Want to take advantage of Hyatt Privé benefits, including a room upgrade, complimentary breakfast, a hotel credit, and more, when booking a cash stay? Contact Ford ([email protected]) for more details. He may even be able to help if you already have a stay booked.
The Andaz Maui at Wailea is easily one of the most popular Hyatt properties in the world. While the resort has been open since 2013, this month it opened a new wing with villas. I figured our vacation in Maui would be the perfect opportunity to write a review of a new lodging option that also perfectly suited our trip (since we were traveling with my mom and her partner).
In this post:
Basics of the Andaz Maui villas
The Andaz Maui has a total of 30 villas, and 19 of those are in a single building and brand new, and are known as the Ilikai villas. These new villas range from 1,900 to over 4,000 square feet (not including outdoor space), and they all have at least three bedrooms.
A booking in one of the three bedroom villas comes with the following inclusions:
- Roundtrip airport transportation or complimentary valet parking for the duration of your stay
- A $150 daily resort credit per villa
- Complimentary daily breakfast for up to two people per bedroom
- A one-time stand up paddle board lesson for up to eight people
- Access to a dedicated VIP team that can help with customizing your Maui experience
You can read more about the Andaz Maui villas in this post.
Booking the Andaz Maui villas
Ford is a Hyatt Privé travel advisor, and he booked us a garden view villa (he’s of course happy to help others with these bookings, and can be reached at [email protected]). The rate at the time was $1,800 per night, though by booking through Hyatt Privé we received the following additional perks:
- A sixth night free, for stays through December 20, 2021
- An upgrade, subject to availability
- An additional $100 property credit
- A welcome amenity
Note that you can get similar perks at the Andaz Maui through Hyatt Privé if booking regular rooms with cash, and on top of that you get free breakfast.
With the sixth night free we were paying an average of $1,500 per night. Obviously that’s a lot of cash, though:
- We received a total of $1,000 in hotel credits (a $150 nightly credit, plus an additional $100 credit through Hyatt Privé); that’s money we would have otherwise spent, so that’s like an average of ~$167 back each night
- As a Globalist member paying with the World of Hyatt Credit Card (review) I earned a total of over 100,000 World of Hyatt points and 14,000 American AAdvantage miles, which I value at an incremental return of ~$285 per night
- I’m very close to reaching lifetime World of Hyatt Globalist status, so if I’m going to spend quite a bit of cash out of pocket, I’d rather it be with Hyatt than another hotel group
All things considered I think we got a pretty good deal on a villa like this, especially when you consider that standard guest rooms over our dates ended up retailing for around $1,000 per night.
In general I’ve been finding that the Andaz Maui villas often price somewhere around two to three times the cost of a base room at the hotel, so in those cases that seems like a good value. You get a lot of extra space, amenities, and inclusions. I imagine pricing will change over time, but as of now I’d say pricing is attractive compared to the (admittedly inflated) standard room costs.
There’s no way to redeem World of Hyatt points for Andaz Maui villas. But to look at it differently, a standard room at the hotel costs 30,000 World of Hyatt points per night, so if I had booked two rooms that would have cost 60,000 points per night. I value those points at 1.5 cents each, so that would be like spending $900 per night worth of points.
Andaz Maui three bedroom ocean view villa
I’ll start my property review by focusing specifically on our villa, and then I’ll talk about the rest of the property. As we arrived at the hotel we were assisted by the bellmen. Once they verified our stay details, they called the “VIP team,” which looks after villa guests. Two awesome people from that team met us, and escorted us to our villa, noting that we would be the first people to stay in this particular villa.
When you’re facing the Andaz Maui, the new Ilikai villas are to the right of reception. They’re in a four story building that’s staggered to maximize privacy, with five different “lines.” In other words, you have four floors with five villas each, except on the top floor, where the penthouse villa takes up the space of two villas.
Layout of the Andaz Maui Ilikai villas
Personally I wouldn’t really consider these to be traditional villas (since they’re not standalone), but rather just very big suites. However, a lot of hotels in Hawaii seem to categorize these kinds of suites as villas, so I just want to acknowledge that you guys aren’t missing anything.
Andaz Maui Ilikai villas exterior
These villas are brand new, and as you can see below, they’re still working a bit on the landscaping (we didn’t find this to be problematic, as there was no noise, and from our villa everything looked normal).
Andaz Maui Ilikai villas exterior
We were assigned villa 921, located on the second floor. We had booked a three bedroom garden view villa, and received an upgrade to a 1,900 square foot three bedroom ocean view villa.
Andaz Maui Ilikai villa entrance
Inside the entrance to the villa was a hallway — two of the three bedrooms were to the right, and then the living area and master bedroom were to the left.
