Where is the best place to stay for your Maui adventure? It’s hard to go wrong! Every area on the island has its pros and cons (see below) but the good news is that soft, sandy beaches and lush tropical adventures are close at hand no matter what you choose.
Maui has survived its devastating 2023 wildfire and is back to happily welcoming guests. Just don’t base in Lahaina as it was flattened in the fire and is still in the early stages of rebuilding.
Here are my best suggestions for where to stay in Maui…
There are five main areas to choose from when deciding on the best area to stay in Maui:
(1) South Maui,
(2) West Maui
3) Along the Road to Hana (or in Hana),
4) Central Maui or
(5) Upcountry.
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Best Places to Stay in Maui
Where you stay will depend upon your Maui itinerary. For instance, if you’re mostly interested in beaches and resort time, you’ll want to stick to South and West Maui.
If your goal is to see as much of Maui as you can—while minimizing drive time (and yes, commuter hour traffic jams)—I recommend you consider choosing two bases as I often do.
Even if you’re on island for just 7 days, it can be a great experience to reserve two nights near Hana after a few days of beach time in South or West Maui.
If you’re looking to see Maui on a budget, you’ll find the best deals on lodgings in central Maui and Upcountry.
Keep reading for complete details on each of these areas.
Read more on Maui travel:
• Best condos in Kihei, Maui
• Where to stay in Lahaina, Maui
• Top Hawaii travel tips
• 35 Places you must see in Hawaii
How to Rent a Car on Maui
My top two recommendations are:
1. Discover Cars has no hidden fees, 24/7 customer service, and free cancellation. They search all the major rental car companies so you don’t have to.
Check price and availability on rental cars here.
2. Turo is like Airbnb for cars. It saved us $$$ during the pandemic on our Hawaii rentals when rental car prices were sky high.
Where to Stay in South Maui (Kihei and Wailea)
This is one of travelers’ favorite areas to stay on Maui, for both couples and families.
And it’s easy to see why. With epic beaches, tons of sunshine, great snorkeling and diving, you can’t go wrong. Hanging at the stunning beaches are one of the very best activities on Maui!
Plus, there are plenty of food trucks in this area and roadside boutiques selling bikinis and beach essentials as well as convenient snorkel rentals. Lots of popular day tours leave from here!
Pros of staying in South Maui:
• South Maui is the driest and sunniest place you’ll find on the island if you’re looking to minimize rain.
• Maui’s south shore offers quick access to absolutely stunning beaches. Lots of families congregate here due to the easy beach access from the many condos and hotels just opposite Kamaole Beaches I, II, and III.
• Makena Landing near here is great for scuba diving.
• Wailea (just a little south of Kihei) is home to many stunning oceanside resorts, including the Andaz Maui Wailea Resort and Grand Wailea Maui. “Wailea” is named after the goddess of canoe builders (Water of Lea).
Tip: Even if you don’t stay at one of these resorts, be sure to stop for sunset cocktails or a meal. These resorts are gorgeous!
>> See my list of the best 17 condos and vacation rentals in Kihei here.
(Or check prices on South Maui hotels here.)
Cons of staying in South Maui:
• The main downside of South Maui is its popularity. All those consistently sunny days and gorgeous beaches mean you’ll be sharing them with lots of other tourists. Kihei can be jammed with tourist traffic (but not always).
Still, if you’re more of an “off-the-beaten-path” type of traveler, south Maui might not be for you.
• This area is also not as lush as the rainforested east side of the island (which yes, also means plenty of rain over there). Keep that in mind if you’re envisioning tropical hikes in a bamboo forest and impressive waterfalls.
The Top 3 Things You Need to Pack for Maui
• Go Pro—The #1 thing I wished I’d brought on my first Maui visit.
• Turkish beach towel—Welcome to your new favorite towel.
• Keen shoes—For crossing streams, muddy hikes, and avoiding sharp coral in the ocean. (It’s the most popular single item readers buy on my list of essential things to bring to Maui.)
Here are my picks for South Maui:
1. Luxury Oceanfront Kihei Condo — Kihei Surfside Resort
Located in south Kihei, near the entrance to swank Wailea, Kihei Surfside Resort #604 is in the perfect location. It’s oceanside and set back from busy Kihei Road so it’s peaceful here.
