Skip to content
Places to stay Maui logo
  • Start hereExpand
    • Where to stay in Maui
    • Hotels vs vacation rentals
  • Collection
  • By areaExpand
    • South Maui
    • West Maui
    • Other Maui areas
  • By typeExpand
    • Maui hotels
    • Maui vacation rentals
  • By experienceExpand
    • Couples travel
    • Family travel
    • Beach vacation
    • Luxury travel
    • Budget travel
  • Travel tips
  • About
  • Contact
Facebook Pinterest
Subscribe
Places to stay Maui logo

Where to stay in Maui: Maui towns and areas compared (+ map)

Woman with straw hat drinking fresh coconut water in the ocean in front of a beachfront place to stay in Maui

So, you decided to vacation in Maui? Awesome! I’m here to help you figure out exactly where to stay in Maui.

With the help of my interactive map of Maui, you’ll get to discover the six key areas to stay in Maui.  Each Maui area comes with a brief description of its towns and their unique vibe, along with an overview of the pros and cons. Additionally, I’ll provide a quick introduction to Maui’s sister islands, Lanai and Molokai, which are also part of Maui County.

So, are you ready to discover the best place to stay in Maui? Then let’s get to it!

Car rental Maui

In a nutshell

This page provides insight into where to stay in Maui by zooming in on the various towns and areas. It includes a Maui map showing each Maui resort’s location and an introduction to the character of each area, the Maui towns it comprises, and the overall vibe you can expect.

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.

  • Where you stay in Maui matters
  • Map of Maui areas and towns
  • Comparison of the best areas to stay in Maui
    • South Maui
      • South Maui towns: Wailea, Makena, Kihei & Maalaea
      • Where to stay in South Maui
    • West Maui
      • West Maui towns: Lahaina, Kaanapali, Napili & Kapalua
      • Where to stay in West Maui
    • North Shore Maui
      • North Shore towns: Paia & Haiku
      • Where to stay in North Shore Maui
    • Upcountry Maui
      • Upcountry Maui towns: Makawao & Kula
      • Where to stay in Upcountry Maui
    • East Maui
      • East Maui town: Hana
      • Where to stay in East Maui
    • Central Maui
      • Central Maui towns: Kahului & Wailuku
      • Where to stay in Central Maui
    • Maui's sister islands: Lanai & Molokai
  • Where to stay in Maui: Summary
  • Find your place to stay in Maui

Where you stay in Maui matters

You might wonder if you really need to spend time figuring out where to stay in Maui. Especially if you’ll be renting a car in Maui (my go-to partner is Discount Hawaii Car Rentals). The island is not that big after all.

That may be true but, because the island’s roads circle around the Haleakala volcano and the West Maui mountains, the driving times can quickly add up. So, especially if you’re looking to crisscross the island going from one adventure to the other, the location of your Maui accommodation is key.

But even if you plan on just staying put in your resort area, where you stay in Maui can really influence your experience. Each of the Maui towns has its own unique flair and vibe after all. Plus, the weather can vary greatly.

Map of Maui areas and towns

A lay of the island is essential to narrow down the best places to stay in Maui. That’s why, for your convenience, I’ve created this interactive map of Maui that displays all of the Maui towns and areas that we’ll zoom in on further down in this article.

Maui mapThis map of Maui shows regions and cities to determine where to stay in Maui. Kahoolawe Molokai Lanai Wailea<Makena<Kihei<Maalaea<Lahaina<Kaanapali<Napili<Kapalua<Paia<Haiku<Makawao<Kula<Hana<KahuluiWailuku

© placestostaymaui.com – Any reproduction of this map in any form without prior written permission of placestostaymaui.com is strictly prohibited

To discover the various areas in detail, you can just continue reading. Or you can click the Maui area of your choice to navigate directly to an in-depth overview of that specific area.

Comparison of the best areas to stay in Maui

Maui’s most popular resort areas are South and West Maui. These are perfect for first-time travelers while other regions, Central Maui for one, are an excellent option for budget travelers.

Other areas, such as North Shore Maui, Upcountry Maui, and East Maui, are ideal travel bases if you’re looking to escape the crowds or discover a different side of Maui.

South Maui

Where to stay Maui map highlighting South Maui area and the South Maui towns

South Maui towns: Wailea, Makena, Kihei & Maalaea

South Maui actually refers to the southwestern coast of the island.

