Where to Stay in Maui | Amazing Areas, Accommodation & Top Tips

Anyone who has visited Maui will tell you how incredible this Hawaiian island is, but why go by word of mouth? Find out where to stay in Maui and prepare for the adventure of a lifetime.

Named after the Polynesian deity Maui, the second-largest island in the archipelago definitely has a supernatural charm. Not afraid to show off its picturesque scenery, inviting climate, and blissful laid-back vibe, the island’s regions are each worthy of a spot on your Maui itinerary.

So, get ready for a journey to the Valley Isle with this guide to the island’s areas, suggested places to stay, and some top-tier tips.

Maui is ready. Are you?

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A Hawaiian Island Escape: The 5 Best Areas to Stay on Maui

Maui is the kind of place that you simply have to see to believe. While there’s no active volcano on the island, there’s so much to experience, see, and admire. Let’s dive into Maui’s fabulous areas and find your next home away from home.

South Maui

Including Kihei and Wailea Beach, South Maui offers pretty much everything you could want from a tropical island excursion. Oodles of natural beauty, a bounty of beautiful beaches, and plenty of outdoor activities, to name a few.  

Surprisingly, it’s more affordable than you’d think, and you’ll find a wider variety of budget-friendly Maui hotels here. Of course, there’s also a buffet of luxury beachfront resorts.

Luxury | Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

A place to see and be seen, the Four Seasons Resort Maui is as luxurious as it gets without being in your face about it. Perched along the bronze sand of Wailea Beach, its location is desirable, and it’s a standout beachfront resort.

There are 383 very spacious rooms and suites, with expansive en-suite bathrooms and in-room amenities galore. On-site, you’ll find some of the best restaurants in Maui and among the most spectacular infinity pools. >>> Check Availability.

Mid-Range | Hotel Wailea

You rarely find luxurious accommodations in the mid-range price bracket, yet the Hotel Wailea delivers that and more. Although it’s still pricey, compared to other worthwhile spots in the area, you get what you pay for.

This leafy boutique lodge rests on Haleakala Volcano’s western slopes. The property is spacious, with 72 bungalow-style suites. Features include electric bike rentals, tropical mixology classes, sound healing sessions, and aerial silk yoga. >>> Check Availability.

Budget | Grand Wailea

A classic setpiece of the Wailea landscape, the Grand Wailea entirely takes advantage of its enviable perch on Maui’s most beautiful beach. Popular with visitors from around the world, besides a great location, the resort is a visual treat.

Spanning 40 acres, the hotel has 776 guest rooms, ranging from single rooms to large suites, all equipped with amenities like Keurig coffee makers. On-site, there are seven restaurants, a massive spa, and daily yoga on the beach. >>> Check Availability.

The Best Things to Do in South Maui

• You’re in Maui, and the great beaches of the island call your name. Luckily, there are a few to choose from, but the best ones are Keawakapu, Wailea, and Ulua Beach.

• For something more unique, head to Hawaii Mermaid Adventures to enjoy an entire day learning how to be a mermaid (or merman).

• You can’t visit South Maui without attending a luau. This Hawaiian feast features live entertainment, and you must book a ticket to watch a show.

West Maui

For many first-time and return visitors, the best place to stay in Maui is West Maui, and as the most developed part of the island, that isn’t surprising. Highlighted by Kaanapali Beach and nestled close to both Kapalua Bay and Napili Bay, the west has a lot going for it.

While West Maui’s captivating natural beauty is second to none, its historic towns offer many amazing accommodation options. The region showcases something for every taste, from opulent 5-star properties to standout boutique hotels and even a handful of budget-friendly hotels to boot.

Mid-Range | Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa

A sprawling resort on the northern stretch of Ka’anapali, The Sheraton opened in 1963 as the second of its kind on Maui. Sitting firmly within the mid-range bracket, the Sheraton offers great value for money and more than a few luxury elements.

With more than 500 rooms to choose from, each features a central location to the swimming pools, white sand beaches, or captivating views of the ocean. Be sure to head for Mai Tai to enjoy a tremendous open-air lunch and, of course, a mai tai. >>> Check Availability.

