Maui isn’t nicknamed “The Magic Isle” for nothing. Hawaii’s second-largest island by size (only behind the Big Island) boasts postcard-perfect waterfalls, 120 miles of coastline and an endless array of resorts. With such an abundance of choice, you need to pick the proper place to call your temporary paradise.
Whether you seek a secluded waterfront retreat or family fun in the sun, you can trust Forbes Travel Guide’s exclusive list for it. To find the best hotels in Maui, our incognito inspectors posed as ordinary guests and stayed multiple nights at each property. The inspectors tested hundreds of exacting standards, with an emphasis on exceptional service, which accounts for 70% of a property’s rating. The remaining 30% comes from the quality and condition of the facilities. FTG does not require a business relationship from the properties it rates, and it does not earn a commission if you book one of the following hotels.
Five-Star Hotels
Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea
If you want to live out your White Lotus fantasies, visit Four Seasons Resort Maui, the setting for the first season of the hit HBO show. But even without the fanfare, this Wailea stunner is a prime destination for those whose idea of a vacation is simply beach, sun and pool.
Beyond 383 clean, contemporary rooms, the hotel has impressive pool offerings, with a sprawling main one on the ground level of the property. But the star is the adults-only serenity pool on the lobby level, where you can sip a spicy hibiscus margarita in the water while gazing at Lanai and the West Maui Mountains. There are appetizing restaurant options, too, including Four-Star Spago, which all have fantastic dishes and fabulous views. See more.
Montage Kapalua Bay
Nestled along Maui’s coast in one of the most exclusive oceanfront areas on the northwest side of the island, the 24-acre Montage Kapalua Bay is ensconced in nature, including a Five-Star spa that marries the indoors and outdoors brilliantly.
A part of the 22,000-acre Kapalua Resort, the resort’s harmonization with its lush surroundings is a natural component of its everyday ethos. Behind Montage Kapalua Bay sits the Puu Kukui Watershed Preserve, more than 8,000 protected acres managed by the Nature Conservancy. The luxury hotel also organizes nature excursions, from guided kayak tours to helicopter rides in the Hana rainforest. See more.
Four-Star Hotels
The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
When you want a respite from area tourists, head to The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua. Tucked inside the exclusive Kapalua Resort on the North Shore, the waterfront hotel gives you 54 verdant acres, Pacific views that stretch to Molokai island and the brand’s signature service, sans crowds.
The hotel has six restaurants and bars, offers a Four-Star spa and provides access to one of the state’s largest nature preserves with two marine sanctuaries. You’ll also find two championship golf courses and Kapalua Golf Academy, miles of hiking trails and court play at the Kapalua Tennis Garden. Check out its weekly lineup of 60-plus activities that span culture (create a lei poʻo, or flower crown, using native blooms) to culinary workshops (learn to make sushi). See more.
Recommended Hotels
Grand Wailea Maui, A Waldorf Astoria Resort
If you dream of a vacation where you’d while away the day at the pool, try Grand Wailea Maui, A Waldorf Astoria Resort. The hotel boasts one of the most elaborate pools setups in Maui. The expansive Wailea Canyon Activity Pool is a 2,000-foot-long waterway that connects nine individual pools on six various levels, offering endless activities for the whole family to enjoy.
Should your pool time require more serenity and less splashing, swim over to the in-the-water Grotto Bar, where you can sip tropical cocktails and watch the game on three large TVs. Or escape completely from the fray and bask in the quiet of the adults-only Hibiscus Pool or the 50,000-square-foot spa, the largest in the state. See more.
Hotel Wailea
Tucked away in one of Maui’s most exclusive enclaves, Hotel Wailea is an intimate, tranquil escape with the cliffside views of your Instagram dreams.
Home to 72 suites spread across 15 acres, this ocean-facing retreat provides mesmerizing vistas and a calming atmosphere in one of the most popular areas on the island. With waterfalls, winding pathways and tropical plants to welcome you into the adults-only resort, you will feel as if you were transported to your own private sanctuary.
Don’t overlook the dining options, especially the Treehouse, where you can enjoy a private seven-course meal amid the tops of mango and avocado trees. See more.
Wailea Beach Resort – Marriott, Maui
Inspired by both the power and tranquility of the ocean, Wailea Beach Resort – Marriott, Maui gives you a front-row seat to admire the surrounding aquamarine water as well as breathtaking Hawaiian sunsets — with the proper colorful cocktail, of course.
Situated between two isolated beaches along Maui’s southern sunny coastline, this modern playground is just steps from sprawling golfing greens and superb shopping. Meanwhile, an abundance of culinary options (chef Roy Yamaguchi’s two restaurants) and interactive offerings (hula lessons, kayak turtle tours) await on the property’s 22 acres. In addition, the region frequently sees rainbows, whales and sea turtles, making Wailea Beach Resort the place for a romantic getaway or an adventure-filled tropical escape. See more.
