Are you planning to spend your well-earned vacation under the swaying palms on Maui? Then this selection of stunning Maui beach hotels and resorts is for you.
South Maui and West Maui are home to just about all hotels in Maui on the beach. These are the exact Maui regions I’ll be focusing on in this article.
All beach hotels in Maui have their own unique atmosphere, facilities, and amenities. The grounds are beautifully manicured and come with access to a resort swimming pool.
All beaches in Maui are public so you don’t necessarily need to stay at a beach hotel to be able to enjoy the beach. If you want more space or privacy, then be sure to check out my favorite beach condos in Maui and the most amazing beach house rentals in Maui.
So, are you ready to discover the best beachfront hotels in Maui? Then let’s dive in!
In a nutshell
This article features a curated selection of Maui hotels on the beach, from family resorts to luxurious hotels. The article concludes with a FAQ section about Maui beach hotels and resorts.
Affiliate links are sprinkled throughout the site content. Clicking on such a hyperlink and making a booking on the accommodation platform it refers to may result in a commission for PlacesToStayMaui.com at no additional cost to you. For more information, visit the Disclaimer page.
Short on time? Here’s a quick list of the top beach hotels in Maui:
Maui beach hotel in the featured image:
Outrigger Kaanapali Beach Resort
Best Maui beach hotel for couples:
Four Seasons Resort Maui | Montage Kapalua Bay | Andaz Maui at Wailea
Best Maui beach resort for families with toddlers and young kids:
Four Seasons Resort Maui | Ritz-Carlton Kapalua Bay | Kaanapali Beach Resort | Fairmont Kea Lani | Wailea Beach Villas | Napili Surf Beach Resort
Best Maui beach resort for families with tweens and teens:
Sheraton Maui Resort | Wailea Beach Resort | Hyatt Regency Resort | Grand Wailea Maui | The Westin Maui Resort | Honua Kai Resort
A quick note on beach hotels in Maui
Beach hotels in Maui are amazing and many hotels have their own beach setup. However, do note that no Maui beach is private. The shoreline up to the upper reaches of the wash of the waves is always accessible to the public.
In the context of this article about Maui hotels on the beach, it’s important to point out that not all Maui beaches are created equal. South Maui and West Maui are home to the best ones on the island.
But even at these top beach destinations, the size of the beach will fluctuate along with the tides and the seasons. This process of widening and narrowing is completely natural and usually doesn’t affect the beach experience. Except of course on those Maui beaches that suffer from erosion such as Kahana Bay and some parts of Kaanapali Beach (especially in front of the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and the Alii Resort).
Learn more about beaches in Maui and whether these are lifeguarded in the FAQ section at the end of the post.
My selection of beachfront hotels in Maui
For every listing, I have added the classification, the number of rooms, and resort fees. I also took the liberty of including three condo resorts in Maui on the beach because they offer hotel-like pools and amenities.
Every Maui beach hotel and resort in this list links out to the corresponding listing on Booking.com or VRBO. Simply read through the details, check the reviews, and set your preferred dates to get an exact breakdown of the costs. If you still like what you see, you can go ahead and make your online booking.
One hotel that you won’t find in this list is the Maui Beach Hotel in Kahului. It seems like a very affordable and attractive option just 5 minutes from Kahului airport. Yet in reality, this hotel is located along a busy road within the Kahului harbor and amidst industrial activities. So, on paper, it’s a beach hotel, but it’s not the beach vacation kind of place it may seem to be.
Now, without further ado, here’s my personal selection of the best beach hotels in Maui Hawaii.
Psst… At the end of this article, you’ll find a map showing the location of all listings.
1. Fairmont Kea Lani
Situated a bit away from the main tourist hub, at the southern end of the Wailea Beach Walk, the Fairmont Kea Lani’s location offers a more tranquil and relaxed atmosphere compared to other South Maui beach resorts. The ambiance is luxurious yet pleasantly laid-back, ensuring a wonderful stay.
