West Maui lodging suggestions?

Question

Husband and I plan to visit Maui in early July. We have stayed at the Mana Kai in Kihei (several times) and loved the ocean view from our lanai, beach access, and small building. However the prices there have really increased and availability is low. We are thinking of trying West Maui but aren’t familiar with the beaches and properties (not looking for a huge resort). Any suggestions? Any neighborhoods/properties/beaches to avoid?

Answer

It sounds like you're looking for a more relaxed and smaller property in West Maui, similar to your experience at the Mana Kai in Kihei. West Maui is a great option with stunning beaches and a range of accommodations, from quieter boutique hotels to larger resorts. Here’s a breakdown of neighborhoods, properties, and beaches to consider, as well as some things to watch out for:

Neighborhoods in West Maui:

West Maui is home to several charming areas that offer a great mix of beaches, dining, and a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the larger resorts of Kaanapali. Here are some neighborhoods to consider:

Lahaina: Known for its historic charm and lively Front Street, Lahaina offers a mix of small boutique hotels, vacation rentals, and properties with ocean views. While Lahaina can get busy, it's a fantastic base for exploring West Maui. It’s also a great location for sunset views, shopping, and dining. A few small, non-resort-style properties include the Lahaina Inn and Hale Ono Loa.
Ka'anapali: While Ka'anapali is home to larger resorts, there are also some smaller boutique hotels like Kaanapali Ocean Inn, which is more affordable and still has beach access. While it’s more touristy, it’s hard to beat the beach and the proximity to Black Rock for snorkeling and diving.
Napili Bay: This area offers a more laid-back vibe with beautiful beaches, perfect for swimming and snorkeling. Small properties like Napili Shores Maui and Napili Kai Beach Resort offer a more intimate, low-key experience with easy beach access. Napili Bay is quieter than Kaanapali but still close enough for easy access to restaurants and shops in Lahaina and Kaanapali.
Kahana: Located just north of Napili Bay, Kahana is a quieter area with a range of small condos and vacation rentals. Kahana Beach and Royal Kahana are both good options for those looking for a more peaceful stay. The beach here is less crowded than others in West Maui, and the area is more residential, offering a relaxing escape.

Properties to Consider:

Here are some smaller properties that could be a good fit based on your preferences:

Napili Shores Maui: This is a wonderful property with oceanfront views and a relaxed, low-rise layout, perfect for a peaceful stay. It has direct access to Napili Bay and is great for snorkeling.
Hale Ono Loa: This is a small, oceanfront condo complex located just north of Lahaina. It's quieter and offers great ocean views, with easy access to beaches and the convenience of a kitchen for making your own meals.
Whaler’s Cove: A hidden gem in Kahana, this property offers a small, peaceful atmosphere with amazing ocean views and is just a short walk to the beach. It's perfect for those looking to avoid big resorts.
Kaanapali Ocean Inn: This small, budget-friendly option in the heart of Kaanapali is a hidden gem. While it's part of the larger Royal Lahaina Resort, it offers a more intimate, quiet stay and easy access to Kaanapali Beach.
Ka'anapali Beach Club: Located at the quieter end of Ka'anapali, this property offers spacious rooms and a more relaxed atmosphere compared to the larger resorts in the area. It’s a good option for couples who want beach access but prefer to avoid the large crowds.

Beaches to Consider:

The beaches in West Maui are some of the best on the island, offering a variety of options for relaxation and recreation:

Napili Bay: A calm, protected bay perfect for swimming and snorkeling. It’s quieter than the main beaches in Kaanapali and has a beautiful sandy beach.
Ka’anapali Beach: Famous for its long stretch of golden sand and crystal-clear waters. It can get crowded, but there are quieter sections near Black Rock.
Kapalua Bay: One of the most beautiful beaches in Maui, located within the Kapalua Resort area. It's great for swimming, snorkeling, and lounging, and it tends to be quieter than the beaches in Kaanapali.
Baby Beach (Lahaina): A calm, shallow beach perfect for those looking for peaceful water and a great spot to relax.

Things to Avoid or Consider:

Avoid large resort complexes: If you're looking for a more intimate experience, you might want to avoid the big resorts in Kaanapali, like the Hyatt Regency or the Westin, as they can be crowded and expensive. The resort-style properties can also be more commercial and less personal.
Traffic and Parking: While West Maui has several fantastic beaches, traffic can be a concern, especially during high tourist seasons. Kaanapali and Lahaina can have heavy traffic, and finding parking near popular spots can be a challenge. Some smaller properties have free or cheaper parking options, while larger resorts can charge significant parking fees.
Avoid staying too far north in Kapalua: While the beaches are beautiful, some of the resorts in Kapalua can feel a bit remote compared to the more central areas like Lahaina or Ka'anapali. If you're looking for a mix of convenience and relaxation, a location closer to Lahaina or Kaanapali may be a better fit.

Summary:

If you’re looking for a quiet, intimate stay with good beach access and smaller accommodations, West Maui has some excellent options. Napili Bay, Lahaina, and Kahana all offer great choices, with Napili Shores Maui and Hale Ono Loa being especially recommended for a low-key experience. Avoid the larger resorts in Kaanapali if you're looking for a more peaceful and personal stay, and check parking availability wherever you stay.

Enjoy your trip to Maui, and congratulations on your anniversary and celebrations!