Andaz Maui Ilikai villa entrance
The living area, dining area, and kitchen, were rather spacious. There was a huge dining table with seating for eight people in the center of the room.
Andaz Maui villa dining & living area
Andaz Maui villa dining & living area
Next to that was the living area, which seemed rather under furnished, as it essentially had a small couch and a single chair. It was later explained to us that the hotel is still waiting on some furniture for the villas, and the living room should have two larger and more comfortable seats across from the couch. Frankly we wouldn’t have spent much time in the living room anyway, so that didn’t bother us, but you can definitely expect the living area to be better furnished in the future.
Andaz Maui villa living area
The villa’s kitchen was really impressive — it was massive, and featured a full size fridge and freezer, a wine fridge, a microwave, a stove, and the most impressive in-room coffee machine I’ve ever seen.
Andaz Maui villa kitchen
Andaz Maui villa kitchen
Andaz Maui villa fridge
Andaz Maui villa wine fridge
The room had a Bosch coffee machine that could make anything from regular drip coffee, to an espresso, to a cappuccino. While operating it took some getting used to, it ultimately made some of the best coffee I’ve ever had in a hotel room. Kudos to the Andaz for investing in coffee, which is something I value greatly.
Andaz Maui villa coffee machine & snacks
Andaz Maui villa coffee
As is standard at Andaz properties, there were complimentary soft drinks and snacks, including chips, popcorn, soda, and more. On top of that, we had a nice welcome amenity (which is a feature through Hyatt Privé), and that included a bottle of prosecco, all kinds of packaged snacks (including local macadamia nuts), reusable water bottles, and more.
Andaz Maui villa welcome amenity
Off the living area was the balcony, which featured a grill and fridge, a dining table with four chairs, and a couch. While this was a decent setup, personally I wish they had made the outdoor space a bit bigger, given that Hawaii is all about the outdoors.
Andaz Maui villa balcony
Andaz Maui villa balcony
Andaz Maui villa balcony
These villas are set back quite a bit on the Andaz property (after all, they were only built after the fact), so the views aren’t exactly that amazing. If you want an oceanfront villa, the Andaz also has those (they’ve been there for years), though they’re more expensive.
Andaz Maui villa view
Next to the living area was a room with a separate full-size washer and dryer. This is such a nice amenity to have, especially when you’re on a beach vacation where clothes tend to get dirty.
Andaz Maui villa washer & dryer
The master bedroom was just off the living area, and featured a comfortable king size bed and wall-mounted TV.
Andaz Maui three bedroom villa master bedroom
Andaz Maui three bedroom villa master bedroom
The bedroom had a huge closet, which was perfect for storing our bags without making the room otherwise feel cluttered.
Andaz Maui three bedroom villa master bedroom closet
The bathroom was also nicely appointed, and featured double sinks, a shower “compound” (with both a rainforest shower and a soaking tub), as well as a Toto toilet.
Andaz Maui three bedroom villa master bathroom
Andaz Maui three bedroom villa master bathroom shower
Andaz Maui three bedroom villa master bathroom bathtub
Andaz Maui three bedroom villa master bathroom toilet
The second bedroom was designed very similarly to the master bedroom, except it was a bit smaller, and it didn’t have the same ocean view (rather it faced in the other direction).
Andaz Maui villa second bedroom
Andaz Maui villa second bedroom
The second bedroom had the same bathroom (including double sinks and a shower compound), and it also had the same large closet.
Andaz Maui villa second bedroom bathroom
In theory the third bedroom was supposed to feature a trundle (I actually had to look up what that was), though the hotel contacted us in advance to let us know that they didn’t yet have that type of bed. They asked if that was okay, because otherwise they were going to assign us a different villa. This wasn’t an issue at all, since we were just using two of the bedrooms anyway.
As a makeshift solution they put a double (or maybe queen?) bed in the room. The third bedroom definitely felt a bit more sparsely furnished than the rest of the villa.
Andaz Maui villa third bedroom
Andaz Maui villa third bedroom
The third bedroom doesn’t have an ensuite bathroom, but rather the third bathroom is in the hallway, and features a single sink and a shower/tub combo.
Andaz Maui villa third bedroom bathroom
Andaz Maui villa third bedroom shower
Wi-Fi in the Andaz Maui villas worked great, and the air conditioning also worked really well. I feel like good air conditioning is something we don’t give hotels credit for, because it’s something we only notice when it’s not working as expected.
Are the Andaz Maui villas worth it?