This oceanfront condo offers a spectacular ocean view from the kitchen, living room, dining room, and lanai. The kitchen and master bath decor are cherry wood.
Plus, a recent upgrade now includes air conditioning. With one bedroom (king bed) and a sofa bed, it sleeps four. Comes with two baths.
Listen to the waves crash. Watch sea turtles as you sip your morning coffee. It doesn’t get better than this!
Best for: Luxury-loving couples, honeymooners, solo explorers, and even small families.
Guest review: “Perfect Location, Perfect Beach. This building is on the BEST beach in all of Maui!”—Nicole K.
Check price and availability on Kihei Surfside Resort #604 here.
2. Hyatt’s Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort
Looking for world-class luxury in South Maui?
Check into the Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort.
With its upscale and luxurious amenities, It’s one of the best places to stay in Wailea. Located on 15 acres of beachfront property with four infinity pools, two restaurants, and a full-service spa, you might never want to leave!
Plus, you’re only a ten-minute walk away from all the beautiful Shops at Wailea, too.
Best for: luxury lovers.
Guest review: “We particularly loved the breakfast buffet, the tiered pools, and the complimentary recreational activities. All in all it was truly a wonderful stay and when we left we kept thinking about how much we missed being there!”
— Braunschweiger
Check prices and availability at the Andaz Maui here.
3. Boutique Beachfront Penthouse
Drift to sleep in this cozy condo as you’re serenaded by the lapping waves. This one-bedroom penthouse sleeps three and includes one bedroom.
Recently renovated, it includes a plush Cal King bed, stainless steel appliances, and whisper-quiet air conditioning.
This penthouse is located directly on Sugar Beach, a four mile stretch of sand that includes the Kealia Pond National Wildlife Refuge.
The complex includes a pool, air conditioning and HD TV. Plus, it’s fully stocked with snorkel gear, beach chairs, beach umbrella, and an ice chest.
Best for: Solo travelers and couples looking for good value in a beachfront stay.
Guest review: “10/10. A beach lover’s dream! This condo is all about the wonderful location. The beach is your backyard and the views from every room will take your breath away.”
— Lori C.
Check price and availability at the boutique beachfront penthouse here.
Where to Stay in West Maui (Lahaina, Ka’anapali, Kapalua)
West Maui is home to plenty of luxury resorts (even more so than Wailea), golfing, and dramatic Maui beaches. Kaanapali Beach, known for its clear water and soft white sand, is here.
Note: Historic Lahaina used to be a favorite tourist base with its art galleries, boutiques, and restaurants. Sadly, however, in August 2023 a massive wildfire leveled this area. A year or more later, Lahaina is still early in its renovation efforts and not ready to welcome visitors. The rest of the island would love to have you though!
Past Lahaina is Ka’anapali and its master-planned Kaanapali Beach Resort.
Make beach time a serious priority here and walk the boardwalk to admire the dramatic coastline as waves crash onto the volcanic rock here. (Plus, there’s a bird refuge!)
Keep heading up Maui’s north shore and arrive at exclusive Kapalua for more beautiful luxury resorts, including The Ritz-Carlton and Kapalua Resorts. The Kapalua Wine & Food Festival happens here.
Pros of staying in West Maui:
• Beautiful beaches: West Maui has some of the most scenic beaches in Maui, including Kaanapali Beach, Napili Bay, and Kapalua Beach.
• Great resorts and vacation rentals. You’ll find some of the best accommodation options on island here, from luxurious oceanfront villas to cozy beach cottages.
• The west area is likely the best place to stay in Maui for couples and luxury lovers. Budget options are still available here, however.
• Great restaurants and best nightlife are in West Maui.
• Many popular day tours leave from the Lahaina Harbor (like whale watching tours). That means less early AM driving to arrive on time!
>> See my list of the best 12 Lahaina condos and villas here (or West Maui hotels and resorts here.)
Con of staying in West Maui:
• The biggest downside is that west Maui is less central (more driving) to other areas on the island.
This can be particularly painful at rush hour due to the congestion resulting from the smallish single road (one lane each way) that connects west Maui to everywhere else you want to go.
