Suggestions on location/lodging

Question

Hello - We are a family of 4 traveling to Maui the end of March. Two kids 4 and 8. I anticipate we will explore the island and beaches each day. I am looking for help on choosing a location and lodging. Some things I would like:

Walkable to local restaurants

1 or 2 bedroom w kitchen- suite/villa/condo

Resort amenities - nice pool, poolside service

Beachfront, preferably calmer waves

Thanks!

Answer

It sounds like you're planning an exciting family trip to Maui! With young kids and a desire for convenience and relaxation, it’s important to choose a location that allows easy access to local attractions, offers family-friendly accommodations, and has calm, safe beaches. Based on your preferences, here are some great suggestions for locations and lodging in Maui:

Best Areas to Stay in Maui for Families: For a family-friendly vacation with walkable access to restaurants, calm beaches, and resort amenities, the following areas are great options:

Wailea: This upscale area is perfect for families looking for a resort feel with a more relaxed atmosphere. It's home to some of the island's best resorts with calm beaches, such as Wailea Beach, which is ideal for kids due to its shallow waters and gentle waves. There are also plenty of options for beachfront condos and suites with kitchens. Wailea has several great restaurants within walking distance, and many resorts in this area offer pools, poolside service, and amenities geared toward families.
Kaanapali: Located on the western side of Maui, Kaanapali has long been a favorite for families. It offers a wide range of lodging options, including resorts with kitchen suites and condos. The area features several beachfront properties with calm waters, such as Baby Beach or Kaanapali Beach, which are perfect for young children. The resort area is walkable to restaurants, shops, and activities, making it convenient for families who don’t want to drive everywhere.
Kihei: Kihei is a more laid-back town with many affordable and family-friendly options. The beaches here, like Kamaole Beach Parks, are known for their calm waters and are great for younger swimmers. Kihei also offers a variety of vacation rentals with kitchens and poolside amenities. It’s more casual than Wailea or Kaanapali but offers a good mix of dining, beaches, and activities.

Lodging Recommendations: For a family of four, especially with young children, you’ll want accommodations that offer a kitchen, plenty of space, and great amenities. Here are a few options to consider:

The Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort (Wailea): This luxury resort offers spacious suites and villas, many with kitchenettes or full kitchens. It’s right on Wailea Beach, which has calm waters and is perfect for kids. The resort features multiple pools, a lazy river, water slides, and a kids' club. The property is also walkable to several restaurants and shops.
The Westin Maui Resort & Spa (Kaanapali): The Westin is a family-friendly resort located on Kaanapali Beach. It has spacious suites with kitchenettes, a large pool area with a shallow kids’ pool, and access to the beach. The resort is also within walking distance to restaurants and shops at the Whalers Village.
Ho’olei at Grand Wailea (Wailea): If you're looking for more privacy and space, Ho’olei offers 2-3 bedroom villas with full kitchens, spacious living areas, and private lanais. This is ideal if you prefer a more home-like setting but still want resort amenities. The villas are a short walk to the beach and the resort’s pools.
Wailea Ekahi Village (Wailea): This beachfront condo complex offers one- and two-bedroom units with full kitchens. It’s located right on the calm waters of Keawakapu Beach, perfect for young swimmers. The complex features several pools, and the property is walkable to nearby shops and restaurants. It’s a more relaxed, condo-style lodging option if you prefer less resort-like but still high-quality amenities.
Mana Kai Maui (Kihei): If you’re looking for a quieter, less commercialized option, Mana Kai Maui offers beachfront condos with kitchens and easy access to the beach. The beach is ideal for children due to its gentle surf, and the property has a pool, restaurant, and convenient access to nearby dining and shopping.

Other Tips: - Many resorts and condo complexes in Maui, especially in the Wailea and Kaanapali areas, provide excellent family-friendly amenities like kids’ clubs, family pool areas, and easy access to calm beaches. - For calm waters and kid-friendly beaches, look for locations like Wailea Beach, Makena Beach, Kaanapali Beach, and Kamaole Beach Parks. - Check if the resort or condo has a kids' club, children’s activities, or poolside services like snack bars, as these can be very helpful when traveling with kids.

In summary, Wailea, Kaanapali, and Kihei are all excellent areas for families, and there are plenty of options for beachfront properties with kitchens and family-friendly amenities. You’re sure to find the perfect spot for your family to enjoy a relaxing and fun-filled vacation in Maui!