Instead of standard rooms, this luxury beach resort offers spacious suites and residences that provide the utmost comfort. The Fairmont Kea Lani features three pools spread across its grounds: one exclusively for adults and two interlinked family pools. Enjoy a rejuvenating moment of bliss at the Willow Stream Spa or participate in one of the family-friendly experiences organized at the brand-new Hawaiian cultural center.
This beautiful gem of a resort is just a few steps away from Polo Beach, a picturesque shoreline with golden sand and lava rocks. The unique rock formations create beautiful tide pools that are worth exploring. Beach attendants will be happy to assist you in setting up an umbrella.
There’s also an array of water activities to choose from at this luxury hotel in Maui on the beach. Rent your snorkeling equipment at the onsite water sports center to discover the underwater world or join a guided Hawaiian outrigger canoe experience.
2. Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa
Halfway the Kaanapali Beach strip lies the Sheraton Maui with its expansive and beautifully manicured tropical garden. The fabulous oceanfront lagoon-style pool with its lazy river and waterfall features makes it one of the most popular Maui hotels on the beach for families.
The resort is made up of six buildings. All the rooms and suites have recently been renovated and most of them boast stunning ocean views. The common areas have also received a fresh makeover, ensuring a delightful experience throughout your stay.
The Sheraton Maui is one of the best places to stay in Maui on the beach thanks to the beautiful natural cove that fronts this resort. It’s where Kaanapali Beach is flanked by Black Rock, a promontory of great cultural significance. Every evening at sunset, the resort hosts a torch-lighting and cliff-diving ceremony. In addition to this daily event, Black Rock is also a renowned off-beach snorkeling site with excellent visibility.
A leisurely stroll over the Kaanapali Beach Walk will take you to Whalers Village, the bustling shopping, dining, and entertainment hub of Kaanapali Beach. It’s also home to the Hawaii Wildlife Discovery Center.
3. Four Seasons Resort Maui
The most luxurious beach resort in Maui in terms of service is the Four Seasons Resort Maui. It caters to couples just as much as it caters to families, offering the perfect blend of fun and blissful relaxation.
There’s a delightful adults-only swimming pool and a family pool that offers plenty of water fun for young kids. Yet, all in all, compared to some of the busier resorts nearby, the pool experience is more tranquil. A game room, an educational academy, and a wonderful kids club complete the list of family activities while adults can relax in a poolside cabana or enjoy a rejuvenating massage.
The Four Seasons Maui Wailea certainly tops the list of best Maui hotels on the beach in terms of service thanks to the attentive staff who anticipates your every need. No need to worry about resort fee inclusions because a stay at this beachfront hotel in Maui comes with bells and whistles included. A variety of spacious rooms and suites is available, most of which come with a private lanai.
The Four Seasons is situated on gorgeous Wailea Beach. Beach attendants are available to assist in setting up your beach area so that you can make the most of your Hawaiian vacation.
4. Kaanapali Beach Resort by Outrigger
Often dubbed the most Hawaiian hotel, the Outrigger Kaanapali Beach Resort (formerly known as the Kaanapali Beach Hotel) offers an escape that captures the spirit of Hawaii.
The guest rooms are spread across four wings. The recently refurbished Papaku south wings and Kauhale southeast wings offer an upgraded experience, labeled as premium, while the Kauhale and Aouli wings keep their classic design. No matter your choice, all rooms come with a private lanai for your added comfort.
Immerse yourself in the rich Hawaiian heritage during your time at the Kaanapali Beach Resort thanks to the culturally trained staff and the wide array of cultural lessons and activities. Although modest in size, the inviting whale-shaped pool is the eye-catcher of the tropical garden.
Nestled on a wide stretch of Kaanapali Beach and just steps from Black Rock, this is one of the best West Maui resorts in terms of location. Start your day with a refreshing swim or a snorkeling session, or spend the afternoon riding the waves on your boogie board.
