If you know of the now shuttered Kona Village on the Big Island and you miss the simplicity of this type of vacation, Napili Kai Beach Resort on Maui’s west side is your spot. In 1960, before Ka’anapali, before Wailea, and before many of you were born, this popular resort welcomed its first guests. Their motto is “low key, low rise traditional Hawaiʻian.” Like the Kona Village, this property has a very loyal return guest population (as in 65% of the guests who come here, come back). Situated on 10 beachfront acres on Napili Bay, the 163-room property consists of studios and one- and two-bedroom suites (most with kitchen facilities) in 11 low-rise plantation style buildings. Most of the units have ocean views which include Lana’i and Moloka’i. Facilities include a beachfront restaurant and bar (the landmark Sea House Restaurant), four swimming pools, a boutique spa, fitness room, large ocean view whirlpool spa and two eighteen-hole putting greens — one for adults, one for children. World-class golf and tennis are available in the adjacent Kapalua Resort community. This property is for those who want to unplug and enjoy a well-priced family vacation.

Photo Courtesy of Napili Kai Resort