Choosing the right place to stay on Maui can be a challenge, especially if it’s your first time visiting. With a wide variety of accommodations across the island, you might wonder, What side of the island should we stay on? What’s the difference between a hotel, resort, condo, and villa? Are oceanfront and beachfront the same thing?
To help you find the perfect place for your Maui trip, here are 3 questions to ask yourself:
1. What Region Do You Want to Stay In?
Maui is divided into several regions, with South Maui and West Maui being the most popular for tourists. Other areas, like Central Maui, East Maui, Upcountry, and the North Shore, offer more off-the-beaten-path options. Within these regions, you’ll find accommodations near the water or further inland. For a more detailed guide on Maui’s regions, check out our blog post on “Which Side of Maui Is Best?“
2. What Type of Accommodation Do You Want?
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Hotels and Resorts: The most traditional accommodations, offer upgraded amenities like restaurants, pools, and spas. Resorts are typically more luxurious than hotels and can be found in South and West Maui.
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Condos and Villas: Condos are popular due to in-room kitchens, which allow for cost-saving dining options. Villas are similar but offer more space and higher-end amenities. These can be found in South, West, and some parts of Central and East Maui.
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Vacation Homes and Cottages: Ideal for longer stays or large groups, vacation rentals provide more space, multiple bedrooms, and a homey atmosphere. These range from cozy beach cottages to luxury estates. Most are located in South and West Maui.
- Bed and Breakfasts (B&Bs): For a more authentic experience, B&Bs offer a personal, cozy setting with breakfast included in some cases. Most B&Bs are in South and West Maui, though you’ll find them across the island. Be sure to check that the B&B is legally permitted.
3. How Close to the Water Do You Want to Be?
You’ll encounter the following terms when researching where to stay:
- Oceanfront: The property is directly on the ocean.
- Beachfront: The property is directly on the beach.
- Ocean View: You can see the ocean from your room or lanai.
- Partial Ocean View: You can see part of the ocean from your room or lanai.
- Mountain View: You can see the mountains from your room or lanai.
- Garden View: Your room overlooks the hotel’s gardens.
By considering these three key factors, you can easily narrow down the best places to stay on Maui for your ideal vacation experience!