Although there are no cheap beachfront hotels in Maui, this wonderful property offers excellent value for money.
5. Wailea Beach Resort by Marriott
The Wailea Beach Resort may be the only four-start property in upscale Wailea, in terms of water fun and family feel, it’s top of the list.
In addition to the standard hotel rooms, this oceanfront hotel also offers a special accommodation option called the Sundeck Collection. These ground-level rooms provide additional outdoor living space and are conveniently situated near the beach walk, lawn, and pools.
The NALU Adventure Pool has everything you need for a fun-filled day, including splash zones and four amazing water slides. One slide even holds the record for being the longest in Maui! Certified scuba instructors are available for lessons in the separate dive pool, and there are family-sized cabanas for relaxation. Head to the Mo Bettah Food Truck when hunger strikes for kid-friendly and local treats.
The Wailea Beach Resort may not be directly on the beach, but it is nestled between two of Wailea’s finest beaches. To the north is Ulua Beach, and to the south is Wailea Beach where guests can request beach chairs under the orange umbrellas. Both are just a short stroll away, accessible from the Wailea Beach Walk.
6. The Westin Maui Resort & Spa
One of the top Maui hotels on the beach for families is The Westin Maui Resort.
It features two towers that offer different accommodations. The Ocean Tower is an original structure, while the Hokupaa Tower is the newest addition, replacing the previous Beach Tower. Staying in the Hokupaa Tower gives you exclusive access to the private lounge and the panoramic infinity pool.
The hotel’s pool area has also undergone an upgrade. It comprises a serene adults-only pool and the Kawaiola Aquatic Complex with its interlinked family pools with swim-through waterfalls and a 270-ft water slide. The littlest guests will love the splash zone while the Heavenly Spa is the perfect place for grown-ups to unwind and relax.
Like the other West Maui hotels in this list, The Westin opens up to the golden sands of Kaanapali Beach. Its location along the Kaanapali Beach Walk guarantees easy access to the wide selection of restaurants, cafés, boutiques, and cultural activities at neighboring Whalers Village.
7. Andaz Maui at Wailea
Another fantastic luxury beachfront hotel in Maui is the Andaz at Wailea. This upscale hotel stands out from the other South Maui hotels with its trendy and modern vibe.
Spread across the vast grounds are a series of beautifully designed infinity pools, offering generous space for relaxation. As you ascend to higher levels, be prepared to be mesmerized by the breathtaking ocean views. Additionally, there is a lagoon pool and a separate adults-only pool for a more intimate experience.
Situated at the northern edge of the Wailea resort area, the Andaz Maui marks the starting point of the renowned Wailea Beach Walk. While all neighboring resorts are set up at Wailea Beach, the Andaz offers a more tranquil beach experience at Mokapu Beach. This serene shoreline is perfect for romantic strolls.
Although the Andaz Maui is not exclusively for adults, its atmosphere and offerings cater greatly to grown-up preferences. This makes it one of the best Maui beach resorts for couples.
8. Ritz-Carlton Maui Kapalua
Escape to a tranquil haven nestled within the lush tropical landscape. The Ritz-Carlton Kapalua Bay is located just inland from the beach.
Spread out over a widely expansive property, the hotel boasts two separate wings. All guest rooms and suites are tastefully appointed with elegant dark wood furnishings, beautiful hardwood floors, and locally inspired artwork. The Hawaiian patterns on the throw pillows, curtains, and rugs add a touch of authenticity to the accommodations.
Immerse yourself in the refreshing waters of the three-tiered free-form pool that separates both wings of the property. The top pool is a haven of indulgence, surrounded by lavish cabanas equipped with flat-screen TVs and fully stocked mini-fridges. For families, there is a designated kid’s pool and water play area that ensures endless fun for your little ones.
Fleming Beach is a scenic, lifeguarded beach. Bask in the sun from the comfort of your Beachside Casabella or ask the attendants to arrange your setup on the soft sand.