Before we talk about the rest of the resort, I figured I’d share my overall take on the Andaz Maui’s new villas. Forgetting the minor opening issues (like the living room and third bedroom furniture still being a work in progress), here are a few general observations:
- These villas give you the best of both worlds, in the sense that you get a huge living space, a kitchen, a washer & dryer, a fridge, etc., all while also getting access to all the amenities you’d expect from a resort (and I’d argue the Andaz is the second best resort in Wailea, after the Four Seasons Maui at Wailea, which I reviewed separately)
- Personally Wailea is my favorite place to stay in Maui, and there’s not another resort that I know of that has these kinds of villas at this price point (if anyone knows of any, please let me know)
- While obviously not cheap, as of now I think these villas offer a very good value proposition for groups (whether families, couples traveling together, or a group of friends) who value being in Wailea and value staying at a resort
- If you’re traveling as a group and willing to pay the rate for standard rooms at the Andaz, then it’s totally worth booking a villa instead, since it gives you a lot more space and extra amenities
- While I wouldn’t describe the villas as uber-luxurious, I did find the decor to be nicer than in the standard guest rooms at the Andaz
To balance that, I’d note that these villas don’t necessarily have much of a sense of place (that’s a problem with many hotels in Hawaii), I wish the outdoor spaces were bigger, and these villas are set back on the property, so your ocean views will be fairly limited.
In retrospect I think I would have probably preferred one of the ground floor villas, which feature plunge pools and have direct paths that allow you to walk in the direction of the ocean. Some of those are even entry-level garden villas, though personally I think they should be recategorized a bit.
Some Andaz Maui villas have plunge pools
Path from the villas towards the beach
With the review of the villa out of the way, let’s talk about our experience with the rest of the property.
Andaz Maui lobby
The Andaz Maui’s lobby is located at the top of the resort, and is simply gorgeous. Not only is the design itself really cool, but the lobby also has the best views of anywhere on the property.
Walkway to Andaz Maui lobby
Andaz Maui lobby
Andaz Maui lobby
Andaz Maui lobby
Andaz Maui lobby
Andaz Maui lobby
Andaz Maui lobby view
I think it’s a missed opportunity that they don’t have some sort of a lobby lounge here, because this would be the nicest place in the resort from which to enjoy sunset cocktails. They have the seating, they just don’t have the service or drinks.
Andaz Maui pools
There’s not a single hotel in Maui that I’ve seen that has as striking of a pool setup as the Andaz, in my opinion, as the hotel has five pools. Four of the pools are “tiered,” and form the center of the resort.
Andaz Maui at Wailea pools
Andaz Maui at Wailea pools
Andaz Maui at Wailea pools
Andaz Maui at Wailea pools
Andaz Maui at Wailea pools
Andaz Maui at Wailea pools
Then there’s another pool off to the side (near the spa) that many people don’t seen to know about.
Andaz Maui at Wailea pools
While there would probably typically be plenty of seating around the pools, during coronavirus seating is somewhat limited to ensure proper distancing, and seats do tend to get “reserved” pretty early in the morning, unfortunately.
If you want to secure a spot, you’ll probably have to play the frustrating “game” of reserving pool chairs.
Andaz Maui at Wailea pools
Andaz Maui beach
The Andaz has an incredible beach, thanks to being in Wailea. The beach is right by the property near the lowest pool, and there are attendants at the beach who will set up chairs and umbrellas for you. Surprisingly it was easier to get chairs at the beach than at the pool.
Andaz Maui at Wailea beach
Wailea has one of the best beaches in Maui, so you can do a lot of walking on the beach, and the views are breathtaking.
Andaz Maui at Wailea beach
Andaz Maui at Wailea beach
There are also non-motorized water sports available for rent.
Andaz Maui at Wailea non-motorized water sports
Andaz Maui gym
The Andaz Maui has an excellent gym, with plenty of cardio and weight machines.
Andaz Maui gym
Andaz Maui gym
Andaz Maui gym
Due to coronavirus they’re limiting capacity, and in theory they only let you use the gym for a 45 minute period, because the gym is disinfected the last 15 minutes of every hour. However, in practice it seemed like the gym was cleaned on an ongoing basis, and we never actually got kicked out at 45 minutes past the hour.
Andaz Maui dining
The Andaz Maui has a variety of dining options:
- Ka’ana Kitchen is the Andaz Maui’s primary restaurant, and it’s open for breakfast from 6:30AM until 11AM, and for dinner from 5:30PM until 8PM
- Morimoto is the Andaz’s (chain) Japanese restaurant, and it’s open for lunch and dinner, from 12PM until 8PM daily
- Lehua Lounge is the Andaz’s primary lounge & bar, and it’s open daily from 11AM until 10PM; this has live music from 6PM until 9PM nightly, except on Sundays and Tuesdays
- Bumbye Beach Bar is the Andaz’s pool bar, and it’s open daily from 11AM until 5PM
- Mokapu Market is the Andaz’s grab-and-go market, and it’s open daily from 5AM until 10PM
- While there is in-room dining, the menu is frustratingly limited at the moment, and mostly overlaps with the Lehua Lounge menu; if you want something from Ka’ana Kitchen for dinner or from Morimoto for lunch or dinner, you’ll have to pick it up yourself
Below are some sheets we were given at check-in about activities, menus, and services at the hotel, should you want to scan any of the QR codes to look at menus, pricing, etc.