Wailea is this area’s main resort town. This luxurious hideaway is tucked away between the slopes of the Haleakala and several gorgeous beaches. Wailea is dotted with the most lavish beach hotels and resorts for couples and families alike, luxury vacation rentals, upscale boutiques, golf courses, and fine dining outlets. Wailea is also home to the only adults-only Hotel Wailea, which is one of the best honeymoon hotels in Maui.

South of Wailea is Makena, which is less developed and perfect for those who seek remote tranquility without compromising on beaches.

North of Wailea is Kihei, a convivial town that’s also home to long sandy beaches and a large selection of rental condos.

Maalaea is the northernmost town in this part of Maui. It’s not as well-known as other tourist destinations on the island, yet this enchanting harbor town’s central location certainly makes it an option worth considering.

climate by Maui area

South Maui’s climate is drier than anywhere else on the island. As a result, this area, and in particular the southernmost towns of Wailea, makes for an excellent winter travel destination.

Where to stay in South Maui

These are my top picks:

South Maui hotels for families:
Grand Wailea, a Waldorf Astoria Resort

Grand Wailea a Waldorf Astoria Resort is one of the best places to stay in Maui for families
© Grand Wailea, a Waldorf Astoria Resort
BOOKING.COM

South Maui hotels for couples:
Hotel Wailea Relais & Châteaux

Hotel Wailea is one of the best places to stay in Maui for couples
© Hotel Wailea Relais & Châteaux

BOOKING.COM

Luxury South Maui resort rentals for families:
Hoolei Ocean View Villa (Grand Wailea Privileges)

Table on the lanai of the Hoolei Ocean View Villa with Grand Wailea Privileges is one of the best vacation rentals in South Maui for families
© Hoolei Ocean View Villa (Grand Wailea Privileges)
TAT: #TA-153-282-8160-01 | License: N/A, hotel zone
VRBO

Luxury South Maui rentals for couples:
Luxury Garden Cottage

This luxury Garden Cottage in Kihei is one of the best places to stay in Maui for couples
© Luxury Garden Cottage
TAT: #TA-085-245-5424-01 | License: STKM 2014/0001
VRBO

Affordable South Maui rentals for families:
The Palms at Wailea Unit 1905

Lanai of one of the best vacation home rentals in South Maui for families
© VRBO The Palms at Wailea Unit 1905
TAT: #TA-058-164-9408-01 | License: N/A due to zoning
VRBO

Affordable South Maui rentals for couples:
Maalaea Banyans condo

This oceanfront condo in Maalaea is where to stay in Maui on a budget for couples
© VRBO Maui Maalaea Banyans Unit 302
TAT: #TA-116-009-6768-01 | License: N/A due to zoning
VRBO

For more inspiration on the best places to stay in South Maui, have a look at my in-depth articles. It’s where I feature the top Maui hotels, vacation homes, and condos. I also have articles dedicated to romantic stays and family-friendly stays.

My selection of vacation rentals in South Maui includes the following articles:

  • Best Wailea condos on Airbnb & VRBO
  • Best Kihei condos on Airbnb & VRBO
  • Best Wailea Beach Villas rentals on Airbnb & VRBO

All suggestions are hand-picked and thoroughly researched.

West Maui

Where to stay Maui map highlighting West Maui area and the West Maui towns

West Maui towns: Lahaina, Kaanapali, Napili & Kapalua

West Maui refers to the coastline located west of the West Maui mountain range.

The northernmost resort area is Kapalua, a luxurious yet tranquil community that’s home to a couple of upscale resorts and golf courses as well as a gorgeous beach.

South of Kapalua Bay, along a beautiful stretch of coastline, are Napili, Kahana, and Honokowai. These small communities are charming in their own right but sleepier than most Maui hotspots. This area is a bit off the tourist radar yet features a wide selection of beachfront rental condos.

South of these communities, you’ll find one of Maui’s most popular resort areas: Kaanapali Beach Resort. The beautiful beach is lined with family-friendly resorts and restaurants, all interconnected by the Kaanapali beach walk. This is a lively place that offers all the ingredients for the ultimate beach vacation.

