Where To Stay On Maui: Find Your Perfect Vacation Base

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Choosing where to stay on Maui is one of the most important decisions you’ll make when planning your trip since each part of the island has its own unique vibe, activities, and accommodations.

In this guide, I’ll break down everything you need to know to find the perfect home base, whether you’re a first-time visitor or returning to explore a new side of the island.

And if you’re new to Maui, don’t miss my Maui Essentials: Complete Guide for First-Time Visitors (FAQs + Top Tips) to help kickstart your journey.

Ready to uncover the best places to stay on Maui? Let’s dive in!

Main Regions of Maui

Maui is divided into six main regions, each home to unique towns with their own charm.

West Maui and South Maui are the most popular regions to stay where sunshine, warm weather, and golden sand beaches are plentiful.

Here’s a breakdown to help you decide which area suits your vacation style:

1. West Maui (Lahaina, Kaanapali, Kapalua, Napili)

Known for luxurious resorts, mid-range hotels, and beautiful beaches. This area is ideal for those who love convenience, as it’s close to shopping, dining, and plenty of other fun activities.

• Lahaina
  The historic town of Lahaina is currently closed do to the devastating wildfires back in August, 2023. The rebuild will take years, but the rest of West Maui remains open to visitors.
• Kaanapali
  A lively resort hub with a beachfront path, top-tier golf courses, shopping at Whalers Village, world-class dining, boat tours, and snorkeling at iconic Black Rock.
• Honokowai
  A laid-back area just north of Ka’anapali with budget-friendly condos, small beach parks, and local eateries. Great for travelers who want to stay close to the action without the resort price tag.
• Kahana
  Quiet and residential, with a mix of oceanfront condos and casual dining.
• Napili
  Charming, family-friendly vibe with calm beaches like Napili Bay.
• Kapalua
  Upscale and quieter, known for its luxury resorts, golf courses, and scenic hiking trails.

2. South Maui (Kihei, Wailea, Makena)

This side of the island is a mix of upscale resorts and budget-friendly condos. The beaches here are some of the island’s best and the weather is reliably sunny. Perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers.

• Kihei
  Budget-friendly condos, casual dining, relaxed beach town vibe, numerous beaches, and lively social scene.
• Wailea
  Home to high-end resorts and condos, fine dining restaurants, world-class spas, fantastic beaches, and championship golf courses.
• Makena
  Secluded, with unspoiled beaches like Big Beach and fantastic snorkel spots like Ahihi-Kinau Natural Area Reserve.

3. Central Maui (Kahului, Wailuku, Maalaea)

A convenient, more affordable base for exploring the entire island.

• Kahului
  The island’s commercial hub with the airport, shopping centers, and big-box stores.
• Wailuku
  Has a historic charm with local eateries, cultural sites, and proximity to Iao Valley.
• Ma’alaea
  Quiet, budget-friendly, centrally located, long stretches of beach great for walking, and easy access to the harbor for boat tours and the Maui Ocean Center.

4. Upcountry Maui (Kula, Makawao, Pukalani)

Nestled on the slopes of Haleakala, this area provides a peaceful escape with cooler temperatures and stunning views. Ideal for those who want to explore farms, local artisans, and the Haleakala National Park.

• Kula
  Known for farm-to-table experiences, lush pastures, and sweeping views of the island.
• Makawao
  A cowboy town with art galleries, boutiques, and paniolo (Hawaiian cowboy) charm.
• Pukalani
  Residential, with a local feel.

📖 Related Reads: 25 Best Things To Do in Upcountry Maui: A Local’s Guide (+Map)

5. North Maui (Paia, Haiku, Kahakuloa)

North Maui is a mix of laid-back beach towns on the east side of the valley and rugged, remote landscapes on the west side.

• Paia
  A charming, bohemian surf town with boutique shops, laid-back cafés, and easy access to Ho’okipa Beach—world-renowned for windsurfing and turtle sightings.
• Haiku
  A quiet, rural community nestled in the lush jungle and known as the gateway to the Road to Hana.
• Kahakuloa
  Remote and rugged, with dramatic cliffs, scenic views, and stops like Nakalele Blowhole and the Olivine Pools. Beautiful area of the island but I don’t recommend staying here.

6. East Maui (Hana)

Known for its tropical landscapes, waterfalls, and the winding, scenic Road to Hana

Hana: Remote and peaceful, surrounded by waterfalls, black sand beaches, and lush greenery. Great for turning your Road to Hana trip into an overnight adventure but a bit too isolated for your full stay on Maui.

Maui’s Geography and Drive Times

Understanding the island’s layout will also help you pick the best base for your Maui adventure.

• Maui is shaped like a figure-eight laying on its side, with two distinct regions: the West Maui Mountains and Haleakala Volcano dominating the landscape.
• The island’s main roads circle these mountainous areas, connecting key towns. However, certain areas like East Maui (Hana) and the rugged north coast above West Maui Mountains involve narrow, winding roads that take longer to navigate.

