Best Places to Stay on Maui for First-Time Visitors

If you’re visiting Maui for the first time soon, there’s probably a storm of questions whirling in your head.

“Where’s the best place to stay on Maui?” “Is there a hotel or resort that’s considered Maui’s best?” “What’s best for families or couples?” “What town should I stay in?”

Fortunately, after a bit of research, deciding on a place to stay on Maui is easier than it seems. For first-time visitors, where to stay on Maui depends on two major factors: budget and area.

Below, we’ll break down Maui’s two main visitor regions (where the best beaches, sunshine, and accommodations are) and offer suggestions on where to stay based on budget.

 

Best Places to Stay on Maui for First-Time Visitors

(By Area and Budget)

 

• West Maui •

West Maui is the island’s most popular region for visitors. This area boasts gorgeous golden beaches, mountain views, endless things to do, and lots of places to stay. West Maui is home to the famous Kaanapali Beach, which is a great choice for first-time visitors. It’s the second-most-popular visitor destination in Hawaii, second only to Waikiki.

 

Where to Stay in West Maui by Budget

 

Large Budget $$$

 

Montage Kapalua Bay

With sprawling villa-like residences, an award-winning spa, and a suite of top-tier amenities, Montage Kapalua Bay is the perfect choice for a luxurious Maui getaway. First-time visitors will appreciate Montage’s location overlooking the sandy Kapalua Bay, which offers protected snorkeling and was once named America’s Best Beach. Montage is also situated near Maui’s best golf courses, and is only a 15-minute drive from Kaanapali, where activities abound.

 

Sea Shells Beach House

Sea Shells Beach House is a 3-bed, 5-bath oasis set directly on North Kaanapali Beach (also called Kahekili Beach). This stunning beachfront home offers easy access to the Kaanapali strip, just a short walk or drive from restaurants, shops, and activities. Or, turn Sea Shells into your private escape as you kick back in the swimming pool, watch the sunset from the hammock, or don a snorkel and explore the reef out front. A personal concierge is also available to help tailor your vacation to your liking.

 

Mid-Budget $$

 

The Whaler

Set in the heart of Kaanapali Beach, The Whaler offers (arguably) the most walkable location on Maui. With snorkeling, golfing, shopping, restaurants, luaus, boat tours, and more mere steps away, The Whaler is the ideal choice for Maui first-timers or a jam-packed trip. That said, there are plenty of spaces for quiet moments at this condo resort—whether you’re watching whales splash from your lanai, reading by the pool, or whipping up your favorite home-cooked meal in the full kitchen.

 

Kaanapali Alii

Great for families traveling with kids, Kaanapali Alii offers a selection of one- to two-bedroom residences with full kitchens and two full bathrooms. This condo-resort is located on the southern edge of Kaanapali Beach—close enough to Whalers Village and Black Rock to offer easy access to activities galore, yet far enough away to feel quiet and serene. There’s also an on-site spa and general store for added convenience.

 

Cost-Effective $

 

Polynesian Shores​

Polynesian Shores is a hidden gem in Honokowai, just a ten-minute drive from Kaanapali. This condo complex is great for those who are less concerned with luxury amenities and just want to enjoy ocean views and laid-back vibes. Still, Polynesian Shores features an oceanfront pool, BBQ grills, and an ocean view from each condo, where you can watch tropical sunsets and look for wintertime whales. Condos range from 1 to 3 bedrooms and feature full kitchens, making them perfect for families.

 

Kulakane

Old-school Hawaii vibes are still alive and well at Kulakane in Honokowai. This low-rise condominium complex overlooks the ocean with excellent opportunities for sunset spotting and turtle watching. Whether you’re keen on exploring the local area–where coffee shops and a low-key beach park await–or you just want to hang out in the oceanfront pool, the Kulakane delivers a laid-back tropical getaway for an economic price.

 

• South Maui •

South Maui is known for miles of beaches, laid-back vibes, and 276 days of sunshine each year. This region is a bit more central and a great choice for those who wish to spend most of their time exploring the island. South Maui also has an abundance of great food, from fine dining to food trucks. View our favorite South Maui restaurants.

 

Where to Stay in South Maui by Budget

 

Large Budget $$$

 

Fairmont Kea Lani

The palace-like Fairmont Kea Lani is Maui’s only all-suite resort—that means luxury service and amenities without the cramped rooms. The Fairmont earns family-friendly points for its expansive pool area and its location on Polo Beach in Wailea, which is great for boogie boarding and snorkeling. Meanwhile, couples will appreciate the Fairmont’s many dining options, cultural activities, and award-winning spa.

 

Wailea Beach Villas

Nestled between name-brand resorts on Wailea Beach, the Wailea Beach Villas are one of the best-kept luxury secrets on Maui. This gated, beachfront community sits in the heart of Wailea, with easy access to the Shops at Wailea and some of the island’s best dining. Spacious multi-bedroom villas come with full kitchens, lanais, and resort-style amenities. It’s a perfect stress-free introduction to Maui that blends the comfort of a villa with the perks of a high-end resort.

 

Mid-Budget $$

 

Mana Kai

Five-star views at a mid-budget price? Say less. Mana Kai Maui is a fantastic choice for first-time visitors who want unbeatable beachfront views and easy access to Kihei and Wailea. Sitting directly on Keawakapu Beach, this condo-hotel blends the flexibility of full-kitchen condos with the convenience of hotel-style rooms and daily service. Wake up to sweeping ocean views, walk straight onto the sand, and enjoy on-site perks like a pool, general store, and beach rentals.

 

Wailea Ekahi

Tucked along Keawakapu Beach’s golden sands, Wailea Ekahi offers a serene escape amid swaying palms and ocean views. This low-rise beachfront resort features studio to two-bedroom condos with full kitchens and private lanais. Take advantage of the property’s four swimming pools, beachfront pavilion, and peaceful garden setting just steps from shore. Wailea Ekahi is an inviting blend of comfort and convenience in one of South Maui’s most sought-after locations.

 

Cost-Effective $

 

Maui Coast Hotel

For a versatile stay in South Maui, check out the Maui Coast Hotel. This Kihei hotel offers affordable, well-appointed rooms or upgraded luxury accommodations for a more elevated experience–all just steps from Kamaole Beach Park I. On-site amenities include a lively pool area with bar service, restaurants, a modern fitness center, and pickleball courts. With walkable access to beaches, dining, and shopping, plus Wailea just minutes away, it’s an ideal home base for every style of Maui traveler.

 

Kihei Akahi

Kihei Akahi is a great-value condo resort located just across the street from Kamaole II Beach Park, one of South Kihei’s sunniest and most swim-friendly beaches. The complex offers two pools, tennis courts, BBQ areas, spacious condos, many with full kitchens and private lanais. Its peaceful setting feels tucked away from the road, yet restaurants, shops, and beaches are all just minutes on foot. With roomy two-bedroom layouts and a central South Maui location, it’s an ideal launch point for all sorts of Maui adventures.

 

We hope you found this blog helpful, but more importantly, we hope to see you here on Maui soon!