Deciding where to stay in Maui and the best part of Maui to stay on is an important factor when planning your Hawaiian vacation. I’ve lived on Maui for 10 years now and typical Jess, have lived all over the island.
I wanted to write a post that gave you the pros and cons of each area making it easy so you can decide the best area of Maui to stay based on your personal preferences.
For full transparency, I have sprinkled some affiliate links in this post. As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases that gives me a small commission at no extra cost to you if you decided to make a purchase. As always, I would never recommend a product or service that I didn't truely believe in. All proceeds go to keep Jess traveling and coffee ☕️. I thank you in advance.
What is the best area to stay in Maui? Most travelers stay in the leeward side of the island in West Maui or South Maui. These are the best areas of Maui to stay if you want to be close to lots of activities, beaches and restaurants.
I always recommend staying in all parts of the island throughout your Maui vacation. This lets you experience more of Maui and spend less time in the car.
In this guide I explain the pros and cons of each area of Maui and then list the best places to stay in Maui for that area with all budgets in mind.
Where to stay in Maui
Maui is divided into 6 areas: West Maui, South Maui, Upcountry, Central Maui, North Shore & East Maui.
West Maui
Pros: If the main objective of your Maui vacation is to lounge on the beach, snorkel, try your luck at surfing or go on an epic sunset cruise then West Maui is where you’ll want to stay.
Ka’anapali has a row on top notch resorts situated on a beautiful long white sand beach. At the end of Ka’anapali beach is black rock where you can shimmy up the rocks and dive off into the water below. This is also a great place to snorkel and see sea turtles. There are lots of things to do in Ka’anapali to keep you busy and Kaanapali restaurants to indulge at.
As you continue up West Maui towards Napili, Kahana, and Kapalua, Moloka’i becomes more dramatic and viewable. There are several on the beach front resorts as well great snorkeling at the bays in this area. This is where you can find some of Maui’s top honeymoon resorts.
Lahaina and Ka’anapali offer many whale watching, snorkeling trips, and sunset cruises so its a great part of Maui to stay if you plan on doing lots of boat excursions. Lahaina is a charming Maui town and a great place to stay if you don’t rent your own wheels.
Cons: Maui in general has expensive accommodation but West Maui has some higher prices with the exception of staying in Olowalu. In the areas of Kahana, Napili, and Kapalua expect more rain in the winter months. Lahaina gets very hot in the summer!
West Maui is a farther drive when trying to explore other parts of the island. For example it will take you a couple hours to drive to the top of Haleakala Crater compared to one hour from South Maui.
Top activities in West Maui 🐳
Where to stay in West Maui
Best Places to Stay in Lahaina
Aina Nalu
Aina Nalu is a beautiful oasis tucked away on a side street in Lahaina. The resort itself is lovely and staying here you have access to 2 beautiful pools and a jacuzzi. Aina Nalu has some of the best amenities for airbnb’s in Lahaina, Maui.
This Airbnb is walking distance to all activities, must eat restaurants, nightlife and shops. The condo is modern and a great place to hang your hat at the end of the night after a day of exploring Maui.
Old Lahaina House
The Plantation Inn
Gerard’s is an excellent French restaurant apart of the Plantation Inn and has been around for over 30 years.
Best Western Pioneer inn
The Best Western Pioneer Inn is located in the heart of Lahaina Town and one of the oldest hotels in Lahaina. This hotel is a stones throw away from the harbor and several surf breaks.
The Papa’aina restaurant below the Best Western Hotel serves awesome breakfast so be sure to grab a bite before you start your days adventure.
Lahaina Shores
Lahaina Shores is located on the South end of Front Street on the beach. This property offers great views of the West Maui Mountains and the island of Lana’i. This condo is mountain facing and within a 10 minute walk you’re in the center of Lahaina town.
Located on a beautiful long stretch of beach and by a beginners surf spot called Breakwall. Staying here also gives you access to the swimming pool and hot tub.