Budget | Outrigger Ka’anapali Beach Hotel

A low-key, family-friendly property, the Outrigger sits right on the beach and promises ocean-focused fun at a budget-friendly price. Although it doesn’t feature what most luxury hotels in the area do, it does a great job of being a laid-back Hawaiian beach hotel.

There are 432 rooms available, each featuring the standard amenities you’d expect from this price bracket. Some noteworthy highlights include daily hula dancing at sunset and excellent snorkeling opportunities. >>> Check Availability.

Camping | Camp Olowalu

As amazing as the romantic resorts and luxurious hotels of Maui are, if you want to head into nature and experience epic camping, head for Camp Olowalu. Located along the West Maui Mountains, Olowalu offers 35 campsites, 21 tented bungalows, and six cabins.

Beyond the camping spots, the area is perfect for outdoor fun, including seasonal whale watching, cliff jumping, and paddle boarding. Reservations are required for all camping at Olowalu. >>> Find Out More.

The Best Things to Do in West Maui

• Head for Maalaea Harbor to experience some of the best things to do in Maui, from visiting Maui’s Aquarium to hopping on a sunset cruise.

• Avid hikers should make time to trek the Lahaina Pali Trail. This 10-mile out-and-back trail is perfect as an alternative to ocean excursions.

• Maui does beaches right, from a striking black sand beach to a golden sand stretch, but Ka’anapali Beach is the best and worthy of a visit.

Central Maui

As gorgeous as Maui’s coastline is, there’s plenty of eye-catching beauty within the more rural mountainscapes of central Maui. The commercial heart of the island, Central Maui, brims with affordable Maui accommodations, although options are limited. 

That said, there are still a few charming places to stay, and thanks to its location, this is one of the best areas to stay in Maui.

Mid-Range | Courtyard by Marriott Maui Kahului Airport

Designed with a contemporary style and a boatload of amenities, the Courtyard by Marriott Maui Kahului Aiport is one of the best accommodations in Central Maui. Thanks to its standout location and proximity to the airport, it’s a great choice for shorter visits.

Its 138 guest rooms are all climate-controlled and include standard mod-cons such as a dedicated workspace and an iPod docking station. On-site, you can grab a bite at The Bistro or plunge into the stunning outdoor pool. >>> Check Availability.

The Best Things to Do in Central Maui

• Spend some time visiting the Maui Arts & Cultural Center. The MACC prides itself on being a place to share creativity and celebrate art.

• Shoppers should set out an hour (or five) to roam through the Maui Swap Meet in Kahului, where you can pick up many souvenirs and local treats.

• Make sure to visit Iao Valley State Park. It’s incredibly beautiful, and you can learn about the island’s history while admiring its geological wonders.

North Shore

There’s no beating the sheer untamed, rugged, and rough landscapes and coastlines of Maui’s North Shore. While it’s most definitely the least-developed part of the island, that’s where its beauty lies.

If you’re looking for big-hitting resorts and lavish, often outlandish luxuries, you won’t find it here. Instead, it is a playground paradise for outdoor lovers and anyone looking to escape the world.

Mid-range | Lumeria Maui

A wellness retreat that resembles a remote farmhouse, Lumeria Maui is perfect for a unique stay without breaking the bank. Located in North Maui, this is far from a bustling, luxurious hotel, but it’s an idyllic island escape.

You’ll find just 24 Zen-like rooms with stunning courtyard views; some have (faraway) ocean views. Other standout features include a gourmet restaurant, a spa, and an outdoor yoga pavilion. >>> Check Availability.

Budget | Paia Inn

The Paia Inn is an independently owned property that fits perfectly into the Paia Town aesthetic. It shines with a bohemian vibe and style. This tiny, cream-colored building sits in the heart of town and is within walking distance of many of the town’s highlights.

Offering an intimate escape, its ten guest rooms are perfect for couples. Sizes range up to large suites, all featuring standard creature comfort amenities. On-site is the Vana restaurant, which is ideal for dinnertime, while the Paia Fish Market is nearby. >>> Check Availability. 