Be aware that it’s an hour’s drive between Kapalua at the northern tip of the island down to Kihei near the northern part of South Maui. (And that’s with no traffic.) And that’s not even including more drive time to get to the beginning of the Road to Hana.
• You’ll also find crowds here, but not like in Kihei!
• It can be windier and rainier here than South Maui, especially in winter.
Here are my picks for West Maui:
1. Luxury Resort in Kapalua
Montage Kapalua Bay is your Hawaiian fantasy come to life!
Settle into a spacious suite in this 24-acre resort nestled into picturesque Kapalua Bay. If you’re looking for places to stay in Maui on the beach, go here. It’s just a seven-minute walk to Kapalua Golf Club.
Explore the property by bicycle, hit the tennis courts or relax at the spa. Go windsurfing. This property has every amenity.
Best for: Couples and families looking for a bucket list accommodation in West Maui.
Guest review: “The resort was amazing from the moment we set foot. The initial view was breathtaking. The suite was extremely spacious (family of 5) and extremely quiet! The balcony looking out to the ocean was absolutely wonderful.“
—Yvonne
Check prices and availability at Montage Kapalua Bay here.
Where to Stay on the Hana Highway (Paia and Hana)
While most visitors to Maui drive the famous Hana Highway, the majority do it as day trip.
But here’s the thing: If you overnight somewhere along the Hana Highway or in Hana itself, you’ll have it all to yourself after day trippers depart. If you love active adventures with fewer crowds, spend at least part of your Maui stay here.
Either way, driving the Hana Highway—either on your own or on a day tour—is must-do Maui! This is a bucket list drive with incredibly scenic ocean views and plenty of worthwhile stops.
Day trippers find that if they leave early and make only brief stops, they can make it about halfway to Hana, turn around and be back on the west side of the island at nightfall after dark.
>> Check prices and availability on Hana Highway stays here (or Hana hotels here).
Most visitors underestimate how much there is to do and see on the Road to Hana and wind up missing some wonderful opportunities in their quest to squeeze it in as a day trip. (Me included!)
So if this is your first trip, consider basing here for a few idyllic days instead. Or, if you’ve been to Maui before and are wondering what to do on your return visit to the island, more time on the Hana Highway or Hana itself is a great idea.
This is 64 miles of two-lane highway that connect Kahalui and Paia with Hana in the southeast corner of the island. Think black sand beaches, food trucks, hiking in bamboo forests, and beautiful botanical gardens…and that’s just for starters.
Pros of staying near Hana:
• Miss all the traffic on your return from Hana to South or West Maui after your overnight stay.
• Plenty of time to explore places like Ohe’o Gulch, known as the Seven Sacred Pools and Pipiwai Trail, past Hana. These sights are worth a full day and therefore can be challenging to fit in on a day trip from the other side of the island.
Cons of staying near Hana:
• If this is your first visit to Maui and you are pressed for time with everything to see, Hana is too remote for a base. Focus on the “beachy” areas near south and west Maui instead. But still drive Road to Hana as a day trip!
• It can be rainy here…which also means fabulous, gushing waterfalls. Use caution when hiking as dangerous flash floods can occur.
Here are my picks for where to stay on the Road to Hana:
1. Heavenly Hana Hideway Overlooking Hana Bay
Ogle the black sand beach from this unique and cozy two bedroom, two bath getaway at the edge of Hana Bay. It’s just 1,000 feet to the sand! If you’re overnighting in Hana, this is the place to stay.
Bedroom 1 has a king bed and bedroom 2 has a queen with an additional sleeper sofa in the livng room to sleep six.
This is the spirit of Aloha in unspoiled Hawaii at its very finest. Hardwood floors and bamboo cabinetry give way to panoramic ocean views out the window.
Best for: Two couples, friends, and families.
Guest review: “Excellent! The pictures and description were spot on. Very clean, so close to the water and spectacular views! We had a great couple days with friends and couldn’t have been happier about the location, accommodations and helpfulness of the staff at check-in. What an amazing place!”
— Henri S.
Check price and availability on the Heavanly Hana Hideaway here.
2. Hana Maui Luxury Resort in Hana (by Hyatt)
Looking for a top-notch base for exploring the area near Hana?