Best Places to stay in Kaanapali
Stay in Ka’anapali for resorts, sea turtles, family friendly beaches, high end shopping and close to all the must eat Ka’anapali restaurants.
The Royal Lahaina
This is one of the oldest resorts on Maui. If you are looking on where to stay in Maui with family this is one of the best places to stay in Ka’anapali, Maui. And it’s budget friendlier.
The Mahana
Perched on the water’s edge is The Mahana. As soon as you step foot into this Airbnb in Kaanapali you are greeted with sweeping views of the Pacific Ocean. Floor-to-ceiling stretch along the entire ocean-facing front of the unit.
Located on another one of Maui’s premier beaches, swimming, snorkeling, cliff jumping, shopping, eating and drinking opportunities are right at your door step.
If you want a stay at a luxurious stay close to all the best things to do in Kaanapali then the Mahana is the stay for you.
The Westin Maui Resort & Spa
Located on a beautiful beach the Westin Resort and Spa have excellent snorkeling and lots of sea turtles. Not in the mood for the beach? No problem lounge at 1 of the 3 pools on property. Plus there’s a hot tub, sauna, fitness center, massages and much more. For added luxury check out the villas.
This is where to stay in Ka’anapali for a world class resort feel and the best area to stay on Maui when you’re traveling with your family.
The Whaler
The Whaler is a luxury ground floor condominium where the ocean and the sand are steps away. The condo has a full kitchen and in the middle of all the action in Ka’anapali. The condo is open and perfect a small family or 2 couples traveling together. Black rock is steps away as well as the best restaurants and shopping.
Best Places to stay in Napili | Kahana
Napili Shores maui by outrigger
Napili Kai Beach Resort
Top Floor Oceanfront Condo
Best Places to stay in Kapalua
The Montage
The Ritz-Carlton
You can’t get better grounds, service or location than the Ritz-Carlton in Kapalua. Sitting above a the beautiful beach of D.T. Flemings is this luxurious resort. What’s not to love, the large, open pool area, hot tubs, or decadent spa.
You won’t be disappointed staying here. This is one of the best honeymoon resorts on the island. This is also walkable to the Mahana Ridge Trail.
South Maui
Pros: South Maui has some my favorite beaches including Kam III, Big Beach, and Secrets. In Wailea you’ll find a string of high end resorts that if you stay at you’ll never want to leave.
Kihei is full of restaurants and bars that will sooth your taste buds. From South Maui you get views of the inhibited island Kahoolawe and the submerged volcanic crater Molokini. The sun sets over the water on this part of the island compared to over Lana’i on West Maui.
This is a popular part of Maui where you can always count on it being sunny. There are lots of things to do in Kihei and things to do in Wailea including whale watches, surfing and golf.
Prices are slightly less for beach accommodations compared to the West side. A bigger selection of cheaper places to stay on Maui are here.
Cons: Less of a small Hawaii town feel. Kihei gets hot in the summer and is also very dry.
Top activities in South Maui 🐠
Where to stay in South Maui
Best Places to stay in Ma’alaea
Ocean Front Condo at Ma’alaea
This Ocean front condo in Ma’alaea comes with the views. If you are visiting during whale season you’ll be able to see whales breaching from your balcony. Even better you are within a 5 minute walk to the Ma’alaea harbor where you can jump on a boat to enjoy a snorkel, sunset cruise or whale watch tour.
This is a great central location between the west side and the south side of Maui.
Best Places to stay in Kihei
Kihei Akahi Resort
This is a great budget friendly option that has a full kitchen, swimming pool, BBQ facilities and a few blocks away from the beach. This condo is also a 5 minute drive to Wailea which boasts some of Maui’s best beaches.
Kihei Vacation Rental
This condo is located in the heart of Kihei. With a beginner surf beach out front, you can take surf lessons, snorkel with turtles or just perfect your tan.
This is a great area to stay in Maui for families. It’s walkable to anything you could need, bars, restaurants, grocery stores, shops, dive operators and more. This condo is an affordable place to stay on Maui.
