It can be challenging to plan an ideal vacation that’s still family-friendly. Still, if you choose Maui as your next vacation destination, you’ll be happy to know that there are plenty of beautiful places to stay, even with a baby or toddler.
Where to stay on Maui with kids ages five and up?
There are many places to choose from that offer great programs for children. Hotels that don’t have programs like these makeup for it with other great amenities.
And now, let’s get to it, okay?
Here’s my pick of the 16 best Maui hotels for families and why each is an excellent choice for you and your loved ones.
Wailea Beach Villas
Wailea Beach Villas is a good option for families looking for a quiet and serene spot in Wailea Beach. Sharing the same stretch of Maui beach as some of the island’s most luxurious hotels, the villa-style accommodations are ideal for larger groups. They are available in two- and three-bedroom configurations. Each villa has a full kitchen, laundry, a lanai (balcony or porch), and a barbecue. In addition, the property has several of the features expected of a resort: multiple pools, beach chairs and umbrellas, cabanas, spa treatments, and a small fitness center. However, it lacks a restaurant and spa.
Advantage
The front door provides a sense of privacy, even among the many luxury resorts in the area.
Oceanfront location on the sandy shores of Wailea Beach
A family atmosphere permeates the resort, which has a relaxed vibe
Several pools, including an adults-only infinity pool and a family pool with a shallow end
Easy access to some of Maui’s most luxurious hotels via an oceanfront path
Large villa-style rooms include fully-equipped kitchens, washers/dryers, and barbecues
Fitness center and private parking on the property
WiFi and parking
Cons
No spa, but treatments are available in-room or on beachfront
There is no nightlife on the property; things are tranquil at night (a pro for some)
Noise from work trucks can be heard from some villas
Summary
Wailea Beach Villas are a good option for families looking for a quiet and serene spot in Wailea Beach. Sharing the same stretch of Maui beach as some of the island’s most luxurious hotels, the villa-style accommodations are ideal for larger groups. They are available in two- and three-bedroom configurations. Each villa has a full kitchen and laundry, a terrace (balcony or terrace), and a barbecue. In addition, the property has several of the features expected of a resort: multiple pools, beach chairs and umbrellas, cabanas, spa treatments, and a small fitness center. It lacks a restaurant and a spa, however.
Ho’olei at Grand Wailea
The Ho’olei at Grand Wailea offers luxury condominiums on a beautiful, laid-back property connected to Grand Wailea, one of Maui’s most impressive mega-resorts. In the huge villas that average 3,500 square feet, families will find all the comforts of a luxury home, including a kitchen with cabinets, walk-in closets, a spacious terrace, a garage, and an elevator. While the property has its pool and exercise room, guests can access the elaborate maze of pools and slides, the vast fitness center, and other activities. It is perfect for visitors who want all the features of Grand Wailea but with a quieter atmosphere and more spacious accommodations.
Advantage
Beautifully decorated luxury villas include a garage and elevator
The expansive estates have sliding walls to create an indoor/outdoor living space
Large, modern kitchens and outdoor grills
The master bedroom has a soaking tub and a private terrace
Beautiful pool area with waterfalls and two jacuzzis
Excellent gym and poolside massage gazebo
Full access to all nine pools, slides, and activities at the Grand Wailea resort
Free shuttle service from the condo to the amenities
Free Wi-Fi and parking
Cons
It is not a beachfront property; limited sea views
A 10-minute walk from the beach (a shuttle is available)
Amenities at the Grand Wailea Resort can be loud and crowded
Summary
The Ho’olei at Grand Wailea offers luxury condominiums on a beautiful, laid-back property connected to Grand Wailea, one of Maui’s most impressive mega-resorts. In massive villas averaging 3,500 square feet, families will find all the comforts of a luxury home, including a fitted kitchen, walk-in closets, a spacious lanai, a garage, and an elevator. While the property has its own pool and fitness room, guests can access the complex maze of pools and slides, a huge gym, and other activities. It is perfect for visitors who want all the features of the Grand Wailea but with a quieter atmosphere and more spacious accommodations.
Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea
The Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea became one of Hawaii’s premier luxury resorts when it opened its beachfront doors in 1990. Today, after a multimillion-dollar renovation in 2016, the 383-room beachfront stunner still maintains your elite status, Not charging a resort fee. The renovated rooms are spacious and sumptuously equipped with marble bathrooms and luxurious amenities. Three restaurants offer varied dining options, and Wolfgang Puck’s acclaimed Spago is one of Maui’s best restaurants. Families and couples are catered for here: two family-friendly pools, a game room, a free kids’ club, a secluded adults-only oasis pool, and a world-class spa—however, some couples.
May find the hotel too familiar. Travelers looking for a more modern, adult-focused property may prefer the Andaz Maui at Hotel Wailea.
Advantage
Superb beachfront location with prime access to famous Wailea Beach
Impeccably decorated rooms with Nespresso machines and private balconies
Three pools with three different atmospheres, including a private area for adults only
Three restaurants, 24-hour room service, and a lobby lounge; Wolfgang Puck’s Spago is a highlight
Beautiful spa and an indoor/outdoor gym with top-of-the-line equipment
Two sand-filled synthetic grass Nova’Pro tennis courts with lights for nighttime play
Kids for All Seasons Kids Club and a large family game room
Immaculate grounds, with sculpture gardens and fountains
Accessible to other hotels and restaurants via Wailea Beach path
Free Wi-Fi, pool cabanas, Wailea car service, snorkel gear (and no resort fee)
Club Floor rooms offer a private lounge with complimentary breakfast, snacks, and drinks
Cons
Couples may find the resort a bit too family-friendly
The outdoor gym won’t appeal to everyone
Breakfast and parking charges
Guest rooms at the back of the hotel do not have sea views.
Summary
The Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea established itself as one of Hawaii’s top luxury resorts when it opened its beachfront doors in 1990. Today, after a multimillion-dollar renovation in 2016, the 383-room beachfront stunner still maintains its elite status and does not charge a resort fee. The renovated rooms are spacious and superbly appointed, with marble bathrooms and deluxe amenities. Three restaurants offer varied dining options, and Wolfgang Puck’s acclaimed Spago is one of Maui’s best restaurants. Families and couples are catered to with two family pools, a game room, free kids’ club, an adults-only oasis pool, and a world-class spa. However, some couples may find the hotel too familiar. Travelers looking for a more modern, adult-focused property may prefer the Andaz Maui over the Wailea Hotel.
Wailea Elua Village
The best feature of this 152-unit upper-middle-range condo complex is its prime location along lovely Ulua Beach, a family-friendly beach that offers some of the best snorkeling on Maui. However, some units are far from the shoreline because the buildings are spread across a 24-acre property. Contemporary condos are generally modern, though some units need to be renovated. Two lovely pools and a hot tub round out the amenities at this low-key property that takes its quiet hours seriously. Units are better than Wailea Ekahi Village.
Advantage
Beachfront property stretching along the beautiful Ulúa beach
Some of the best snorkeling in Maui from the beach
Contemporary condos have full kitchens and laundry facilities
All units have private balconies with barbecue grills, many with ocean views
Two lovely pools and a jacuzzi
Beachfront clubhouse with barbecues and computers for guest use
A small fitness room, paddle tennis court, and a golf putting green
Is there free Wi-Fi and on-site parking
Cons
Great property; some units are too far from the beach
Some apartments are due for updates
Pool and beach areas can be crowded at peak times
Summary
This 152-unit upper-middle-range apartment complex’s best feature is its prime location alongside lovely Ulúa Beach, a family-friendly beach that offers some of the best snorkeling on Maui. However, as the buildings are spread over a 24-acre property, some units are far from ocean views. Contemporary apartments are generally modern, though some units are still due for an update. Two lovely pools and a Jacuzzi round out guests at this low-key property that takes its quiet hours seriously. The units are better than those in the larger Wailea Ekahi Village.
Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui
Wailea’s aptly named Fairmont Kea Lani is a “white paradise”: its 450 units sit on a 22-acre beachfront property with three pools, four restaurants, a luxurious spa, and access to world-class golf. Unlike its competitors, this property does an excellent job of keeping couples and families happy without long lines and battles for poolside loungers. The oceanfront villas and suites are some of the largest in Maui. But a pesky fee applies to anyone who doesn’t book a villa.
Advantage
Beautiful beachfront setting on the Pacific Ocean
Spacious two-story suites and villas include some ocean views
Several on-site restaurants and a lounge with nightly entertainment
Three outdoor pools, one for adults only with a swim-up bar and another with a waterslide
A 24-hour fitness center with free classes
Luxury spa and beauty salon
Substantial Green Initiatives
Free shuttle service to anywhere in Wailea
Fun kids’ club and organized activities like a Hawaiian canoe experience
The Fairmont Store for souvenirs and beach gear
Room service 24 hours
Villa rentals are waived from the resort fee and receive many added extras.
Cons
The daily resort fee includes self-parking, Wi-Fi, and a one-hour snorkel equipment rental.
Fee for the use of spa facilities
Dining options are expensive, and breakfast is not included.
Summary
Wailea’s aptly named Fairmont Kea Lani is a “white paradise”: its 450 units sit on a 22-acre beachfront property with three pools, four restaurants, a luxurious spa, and access to world-class golf courses. Unlike its competitors, this property does an excellent job of keeping couples and families happy without the long lines and battles for poolside loungers. The oceanfront villas and suites are some of the largest on Maui, though a pesky resort fee applies to anyone who doesn’t book a villa.
Wailea Beach Resort – Marriott, Maui
After a total of $100 million renovation in 2016, the four-pearl Wailea Beach Resort – Marriott, Maui, feels like a new property. The hotel’s 547 rooms are located in low-rise buildings spread over a well-kept property. They are decorated with elegant furniture and great amenities such as Nespresso machines and flat-screen TVs. Four pools and a water park cater to all types of travelers, and varied dining options keep the dining scene interesting. Additional amenities include a spa, fitness center, family game room, and small movie theater, but the resort’s indirect access to Wailea Beach is the biggest disappointment. Although it is an oceanfront property, ironically, there is no beach in front of Wailea Beach Resort. Instead, guests must walk to the nearby Grand Wailea to access the sand. Travelers looking for an actual beachfront property may prefer Marriott’s Maui Ocean Club, though it could be more exclusive.
Advantage
Stunning waterfront complex with spectacular views of the water
Wailea Beach is a five-minute walk away for snorkeling and swimming
Dedicated lounge chairs and umbrellas for guests at Wailea Beach
Contemporary rooms with open-air patios or balconies
Four pools, including an adults-only infinity pool and a kids’ water park
Roy Yamaguchi’s Humble Market Kitchin is a standout
Other dining options include a food truck, casual beach bar, and Starbucks
Signature Mandara Spa and modern 24-hour fitness center
Family game room with arcade games
Small movie theater with free admission and free popcorn
Free Wi-Fi (included in daily resort fee)
Cons
Not directly on the beach, Wailea Beach is a five-minute walk away
Daily resort fee and daily parking fee
Room decor is generic
Summary
After a top-to-bottom $100 million renovation in 2016, the four-pearl Wailea Beach Resort – Marriott, Maui, feels like a new property. The hotel’s 547 rooms are housed in low-rise buildings spread throughout the well-kept property. They are decorated with elegant furniture with nice amenities such as Nespresso machines and flat-screen TVs. Four pools and a water park cater to all types of travelers, and varied dining options keep the dining scene interesting. Additional amenities include a spa, fitness center, family game room, and small movie theater, but the resort’s indirect access to Wailea Beach is the biggest disappointment. Even though it is an oceanfront property, ironically, there is no beach in front of Wailea Beach Resort. Instead, guests must walk to nearby Grand Wailea to access the sand. Travelers looking for a genuinely beachfront property may prefer Marriott’s Maui Ocean Club, though it could be more exclusive.
