For over a century, travelers have flocked to Hawaii for luxury vacations, but it was only a few decades ago that similarly upscale lodgings took root on Maui. Now the Valley Isle is abloom in choices for well-heeled travelers and those willing to splurge on once-in-lifetime accommodations. Here are our favorite opulent oases on Maui’s West Side.
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Feature Photo: Montage Kapalua
TIP: Since most hotels have 4pm check-in. Ask for an early check-in.
If they can’t accommodate, they will let you store your bags so you can head to the beach!
Montage Kapalua Bay
The virtual “end of the road” of West Maui resorts debuted in 2014 as the most luxurious, discreet and romantic of the bunch. Starting at 1,250 square feet, its spacious one-, two- and three-bedroom units were built as residences with top-name appliances in full kitchens and deep soaking tubs and separate showers in marble-lined bathrooms. Sunset and views of Molokai across the channel are breathtaking. Explore Hawaiian cultural activities on site, sunbathe at the virtually hidden beach or go snorkeling in one of the nearby pristine bays. Indoor-outdoor Cane & Canoe Restaurant specializes in steak and local seafood with tropical influences. Overlooking Molokai, the Sunset Pool offers three terraced infinity-edge pools (one adults-only) amid tropical foliage
HIGHLIGHTS
- The vast Spa Montage, which offers it own ocean-view infinity-edge pool, provides state-of-the-art skincare and divine massages, wraps and other body therapies.
- Hop in Montage’s latest-model Cadillac shuttle to sample nearby dining at Merriman’s on Kapalua Point.
The Ritz Carlton Maui, Kapalua
The 463-room, 54-acre Ritz Carlton, Kapalua property sits on a verdant, gently sloping bluff just above the ocean with panoramic views of blue water and green mountains. Centered around a massive, three-tiered heated pool, the hotel offers a unique blend of luxurious amenities with cultural and recreational activities. Spa treatment rooms come with private garden showers and volcanic stone grottos, while the fitness center boasts ocean views. Jean-Michel Cousteau’s Ambassadors of the Environment program, closely affiliated with the property, offers all levels of activities from land to sea. The Ritz Carlton, Kapalua, also features six dining experiences, indoor/outdoor meeting spaces, lush organic gardens, tennis and two championship golf courses.
HIGHLIGHTS
- Dining is exceptional, especially the Hawaiian coastal cuisine at Banyan Tree restaurant, the lavish, locally sourced breakfast options at Ulana and the milkshakes and burgers at the beachside Burger Shack.
- Book a club-level room for the best club lounge in Hawaii, renowned for its ample and elegant food service and thoughtful concierges.
Did we miss your favorite hotel?
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