Condo at Luana Kai
Another cheap stay in Maui is this Kihei condo. Walking distance to several world class beaches, restaurants and shops, you’ll love the location. It has all the amenities you need to have a perfect Maui vacation.
For a bigger selection of Vacation Rentals in the area click here.
Maui Coast Hotel
Best Places to stay in Wailea | Makena
Andaz Resort
Spend your days relaxing pool side with a lava flow (a Pina colada with strawberry). Close to the best beaches on Maui and high end shopping. This is where to stay in Wailea.
Hotel Wailea
Fairmont Kea Lani
Koa’s has a great happy hour and is located at the adult pool. Walkable to the beach and a free shuttle to the shops at Wailea.
Four Seasons Resort Maui
Upcountry Maui
Spend your days taking unique tours like the Surfing Goat Dairy Farm and the Ali’i Kula Lavender Farm. This area is also in close proximity with Haleakala Crater making it easy to hike through the crater and catch an early sunrise.
Budget friendlier accomodations.
Cons: You must drive to spend the day at the beach. Temperatures get cool especially in the winter, it snowed on Haleakala several days last winter.
Top activities Upcountry Maui 🌅
Where to stay Upcountry Maui
Best Places to Stay in Kula
Kula Lodge
Kula Star Dome
This is one of the most unique places to stay on Maui. The Kula Star Dome takes glamping to another level. This luxury tent lets you sleep under the stars with unobstructed views.
The stay comes with many amenities like breakfast and showers. This place is perfect if you love star gazing and for an easy wake up call for sunrise on top of Haleakala
Best Places to stay in Makawao
Lumeria Maui
Close to the summit of Haleakala and Pai’a town. This is one of the best places to stay on Maui. The picture above is at the pool.
Central Maui
Pros: Kahului is the town that you fly into when you are arriving on island. This is also where the inner island Norwegian Cruise Line docks. I’ao Valley is in your back yard and there’s some great hiking trails nearby if you stay in this area. Central Maui would be perfect if you won’t be on island for very long or if you’re ballin on a budget.
Wailuku town has cheaper accomodations and you’ll experience old Hawaii.
Cons: Industrial region filled with factories and warehouses. You have to drive if you want to get to a nice beach. Traffic.
Top activities in Central Maui 🌺
Where to stay Central Maui
Best Places to stay in Kahului | Wailuku | Waiehu | Waihee
The old Wailuku Inn
Artist Villa
This airbnb is as beautiful they come and is hosted by a friend of mine! In this area you’ll get the best of both worlds, views of I’ao Valley and the ocean. Plus it is centrally located to explore all parts of the islands. The pool is amazing and you’ll feel right at home in this wonderful guesthouse.
The North shore
Pros: If you came for the extreme water sports like wind surfing, kite boarding, or just plain ol’ surfing then head to the north shore as soon as you land. Experience small town life as you rove Pai’a and head to Ho’okipa to get your adrenalin fix.
As you head east on the road to Hana the area will become more green and lush. This is also a great jumping off point for day trips to Hana. Stay on this side if disconnecting and taking life in the slow lane is what you’re after.
Cons: There’s less variety of beaches on the north shore compared to its counterparts on the west and south. Since the north shore is smaller there are less restaurants to choose from. But is this really a con?
Top activities on the North shore Maui 🌊
Where to stay on the North Shore
Best Places to stay in Paia | Haiku
Paia Inn
Nestled right on the beach, this boutique property has an excellent location to shops and restaurants. The Paia Inn is relaxation without the hustle and bustle.
For a bigger selection of Vacation Rentals in the area click here.
East Maui
Pros: The Eastern part of the island is filled with roaring waterfalls, exotic flora and plants tucked deep in the lush, wet rainforest. If you’re looking for a Hawaiian vacation based on the film ‘Moana’ then carve out a few days to spend here.
Most people visit Hana on a day trip but to get a real feel firsthand plan on staying a few nights. There are plenty of camping, airbnbs, and jungle bungalows. Beautiful, unique beaches are on this side and some jaw dropping hiking.