Driving Times at a Glance:

• West Maui (Kaanapali) to Central Maui (Airport): ~50 minutes
• South Maui (Kihei) to Central Maui (Airport): ~30 minutes
• South Maui (Wailea) to the Start of Road to Hana (Haiku): ~50 minutes
• West Maui (Kapalua) to the Start of Road to Hana (Haiku): ~75 minutes
• West Maui (Kaanapali) to Haleakala Summit Entrance: ~90 minutes

Types of Accommodations

Maui has a wide variety of lodging options to suit different needs and budgets:

• Hotels & Luxury Resorts
  The most traditional option for visitors. Primarily located in West and South Maui, these accommodations have beachfront locations, pools, and top-notch amenities. Ideal for those looking for an all-in-one experience.

• Condos & Villas
  Another popular option for visitors. Great for families or groups who want more space and the option to cook with in-unit kitchens plus other amenities like outdoor grilling areas. Ka’anapali, Napili, Kihei, and Wailea are popular spots for this kind of accommodation.

• Boutique Hotels & B&Bs
  These unique properties provide a more intimate experience. From private rooms to entire dwellings, you’ll find charming options in Upcountry Maui or near Hana. Perfect for travelers who want to enjoy a more quiet slice of island life.

• Homes & Cottages
  Vacation home rentals are great for longer stays, providing the comfort of home with space to relax or cook meals. Options range from cozy beach cottages to luxurious estates with private pools. Just be mindful of legal rental permits when booking.

• Camping & Hostels
  For travelers on tight budgets or those seeking adventure, camping is available in designated areas like Olowalu (reservation required). And hostels, like those in Wailuku or Paia, are great for meeting other solo travelers.

Beachfront vs. Ocean View: What’s the Difference?

In Maui, accommodation prices often depend on proximity to the ocean and the type of view. Here’s a quick breakdown of common terms:

• Beachfront: Located directly on the beach.
• Oceanfront: Faces the ocean but may or may not be on a beach.
• Ocean View: Gives you a view of the ocean but isn’t directly beachfront or oceanfront.
• Partial Ocean View: A limited or obstructed view of the ocean.
• Other Views: Mountain, garden, or pool views are generally more budget-friendly.

Beachfront, oceanfront, and ocean view rooms come with a higher price tag, so consider how important the view is to your stay when deciding.

📖 Related Read: Top 10 Beaches on Maui: Your Ultimate Guide (with tips)

Budget & Cost Considerations

What to Expect:
Maui accommodations are among the most expensive in Hawaii. Luxury resorts can cost $800+ per night, mid-range hotels and rentals are $300-$500, and budget options are $150-$250.

Hidden Costs:
Watch out for resort fees, parking fees, and taxes, which can add $50+ per night.

Money-Saving Tips:

• Stay in vacation rentals with a kitchen to cook some meals.
• Consider staying in less touristy areas like Wailuku or Maalaea for more affordable, centrally located options.
• Visit during the shoulder season for lower prices (more on this below).
• Participate in the Malama Hawaii Program—qualify for discounts or a free night at a hotel by volunteering.

📖 Related Reads: Maui on a Budget: Free & Low-Cost Things to Do

Family-Friendly Stays

Traveling with kids? Here are some tips:

Look for resorts with family-friendly amenities like pools, kids’ clubs, and beachfront access such as:

• Grand Wailea (Wailea)
• Hyatt Regency Maui (Ka’anapali)
• Wailea Beach Resort (Wailea)
• Westin Maui Resort (Ka’anapali)

Also, vacation rentals with multiple bedrooms and full kitchens in Kihei, Ka’anapali, and Napili are perfect for families who want space and convenience.

📖 Related Read: Top Family-Friendly Things To Do on Maui with Kids

Romantic Retreats for Couples

Couples will love secluded resorts in Wailea and Kapalua or boutique hotels in Upcountry Maui. Many properties cater to honeymooners with private lanais, oceanfront dining, and spa services.

• Hotel Wailea: The only adults-only resort on Maui (minimum guest age is 18). A luxurious escape with panoramic ocean views, intimate suites, and unique experiences like treehouse dining.
• Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort: A chic, oceanfront retreat with spacious rooms and luxurious amenities including an adults-only tranquility pool.
• Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea: Features world-class dining, an adults-only pool with a swim-up bar, and private cabanas.
• Montage Kapalua Bay: Nestled on a beautiful coastline, this resort has spacious villas, an adult-only infinity pool, and an award-winning spa.

Or, if you want to spend your honeymoon on Maui away from the crowds, check out my Unique Stays section below.

📖 Related Read: Most Romantic Things to Do on Maui: 22 Date Ideas for Couples

Best Accommodations for Solo Travelers

• Studios and one-bedroom units in Kihei are a great option for easy access to beaches and plenty of bars nearby to socialize.
• Hostels are perfect for budget-conscious solo travelers who are looking to meet others. Howzit Hostel in Wailuku or Aloha Surf Hostel in Paia are popular spots.
• Camping is another affordable option. Camp Olowalu will be your best bet as it’s beachfront (not one of the best beaches on Maui but excellent snorkeling), and they have tentalows (aka glamping).