Below I’ll share my experiences with the dining outlets we visited.
Andaz Maui breakfast at Ka’ana Kitchen
We had breakfast daily at Ka’ana Kitchen. While the restaurant has both indoor and outdoor seating, the reality is that the doors between both spaces are totally open, so really the whole restaurant almost feels like it’s outdoors.
Andaz Maui Ka’ana Kitchen seating
Andaz Maui Ka’ana Kitchen seating
Andaz Maui Ka’ana Kitchen seating
Breakfast consists of a buffet, though it’s staffed, so you just point at what you want and then it’s plated for you. Then your server will bring you drinks (specialty coffee drinks and fresh juices are included) as well as cooked to order eggs.
The buffet has two main stations.
Andaz Maui breakfast buffet
Andaz Maui breakfast buffet
One station has fresh fruit, smoked salmon, cold cuts, cheese, pastries, yogurt, oatmeal, pastries, bread, and more.
Andaz Maui breakfast buffet
Andaz Maui breakfast buffet
Andaz Maui breakfast buffet
Andaz Maui breakfast buffet
Then another station has several hot dishes, including scrambled eggs, breakfast meat, potatoes, waffles, pancakes, and more.
Andaz Maui breakfast buffet
Andaz Maui breakfast buffet
The juices and iced lattes were excellent, as were the omelets.
Andaz Maui breakfast drinks
Andaz Maui breakfast omelet
By the way, if you’re a fellow hot sauce enthusiast, they have excellent hot sauces available, so I recommend specifically asking for the local hot sauces, because they’re so much better than Tabasco.
Andaz Maui breakfast hot sauce
Note that due to dining being capped at 50%, there was sometimes a wait to get a table at breakfast. This wasn’t an issue when we went early, and for that matter even when there was a wait, it wasn’t more than 20 minutes. While that can be a minor annoyance, that’s just a reality of traveling during these times.
Breakfast ordinarily costs $49 per person plus tip. Breakfast was included with our stay (including an 18% service charge), so we just had to sign the bill every morning. There sure is some sticker shock to signing a $241 breakfast bill every morning, even if you’re not actually paying for it. 😉
Andaz Maui breakfast bill
Andaz Maui Lehua Lounge
Lehua Lounge is located next to the top pool, and it was a lovely place from which to watch the sunset, especially given the live music most nights.
Andaz Maui Lehua Lounge
Andaz Maui Lehua Lounge
Andaz Maui Lehua Lounge cocktails
One night we ended up having dinner here. We had a reservation to dine out, but some places in Wailea apparently had issues with their water pipes, so our reservation was canceled on us. Having dinner at Lehua Lounge seemed like the easiest option.
Lehua Lounge has a rather varied menu. We had curried shrimp and short rib tostada to start.
Andaz Maui Lehua Lounge food
Andaz Maui Lehua Lounge food
Then for the main course we had a coconut curry bowl and wagyu burger.
Andaz Maui Lehua Lounge food
Andaz Maui Lehua Lounge food
Andaz Maui Bumbye Beach Bar
Service at the pool was always from Bumbye Bar, which had excellent cocktails and some decent snacks. We ordered drinks when lounging at the pool, and also had a snack one afternoon.
Andaz Maui Bumbye Bar
Andaz Maui Bumbye Bar food
Andaz Maui Bumbye food
Andaz Maui the Feast at Mokapu Luau
Twice a week the Andaz Maui hosts a luau, known as the Feast at Mokapu Luau, and we decided to do this one night. I had never done a luau in Hawaii before, and while very expensive, I knew my mom and her partner would enjoy it, so I figured it was worth the splurge.
The luau takes place from 5:30PM until 8PM, and is quite an experience. It’s set up on the lawn of the Andaz, with an amazing view of the ocean and sunset.
Andaz Maui luau setup
When we arrived we were offered a welcome drink. On top of that there was an open bar, so you could get yourself as many drinks as you wanted.
Andaz Maui luau welcome drinks
It’s my understanding that in the past the food at the luau was served family style, but due to coronavirus each person is now served individually. Below you can find the menu.