To explore the larger Kapalua Resort area, take advantage of the complimentary shuttle that allows you to discover all the hidden gems in the wider Kapalua Resort area.
9. Grand Wailea Maui, a Waldorf Astoria Resort
One of the best Maui beach resorts for families is the Grand Wailea. Upon arrival, the open-air atrium with its sparkling water fountains sets the tone. The resort is a vibrant tropical oasis with stunning oceanfront views and beautiful gardens.
All thoughtfully designed guest rooms and suites come with a private lanai. The Napua Tower rooms and suites offer the most exclusive experience.
The highlight of this family resort is the Wailea Canyon Activity Pool in Maui. With its thrilling waterslides and a lazy river that connects all nine pools, it’s every kid’s dream come true. Get ready for the adventure of a lifetime as you take the water elevator to the start of the 262-foot-long lava tube, swing on a rope, ride the rushing rapids, explore caves, relax in hot tubs, marvel at waterfalls, and unwind in the sandy-bottom lagoon.
The hibiscus pool, framed with cabanas and Casabellas, is a serene adults-only haven amidst the bustling pool scene. But it’s no match for the overall adrenaline-loaded ambiance. The holistic-focused Kilolani Spa, however, does offer a moment of blissful relaxation away from the crowds.
Like several other luxury beachfront hotels in Maui, the Grand Wailea Resort is fronted by the scenic Wailea Beach. Reserve your beach chairs and umbrella and let the dedicated staff settle you in.
10. Montage Kapalua Bay
Another oceanfront hotel in Maui that offers above-and-beyond service is the Montage Kapalua Bay. It’s the most luxurious boutique hotel in Maui, boasting an intimate setting amidst the lush and scenic setting of the Kapalua resort.
The accommodations comprise one, two, three, and four-bedroom suites in neutral tones. The suites in building one are located closest to the beach access trail.
Three pools dot the sprawling grounds, of which two are only suited for adults. In addition to the family pool, there’s a of selection carefully thought-out programs for kids. A cultural ambassador is available to introduce you to Hawaiian culture, explore the tide pools, and guide hikes. There’s a variety of onsite dining options and an array of wellness experiences to choose from.
This beachfront hotel sits on the hill that flanks Kapalua Bay Beach. It does a bit of a walk to reach it but once you’re there, you’ll be in awe. Kapalua Bay is such a natural delight. It offers excellent snorkeling too. There’s a beach kiosk where you can rent chairs, umbrellas, kayaks, and SUPs. To fully indulge in Kapalua’s beauty, I’d strongly recommend a stroll over the Kapalua Coastal Trail.
11. Hyatt Regency Maui Resort
The Hyatt Regency Maui Resort is especially popular with families. All well-appointed rooms and suites include a private lanai and feature views of the Pacific Ocean, the West Maui Mountains, the Kaanapali golf courses, or tropical gardens.
Kids of all ages will adore meeting the delightful furry and feathery residents at the hotel, from vibrant parrots and playful penguins to elegant swans. The hotel goes the extra mile to give their little guests a chance to get acquainted with these adorable beings through feeding sessions and presentations.
Outside, you’ll find six interconnected pool areas, all surrounded by lush tropical plants and complemented by soothing waterfalls. There is ample space for everyone to splash around and have a blast. With exciting features like a waterfall, whirlpool, rope bridge, and lava tube slide, the possibilities for fun are endless.
This is the last hotel in this list of Maui resorts on the beach and there’s a reason for that: the beach erosion in front of the Hyatt is quite severe which does affect its beach appeal. Apart from that, this is an amazing place to stay. If it wasn’t for the compromised beach, it would rank much higher on this list.
Luckily, Kaanapali Beach is long enough to find a gorgeous patch of golden sand within walking distance. Just South of the Hyatt, there’s Hanakaoo Beach Park (a.k.a. Canoe Beach). Not only is this a favorite hangout for locals, but it’s also one of very few West Maui beaches with a lifeguard station.