It’s also very close to Lahaina, the former whaling town just south of Kaanapali. Unfortunately, this historic gem was burned to the ground in the 2023 wildfires. We can only hope that one day, the lively cafés, restaurants, art galleries, and shops that once dotted the streets of Lahaina will be rebuilt and its beautiful banyan tree will pull through.

climate by Maui area

West Maui’s climate is usually very mild and sunny. But, especially in winter, this area is known to have an occasional shower. And the further north, the rainier. Therefore, Kapalua may not be the best place to spend your winter holiday, especially if beach time is your main focus.

Where to stay in West Maui

These are my top picks:

West Maui hotels for families:
Hyatt Regency Maui Resort

The Hyatt Regency Maui Resort in Kaanapali is one of the best family resorts in Maui
© Hyatt Regency Maui Resort
BOOKING.COM

West Maui hotels for couples:
Montage Kapalua Bay

Pool and garden of the Montage Kapalua Bay, one of the best places to stay in West Maui for couples
© Montage Kapalua Bay
BOOKING.COM

Luxury West Maui rentals for families:
Aston at The Whaler

Lanai of one of the best ocean view vacation rentals in Maui"
© VRBO Aston at The Whaler Unit 673
TAT: #TA-094-705-9200-01 | License: N/A due to zoning
VRBO

Luxury West Maui B&B’s for couples:
Noahs Hideaway

Noahs Hideaway is one of the most romantic places to stay in Maui for couples
© Noahs Hideaway
TAT: #TA-197-216-9216-01 | License: #BBWM 2018/0002
BOOKING.COM

Affordable West Maui rentals for families:
Kaanapali Maui at the Eldorado

Lanai of one of the cheapest condo rentals in Maui for families
© VRBO Kaanapali Maui at the Eldorado by Outrigger Unit H-105
TAT: #TA-099-124-9920-01 | License: N/A due to zoning
VRBO

Affordable West Maui rentals for couples:
Honokowai Hale Ono Loa

Ocean view lanai of one of the cheapest condo rentals in Maui for couples
© VRBO Honokowai Hale Ono Loa Unit 205
TAT: #TA-058-164-9408-01 | License: N/A due to zoning
VRBO

For more inspiration on the best places to stay in West Maui, from budget accommodation to luxurious dwellings, have a look at my in-depth articles. Some of the most impressive beachfront hotels and vacation condos are located in this area, many of which are located along Kaanapali Beach.

My selection of vacation rentals in West Maui includes the following articles:

  • Best Kaanapali condos on Airbnb & VRBO
  • Best Kaanapali luxury rentals on Airbnb & VRBO
  • Best Kapalua villas for rent on VRBO
  • Best Napili condo rentals on Airbnb & VRBO
  • Best Kahana condo rentals in Maui on Airbnb and VRBO
  • Top Honua Kai Resort rentals on Airbnb & VRBO

All suggestions are hand-picked and thoroughly researched.

North Shore Maui

Where to stay Maui map highlighting North Shore Maui area and the North Shore towns

North Shore towns: Paia & Haiku

If the tourist hotspots of West and South Maui have no effect on you, then Maui’s North Shore might. This area offers a perfect blend of relaxation, adventure, and atmosphere.

Two quaint beach towns make up this Maui area: Paia, with its beautiful Baldwin Beach Park, and Haiku, home to Hookipa Beach Park. Both offer a more local feel and especially Paia is home to cool cafés, restaurants, and boho-chic shops.

You won’t find any resorts lining the North Shore beaches, only holiday homes and well-equipped surf shacks. The waterfalls and lush landscapes of East Maui are just a short drive away, as is the countryside of Upcountry.

climate by Maui area

Weather-wise, this Maui region is more unstable because it’s located on the windward side. That makes it more prone to rain than the tourist areas on the leeward side (West and South Maui).

Where to stay in North Shore Maui

These are my top picks:

North Shore Maui rentals in Haiku:
Haiku Surf Cottage

Haiku Surf Cottage is one of the best places to stay in North Shore Maui
© Haiku Cottage
TAT: #TA-132-129-3824-01 | License: #BBPH 2016/0004
VRBO

North Shore Maui rentals in Paia:
Romantic Beach Home Paia

Romantic beach home in Paia is one of the best places to stay in North Shore Maui
© Romantic Beach Home Paia
TAT: #W03494430-01 | License: STWK 2013/0002
VRBO

For more inspiration on the best places to stay in North Shore Maui, have a look at my in-depth articles.