The food was delicious, especially when you consider the challenges with serving so many people at once.
Andaz Maui luau bread rolls
Andaz Maui luau starter
Andaz Maui luau main course
Andaz Maui luau main course
Of course the real highlight was the show rather than the food. Going in I was a little apprehensive, since I feared it would be Disney-esque. But that was totally unfounded, and the show was really well done. It was a good mix of story telling, dancing, singing, and performing, and in particular I loved the emcee, Mistress something-or-another (I forgot her name, but she did go by “Mistress”) — she was such good vibes.
The only part of the performance I could have done without is the entire dead pig being brought out, since I don’t eat pork (but I get that’s part of the luau concept).
Andaz Maui luau
Andaz Maui luau
Andaz Maui service
I was impressed by service at the Andaz. It was consistently professional and friendly across the board, from the pool attendants, to the restaurant servers, to the valet staff, to the front office associates. A lot of hotels are having staffing issues right now, but I didn’t find that to be an issue at the Andaz.
Now, admittedly service wasn’t necessarily particularly attentive, but I also don’t expect that in a nearly full hotel with hundreds of rooms. Still, all calls to the operator were answered quickly, all requests to have our villa cleaned were promptly taken care of, no orders were ever forgotten, etc.
Andaz Maui villas bottom line
I’m grateful we had a chance to stay in the new Andaz Maui villas. These villas are a fantastic new lodging option for those traveling in groups, looking to stay in Wailea (which would be my preferred location in Maui), and who want the things people like about homes (kitchen, washer & dryer, etc.) while also having the amenities of a great resort.
The Andaz Maui in general is a great property — it’s easily the most modern major hotel in Maui, and it has some of the best public facilities.
I know a lot of OMAAT readers have booked stays in the new Andaz Maui villas, and many are planning stays in the hotel portion of the Andaz Maui. Hopefully this gives you a good sense of what to expect.
More important than anything else, we were able to spend so much quality time together on this trip, and having a shared space like a villa made that all the better. My mom loved the villa, and that’s what’s most important to me.
What do you make of the new Andaz Maui villas?
Want to receive extra benefits and the best pricing for your stay at the Andaz Maui Villas, including complimentary breakfast, a hotel credit, a sixth night free, and more? Contact [email protected] for more details. He may even be able to help if you already have a stay booked.
Wish I remembered this article before my stay. I am here now and paid your priding for a hotel suite, should have checked with Ford.
Your photos show few people. The lobby is empty, the bars are empty. Almost nobody at the pools. I've heard that Maui is quite crowded and restaurant reservations are difficult to get except well in advance. So what's up at the Andaz. Does it feel crowded? Were you able to do the beach activities such as outrigger and canoe rides, mixology class?
The thing I most struggle with is why wouldn’t you book an airbnb for less money? Rental condos on the beach are a dime a dozen on Maui. I found a 3bd for $429 a night in July.
I was just there with friends about a week ago (May 2 through May 7). We may have inadvertently crossed paths at the Andaz luau. We stayed at the Marriott Wailea Beach Resort next door but went to the Andaz luau because the Marriott luau was booked. Really liked the food but the performance seemed very short (done by 7:15 and it was billed until 8:30).
We also went to Kauai and stayed at the...
I was just there with friends about a week ago (May 2 through May 7). We may have inadvertently crossed paths at the Andaz luau. We stayed at the Marriott Wailea Beach Resort next door but went to the Andaz luau because the Marriott luau was booked. Really liked the food but the performance seemed very short (done by 7:15 and it was billed until 8:30).
We also went to Kauai and stayed at the Grand Hyatt and that was absolutely excellent. Easily the best Grand Hyatt I've stayed at. Would highly recommend.
Ben - thanks for the response. I hear what you're saying, and agree that some of this is on Hyatt in general.
FWIW, I did complain to my concierge about the breakfast benefits, and their response seemed helpless. So I'm staying in House/Place properties, since they still seem to be serving it. It does make me question the value of loyalty, though.
Can't beat the hoolei maui across the street from the Grand Wailea. Go to spot. Huge lanai. 3 bedroom homes. Great ocean view. $1300 a night.
The Alila Uluwatu in Bali has true villas instead of this apartment
I've done that Andaz in its first year open.... Clearly, it remains underwhelming.
Those 'villas' are bland and the finish-out looks pedestrian. It's sadly the same issues I had with their suites. Tons of fake finishes that will age VERY badly in less than a year.
For the price, I'd much rather be at Hotel Wailea, Montage or Four Seasons.
The wine fridge is a pretty weird touch. Do they think people are bringing cases of wine with them? I live in Napa and love wine and I'd be happy to keep the 2-3 bottles I buy while over there in a regular fridge.