Stay at everyone’s favorite Hana hotel: The Hana Maui Resort! Suites come with fully equipped kitchen, terraces with ocean views, and 70 acres of lush tropical gardens to explore.
Between the wellness classes, lei making, and mixology classes onsite, you may never leave!
Best for: Luxury lovers who want to spend one or more days exploring Hana at the end of the Road to Hana (instead of day-tripping).
Guest review: “Stunning location and facilities. The pool was splendid. Amazing views of the beach and rocky cliffs. The garden is lovely, staff very friendly.”
—Pietro
Check prices and availability at Hana Maui Resort here.
3. Oceanview Oasis at Hana Kai Resort
This gorgeous one bedroom unit in Hana Kai Maui’s upper building accommodates one to four guests with a king bed and a queen bed.
You’ll likely be spending all your time on your private lanai admiring the jaw-dropping panoramic views of the bay and black sand beach here.
Wood beams, recessed lighting, and hardwood floors throughout welcome you home after a long day snorkeling Hana’s intimate beaches and exploring hidden areas that day trippers just won’t see. It’s just 100 feet to the water’s edge!
Best for: One to two couples or a small family. Bedrooms 1 and 2 feature queen beds while bedroom 3 includes a bunk bed.
Guest review: “Awesome place. Great location overlooking a black sand beach. It was a perfect way to break up our round trip around the island.”
— Tracy R.
Check prices and availability at the oceanview oasis here.
Where to Stay in Central Maui (Kahului and Wailuku)
This is the area of the island everyone crisscrosses between the famous west coast and Hana Highway to the east. It’s close to the airport with easy access everywhere. Best for budget travelers who want convenience.
You’ll likely pass through Central Maui on your way to the airport and then again on your way back from beaches in West and South Maui.
>> Check prices and availability on Central Maui condos here (or central Maui hotels here).
Be sure to visit lush Iao Valley State Park here as well…but be aware that advance reservations are now required.
The state park, just at the base of the West Maui Mountains, offers 400 acres of lush valley for hiking and the opportunity to ogle the famous Iao Needle, a particularly striking and thin mountain peak rising out of the valley here.
Cute little Wailuku is where Maui’s county government is based. You’ll fall in love with the adorable boutiques and mom and pop establishments that have been here for generations.
Kahului is, of course, home to Maui’s main airport, but also hosts a swap meet, the Maui Arts and Cultural Center, and the Maui Sunday market.
Pros of staying in central Maui:
• If you can stay near the Iao Valley, this is an idyllic location for a base on Maui. You can conveniently access just about anywhere on island.
• Wailuku feels cozy.
• Budget travelers will enjoy the hostel scene in Central Maui.
• Staying here is a great way to minimize drive time to spend more time on the Road to Hana or Mount Haleakala or if you want to be close to the airport for a flight.
Cons of staying in central Maui:
• This is not an area to stay if you’re looking for ocean views. It’s not far to the beach but it’s also not oceanfront.
• It’s not a popular base for most visitors to Maui, simply because it’s not oceanfront. It’s more of an industrial area.
Here are my picks for Central Maui:
1. Hawaiian Dream Temple
This lush eco-designed Asian-style bamboo temple is rated as one of the top 7 best places to go glamping in Hawaii! And it’s easy to see why.
With 1,800 square feet of covered living space here in tropical Haiku, two bedrooms (two queens) and one bathroom, it can sleep six. Custom kitchen included as well.
The best part of your day here? Listening to the birds chirp as you unwind on the wrap-around deck and soak in the private hot tub.
If you can tear yourself away from the 40 foot fresh water swimming pool and the lava rock waterfall that gurgles next to the meditation gazebo, you’ll be just minutes from waterfalls, hiking trails, and ziplining adventures…not to mention The Road to Hana and Haleakala Crater.
Best for: One to two couples (two queen beds) or small family. (Sleeps six.)
Guest review: “In our 50 years together, my husband (retired pilot) and I have traveled the world…but THIS place…OMG THIS place is ‘it’. It was all divine, magical.” —Mike & Lilian, Georgia
Check prices and availability on the Hawaiian Dream Temple here.
2. Iao Valley Inn in Wailuku
Wake up to a rainbow over the West Maui mountains every morning here! Just two miles from Iao Valley State Park, the Iao Valley Inn feels far removed from the tourist fray with absolutely no compromise in quality.