Cons: Far away from the rest of the island. The road to Hana is the only road that connects the eastern part of the island with the rest. Restaurants are limited and there’s only a couple stores that sell basics. Stock up and don’t forget anything as you won’t have many options once you’re there.
Top activities in East Maui 🥭
Where to Stay in East Maui
Best Places to stay in Hana
Travaasa Hana
The Travaasa is the best hotels in maui for honeymoon. Seclusion in a jungle oasis, adventure right outside your doorstop and world class service at a top notch resort is the perfect honeymoon destination. There is an infinity pool overlooks the ocean along with a hot tub. Plus you’ll enjoy the restaurant on site which is hard to come by in Hana.
Aina Kupuna
Hana Cottage
This fully equipped 1 bedroom cottage comes with a full kitchen, living room, dining area, washer/dryer, outdoor shower, and a covered deck with views of the ocean and mountain. Great location to get an early start to hiking the Pipiwai Trail inside Haleakala National Park.
For a bigger selection of Vacation Rentals in the area check here.
Camping in Hana
Wai’anapanapa State Park
Staying at the Waiannapanapa State Cabins are a budget friendly way to stay in Hana and be around natural beauty.
Haleakala National Park
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Maui looks absolutely beautiful and these all look like great spots to stay! I’m visiting Hawaii for the first time this month but I’m going to Oahu. Maui is the next island on my list though!
Awesome, you’ll have an amazing time. Make sure you spend some time on the Northshore on Oahu, its like Maui! I also have lots of Maui information for when you come back. I have lived here for 10 years and fall more in more in love with Mother Maui everyday!
This guide is so helpful! It’s so interesting how a single city or island can have subtle, but important differences in different neighborhoods. It’s always great to know what the specific area is like where you want to stay. If I ever visit Maui, I would probably prefer West Maui or South Maui.
Yes even though you can drive around Maui in a day its still rather large and each area is different. I live in Lahaina on West Maui so if you ever visit I can show you around! XX
Hello! Thanks so much for such an informative read on Maui. I’m currently researching for our upcoming visit in May and I am having trouble deciding between staying in South Kihei vs Kahana. It’ll be my husband and I with our 3 kids ages, 9,9, & 5. We have boy /girl twins. Which is the best family friendly area? I love the look of west Maui because of the lush greenery. I cannot wait to visit the road to Hana as my favorite is waterfalls and jungle vibes. We plan on renting a Jeep to get around in and we don’t mind driving and exploring, my husband would rather that than walking any day. I thought Kahana would be nice because we could drive in to Kaanapali and Lahaina for day trips and explore and eat and return to Kahana for evenings by the pool and beautiful views. My kids are somewhat loud so I don’t want to be sshing them all the time either though. I’m looking at staying in Kahana Villas if we choose Kahana or Maui Banyan if we choose South Kihei. The only negative I have to Kihei is looking at it from google earth it doesn’t appear as beautiful as the west end of Maui. Not as lush, more flat and more buildings. I love the rolling green hills on the west side. So I don’t want to feel disappointed if I don’t feel as if I’m in as tropical of a location, however it is Maui and I’m not sure that is such a thing with the amazing beaches in South Maui. Again that’s why I’m so torn. In your opinion, which do you think we’d enjoy more? We will more than likely spend our days exploring the island with dinner in the evenings and relaxing at condo afterwards with the kids possibly at the pool. We are pretty high energy and we’ll enjoy the beach but we are no all day beach loungers. A couple of hours and we’re on to another activity. I was also considering Ekohu Village in Wailea. They are a mile from the beach but I did love the little backyard area and more seclusion for my kids to play. Just don’t know if I want to be that far from the beach where we’ll have to drive to it which I hear is pretty aggravating with trying to find parking. So here I am mentally exhausted and in definite need of a locals help. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thanks so much in advance!