@ ryan -- Hah, it's a fair point. I think it's more style over substance and is intended to make the kitchen look more impressive, rather than being an amenity that everyone will use. But who knows, maybe it's something that some people value.
I wouldn't support this property just on the basis that they are intentionally evading Hyatt terms re: award stays. That's a slippery slope, and rewarding hotels that want the benefits of Hyatt's network without providing reciprocal benefits.
Same goes with hotels that evade breakfast benefits for Globalists. We're more than a year in now: I'm done with them.
@ Andrew -- It's a fair point and I'm not a fan of the games the hotel plays with award availability. That being said, I do think World of Hyatt deserves some blame here as well (as much as I love the program), and I don't think it's fair to exclusively blame the hotel. At just about all other properties, issues with award availability have quickly been resolved when reported to World of Hyatt, but...
@ Andrew -- It's a fair point and I'm not a fan of the games the hotel plays with award availability. That being said, I do think World of Hyatt deserves some blame here as well (as much as I love the program), and I don't think it's fair to exclusively blame the hotel. At just about all other properties, issues with award availability have quickly been resolved when reported to World of Hyatt, but that hasn't happened at the Andaz. Presumably on some level the program is fine with it, and this is more about controlling costs than anything else.
That Globalist breakfast hardly stacks up to the nearby Marriott's SBUX coffee, muffin, + fruit cup for Plats & up
I’m glad you enjoyed your stay with your Mom. It sounds like you think the property has improved. In pictures, it still looks they picked up a 40 year old hotel from Kansas City and dropped it on the beach. It doesn’t resonate Hawaii, relaxation, or luxury to me.
How much did the luau cost??????!?!?!?
@Ben why wouldn't you include that in the review, I am interested and seems like a valuable piece of information that could help others to. You already mentioned it was expensive yet didn't mention the price?!?!?
Also did I read that right that at a resort charging over a $1,000 dollars a night you have to pay to use non-motorised water crafts.
@ Morgan -- My mistake, I thought it was listed in the document I posted a picture of, but I guess not. The luau cost $240 per person. You can find more info here: https://feastatmokapu.com/
Mediocre bland Americana.
18% service charge for a Buffet? They are having a laugh!
@ SullyofDoha -- On the plus side even the service charge was included with our breakfast. For that matter, in the USA it's pretty standard to have to tip at a buffet if you're still being served drinks, etc., so it's not that unusual. I'm happy they automatically add that much so you don't feel like you have to tip more.
There are definitely sone executive leadership problems at this hotel.
meh, not impressed with the sao paulo like apartments (weird they call it a villa). SO happy you and your mom enjoyed it tho, thats what matters.
anyone know why the Four Seasons Maui has suites priced at $10k-$20k a night? theyre not villas, theyre not 3, 4 bedroom penthouses....theyre just big suites with an oceanfront view. that pricetag is just horrendous i dont understand.
@ schar -- Supply and demand is the answer, plus Four Seasons' name recongition. It's the same reason standard rooms there are currently 2-3x as much as they used to be. Demand for Hawaii is currently through the roof.
- Earned over 100K Hyatt points in one stay
— me: WHAT???
- …at Andaz Villas at over $1800/night
— me: Oh…
I have to agree, it is an apartment, in no way a villa. It does not even look like part of a villa, it is an apartment in an apartment block. Sorry but this is way off, and false marketing.
Taken in isolation, the apartment is very nice. Perhaps not overly luxurious, but a cut above the average. I completely agree with @jcil, and others, that it lacks a sense of 'place', which I would expect in this price range and brand. The way it currently looks, it could be any apartment from anywhere in the world - Hawaii does not spring to mind! Are local touches necessary? No, but they do add to the...
Taken in isolation, the apartment is very nice. Perhaps not overly luxurious, but a cut above the average. I completely agree with @jcil, and others, that it lacks a sense of 'place', which I would expect in this price range and brand. The way it currently looks, it could be any apartment from anywhere in the world - Hawaii does not spring to mind! Are local touches necessary? No, but they do add to the overall experience. And in this case, the glaring absence has been enough to merit more than a few comments....
But my biggest gripe has to be the profoundly misleading name. This is not a villa. It's a block of apartments - pure and simple. Try convincing seasoned travellers who've stayed in Bali, the South Pacific or the Maldives that this is a 'villa' and see what reaction you get.......
The Wailea Beach Villas, now a Hyatt Destination Residence offers 3-bedroom villas at similar if not lower price point vs Andaz. Much secluded property along the same area, fully stacked outdoor lanai with BBQ. It is much better equipped and even has outdoor showers and private plunge pool.
The best is you also earn Hyatt points and status!
