Where to stay in Maui

Just a quick hop from Honolulu on Oahu, Maui is Hawaii’s second-largest island and everything you dream of in a perfect getaway: beautiful beaches, luxury hotels, and tropical vibes — from laid-back to ultra-exclusive. Beyond great Maui hotels, this Hawaiian island has tons of vacation rentals, most with easy access to golden-sand beaches and stunning ocean views. We bet you’re already picturing yourself there, so let us be your travel guide with these 10 unique hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals in Maui. 🌴

Here at Flytographer we easily connect people with trusted photographers for fun photo shoots and have captured over four million memories worldwide. The magic of Flytographer is both the experience and the photos. 📸 Explore the city with a fun, talented photographer and get wall-worthy photos to relive your trip, forever.

Get ready to say Aloha! 🌺

TLDR

• Splurge like Royalty in Fabulous Luxury Resorts
• Save Some Bucks and Relax in Mid-Range Hotels
• Stay Stylish & Chic in Boutique Hotels
• Live Like a Local in These Vacation Rental Areas
• Frequently Asked Questions

Photo: Marie in Maui for Flytographer. Larissa and family capture memories in Maui with a family photoshoot at Ulua Beach.

Luxury Resorts

1. Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

Nestled in Wailea on the southwestern part of the island, the Four Seasons Resort Maui is luxury at its finest. Newlyweds adore the romantic panoramic views of the West Maui Mountains, while families with young children love splashing around in the swimming pools, surrounded by chic cabanas. Kids especially enjoy the scenic waterfall pool and the fountain pool that looks just like the emoji! ⛲

Looking for a romantic dinner? Try some Italian fare at the oceanfront Ferraro’s or indulge at Spago, the Hawaiian outpost of celebrity chef Wolfgang Puck. 👨‍🍳

To get out and about, Four Seasons Resort Maui offers curated experiences like sunrise walks, local storytelling sessions, and canoe paddling at Wailea Beach.

Fly tip: Right next door is the iconic Grand Wailea, another top spot for experiencing resort luxury in Maui. 👌

Photo: Vicky in Maui for Flytographer. James and family capture memories in Maui with a family photoshoot at Wailea.

2. The Ritz-Carlton Kapalua

A guide on where to stay in Maui would not be complete without the Ritz. With jaw-dropping views of Kapalua Bay, The Ritz-Carlton is a pure Hawaiian paradise in what’s easily one of the best places to take photos in Maui. 

When you’re not soaking up the luxury of umbrella-shaded daybeds by the massive three-tiered pool, you can dive into a lineup of fantastic activities — think hula lessons, lei-making, and curated hikes. Don’t miss out on snorkelling or seasonal whale-watching trips for an unforgettable outdoor adventure!  🐳

Got the munchies? There’s a full range of dining options, but the beachfront Burger Shack is a crowd favourite, serving up burgers, milkshakes, and craft beers right by the waves. 🍔

Best of all, this resort is super kid-friendly with an incredible activity program for little ones. Plus, its proximity to golf courses, tennis courts, hiking trails, and a few charming shops and restaurants makes it the perfect blend of the secluded and convenient.

Photo: Lauren in Maui for Flytographer. Codi and partner capture memories in Maui with a couples photoshoot at Kapalua Ironwoods.

Mid-range Hotels

3. Ka’anapali Beach Hotel

Bathed by Ka’anapali Beach on West Maui and close to the shopping and dining hub of Whalers Village, the Ka’anapali Beach Hotel offers a more budget-friendly option without skimping on comfort or charm. 😉

Their rooms feature private lanais (balconies) with stunning ocean, garden, or mountain views. Amenities include a beautiful pool overlooking the beach, a wellness centre with yoga classes, and easy access to Kāʻanapali Beach.

