How to choose the best location to spend your vacation time in Maui
If you know Maui you know that this magical tropical island of paradise has endless adventures and discoveries around every corner. With seasonal savings and all year summer-like weather you’re bound to pick the perfect location that sets the pace for a vacation of success.
How do you know if you are getting the vacation condo that fits your needs without staying in every condo on the island? Inspire yourself to learn more about what area of the island might work best for you. You can also give our on island team a call. They love hearing from you and sharing the local knowledge needed to help you decide where to book your stay.
Here’s a breakdown of the plus and minus of each the popular destination locations on Maui.
SOUTH COAST (including Kihei, Wailea and Makena)
Great weather year-round!
A lot less crowded.
Affordable to luxury price range of vacation rentals.
Longest and best selection of beaches over much of the Maui coastline.
Closest and easiest access to beach rentals like stand up paddle boards, surf board lessons and snorkeling destinations.
Best beach-side whale watching during winter season (December – April)
Championship golf courses just waiting for you.
Best locations available for getting on board an exciting boat adventure tour in Makena, Kihei or Ma’alaea
Kihei vacation rentals are closest to the The Maui Ocean Center
Wailea and Makena luxury vacation condos have the best private beachfront
Wailea and Makena areas are slightly longer drives from Hana Highway and Haleakala
SOUTHWEST COAST (including Lahaina, Kaanapali, and Kapalua)
Great weather throughout the year!
Fun selection of beaches available.
Excellent variety of shops like Whales Village in Ka’anapali and the local shops in Lahaina
Glowing sky filled sunsets with views of Lanai and Molokai
Excellent snorkeling stops
Can be quite touristy in most locations.
Can be very expensive at the resorts.
Can be very crowded, especially during the holidays.
It’s the farthest from the Hana Highway and Haleakala.
NORTHEAST COAST (including Hana and near the Oheo Gulch)
Great location to the sights of the Hana Highway and Oheo Gulch.
Small, but beautiful with a variety of beaches.
Excellent surf when season is pumping.
Can be very wet, especially during the winter.
Location is very isolated, a great distance from all other attractions.
Limited selection of rental of rental locations.
CENTRAL MAUI (including Kahului and Paia)
Most popular shopping available like Costco, Home Depot, Walmart, Lowes, Office Depot, Petco, Old Navy and the Queen Ka’ahumanu mall.
Good central location to take on any adventure from, including road trips up Hana Highway.
Short drive to the famous town of Paia
Trades winds can be breezy.
Not very scenic in most of central Maui.
Limited selection of beaches.
UPCOUNTRY MAUI (Kula and Makawao)
Incredible scenery and proximity to Haleakala
Close to places like Lavender Farms
Close to winery and fun places to explore like Ulupalakua
Discover the enchanting Makawao
Drive to the Makawao forest
Take on a upcountry adventure like biking, zipline tours, horseback riding or hiking.
Lack of accommodation options.
Very limited variety of stores or restaurants.
No beaches.
Weather can be cooler and rainy throughout the season.
START THE PROCESS NOW
Ultimately, to enjoy a superior vacation we suggest sticking to the south coast of Maui and explore the other regions during your stay. And when you need help really drilling down to what condo would work best our team is ready to help you make the best decision for any budget. We don’t judge; it’s your vacation and we want you to have the best time of your life! Give us a call and speak to one of the friendly on island representatives. We’ll take a customized approach to your vacation rental needs