First time visiting.

Question

First time coming to Maui and honestly have no idea where to start 😆 and it's just 2 short months away. Can I get some advice on which areas I should look into for hotels. Will be traveling with wife and our 4 year old. Not trying to stay at a SUPER high end place but definitely want something nice, hopefully within walking distance of stuff to do. I'm assuming i will need a rental as well? Thanks to all! Side note. Is Maui and better pick over Oahu for a first time visit? Not to late to change it but everything I've read said Maui is best pick.

Answer

Visiting Maui for the first time is exciting, and it’s a great choice for a mix of scenic landscapes, beaches, and relaxed family-friendly vibes. Compared to Oahu, Maui generally feels less crowded, more resort- and nature-oriented, and easier to explore at a slower pace — which is nice for traveling with a 4-year-old. Oahu is more urban and has more nightlife, traffic, and city-based attractions, so for a first visit focused on beaches, hiking, and scenic drives, Maui is often preferred.

Areas to consider for hotels:

Kaanapali / Lahaina: Popular with families, good mix of resorts, restaurants, and shops. Beachfront access is great for kids. Walking distance to local shops and dining. Some resorts here have pools and kid-friendly activities.
Wailea / Makena: South Maui’s more upscale area with beautiful beaches and resort complexes. It’s quieter and luxurious but may be pricier. Some vacation condos offer kitchens, which is convenient with a child.
Kihei: More budget-friendly, lots of vacation rentals and condos. Good local restaurants, grocery stores, and beaches. Central location makes driving to other parts of Maui fairly easy.
Napili / Kapalua: Northwest Maui, quieter beaches, some family-friendly resorts. Great for snorkeling and less crowded than Kaanapali.

Rental car considerations:

A rental car is highly recommended for Maui. Public transportation is limited, and the island is best explored by car for beaches, scenic drives, and attractions like the Road to Hana or Haleakala National Park.
With a child, a car makes it easier to manage schedules, bring snacks, and move between attractions comfortably.

Family-friendly tips:

Look for hotels or condos with kitchenettes if you plan to prepare meals for your child — this can save money and simplify dining.
Beachfront or near-beach accommodations are very convenient for short walks and spontaneous beach time.
Consider areas with kid-friendly amenities like pools, shallow beaches, and easy parking.

Sample Itinerary Ideas for 4 Days:

Relax on the local beach, build sandcastles, and enjoy resort amenities.
Snorkeling at family-friendly spots like Molokini Crater (some tours cater to young children) or Napili Bay.
Short hikes suitable for a 4-year-old, such as Twin Falls or Iao Valley State Park.
Visit Maui Ocean Center to see marine life without getting in the water.
Scenic drives, like parts of the Road to Hana with selected stops, keeping it short for little ones.

Overall, Maui is a great choice for a first-time visit, especially with a young child, due to its mix of natural beauty, calm pace, and family-friendly accommodations.

First time visiting.

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