@Lucky, thanks for the review (and the great pics). I assume you normally tip the beach (and pool) attendants for their assistance with chairs, umbrellas, etc. at these resorts?
And did you try the balcony grill? I assume it was gas so you/guests don't need to buy charcoals (and lighter fluid), etc.?
If I put a positive spin on my impression from the photos, all of the food looks dull and blah. I am surprised that a hotel at this price level can't serve something looking more inspiring. My first thought on the luau food was 'awful'; maybe the serving just does not make for a good photo op, but it certainly does not look appealing.
The hotel itself looks more mainstream city location than Hawaii.
Thanks for a great review! I really missed reading your trip report during pandemic. Now it feels like we are one step closer to normal!
3 of those oceanfront bungalows at the Hana property probably woulda been my choice when throwing down big money at a Hyatt in Hawaii. Or the 2-br Family Residence + a bungalow.
Location feels more like real Hawaii. Room selection more cumulative space but property only 75 rooms ttl. On the Prive list for perks. Redone. More peaceful, beautiful, & calming.
The Grand Wailea, a Waldorf Astoria property, has similar (but I think better) Villas across the road from their property with full access to all the resort amenities. I've stayed there several times, as well as the at the Ritz Carlton and the Kea Lani which has smaller multi-bedroom villa type units. I've also stayed at the Montage and while the views are stunning, I found the overall pool experience just average. Each property has...
The Grand Wailea, a Waldorf Astoria property, has similar (but I think better) Villas across the road from their property with full access to all the resort amenities. I've stayed there several times, as well as the at the Ritz Carlton and the Kea Lani which has smaller multi-bedroom villa type units. I've also stayed at the Montage and while the views are stunning, I found the overall pool experience just average. Each property has their own character and appeal. I haven't stayed at the Andaz, but have been to Morimoto's several times and I don't think I would call it a "chain" Japanese restaurant, even though there are several much like a Nobu's in cuisine quality, so I would give it a bit more kudos. Thanks for your honest reviews and I'll be heading to Kauai and Maui for two weeks this Saturday! (PS, I think you went to Mama's Fish House right? That's worth a separate review of its own for sure!)
Maybe I'm getting spoiled, but I seem to agree with James. It seems like an overpriced apartment that's not even super luxurious. The pool looks pretty great though.
I agree that it looks like a regular apartment one would find in Sao Paulo for 150 a night on airbnb. I stayed in a similar one in Amman, and that included a bunch of pools as well.
I can’t for the life of me figure out why they’d pick a trundle for the third bedroom. I get there may be families with kids (or nanny and baby) but then do two twins. Is the room so small that they really need a trundle—can just fit a twin, and when bottom pulled out no room to walk around? From the picture it looks like there is room for twins.
Looks nice enough, but why is it called a Villa? More like an apartment.
Great review as always!
Odd use of the word ‘villa’ here. This is a block of flats, call them what they are; ‘appartments’.
FYI- those hot sauces are from hi-spice. I ordered a 12 pack after my first trip here. They are amazing.
This place is terrible.
Pool chair games, “ocean views” that are 100 yards from the ocean, slow and forgetful service, inconsistent breakfast offerings.
It photographs well and that’s it.
I’m chasing lifetime globalist, too, but will visit the four seasons next time.
Going by just the in-room photos, I was beginning to wonder if this place was really on the Hawaiian Island of Maui. I'm sure its upscale and very nice (esp. since brand new) but it looks like any upscale property now-a-days in any major US city. Must be people consider a hint of Hawaiian flavor in the rooms to be too kitschy. To say it lacks a sense of place is an understatement.
@ Ben -- I'm out at "There’s no way to redeem World of Hyatt points for Andaz Maui villas" I better be staying somewhere a month or more to spend $10k. To me, that is a waste of money.
@ Mike
I fully agree with your assessment of the Andaz Maui ant the service. I stayed there once in a suite a couple of years ago. I was extremely disappointed and I vowed never to return. The property & service was so much better when it was a Stouffer/Renaissance. Now that Hyatt has the "Destination Resorts" villas in Maui, this Hyatt "Explorist" has recently been staying at those on Maui and I have...
@ Mike
I fully agree with your assessment of the Andaz Maui ant the service. I stayed there once in a suite a couple of years ago. I was extremely disappointed and I vowed never to return. The property & service was so much better when it was a Stouffer/Renaissance. Now that Hyatt has the "Destination Resorts" villas in Maui, this Hyatt "Explorist" has recently been staying at those on Maui and I have been very pleased.
@ Ben
Do they still play the "W" club style background music in the lobby of the Andaz Maui? It seemed so "un-Hawaiian" when I stayed there.