📖 Related Read: 41 Best Things to Do on Maui for Every Type of Traveler

Best Accommodations for Groups

Condos, Villas, and Multi-Suite Resorts: There are plenty of great options in Kihei, Wailea, Kaanapali, and Napili with multiple bedrooms, full kitchens, and lots of amenities. And all close proximity to beaches, dining, and activities.

Popular places include:

West Maui ($$$ → $$):

• The Westin Nanea Ocean Villas – Spacious villas in North Kaanapali, great for families.
• Honua Kai – Popular condo-resort with full kitchens and beach access.
• Hyatt Regency – Classic resort with a great pool area, luau, and beachfront setting.
• Aston at Papakea Resort – Quiet oceanfront condos with well-kept grounds.
• Napili Shores – Low-key and family-friendly, steps from calm Napili Bay.

South Maui ($$$$ → $$):

• Wailea Beach Villas – Private, upscale villas near luxury shopping and dining.
• Grand Wailea – Iconic resort with a sprawling pool complex and beachfront spa.
• Fairmont Kea Lani – All-suite resort with luxury service and ocean views.
• Ekahi Condos – Quiet, well-maintained condos in Wailea, close to the beach.
• Mana Kai Resort – Oceanfront, centered between Kihei and Wailea dining options.
• Kamaole Sands – Budget-friendly condos across from Kamaole Beach Park III.

📖 Related Read: When is the Best Time to Visit Maui? A Season-by-Season Guide for Your Dream Vacation

Unique Stays

Luxury Retreats & Historic Inns:

• Lumeria Maui Retreat (Makawao): A peaceful Upcountry escape with yoga classes, wellness programs, and beautifully landscaped grounds.
• Iao Valley Inn (Wailuku): A cozy bed-and-breakfast nestled near the lush Iao Valley, ideal for nature lovers seeking a quiet retreat.
• Historic Wailuku Inn (Wailuku): A charming boutique inn with Hawaiian-style décor and a rich connection to the island’s history.
• Haiku House (Haiku): A private estate steeped in history, a luxurious option surrounded by lush greenery.

📖 Related Read: Beyond the Beach: Best Relaxing Activities to Do on Maui

Oceanfront Glamping & Eco-Friendly Stays:

• Camp Olowalu (Lahaina): Oceanfront glamping with comfortable tentalows, private showers, and unbeatable sunset views.
• Maui Eco Retreat (Haiku): A secluded eco-friendly escape surrounded by tropical greenery, ideal for those seeking peace and sustainability.
• Hawaiian Dream Temple (Haiku): A spiritual eco-retreat that creates a peaceful environment for personal growth, healing, and mindfulness, with an emphasis on sustainable practices.

📖 Related Read: Maui on a Budget: Free & Low-Cost Things to Do

Romantic Boutique Hotels & Inns:

• Ho’oilo House (Lahaina): A serene bed-and-breakfast with Balinese-inspired rooms, ocean views, and a romantic atmosphere.
• Inn at Mama’s Fish House (Paia): A boutique property with cozy cottages steps away from one of Maui’s best restaurants and Kuau Cove.

📖 Related Read: Most Romantic Things to Do on Maui: 22 Date Ideas for Couples

Remote & Scenic Resorts:

• Hana-Maui Resort (Hana): A secluded retreat on Maui’s east side with stunning ocean views, plenty of adventurous activities, and of course, easy access to the Road to Hana.

📖 Related Read: Thrill Seekers Guide to Maui: Top Adventurous Activities

Seasonal Considerations

Maui is a year-round destination with warm and pleasant weather, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences:

• High Season: Thanksgiving week, late December to mid-January, mid-March to early April, and from June to August. Book outside of high season for fewer crowds and better deals.
• Shoulder Season: Mid-April through May and September to mid-November usually means fewer crowds and great weather.
• Low Season: Mid-January through February, September, and October are traditionally the slowest times of the year.

📖 Related Read: When is the Best Time to Visit Maui? A Season-by-Season Guide for Your Dream Vacation

Planning Tips

• Flights, Accommodations, and Car Rentals: Book at least 3–6 months in advance. For peak seasons, aim for 8–12 months ahead to secure the best options.
• Keep an Eye on Special Events: Maui hosts several major events throughout the year including festivals and sports competitions which can affect accommodation availability and rates.
• Parking Availability: Some resorts, especially in popular areas like Wailea and Kaanapali, charge daily parking fees. If you’re renting a car (which I highly recommend you do), factor this into your budget.

📖 Related Read: Best Things to Do on Maui in the Winter, Spring, Summer, & Fall

Wrapping Up: Your Perfect Stay on Maui Awaits

I hope this guide has made it easier for you to choose a great place to stay. Once you’ve picked your spot, use my digital map of Maui to find a curated list of nearby attractions and activities, designed to save you time and ensure you make the most of your trip.

And don’t forget to check out my Ultimate Maui Itinerary for more personalized ideas on how to spend your time on Maui.

Lastly, check out my All Maui Content page for even more tips, guides, and insider knowledge.

Mahalo for reading and happy travels!