Napili Shores or Napili Sunset Resort

Question

Hello, We are visiting Maui (and Hawaii) for the first time. We will be traveling with our 7-year-old daughter over New Year’s. I know that there are a few nicer places in Napili, but Napili Shores and Napili Sunset are the places within our price range. We could choose a really nice room from Air B&B and know exactly what we are getting, or we could choose a garden/pool view room at Napili Sunset. My impressions are that Napili Shores is a bigger resort and Napili Sunset is smaller. Napili Sunset is a little less updated compared to the room we know we would be getting at Napili Shores through Air B&B. Some reviews of Napili Shores say it is super peaceful, but I feel like it could have that bigger resort feel when compared to Napili Sunset. By the way, we are also spending three nights in upcountry to visit farms and we are staying in Hāna…so we are trying to cover all of our bases :)

Answer

Both Napili Shores and Napili Sunset Resort are excellent options for a first-time Maui visit, especially traveling with a child. Your choice really depends on what you value most — space, updated accommodations, or a smaller, quieter resort feel.

Here’s a detailed comparison:

Napili Shores
- Larger property with more units; can feel like a bigger resort, but most reviews note it still retains a relaxed, low-key vibe.
- Generally more updated units and well-maintained grounds. If you book through Air B&B, you can often choose a room that has modern amenities and better layouts.
- Close to Napili Bay beach — good for kids, calm waters, excellent snorkeling right off the beach.
- Onsite amenities include pools and easy access to restaurants and grocery stores nearby.
- Reviews mention it can be very peaceful, but occasional larger groups may make it feel slightly busier than Napili Sunset.
Napili Sunset Resort
- Smaller property, which often translates to a more intimate, quiet experience.
- Some units may be slightly less updated, but garden/pool view rooms can be charming and comfortable.
- Right on Napili Bay beach as well, but the smaller property can feel more like a boutique experience.
- Has the advantage of fewer units — less chance of crowds around the pool or beach access.
- Reviews highlight the friendly, personal service and relaxed atmosphere.

Other considerations for your trip:

Napili Shores may give you more control if you are booking via Air B&B, especially if you prioritize an updated kitchen or living space for family time.
Napili Sunset offers that smaller, “hideaway” feeling, which may be nice for relaxing with a child and avoiding a more resort-like feel.
Both properties are conveniently located for day trips upcountry or to Hāna, and close to Lahaina and Kaanapali if you want to explore other parts of Maui.

In summary, if having a more updated, controlled space is your priority, Napili Shores via Air B&B is probably best. If you prefer a smaller, quieter resort feel with personal service and don’t mind slightly older accommodations, Napili Sunset is a great option.

Either choice will offer easy beach access, good snorkeling opportunities for your daughter, and a convenient base for exploring West and Upcountry Maui.