Aloha Samantha, Thanks so much for your comment. If you want more tropical vibes, then I recommend the best area to stay in Maui is Kahana. There are beautiful beaches on West Maui as well as South Maui. I don’t know how much exploring you want to do but the only downside of staying in West Maui is that attractions are farther of a drive. For example if you wanted to watch sunrise or sunset atop Haleakala it would take a couple hours drive from Kahana versus an hour or so from South Kihei. And the road to Hana will be a longer day of driving versus if you stayed in South Maui.
Kahana puts you in great location of beaches such as Napili Bay, Kapalua (great for snorkeling) Flemings and Ironwoods…Unfortunatley parking is always a hassle no matter where you are on Maui but there’s a beautiful beach (less crowded too) y’all can walk to from Kahana Villas. Plus Lahaina is a 20 minute drive South where most of the restaurants will be. I actually live in Kahana 😎 and always prefer the West side. Also West Maui has a lot more boat trips leaving from Kaanapali Beach or Lahaina Harbor versus Maalaea which is the main Harbor you’d depart from if you where to stay in South Maui.
Hope this was helpful. Let me know if you need anything else! Happy planning!
Hey Jess – thanks for the recommendations. What would be recommended for an adventurous family (w/3 kids under 10) – we want to see the true beauty of the island (east?) but enjoy the wonderful beaches, sunrises/sunsets (south?) and enjoy high end taste (west?) while there and hit the road to Hana. Would you recommend splitting the trip (6 nights) into a few at each (south and east)? Some fun playgrounds, walking distant beaches and good local food for the Maui experience is what we’re looking to out of our vacation.
Note we are staying in Kauai for 5 nights prior where we’ll be enjoying the nice beaches and doing some adventuring too but if we get more of the opposite in Maui – all for it. Thanks for any recommendations!!
Aloha! Thanks for your comment. If you are adventurous I would split up your time and stay 2 nights in East and 4 nights on South Maui or West Maui. You can easily take a day trip to West Maui or vice versa depending on what side your staying on to explore that side.
East Maui is very low key but on that side you can spend a whole day driving the road to Hana to get there and the second day exploring waterfalls and bamboo forests. Make sure to get a reservation to see Waianapanapa in advance!
4 Nights in Kihei or Wailea would give you quick access to all the wonderful beaches and boat activities like snorkeling Molokini plus theres a handful of playgrounds in Kihei that would be fun to play at.
4 Nights in West Maui would also give you quick access to beautiful beaches and all there is to do on that side. Day tripping from West Maui is a bit longer than the South so if you wanted to see Haleakala Crater and North shore, I’d suggest staying in the South to make the drive a bit shorter.
Hope this was helpful on deciding the best area to stay in Maui and let me know if you have any other questions.
I would love to go to Maui one day, it looks so dreamy! Haleakala Crater looks like a fun hike too!
It’s so fun, tiring but always worth it. I mean its not everyday that you get to hike through a dormant volcano!
I want to visit Hawaii so bad! Love this post – so informative and love the photos!
You won’t be disappointed when you visit!
I love how in depth this guide is, and it’s great to hear advice from a local!
Thank you! Yes it’s always nice to get the inside scoop from a local.
Hello, Thank you I built the website myself. I used the Divi Theme. It’s very user friendly and I highly recommend it!
Awesome thanks so much. I’ve spent many many hours trying to make the blog come to life!
I love this post. We are looking at staying in an AIRBNB in Maui. After reading your post, we’re thinking of staying in the west/south. Are there any AirBnbs you would recommend which includes breakfast too? Will be visiting with my husband in the first week of June so would love some tips. We are thinking of also hiring a car as we are there for 4 nights.
Aloha! Thanks so much for reading and dropping a comment. Yes the West and South sides are popular and full of yummy restaurants, surf shops and amazing beaches. I’m not totally sure on Airbnbs that provide breakfast. And I would definitely hire a car as most the things to do outdoors requires transportation and exploring Maui on your own is all part of the adventure. I have tons of articles on everything I’ve mentioned above so let me know if you’d like more information. Excited for your trip…Maui sure is magical. ✨
Hi!! We are considering staying maalaea for a majority of our trip and then maybe doing a few nights in either kihei or lahaina. Do you think since there’s not much that’s walkable in maalaea the budget friendly views aren’t worth it?
