four-bedroom properties with multiple baths. The vast majority are found along the sunny coasts, from Makena to Kihei on the South Shore and Lahaina up to Kapalua in West Maui.
Rates depend on the size of the unit and its proximity to the beach, as well as the amenities and services offered. For about $250 a night, you can get a lovely one-bedroom apartment without many frills or flourishes, close to but probably not on the beach. Many rentals have minimum stays (usually three to five nights).
Most of Maui’s resorts—several are megaresorts—have opulent gardens, fantasy swimming pools, championship golf courses, and full-service fitness centers and spas. Expect to spend at least $350 a night at the less posh resort hotels; they are all in the Wailea resort area on the South Shore and Kaanapali in West Maui. At all lodgings, ask about discounts and deals (free nights with longer stays, for example), which have proliferated.
