Planning an Family trip to Maui Dec 27- Jan 1.

Question

Thinking of staying in Wailea and renting 3 condos. Two 2 bedrooms and one 1 Bedroom for our family of 11. Considering The Palms and also Ekolu. Open for other suggestions. Wondering which is better and walkable to the beach. Also would appreciate info on beaches that are open and which ones are closed. Thank you.

Answer

Planning a family trip to Maui sounds exciting, and Wailea is a fantastic area to stay, offering beautiful beaches, luxury resorts, and a great central location. Based on your needs (renting three condos for a group of 11 people), here’s some detailed information about the options you're considering and a few other suggestions:

The Palms at Wailea vs. Ekolu Village:

The Palms at Wailea: The Palms offers spacious condos with two- and three-bedroom units, making it a good choice for a family group. The complex is well-known for its stunning views, modern amenities, and well-maintained grounds. While it is a bit farther from the beach (about a 10-15 minute walk), it is still close to several attractions, including the Wailea Golf Course and the Shops at Wailea. It’s a quieter area and tends to attract those looking for a more relaxed, peaceful experience.
Ekolu Village: Ekolu is another great option located in Wailea. The property features two-bedroom condos with spacious floor plans and lovely views of the ocean, golf courses, and the island. It’s situated slightly higher up than The Palms, but it’s still within walking distance of the beach—about a 10-minute walk to the Wailea Beach path. Ekolu tends to be a little quieter, too, with fewer crowds than some of the other resorts. It’s close to many of Wailea’s high-end amenities and great for families seeking a tranquil, scenic environment.

Which is better for walking to the beach?

Both The Palms and Ekolu are a short walk from the beach, but they aren’t directly on the sand. For easy beach access:

The Palms: It’s about a 10-15 minute walk to the closest beach, such as Wailea Beach or Polo Beach. However, the walk is scenic, and you’ll pass by lush, tropical landscaping.
Ekolu Village: It’s also about a 10-minute walk to the nearest beach. You’ll have access to the Wailea Beach path that connects several beaches along the coast.

Both properties are fairly close to beaches, but if direct beach access is a priority, you may want to explore beachfront properties such as the Wailea Beach Resort or the Four Seasons Maui.

Alternative Suggestions:

Wailea Beach Resort: If you want to be right on the beach, this resort offers luxury condos and beachfront access, making it ideal for families who want to be close to the sand and surf. It’s a larger property, but it offers excellent amenities and easy access to Wailea Beach.
The Andaz Maui at Wailea: Another upscale beachfront option, the Andaz offers stunning views, luxury amenities, and a more modern, relaxed vibe. It’s family-friendly and also has beachfront access, along with an array of pools and activities for kids and adults.
Wailea Ekahi Village: If you like the idea of Ekolu but want more of a resort-style atmosphere with easier beach access, Ekahi Village could be a great choice. It’s just a short walk from the beach, with multiple pools and beautiful tropical gardens. The location is also very convenient for exploring Wailea’s shopping and dining options.

Beaches in the Wailea Area:

Wailea has several beautiful beaches, many of which are open for public access. Here’s a quick rundown of the most popular ones in the area:

Wailea Beach: A stunning crescent-shaped beach with calm waters, perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. This beach is open to the public and is often considered one of Maui’s best beaches.
Makena Beach (Big Beach): Just south of Wailea, this large, wide beach offers more space and is known for its natural beauty. While the waves can be strong, it’s a great beach for a more secluded experience.
Polo Beach: Another beach near The Palms, Polo Beach is quieter and ideal for families with its calm waters and beautiful scenery. It’s a great spot for swimming and picnicking.
Little Beach (Makena State Park): A smaller, more remote beach that’s a bit more rugged and isolated. It’s not typically crowded, though it’s known for being more relaxed and secluded.

Are any beaches closed?

As of now, no major beaches in the Wailea area are permanently closed, but some might have restricted access due to maintenance, safety issues, or weather conditions. It’s always a good idea to check with local sources or ask your resort concierge about current beach conditions and accessibility during your stay.

In Summary:

If you’re looking for a great family-friendly place to stay, both The Palms at Wailea and Ekolu Village are solid choices. They’re both quiet and offer great amenities, but neither is directly on the beach, so you’ll need to walk about 10-15 minutes to reach the nearest shore. If you prioritize beach access, consider a beachfront property like the Wailea Beach Resort or the Andaz Maui at Wailea. For the best beaches in Wailea, check out Wailea Beach, Makena Beach, and Polo Beach, which are all open and easily accessible.