How long are you planning on staying in Maui? Maalaea is a great place to stay in Maui if you are short on time as it’s pretty central between West and South Maui. If staying in Maalaea, you are walkable to the harbor so its very convenient for boat trips. You would have to drive to get to the beach. So I’d say if spending ample beach time is important, stay in Kihei. You’ll be close to beautiful beaches, lots of food options and you can find cheaper places to stay. Hope this was helpful. Feel free to message me anytime 🙂.
Hi Jess. Thanks for providing such a detailed post. I’m going to be in Maui for five nights in October and am into the idea of staying at a couple different places throughout the island so that it minimizes driving time. This is a Google Map of spots I started that I’m interested in: https://goo.gl/maps/kzsxzfHqjxSba4L4A. Based off of this, what areas would you recommend staying in? Somewhere in West Maui for a couple nights and then North Shore or South Maui for the rest? Looking forward to your reply. Thanks so much in advance, Jess.
Aloha thanks for your comment on the best area to stay in Maui. Based on your maps I’d def stay in West Maui for a few nights, you’ll be close to those beaches and all the good food you pinned (make sure to add Fleetwoods Happy Hour to your list). You could stay anywhere in Lahaina up to Napili depending on your budget. I don’t know if you’re interested in staying in a hotel in Maui or vacation rental?
Staying in Lahaina will give you walking access to all the boat tours (perfect since you’ll be traveling during whale season) and close to restaurants but you’ll have to drive 15-30 minutes for the beaches.
Staying North of Lahaina in Kaanapali will put you smack dab on beautiful Kaanapali beach and good if your looking for a resort plus you’ll be close to all the tasty restaurants in there.
North or Kaanapali in Kapalua, Kahana or Napili will be nice and cool (may even rain a few hours each afternoon). I live up in Napili when I’m on island so needless to say I love this area.
As for the other nights, if you want to be close to more beaches and nightlife, stay in South Maui as day trips from there are pretty accessible. If you don’t mind a slower pace, the North shore would be more low key and easy access to exploring road to Hana, Hana itself or Haleakala.
Hope this was helpful in deciding the where to stay in Maui. Let me know if you have any other questions. You’re going to love Maui.
Hi Jess,
My husband and I are coming to Maui this September 4-11 to celebrate our 40th wedding anniversary! We were in Maui in 1998 so looking forward to coming back. We would like to be close to the beach, stay in a vrbo of some sort and will rent a car. We like to explore but also have down time to relax. I love the ocean and the thought of waking up and drinking my tea and looking over the water and hearing the waves. We also like to embrace some fine restaurants and bars on the beach. Please help me decide where to go! It’s my mission to lock down a place today if possible! Thank you in advance for any help you can provide.
Aloha GG, I apologize that I’m responding to you a few days late, I’ve been trekking through the Colombian jungle 🥾! With regards on where to stay in Maui, I would opt for West Maui you can find a nice vacation rental on the beach in Kahana, Napali or Kapalua with gives you access to stunning beaches and close to lots of tasty restaurants and beach bars.
South Maui is also a great option – closer to Wailea offers lots of vacation rentals, close to beautiful beaches, restaurants and a bit closer to explore other parts of Maui like Haleakala Crater, North Shore and Hana.
Hope this was helpful in deciding the best area to stay in Maui. Feel free to message me again with any questions.
Jess
We plan to visit in late December – early January for a week. While we enjoy the beach for a day or two, we also enjoy hiking and nature tours. We also heard about staying in Coffee Plantations. Can you recommend any good place to stay in the middle of a coffee plantation – a bed and breakfast for a family of four?
Aloha! Thanks for the comment. I have not heard of being able to stay in coffee plantations in Maui, my only guess would be the ones in Kaanapali and that may be a newer thing so I can’t vouch for that. Staying on the West side would put you in close proximity to some amazing beaches and all the west side has to offer though – hiking, natural tide pools and surf.