Accommodation ideas for big family needing 4-5 bedrooms?

Question

Hi there,

Our family of 3, my brother-in-law’s family of 3, amd my inlaws would like to rent a place together, or potentially, 3 separate units or rooms next to each other. Both kids are 11 — one boy, one girl. My father-in-law has dementia (but functions pretty well with his meds) and my MIL has a hard time walking long distances so we are very interested in staying close together as a group to chaperone, be the designated driver, help them carry beach chairs, etc.

I think bang for the buck, it’s actually better value to rent a house rather than three individual units.

My inlaws stayed many times years ago at Ekahi Village and they are partial to it. We, on the other hand, find many units are aging and not that great, and we want 3 units next to each other, which won’t be easy. My inlaws don’t really like swank hotels, but they love Wailea with beach views, nice lawns and easy beach access. We’ve stayed at The Palms — that’s a ‘no’.

Any suggestions?

Answer

It sounds like you're planning a wonderful family trip, and finding the right accommodation that meets everyone’s needs is key, especially with such a large group and different preferences. Renting a house or multiple units in close proximity definitely seems like the best option in terms of convenience and value. Here are a few options to consider that could suit your family's needs in Wailea:

1. Renting a Private House or Villa

Given that you're looking for 4-5 bedrooms, renting a private house or luxury villa could offer the space, privacy, and proximity you need. Many of the upscale properties in Wailea cater to large families and have multiple bedrooms, private pools, and easy beach access. This option would allow you to all stay together, with plenty of room for your father-in-law's needs and your mother-in-law’s limited mobility.

Wailea Beach Villas: A luxury property with multiple units available for larger groups. Each villa has ample space, and many offer beach views and easy beach access. They have 2-4 bedroom units, and you could potentially rent several side-by-side units to accommodate your group. The villas are well-appointed, and the complex is right on the beach.
Private Wailea Villas or Homes: Many private homes in Wailea have 4-5 bedrooms and offer amazing beachfront or ocean views. Websites like Vrbo and Airbnb offer large family homes with amenities like pools, large living spaces, and accessibility for people with mobility challenges. Some even provide golf carts for easy access around the property.
Ho'olei at Grand Wailea: If your family prefers a more resort-style experience with access to resort amenities like pools, fitness centers, and beach services, consider booking a villa at Ho'olei at Grand Wailea. They offer 2-4 bedroom villas with full kitchens, ideal for longer stays. Ho'olei has the benefit of being part of the Grand Wailea Resort, which offers close proximity to the beach and a more laid-back vibe compared to typical luxury resorts.

2. Condo Complexes with Multiple Units

If you want to stay in separate units but close to each other, some condo complexes offer multiple adjacent or nearby units. Many of the beachfront condos in Wailea are well-kept and have easy access to the beach, while still providing more of a "home" feel compared to a hotel. These could offer a great balance between having your own space and still being close together for family activities.

Ekahi Village: Though you mentioned concerns about aging units, Ekahi Village is still one of the most popular and affordable condo complexes in Wailea. It offers spacious 1-2 bedroom condos and is directly across the street from the beach. If you book early, there may be multiple units available close together. Ekahi is relatively close to shopping and restaurants and provides good beach access. However, it may not offer the “swank” feel you're looking for.
Wailea Elua Village: Another excellent option with spacious, well-maintained 1-3 bedroom units. Many of these are beachside, and some have stunning ocean views. It’s a more upscale choice compared to Ekahi Village, with beautiful grounds and a peaceful atmosphere.
Palms at Wailea: Since you’ve stayed at The Palms and decided it’s not the best fit, I won’t recommend it again, but other similar complexes in Wailea such as Wailea Beach Villas or Wailea Ekahi Village may have more options that better meet your needs.

3. Resort with Separate Suites or Rooms

If staying together in a single house or condo complex doesn't feel right, another option could be to rent multiple rooms or suites at a larger resort in Wailea. This option would give you access to resort amenities such as pools, restaurants, and concierge services while still keeping your group close. Many resorts in Wailea offer larger suites or connecting rooms for families.

The Fairmont Kea Lani: This is an all-suite resort, which might be ideal for families. The suites are spacious, with living areas and kitchenettes, and the resort offers various family-friendly amenities. They also offer 2-3 bedroom suites that could comfortably house your family, and the resort's proximity to the beach is a big plus.
Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort: Another resort that might work for your family is the Grand Wailea. It has a mix of rooms and villas, with family suites and connecting rooms. This resort has multiple dining options, kids' activities, and easy beach access, although it’s on the larger side compared to some others in Wailea.
Andaz Maui at Wailea: This is a smaller, more boutique-style resort that offers beautiful beachfront access. It has several room types and could accommodate your group by booking adjoining rooms or suites. The resort’s pool, restaurants, and fitness facilities are also excellent, and it’s right on the beach.

Things to Consider:

Accessibility: Since your father-in-law has dementia and your mother-in-law has mobility challenges, make sure to inquire about properties with accessible entrances and elevators. Some resorts or villas will have wheelchairs available, and others might offer amenities like golf carts for easy transport around the property.
Beach Access: Wailea beaches are all beautiful, but some can have more rocky entries or stronger currents. Be sure to choose a place with easy, safe access to the water, especially if your in-laws want to sit by the beach and watch the waves.
Proximity to Dining and Shops: Wailea is a great area with shops, restaurants, and activities nearby. Consider how close the accommodation is to these amenities, as that will help you avoid unnecessary driving or walking long distances for meals, shopping, or sightseeing.

Based on your preferences, I would suggest either a private villa or renting multiple units at a luxury condo complex in Wailea. The Fairmont Kea Lani or the Ho'olei villas at Grand Wailea might be particularly appealing if you want a balance of family privacy, luxury, and accessibility. Either way, it sounds like your trip to Maui will be memorable, and I hope this helps narrow down your accommodation options!

Accommodation ideas for big family needing 4-5 bedrooms?

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