Beyond the beach, the resort is near Ka’anapali golf courses, as well as ziplining and hiking opportunities in the West Maui Mountains.🥾

Fly Tip: Local culture is a big part of the experience, so try their classes on lei-making, hula dancing, and ukulele. There’s even a chance to take Hawaiian language lessons, so you can go beyond just “aloha”! 😁

Photo: Flytographer in Maui. Sarah and partner capture memories in Maui with a couples photoshoot at Ka’anapali Beach.

4. Napili Kai Beach Resort

Looking for where to stay in Maui with a nod to historical Hawaii? Right on Napili Bay, on the northwest side of the island, Napili Kai Beach Resort charms with its beautiful plantation-style layout, lush green spaces, and ocean views. 🌊

This family-owned resort has been in operation since 1962, staying true to Hawaiian heritage all along. To add to the experience, they host keiki hula shows featuring local Maui kids and weekly themed parties where you can dive into local culture. Just outside the resort, you are steps from the start of the Kapalua Coastal Trail which is an easy 2.5-mile hike. 👍

Photo: Flytographer in Maui. Sarah and partner capture memories in Maui with a couples photoshoot at Ka’anapali Beach.

Boutique Hotels

5. Hotel Wailea

Also on Maui’s Wailea coast, the adults-only Hotel Wailea provides an elegant, intimate escape surrounded by lush tropical gardens with cascading waterfalls and winding pathways. The ocean-view suites are a guest favourite, featuring large sliding doors that open onto balconies with sweeping views of the sea and three Hawaiian islands. 🏝️

While not directly on the beach, guests enjoy access to a private beach club at Wailea Beach just a few minutes away, accessible via the hotel’s complimentary shuttle. Foodies, rejoice! The hotel offers a Japanese grill, and another restaurant focused on fresh, local produce. 🥥

Experiences? You’ll find everything from guided hikes through Haleakalā National Park to vintage Porsche replicas, letting you experience Hawaii in style.

Photo: Marie in Maui for Flytographer. Ana Maria and partner capture babymoon memories in Maui with a maternity photoshoot at the Wailea Black Sand Beach.

6. Paia Inn

Here’s the most laid-back, funky option on our list: Paia Inn! Right in the heart of Paia, an iconic surf town on the North Shore, close to Kahului Airport, this hidden gem is ideal for anyone craving an authentic local vibe mixed with warm hospitality and a dash of luxury. ✨

Paia Inn has that real-deal local charm, and the hotel nails it with its original plantation-era architecture, thoughtfully updated with modern touches. The common area is super cozy, with inviting sofas and friendly staff — some guests even say staying here feels like crashing at a friend’s place! 🛋️

The on-site dining is top-notch, using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, and you’re just steps from the famous Paia Fish Market and other fantastic eateries.

Fly tip: While at Paia Inn, take the chance to plan a day trip to the upcountry towns of Kula or Makawao, where you can soak up Maui’s rural charm with lush farmland and panoramic island views. 🌾

Photo: Marie in Maui for Flytographer. Patty and partner capture memories in Maui with a couples photoshoot at Baldwin Beach on the North Shore.

Vacation Rentals

7. Kihei Area, South Maui

Speaking of local vibes on where to stay on Maui, booking an Airbnb or VRBO in the Kihei area is a fantastic idea especially those near the Kamaole Beach Parks. You’ll get the true “island experience” here, with easy beach access — and if you’re lucky, you might even spot whales from the shore. Kihei also offers great shopping, dining, and activities all around. Plus, since it’s centrally located, exploring other parts of Maui is a breeze. It’s truly the best of all worlds! ✌️

Photo: Rojeena in Maui for Flytographer. Nessa and family capture memories in Maui with a family photoshoot in Kihei.

8. Wailea Area, South Maui

Wailea in South Maui is where you can slow down and escape the crowds but still soak up that sophisticated island vibe and enjoy a bit of nightlife if you wish. 🪩 The area is packed with top-tier resorts but also offers some great luxury vacation homes (and with resort perks and access). While all beaches in Hawaii are public, Wailea’s are just a bit harder to reach, which makes them even more magical. Think of secluded coves where you can feel you’ve found your slice of paradise.

