Supporting local businesses is important in any community. On Maui, visitors have the opportunity to support local at every turn – from tours and restaurants down to grocery stores and farmers markets.
But there is one area where supporting local requires a bit more research: accommodations. While Maui’s hotels and resorts provide plenty of jobs, they are not locally owned. The same is true for many Maui vacation rentals. However, that’s not to say there are no locally owned accommodations on Maui.
There are a number of fantastic options, and we’ve got the scoop on some of the best locally-owned places to stay. All are completely legal and permitted (as are all on our site). Below,
you’ll find ten of our favorite local-owned accommodations to support on Maui.
8 Local-Owned Accommodations to Support on Maui
Kihei Kai Nani #125
There’s a lot to love about Kihei Kai Nani #125 — from its affordable price to its prime location across the street from Kamaole Beach II. This unit is one bedroom, one bath, and can sleep up to four guests.
The unit itself features a full kitchen, WiFi, and beach gear for guest use. Plus, the property has a great community atmosphere and plenty of opportunities to meet other visitors — or perhaps even the condo owners themselves! Enjoy games of shuffleboard, lounge by the pool, put the BBQ grills to good use, or explore the amazing nearby beaches and restaurants.
Kihei is also a haven for local businesses, with plenty of opportunities to shop at farmers’ markets and locally-owned shops and restaurants. Explore additional incentives for choosing Kihei as your destination in our blog 8 Reasons to Stay in Kihei.
Pacific Paradise Maui
The aptly named Pacific Paradise Maui is a four-bed, four-bath contemporary retreat tucked just above the fabled Kaʻanapali Beach. Here, luxury meets island style. When you’re not out exploring all Kaʻanapali has to offer, you’ll love lazing by your private saltwater pool or enjoying the fresh air in the garden-side lanai.
Beyond Pacific Paradise’s luxury digs, you’ll find countless things to do just a short walk or drive away. Shop at Whalers Village, dine at some of Kaʻanapali’s best restaurants, snorkel at Black Rock, or learn to surf at Kaʻanapali Point. LEarn more in our 8 Reasons to Stay in Ka’anapali blog.
Iao Valley Inn Cottage
Iao Valley Inn is one of Maui’s best hidden gems. Even though Iao Valley is one of Maui’s top attractions, there are very few visitor accommodations in the area – making Iao Valley Inn a secluded, one-of-a-kind escape.
Iao Valley Inn Cottage is ideal for those who want to escape the noise of Maui’s busy tourism areas and experience authentic Hawaii. Privacy is offered in spades here – and the cottage features deluxe amenities like a full kitchen, private gazebo, and hot tub. (If you don’t need an entire cottage to yourself, Iao Valley Inn also has two B&B suites.) Here, you’ll wake up to beautiful views of the West Maui Mountains and the soothing sound of the Iao Stream flowing just steps away.
Iao Valley Inn is also a short drive from Wailuku Town – a hub for local businesses and mom-and-pop restaurants. Supporting local is easy here!
Aloha AKU Inn & Suites
Some places just have a special feeling about them. Aloha AKU Inn and Suites is one of those places. This locally-owned inn is conveniently located near Azeka Shopping Center in Kihei, yet it feels like a world away from the hustle and bustle of South Maui.
There are four serene one-bedroom units here, plus a two-bedroom suite. The property is situated overlooking a quiet patch of beach in North Kihei, adjacent to a nature reserve with some of the tallest mangrove trees in the state. Translation: tranquility abounds at Aloha AKU.
The units feature island decor, kitchenettes, and private lanais. On the property, you can enjoy an oceanfront lawn, dipping pool, hot tub, and use of water toys like SUP boards. Continental breakfast is also included each morning!
Dreams Come True on Maui
For a taste of local living, stay at Dreams Come True on Maui. This charming property is located in a quiet neighborhood near Wailea and offers a dose of island-style hospitality.
The owners live on-site and are there to help you make the most of your Maui getaway – whether by directing you to the best nearby beaches or delivering a continental breakfast to your room each morning.
Dreams Come True on Maui features two B&B-style suites and a one-bedroom cottage. All guests have access to a communal deck with unparalleled ocean and sunset views. Plus, there are plenty of beach toys available for use – like snorkel gear, boogie boards, and beach umbrellas – which you can put to good use at beaches just down the road.
Hana Guest Homes
Whether you want to experience a more relaxed side of Maui or simply extend your road to Hana adventure, consider a stay at Hale Ulu Lulu or Hale Manu. These local-owned guest homes are located just three miles from Hana Town.
Choose between the one-bedroom Hale Ulu Lulu or the two-bedroom Hale Manu – both with full kitchens, washers/dryers, beach supplies, and more. Come here to unplug from the outside world or tap into your adventurous side. There are endless adventures to be had in Hana. Explore beaches, hikes, waterfalls, lava tubes, farms, and national and state parks – all within a short drive of the property.
You’ll also have plenty of opportunities to support local businesses in Hana, from food trucks and fruit stands to East Maui’s oldest general store!
Huge mahalo for reading and caring about our Maui community. Keep your eyes out for a blog to come about locally-owned property management companies that supply our community with jobs and operate with Maui’s best interest in mind.
Whaler 159
And finally, stay at Whaler Resort 159, a local-owned 1-bedroom ground-floor unit nestled within The Whaler Resort, an award-winning oceanfront property on iconic Kaanapali Beach. Adjacent to Whalers Village, Maui’s largest outdoor shopping mall, indulge in the convenience of proximity to vibrant restaurants, boutiques, and entertainment, all just steps away from your doorstep.
Embrace direct beach access from our lanai and immerse yourself in the beauty of the island. Plus, discover the charm of our upgraded condo, showcasing recent remodels to our master bathroom and vanity area, ensuring a comfortable and memorable stay immersed in local hospitality.
Happy travels!
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