Family of five at Maui resorts

Question

Hi, we are family of five, two adults, three kids (7,5,2) looking at Hyatt Regency or other resorts in Maui. Has anyone had experience at the Hyatt or similar resorts being able to book a single room with five people? I spoke to front desk and they seemed to think since youngest is 2 it might be ok but told me to check back with reservationist. Don't want to violate any policies.

Answer

For a family of five, including young children, booking a single room at resorts like the Hyatt Regency in Maui can sometimes be a bit tricky, depending on the resort's policies and room configurations. It's great that you're checking with the front desk and reservationist in advance, as these details can vary depending on the specific room type and the resort’s policies at the time. Here's some general advice based on experiences of other families and what you might expect:

1. Room Size and Bedding: Many resorts, including the Hyatt Regency, have rooms designed to accommodate families, but room configurations for five people can be a bit limited. Rooms that have two queen beds or a king bed with a rollaway bed might be an option for families of five, but it’s important to confirm that the resort will allow an extra rollaway or crib, especially since your youngest is only 2 years old. Some resorts may charge an additional fee for a rollaway bed or crib, or for the extra occupant (even if the child is under a certain age).

2. Policies on Extra Guests: Resorts typically allow young children under a certain age to stay for free if they share bedding with parents, but once your children reach a certain age, extra charges may apply. Since your youngest is only 2, you might be able to book a single room, but it would be best to confirm with the reservation desk whether the policy applies to your situation. If they do allow a room for five, make sure to request a room type that can comfortably accommodate five, such as a larger suite or one with a sofa bed or additional bedding options.

3. Larger Suites or Family Rooms: If booking a single room is challenging, consider looking for a suite or family room. Many resorts, including the Hyatt Regency, offer suites that are larger and can comfortably accommodate families of five. These suites often have separate sleeping areas, kitchenettes, and more space for everyone to spread out. Booking a suite might be more expensive than a standard room, but it can offer more comfort and convenience, especially for a longer stay.

4. Alternative Resorts and Villas: If the Hyatt Regency doesn’t work out for a single room, you might want to consider other family-friendly resorts or vacation rentals. Some resorts, like the Westin Ka’anapali Ocean Resort Villas or Fairmont Kea Lani, offer villa-style accommodations with more space, including kitchens and separate bedrooms. These types of properties can be perfect for larger families as they offer more room to spread out and often come with extra amenities like full kitchens, laundry facilities, and private balconies.

Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa – Family-friendly, but may need a larger room or suite for five people.
Westin Ka’anapali Ocean Resort Villas – Offers villa-style accommodations with kitchens and multiple bedrooms, ideal for families.
Fairmont Kea Lani – Another excellent resort that offers spacious suites and villas for larger families.
Outrigger Maui Eldorado – Offers larger suites that are great for families needing extra space.

5. Communication with Reservations: Since your situation involves three children, it’s important to be clear with the reservationist about your family size and needs. Some resorts may have policies that are flexible, while others may require you to book additional rooms. Be sure to mention that your 2-year-old may still be able to share a bed with parents, which may allow you to stay in one room without violating their policies. Double-check whether any additional charges might apply for the fifth guest, especially for children under a certain age.

6. Special Offers or Family Packages: Many resorts offer family-friendly packages or discounts, so it might be worth asking about any promotions that include family accommodations. These packages may include extras like free meals for kids, access to kids' clubs, or discounts on additional rooms, which could make your stay more affordable and convenient.

In summary, it’s very likely you can book a single room for your family of five, especially since your youngest is 2, but it's always a good idea to confirm the specifics with the resort’s reservations department. If you have flexibility in room type or are open to booking a suite or villa, that could give you even more space and comfort. Be sure to clarify bedding options and any additional fees for extra guests. Maui has a number of family-friendly resorts and vacation rentals that can accommodate larger families, so you should have some great options to choose from.