Fly tip: not far away, Makena State Park, home to the renowned “Big Beach” (Oneloa), is a must-visit for those seeking a classic Maui beach experience. 🏖️

Photo: Rojeena in Maui for Flytographer. Isaac and partner capture memories in Maui with an engagement photoshoot at White Rock Beach.

9. Honokowai Area, West Maui

If you’re leaning towards the Airbnb or VRBO route on your search of where to stay in Maui, Honokowai is a fantastic pick! This spot has a laid-back, family-friendly vibe right in central West Maui. The oceanfront condo rentals here are especially nice, with full kitchens if you’re in the mood to whip up your own island-inspired meals. 😋

Plus, you’re close to grocery stores, great restaurants, and stunning beaches just a quick five- to ten-minute drive away — and plenty of shops and eateries are probably within walking distance, too. After a few days here, you’ll start to feel like a local. 

Photo: Sara in Maui for Flytographer. Jen and family capture memories in Maui with a family photoshoot at D.T. Fleming Beach on the West Shore.

10. Lahaina Town, West Maui

Lahaina Town, a historic district with converted plantation homes, was, unfortunately, the area most devastated by the 2023 Maui wildfires. 😢 A year later, while much of the damage remains visible, some restaurants and businesses have reopened, inviting visitors eager to support the local economy. 

Around Lahaina, nearly all areas are open, with various vacation rentals available on Airbnb and VRBO, and some businesses near the fire zone gradually resuming operations. Tourism remains crucial for Maui’s recovery, yet respectful travelling is essential. The local consensus encourages visitors to avoid intrusive questions about the fires, as the community is focused on moving forward and rebuilding. 💪

Photo: Taena in Maui for Flytographer. Lauren and family capture memories in Maui with a family photoshoot at their rental home in Lahaina.

FAQ

Which part of Maui is the best to stay?

It all depends on what you’re looking for. South Maui offers chill vibes with upscale resorts and peaceful beaches, while West Maui brings the energy with family-friendly spots, scenic cliffs, and lively resorts. Oh, and of course, both boast stunning beaches!

Is it better to stay in Lahaina or Kihei?

Kihei serves up a laid-back, beach-town vibe with easy access to South Maui’s mellow shores, while Lahaina, before the 2023 fires, was known for its lively, historic charm. As Lahaina rebuilds, Kihei is your best bet for now.

Which part of Maui has the best beaches?

That’s definitely up for debate. West Maui boasts semi-protected bays like Kapalua and Napili Bay along with the lively Ka’anapali Beach, while South Maui counters with top swim spots like the Kamaole Beaches in Kihei and the pristine Wailea Beach.

Is it better to stay in north or south Maui?

South Maui, especially Kihei and Wailea, is a top pick for most visitors — it’s the sunniest, driest spot on the island with amazing beaches and easy access to all of Maui’s highlights. Up north, get ready for longer drives to reach the main attractions.

Photo: Lauren in Maui for Flytographer. Simran and family capture memories in Maui with a family photoshoot at Po’olenalena Beach on the South Shore.

Capturing memories in Maui

When you travel, choosing the right place to stay might seem like a minor detail, but it makes all the difference. Before we wrap up, here are a few honourable mentions of accommodations that are also truly fabulous: 👇

• The Westin Maui Resort boasts an epic pool playground on Ka’anapali Beach, on the west side.
• Hyatt Regency Maui is like a tropical oasis with a lava tube waterslide.
• Wailea Beach Resort by Marriott has Hawaii’s longest hotel waterslide with ocean views.
• Hana-Maui Resort offers secluded luxury at the end of the Road to Hana, in east Maui.

Looking for something extra to make your trip unforgettable? 👀 Capture your Maui memories with a local photographer and keep the photos as a special souvenir to remember for a long time. 🥰