The Best Things to Do in North Shore

• If you want to explore Maui, specifically the North Shore, don’t skip a visit to Baldwin Beach Park. Its namesake beach is one of the island’s best, and it’s ideal for surfing.

• Take a few hours to roam through Paia Town, where you can indulge in some shopping or learn about the town past the museum.

• Are you focused on your wellness and spirituality? Attend a cleansing ceremony at the Temple of Peace on Haiku Raod, two minutes off Hana Highway.

East Maui

The eastern side of the island, split into two parts, is perfect if you’re looking for a more adventurous getaway to paradise. These two parts, the “Road to Hana” and Upcountry Maui, showcase very little development, making the region a fantastic spot to get blissfully lost in nature.

Luxury | Hana-Maui Resort (Travaasa)

While you can complete the Road to Hana as a day trip, where’s the fun in that? For this reason, it is best to spend the night in Hana and stay at the lavish Travaasa. It blends the natural beauty of the area with a refined stay experience, and it’s worth the splurge.

The property boasts 70 rooms, split between bungalows and, cottages, and condo complexes (of sorts). A unique element is the selection of five unique stays. Referred to as “pathways”, choose either adventure, culinary, culture, fitness, or wellness for a tailormade experience. >>> Check Availability.

Camping | Kipahulu, Hana – Haleakala National Park

Roughly nine miles past Hana Town on the Hana Highway, Kipahulu is situated at the “Seven Sacred Pools” overlooking ocean cliffs and a short walk from ‘Ohe’o Gulch. On offer are 21 camping sites split between RV and tent camping and three types of passes.

You can choose from either the Main Campground, which requires an advance booking, a spot in the Walk-in Site without reservation, or the Group Site. Around the campground, there are several amazing hiking trails, with the Pipiwai Trail being a standout. >>> Find Out More.

The Best Things to Do in East Maui

• To experience Hawaii’s epic black sand beaches, head to the captivating Waianapanapa State Park, just outside the town of Hana.

• Venture outdoors and explore the natural wonders of Haleakalā National Park, or visit the stunning Pools of ‘Ohe’o.

• Hana Bay is one of the best spots in the world to plunge underwater and experience the aquatic life offshore in a snorkeling expedition.

Visit Maui Like a Pro: Top Valley Isle Travel Tips 

Below are some of the most valuable tips to make your time in Maui all that more special.

• As the jewel of the Hawaiian islands, Maui is still recovering from devastating wildfires that have severely impacted local communities. Please respect the island and its citizens and wildlife during your visit and check your accommodation regularly for updates.

• Get a rental car or Jeep. There are so many awesome places to see and visit, and having your own car is unparalleled.

• Stick to your budget and plan it well ahead of time. Things are expensive in Hawaii, but you can still visit on a budget.

FAQs About Where to Stay in Maui

Now that we’ve covered the best places to stay in Maui, Hawaii, you might still have some burning questions, so we’ve answered some of the most popular below.

Which Part of Maui Is Best to Stay in?

That depends on what you want to experience during your trip. Take your pick, from the luxury resorts and bustling social scenes of West Maui to the eye-catching vacation rentals and tranquil atmosphere along the island’s south. 

Central Maui delivers a healthy dose of everything that makes the island great, albeit getting to the nearest beach might take some traveling.

To see the rugged and untamed side of Maui, head for North Shore, and although East Maui might not have many accommodation options, it’s the best spot for a secluded, romantic getaway.

Which Side of Maui Has the Best Beaches?

The leeward side of the island, which contains the west and south, showcases the best beaches in Maui, although there aren’t any bad beaches.

Which Part of Maui Is the Most Beautiful?

As for the most eye-catching part of the island, Maui’s West Coast is a picture-perfect tropical destination and boasts Ka’anapali Beach, Kapalua Bay, and Honolua Bay.

Wrapping Up The Best Places to Stay in Maui

There you have it, folks—where to stay in Maui. Whether you want to experience the vibrant and bustling touristy West or South or explore the untamed wilderness of the North and East, Maui is a treasured paradise. 

The hard work starts now. Choosing your favorite. Go on. Maui is waiting.

Read Next: How to plan the ultimate Hawaii vacation.

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