Wailea Ekahi Village
This massive 294-unit condominium complex is spread over a well-maintained 34-acre tropical property along a beautiful Wailea beach. While part of the property extends toward the ocean, most condos sit a little inland, and it can be a 10-minute walk to get to the beach from the furthest units. This level of updating at these mid-range condos varies from team to unit, and while they’re smaller and a bit older than those in neighboring Elua Village, they’re also priced slightly lower. All in all, they are a good value for this upscale neighborhood.
Advantage
Four pools located around the property, including the large oceanfront pool
Access to the beautiful Keawakapu Beach
All apartments have a full kitchen with a dishwasher
Each unit has laundry and a private terrace
Beautifully manicured, tropical gardens
Is there free Wi-Fi and on-site parking
Cons
Many units are too far from the beach
Many condos are due for updates
Some units have old tube TVs
No gym or hot tub on the property
Summary
This sprawling 294-unit condominium complex is spread over a well-maintained 34 acres of tropical property along a beautiful Wailea beach. While part of the property extends to the sea, most apartments are set back a little inland, and it can be a 10-minute walk to reach the beach from the furthest units. The upgrade level of these mid-range condos varies from unit to unit, and while they are smaller and slightly older than those in neighboring Elua Village, they, too, are priced slightly lower. All in all, they’re a good value for this upscale neighborhood.
Polo Beach Club
The Polo Beach Club is an eight-story oceanfront condominium complex located directly on a secluded beach in the Wailea/Makena area. The quiet location makes it ideal for families and couples looking for an affordable Hawaiian vacation. Condo units are spacious, and all feature fully equipped kitchens with microwaves, refrigerators, and coffeemakers. Units are individually owned, so they differ in size and decor. As such, it’s a good idea to look at the floor plans on the hotel’s website before deciding which unit to book. The property features an outdoor pool, hot tub, and easy access to the beach. However, some guests have complained that the beach is small and can sometimes seem too crowded. The property offers thoughtful amenities like in-room massages, chefs, and pre-stock grocery shopping services (all for a fee). The outdoor grilling station and herb garden are attractive options for guests to prepare a relaxing dinner.
Advantage
Nice, secluded location on a beach that has prime diving
Free parking in a well-lit, underground garage
Thoughtful details include a library and herb garden
Pretty (albeit small) pool and jacuzzi along with gorgeous views of palm trees and ocean
Outdoor barbecue station with three grills and bench seating
Close to dining and entertainment options as it’s five miles from Kihei
Guests can Family Friendly, including cribs, playpens, and babysitting services
All units have free Wi-Fi and fully equipped kitchens
Some units offer lanais and washers/dryers
Massage, cooking, and pre-grocery social services are available (for a fee)
Cons
Apartment rental; not an entire service hotel (pro for some)
No vestibule; just a small office
Limited public facilities (no gym or fitness center)
Beach may seem too small and crowded for some
It can be noisy if remodeling occurs during your stay due to individual ownership of the units.
Some guests complaints of small cockroaches in some of the units
Summary
The Polo Beach Club is an eight-story, oceanfront apartment complex located directly on a secluded beach in the Wailea/Makena area. The quiet location makes it ideal for families and couples looking for an affordable Hawaiian vacation. Condo units are spacious and feature a fully equipped kitchen with a microwave, refrigerator, and coffee maker. Units are individually owned, so they differ in size and decor. As such, it’s a good idea to look at the floor plans on the hotel’s website before deciding which unit to reserve. The property features an outdoor pool, Jacuzzi, and easy beach access. However, some people have complained that the beach is small and can sometimes seem too crowded. The property offers amenities such as in-room massages, chefs, and pre-stock grocery services (all for a fee). The outdoor herb garden and grill station are attractive options for guests to cook a relaxing dinner.