Visitors rate it a 9.7 for location—It’s quiet and rural but central to everything you want to do. The Iao Valley Inn oozes aloha.
Best for: Small families and couples.
Guest review: “Tamara and Bob have a hidden gem here! They were so kind, welcoming and attentive. The location is amazing and very peaceful. My wife and I loved to explore the property and sit by the river. The breakfasts provided were perfect and so yummy!”
–Kory
Check prices and availability on the Iao Valley Inn here. (Book early! This place fills up fast.)
3. Courtyard Marriott near the Airport
If you like the idea of a 5-minute drive to Kahului Airport, Courtyard Marriott is the place for you! An on-site fitness center and hot tub make this a no-brainer for families looking for convenience.
Plus, it’s just a 26-minute drive to Haleakala and five minutes to Hoaloha Park beaches.
Best for: Families looking for a spot convenient to the airport.
Guest review: “The staff at this hotel are AWESOME! Everyone was very friendly and helpful!”
Check prices and availability on Courtyard Marriott by the airport here.
Where to Stay in Upcountry (Haleakala and Kula)
Upcountry is rural Maui, also in the middle of the island, just south of Central Maui.
While it’s not a typical tourist choice for a base, you’ll meet more locals than tourists here and enjoy easy access everywhere.
It’s a wonderful area to stay in for travelers who love to be off-the-beaten-path experiences. You’ll meet more locals than tourists here, with easy access to all points on the island.
>> Check prices and availability on upcountry vacation rentals here.
Upcountry Maui is local’s Maui away from the beaches.
In fact, Hawaiians have been farming taro and sweet potatoes in this fertile heartland of green rolling hills and drifting fog for generations. (Look for cowboys! Seriously.)
You’ll inevitably pass through here on your way to Haleakala even if you don’t stay here as you pass rural outposts and goat farms. Upcountry is more than just a place; it’s a way of life.
Pros of staying in Upcountry:
• Upcountry feels authentic…like old Hawaii.
• It’s peaceful here!
• The weather is often cooler in this region, especially when summer temps are soaring on other parts of the island.
Cons of staying in Upcountry:
• You’ll find fewer views and no oceanfront in Upcountry.
• There’s no nightlife and far fewer restaurants here. It’s not really geared to tourists.
Here are my picks for Upcountry:
1. Private Cottage on the Slopes of Haleakala in Kula
Nestled on the slopes of Haleakala, this private home on the slopes of Haleakala boasts a multi-island view! You’ll look out onto the West Maui Mountains, Lanai, and Molokai.
It’s a newly constructed two bed, one bath home in a gated area with 2.4 acres of farmland with stunning panoramic ocean views.
Think vaulted ceilings, hardwood floors, granite countertops, and luxury linens.
Best for: One or two couples or a small family as it includes one king and one queen bed.
Guest review: “Exceeds expectations! We will never forget our time at this Kula cottage in the clouds. Priceless views and impeccable hospitality and amenities. A++.”
— Kandi K.
Check prices and availability for the Kula cottage here.
2. Howzi Hostels in Historic Wailuku
If you’re looking for value on a serious budget, had to Howzit Hostels in Wailuku. Staying at a hostel can be a really satisfying experience as there’s a built in group to join for socializing and activities.
You’ll find a 24 hour front desk, shared lounge, shared kitchen, private parking, and a terrace.
You can choose from your own private room or suite with a queen bed or—if you’re really trying to keep costs down—nab a bed in one of the all-female or mixed dormitory rooms.
Best for: A couple or solo traveler on a budget.
Guest review: “It’s like a big family if you stay for a few days. The free pancakes and coffee in the morning are AMAZING! They also have a WhatsApp group where you can chat with other guests to see if they want to go somewhere…have a spare seat in their car…anything!”
—Jan
Check prices and availability Howzit Hostels here.
Maui: Where to Stay
The best to stay in Maui is the place that calls to you! Whether you’re looking for a hotel near Kahului Airport, a South Maui condo or the best beach hotels in Maui, your stay promises to be everything you’ve dreamed and more.
Maui will call you back again and again after a first visit…leaving lots of opportunities to explore a different base on the island each time.
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