12. Honua Kai Resort by Outrigger
This amazing West Maui beach resort is an absolute family favorite. Spread across two towers called Hokulani and Konea, this fun resort offers a variety of accommodations, from studios to three-bedroom condos. Since all units are individually owned, the decor and amenities vary.
Those seeking ultimate luxury will love the recent Luana Garden Villas. These exquisitely appointed three-bedroom homes are tucked away behind the original towers and set in beautifully manicured gardens with semi-private pools.
The resort’s Aquatic Playground comprises a network of swimming pools with a lazy river, cascading waterfalls, thrilling water slides, hidden caves, and relaxing hot tubs. The little ones will have a blast in the kids’ pool while adults can unwind in the serene adults-only pool or swim a lap in the infinity-edge pool.
This family-friendly Kaanapali condo resort gives out to the northern section of Kaanapali Beach (north of Black Rock). Relax on the golden sand, explore the underwater life at Kahekili Beach Park, or enjoy an array of other water sports activities like boogie boarding and paddle boarding.
13. Napili Surf Beach Resort Maui
Located at the southernmost tip of the beautiful Napili Bay Beach, you’ll discover one of the best Maui resorts on the beach. The Napili Surf Beach Resort offers a cozy and inviting experience.
It comprises both studios and one-bedroom condos spread across four buildings, three of which provide stunning ocean views. All accommodations are individually owned and boast a fully equipped kitchen and a private lanai. However, it’s important to note that the decor and layout may differ from unit to unit.
While the resort does not have central air conditioning, you’ll find a portable air conditioner in the living area and a ceiling fan in the bedroom for your comfort.
The highlight of this tropical paradise is undoubtedly the beachfront garden. It’s an absolute delight, featuring a solar-heated swimming pool and granting direct access to the soft sandy shores of Napili Bay.
14. Wailea Beach Villas, a Destination By Hyatt Residence
One of the best beach resorts in Maui is situated right on the pristine Wailea Beach.
Relish in all the comforts of home. Each vacation rental is uniquely designed and furnished. Whether you choose to unwind on your spacious penthouse lanai with breathtaking panoramic views or savor the famous sunsets from your beachside villa, you’ll feel blissfully immersed in the beauty of South Maui.
Wailea Beach Villas is a tranquil sanctuary nestled in a tropical oasis of waterfalls, beautiful gardens, and warmly lit pathways. The resort facilities include a serene infinity lagoon pool exclusively for adults, along with a family pool that includes a delightful waterfall feature and a safe wading area for little ones.
The most fabulous feature of this resort is its prime location. It directly connects to the Wailea Beach Walk and Wailea Beach, allowing you to soak up the glorious Hawaiian sunshine and immerse yourself in the crystal-clear waters of Maui’s best beaches.
In addition, the Wailea Beach Villas resort also provides you with private pedestrian access to trendy boutiques, mouthwatering restaurants, and captivating art galleries at The Shops at Wailea.
Map of all the listed Maui beach hotels
For your convenience, I created this map showing the location of all listings by listing number.
Which side of Maui is best for beaches?
There are so many gorgeous beaches to explore along the coastlines of West and South Maui. While West Maui boasts the longest stretches of beaches for swimming and snorkeling, you’ll find the most picturesque beaches in South Maui. Of course, there are exceptions to this rule (like scenic Kapalua in West Maui).
If you’re wondering what beach you should stay at in Maui, then your beach activities of choice will help you narrow down the list of options.
Let me share with you my personal list of favorites:
Keep in mind that the absolute best time for swimming and snorkeling is the mornings! As the day progresses, the sea tends to get windier and a bit choppier (ideal for some boogie-boarding fun!).
Which of these Maui beach resorts caught your eye?
Chances are that you’ve found your dream accommodation for that long-awaited Maui vacation. If not, then have a look at my other wish lists to discover even more amazing Maui hotels and rentals.