My selection of vacation rentals in North Shore Maui includes the following articles:

  • Best Paia vacation rentals on Airbnb & VRBO
  • Best Haiku vacation rentals in Maui on Airbnb and VRBO

Upcountry Maui

Where to stay Maui map highlighting Upcountry Maui area and the Upcountry Maui towns

Upcountry Maui towns: Makawao & Kula

Upcountry refers to the Maui region located on the western slopes of Haleakala National Park.

The landscapes here are completely different from the coastal towns in Maui. It’s where you’ll find pastures, botanical gardens, and spectacular panoramas. This rural community is also home to various farms selling the freshest produce and to the fragrant Kula Lavender Farm. The main Upcountry towns are Makawao and Kula.

There are no resorts in this part of Maui. What you’ll find here are cozy cabins, intimate guesthouses, and chic mountain retreats.

climate by Maui area

Because of its elevated location, temperatures in the Kula mountains are much cooler. It’s rainier than West and South Maui but slightly less than the North Shore.

Where to stay in Upcountry Maui

These are my top picks:

Upcountry Maui B&Bs in Makawao:
North Shore Lookout

North Shore Lookout is one of the best places to stay in Upcountry Maui
© North Shore Lookout
TAT: #TA-174-391-0912-01 | License: #BBMP 2017/0003
VRBO

Upcountry Maui rentals in Kula:
Upcountry Hideaway

Upcountry Hideaway is one of the best places to stay in Upcountry Maui
© Upcountry Hideaway
TAT: #TA-048-528-1792-01 | License: #STMP 2016/0001
VRBO

For more inspiration on the best places to stay in Upcountry Maui, have a look at my in-depth articles.

East Maui

Where to stay Maui map highlighting East Maui area and the East Maui town of Hana

East Maui town: Hana

The island’s east coast is mostly known for the Hana highway, one of the top Maui attractions.

Most Maui travel guides and tours suggest the Road to Hana drive as a day trip. In my opinion, it would be a pity to cut your visit short. Hana itself may not be that spectacular but there’s so much to admire, that you could easily spend several days in this remote area of Maui.

Tucked away in a lush landscape, thundering waterfalls, botanical gardens, fascinating cultural sites, and red and black sand beaches, you’ll find cozy rentals, charming cottages, and one amazing Hana hotel.

climate by Maui area

East Maui is located on the windward coast, which means that it’s the rainiest part of the island. The weather can be quite unpredictable here with pouring rain for just a few hours, a rain shower now and then, or a string of sunny days. It results in lush landscapes and the most amazing waterfalls.

Where to stay in East Maui

These are my top picks:

East Maui rental in Hana:
Popolana at Hana Bay Elua Cottage

Hana Bay Elua Cottage its beautiful bay views is one of the best places to stay on the Road to Hana
© VRBO Popolana at Hana Bay Elua Cottage
TAT: #TA-090-965-4528-01 | License: #STHA 2019/0002
VRBO

East Maui hotels in Hana:
Hana Maui Resort

The Hana Maui Resort is one of the best places to stay in Hana Maui
© Hana Maui Resort
BOOKING.COM

For more inspiration on the best places to stay in East Maui and where to stay in Hana, have a look at my in-depth articles.

Central Maui

Where to stay Maui map highlighting Central Maui area and the Central Maui towns

Central Maui towns: Kahului & Wailuku

Maui’s main airport, Kahului Airport, is located in Central Maui. Kahului is the island’s commercial center and the only town big enough to be considered a city in Maui.

The County’s political center is located in Wailuku. This enchanting historic town is the gateway to Iao Valley State Park and the hiking trails of the West Maui mountains. It’s also home to several affordable vacation rentals.

climate by Maui area

The weather tends to be a bit cooler in Central Maui. Because of its proximity to the West Maui mountain range, Wailuku tends to get more rainfall throughout the year than Kahului.

Where to stay in Central Maui

These are my top picks:

Central Maui condos:
Uncle Tony’s Hale Condo

Unit 11 of Uncle Tony's Hale is one of the cheapest condo rentals in Maui
© Uncle Tony’s Hale Condo
TAT: TA-069-028-0960-01 | License: N/A, commercial zone
VRBO

Central Maui cottages:
Plantation Cottage

This plantation cottage in Wailuku is one of the cheapest places to stay in Maui
© Plantation Cottage
TAT: #TA-098-796-9536-01 | License: N/A, commercial zone
VRBO

For more inspiration on the best places to stay in Central Maui, have a look at my in-depth articles.

