Everything You Should Know About Where to Stay in Maui
This article has been updated to reflect the re-building efforts still underway in the Lahaina area following the tragic wildfires in August 2023.
With crystal clear water, white sand beaches, and charming towns, Maui is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful places on earth. Whether you are on your honeymoon, traveling with friends or family, or taking a solo trip, Maui has plenty of accommodations. However, looking for a place to stay can be daunting with so much to see and do. To help you out with your search, we have created the ultimate guide for the best place to stay for a memorable Maui vacation.
Where to Stay in Maui
Maui is an island about 48 miles long and divided into five major regions: South Maui, West Maui, Central Maui, Northshore, and East Maui. We will go through the benefits and attractions of each section below, so read on and decide which place to stay is right for your vacation! Don't worry about being tied down to one place; it is easy to travel across the island and explore all your Maui vacation has to offer. The best area on Maui for your vacation depends on your vacation dreams and what you want to do and see while on you Maui vacation. Whatever you do, don’t forget to plan a whale watching tour!
South Maui
The south side of Maui is part of the island's Leeward side. It is sunny most of the time, and this side of the island gets very little rain. You will find plenty to do in South Maui and places to stay within any budget. There are many options for cheap accommodation and breathtaking stretches of golden beaches. So enjoy the great weather year-round, and take advantage of the golden sand beaches!
Kihei: Here, you will find affordable vacation condos just a short walk from the beach, perfect for families or traveling in a big group. Kihei's condos will be the best bang for your buck in South Maui and are only a short walk from the beach! Look into Sugar Beach Resort or Maui Kamaole for some good options. Kihei is a relaxed town with a mix of locals and tourists. There are plenty of restaurants, ice cream shops, grocery stores, farmers markets, Starbucks, and some nice playgrounds for the kids. It's a big town along the coast, so you need a car to get from one end to the other. North Kihei is the most central location for enjoying beaches and all Kihei & Wailea have to offer, while also having easy access to get to Haleakala, Lahaina, and Paia. If you are looking to explore Maui and do lots of hiking, North Kihei is a great place to set your home base. As a bonus, you can also find more affordable accommodations! South Kihei (the end closer to Wailea) offers close proximity to the amazing Kamaole beaches as well as access to the shopping and resorts in Wailea. Kamaole III is our absolute favorite spot to watch the sunset. Here’s a complete review of the best beaches for swimming in Maui.
If you want adventure, check out the Best Jungle Hikes in Maui.
Wailea: Wailea has fantastic luxury resorts, high-end shopping, and fine dining. Wailea is a beautiful place to stay in Maui for a memorable vacation, like a honeymoon. Relax in luxury at the Grand Wailea Resort, or choose from the many other oceanfront resorts right on Wailea Beach. You will also find high-end shopping, golf courses, and romantic fine dining. Every resort is a beachfront resort in Wailea, and it is definitely the most popular part of Maui for the rich and famous. If you aren't worried about a budget, and you want to have all the bells and whistles on your Maui vacation- stay in Wailea. You will not be disappointed!
West Maui
The Western region of Maui is a popular tourist destination on the island. Here you will find famous white sand beaches, beautiful snorkeling spots to explore throughout the year, and more! When looking for a place to stay, options range from budget-friendly motels to luxury resorts.
West Maui is one of the best places to stay in the winter months if you want to enjoy the beaches, whale watching, restaurants and shopping. If you aren't looking to do a lot of traveling around the island, staying in this popular area will give you everything you hope for on a vacation to a Hawaiian Island. There are some hikes over on the west side, but the trip to Hana and Haleakala are about 45 minutes farther if you are staying on this side of the island (vs South Maui). It's still totally do-able to take a day trip, but just a bit farther. If you want to self-explore Maui and do all the scenic driving, it is possible from West Maui...but South Maui is a better choice. If you want the beach, resort experience with the option for a few close by hikes, then West Maui is idea for your Maui vacation! ** Be aware that west Maui is going through a phased re-opening, so make sure to check what’s open before booking.**
For tips on whale watching, check out my article on the Whale Watching in Maui.
Lahaina: Lahaina is still recovering from the tragic wildfires that occured in August 2023. They are undergoing a phased re-opening, so keep checking back to see when they are able to welcome you! Stay here if the ocean is calling to you. Whale watching, snorkeling, surfing, and guided water adventures await you here. You can also hope on a boat from Ma’alaea Harbour to snorkel the Molokini Crater! Then, take a stroll down Front Street in Lahaina to experience art fairs and eat at some of the best restaurants in Maui. Take a rest and enjoy the shade under the famous Banyan Tree that lives just off Front Street!
Kaanapali: Just north of Lahaina, Kaanapali is known for its breathtaking beaches and the luxury hotels that line the ocean. Kaanapali's resort area is famous. Stay at the Westin Maui Resort if you want to wake up in a seaside cabana surrounded by lush waterfalls. Be sure to visit the Black Rock, and gaze upon the beautiful West Maui mountains.