Different folks, different strokes. Wailea beach is fine but snorkeling off Black Rock next to Sheraton is much better. Also, ocean conditions tend to be somewhat better there. Andaz villas are nice ... except when I go to Hawaii I would like to stay outside. What is the value in a wine fridge if you are staying only 6 days? Good wine will survive a few days without being at a proper temperature. Sure, a...
Different folks, different strokes. Wailea beach is fine but snorkeling off Black Rock next to Sheraton is much better. Also, ocean conditions tend to be somewhat better there. Andaz villas are nice ... except when I go to Hawaii I would like to stay outside. What is the value in a wine fridge if you are staying only 6 days? Good wine will survive a few days without being at a proper temperature. Sure, a Bosch superautomatic machine makes a nice coffee drink but how much extra you are paying for that? Also, if you traveling as a large group for an extended time - like a week or two - renting a private house would be a better idea, at least for me. Thus, no plans for renting those three bedroom villas nay time soon. I fact, this Spring I tried talking my wife into going to Maui to Andaz and also burning free nights at Waldorf Astoria but failed - she find Maui boring vs. Big Island or Kauai.
Remember how much you hated the Amdaz the first time you stayed there? Sparse rooms. Bad food options.
Lots of "i wishes" and "I would'ves" in this review. Definite pass. Not worth it.
It is possible that this property has gotten better. I stayed there a few years back and I must say this was the worst property I have every stayed at in Hawaii (and I have stayed at pretty much every 4 or 5 star hotel on every island). We had an ocean view suite which largely overlooked and was over a parking lot. The restaurants rarely got our orders right but were happy to charge...
It is possible that this property has gotten better. I stayed there a few years back and I must say this was the worst property I have every stayed at in Hawaii (and I have stayed at pretty much every 4 or 5 star hotel on every island). We had an ocean view suite which largely overlooked and was over a parking lot. The restaurants rarely got our orders right but were happy to charge us 150 USD a person anyway. We rented a cabana every day at the pool and no one, not a single person for over a week offered us menus or towels. We (and other guests) ended up ordering lunch in Grubhub and picking up our food from the lobby. Attendants aT beach were too busy pulling each other’s pants down in the middle of the ocean (I kid you not) to give us chairs. I would never stay in a villa there on my points. I’d rather go to the four seasons.
@ Mike -- Wow, that sounds awful. I'd definitely give the hotel another try then, because that doesn't match my experience, or what I'd heard from others.
Also, following up James’ comment, the Montage is tremendous (my sister got married there and her in-laws are members), but it almost seems TOO nice (for me at least). I do appreciate the resorts that attempt to have some natural connection, where you can wake up and know for sure you’re in Hawaii
Great review Lucky! I stayed here years ago shortly after opening and had a fantastic stay. Looking forward to going back at some point.
The only point I’d quibble with is your comment that Wailea beaches are the best in Maui. As someone who has been to Maui countless times, I’d say Ka’anapali and Kapalua are just as good, if not better. (Ocean conditions can make a difference). Snorkeling and the beach off Sheraton Black Rock are fantastic!
The villas are well appointed and upscale. Wow airport transportation would have been nice. We were beyond tired and grumpy upon arrival .
Other than better appliances I don’t see how much better it was than the 2 bedroom 2 1/2 bath 2 floor 2000 SQ FT partial ocean view villa I stayed at in Kona at a Wyndham destinations. After 10 minutes of politely dyknwia and phone calls at Checkin I received gifts...
The villas are well appointed and upscale. Wow airport transportation would have been nice. We were beyond tired and grumpy upon arrival .
Other than better appliances I don’t see how much better it was than the 2 bedroom 2 1/2 bath 2 floor 2000 SQ FT partial ocean view villa I stayed at in Kona at a Wyndham destinations. After 10 minutes of politely dyknwia and phone calls at Checkin I received gifts for being a Diamond member and got a suite upgrade. Staff was very helpful. The decor was beachy and Hawaiian. $85 per night plus 3,000 go fast Wyndham points a night. Deal of a lifetime. Booked back in feb or March.
You ever thought about doing video walkthroughs for your hotel reviews? Especially in this case, I feel like a video would give a better sense of perspective since it's such a big room. That said, this was a great review as always. Thanks!
The Montage on Maui is amazing and blows any resort in Maui out of the water, including the Four Seasons. Thankfully, Montage does not have a loyalty program, so it’s never flooded with redemption people playing the pool chair game.
@ James -- I'm not sure it's redemption people who are "playing the pool chair game." After all, this hotel is notorious for blocking award redemptions. ;) The Montage doesn't have issues with pool chairs because the property is so much smaller, it has nothing to do with a loyalty program.