Maui’s sister islands: Lanai & Molokai

Maui County actually comprises three more islands: Lanai, Molokai, and Kahoolawe. The latter is uninhabited but both Lanai and Molokai are open to visitors.

While a day trip is the most popular way to visit these low-key islands, you might just as well opt to stay a bit longer. Venturing beyond the main Hawaiian islands offers a completely different experience.

Lanai is much more remote than Maui. It can be reached by plane or by ferry from Maalaea on Maui island. Most visitors make it a day trip but you might as well stay for a few nights in Lanai to discover its couleur locale to the fullest. With only a handful of hotels and a small selection of vacation rentals, it makes for a rather intimate experience.

Molokai offers an even more remote experience. This undeveloped island is dotted with cultural sites and is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts thanks to activities such as horseback riding, kayaking, and hiking. There are just a few hotels, vacation rentals, and cottages.

Car rental Maui

Psst… Make sure to book your rental car well ahead of time. My go-to partner is Discount Hawaii Car Rental. Their booking process is effortless, with no booking fees, prepayment, or cancellation penalties!

DISCOVER THE BEST CAR RENTAL DEALS

Where to stay in Maui: Summary

Here’s a quick overview that sums it all up:

  • Best for luxury resorts: Wailea and Kapalua.
  • Best for affordable stays: Kihei, Maalaea, Honokowai, Kahana, Napili, and Wailuku.
  • Best for family resorts: Wailea & Kaanapali.
  • Best for romantic stays: South Wailea, Makena, Kapalua, Haiku, Kula, and Hana.
  • Best for winter travel: Wailea, Kihei, and Kaanapali.
  • Best for exploring: Kihei, Maalaea, Wailuku, and Paia.
  • Best for snorkeling: Makena, Kaanapali (Black Rock), Napili, and Kapalua.
  • Best for outdoor travel: Kapalua, Haiku, Makawao, and Hana.
  • Best for golf travel: Wailea, Kaanapali, and Kapalua.
  • Best for surfing: Paia.

Find your place to stay in Maui

By now, you should have a good idea about which of the Maui areas is right for you. So, go ahead and discover my selection of gorgeous places to stay in your preferred Maui town.

Of course, you can also browse by category: Take your pick from cheap condos, luxury home rentals, and beachfront vacation rentals in Maui.

I take great care in finding you the very best Maui accommodations at the very best locations. All suggestions on this site are hand-picked and thoroughly researched. You can simply click on the links provided to book the featured listings on the booking platform of your preference.

South Maui

West Maui

North Shore Maui

Upcountry Maui

East Maui

Central Maui

book your rental car

Discount Hawaii Car Rentals is my go-to car rental provider. Their booking process is effortless, with no booking fees, prepayment, or cancellation penalties!

BOOK YOUR CAR NOW

Top maui activities

  • 1
  • 2
  • 3
Waterfall on the Road to Hana Maui Hawaii
Honu snorkeling in Molokini Maui Hawaii
Haleakala National Park Maui Hawaii

No ads

That’s right: No distractions!
If you like what you see, then you would do me a huge favor by booking through one of my links.
And if you’re not ready to book, you could always buy me a Mai Tai.
Mahalo!

BUY SARAH A MAI TAI

Legal information

Privacy policy

Disclaimer

Terms & Conditions

Copyright 2025

Where to stay in Maui

South Maui

North Shore

Upcountry

West Maui

East Maui

Central Maui

Maui accommodations

Family hotels

Boutique hotels

Best Airbnbs

Honeymoon hotels

Bed and breakfasts

Beachfront hotels

Scroll to top
  • Start here
    • Where to stay in Maui
    • Hotels vs vacation rentals
  • Collection
  • By area
    • South Maui
    • West Maui
    • Other Maui areas
  • By type
    • Maui hotels
    • Maui vacation rentals
  • By experience
    • Couples travel
    • Family travel
    • Beach vacation
    • Luxury travel
    • Budget travel
  • Travel tips
  • About
  • Contact
Search