Napili Bay: With ivory sand and turquoise water, Napili Bay is a beautiful choice for a place to stay. It tends to be more family-friendly than other places in West Maui and has some great condos. If a condo isn't your style, try the Napili Kai Beach Resort. Come here in the winter months for snorkeling, paddle boarding (SUP), and kayaking.
Kapalua: This is the place to stay in West Maui if you want to incorporate nature into your Maui vacation. Tucked into one of Hawaii's largest nature reserves, wake up to a gorgeous view every morning and explore! Kapalua is also home to the Ritz Carlton, where you can enjoy locally inspired fine dining and championship golf.
Central Maui
Central Maui is closest to the Kahului airport. If you are looking for a more local place away from the tourists, this may be the best place to stay in Maui. Kahului is a big town with Costco. Target and Walmart, so it might not be the quaint beach escape you are picturing. The best options will be smaller inns and retreats with easy access to Maui's North Shore. Central Maui is also a practical, local place to stay that is more budget-friendly. Finally, check out The Valley Isle between the idyllic West Maui Mountains and Haleakala National park for a gorgeous view and some adventure.
Wailuku: Home of the Iao Valley State Park, Wailuku is a gorgeous destination for any tourist. There is a lot of history and magnificent scenery to soak up, so take a break from the crowds, have a picnic, and swim in the crystal waters. Wailuku also has a great selection of antique stores, historic churches, and a booming arts community.
Kahului: Maui's largest town, Kahului, is home to Maui's largest mall, the Ka'ahumau Shopping Center. Kahului is where most of Maui's locals live due to its proximity to the airport, seaport schools, and malls. If you want to mingle with the locals, this is a great choice to stay at for your Maui vacation. Be aware you'll be farther away from the popular beaches, restaurants, and resort areas of the island. However, Maui is a relatively small place so you can get to most places (except Hana and Haleakala) within an hour. Since Kahului is more of the commercial centre, the accommodation options are more affordable if you are traveling on a budget. You will spend extra time driving though!
North Shore
The North Shore has fewer high-end resorts on the island's windward side. As a result, this area is less touristy and not the most popular choice for your first Maui vacation. But it is a beautiful place for advanced surfers in the winter months and is full of boutique hotels and historic towns.
Paia: First established as a quiet fishing village, Paia has grown into a historic town full of delicious fish markets and has become the windsurfing capital of the world. If you are looking for a charming city with a laid-back boho vibe, stay at one of the many boutique hotels and discover what this town offers. Then, after an eventful day, relax at Mama's Fish House and unwind. Be aware that reservations are required months in advance at Mama's Fish House!
Haiku: If you are looking for another town off the beaten path, Haiku is a serene location surrounded by lush greenery and flowing waterfalls. Visit Twin Falls for a gorgeous hike, and stay in one of the smaller hotels for a relaxing experience.
East Maui
Located on the island's windward side, East Maui is home to the iconic Hana Highway, making it a breathtakingly beautiful location in Maui. East Maui is arguably the best part of Maui because of the gorgeous scenery and lush greenery. There are many waterfalls, and the scenic drive to explore East Maui is worth every white knuckle twist and turn!
Hana: Take the famous drive over the Hana Highway to Hana and stay in the Hana Maui Resort. Excellent for a romantic getaway! There are also some vacation rentals in this part of Maui. Your stay in Hana will be peaceful, quiet, and worth at least one night! We stayed here with young kids and it was fabulous!
If you make it to Hana, the best hike on the island is Pipiwai Falls. Check out my article about the #1 Maui Hike in Haleakala National Park.
Key Takeaways
There are many places to stay for your Maui vacation. Whether you want to bask in the natural beauty of Hana or relax at the luxury resorts that thrive on the island, you will have no problem discovering your new favorite getaway!
If you are looking for a central location with both beaches and easy access to explore the adventure of the island, South Maui is ideal.
If you are looking for a high-end luxury Maui vacation, Wailea is your spot!
If you want a resort experience with world-class beaches, easy access to ocean excursions, and a few nearby hikes: West Maui is the perfect area to stay.
If you have been to Maui before, and you want a more local, boutique experience, consider the North Shore (Paia) or East Maui (Hana).
Whatever area you choose, you will have an amazing time on the Hawaiian Island of Maui.
Enjoy!! Aloha!
If you want to read more check out these articles:
7 Days in Maui with Kids: Planning your Ultimate Family Vacation
Packing for your Vacation in Maui
The Best Beaches for Swimming in Maui
The #1 Snorkeling Spot with Kids in Maui
The #1 Hike in Maui with Kids: Pipiwai Trail
15 Best Hikes in Maui near Kaanapali
Affiliate Links may be used on this website, at no additional cost to you. This means I may earn a commission if you make a qualifying purchase. There is no charge to you. Any reference to third party websites or products may change without notice.
