This was my first time in Hawaii, so I really didn't know where to go or what to do. I had a slight preference for staying on the Big Island (I would lava to see an active volcano), but the best deal I found for a beachfront resort was at the Westin Maui. I used…
Continue reading: Review: Westin Maui Resort & Spa Ka’anapali
Share your questions, experiences, and thoughts below.
Did they ask for your orders? Very rarely have I been to Hawaii where they haven't asked to see travel orders.
Andrew - great (and humorous) report!
Why the double beds?? Does your boyfriend snore or kick like a wild animal in his sleep?
Skip the crowded sections next time and just head up to Kapalua...much nicer for about the same cost. Rent a car and it's fantastic. Though that cabana looked awesome, we've rented umbrellas before for about half that price to that seems very worth it.
Nazila ... there are many government employees who travel (for legitimate work-related business to qualify for the government rate) who do not travel with orders.
I'm surprised at how un-tropical and un-Hawaiian the decor of the rooms is. I know it's a Westin, but they could have made some concessions in the decor to give it an island theme. If you didn't know better it could be Topeka.
Loved the bird pics, thanks for sharing! Are the cabanas any quieter than the beach or pool area?
You missed the breakfast spread! If Platinum, the 'cold' buffet is insane at this property. IIRC the gazebo cost $150 that we had on the top of the pool overlooking the bluff -- awesome views.
Great location and short 15min walk to Black Rock and sharing privileges with Sheraton there too.
Nice review. One of my favorite hotels on Maui. Can't wait to return to Maui this winter. You neglected to mention the pink flamingos. Lol!
@robert. Kapalua is on edge of rain region. So more rain for the golf courses there. Poor choice for anyone other than golfers to stay in that area.
Very humorous. I always enjoy your posts. I can relate to hating phone conversations.
But you're in Hawaii; learn to relax and enjoy the hot tub!
It looks like the hotel could use a bit of an update. But that is pretty typical of Hawaii. They tend to wait a lot longer than in other destinations because they can... Did the hotel have a lounge? I know some Westin's do. The Sheraton that is nearby does and it at least in the past had free beverages in the evening.
My goodness- a blast from the past. On checking my records I stayed there in 1987- and it does not appear to have changed a bit. Which is not a bad thing incidentally. What I remember was that everyone was on honeymoon except me. Desperate for company I booked a helicopter scenic flight reasoning that either I would have a spare seat or a single person. On boarding there was a beautiful brunette beside me. Who turned out to be the helicopter pilots wife.
But seriously, fond memories of a property that has clearly passed the test of time.
I almost stayed there last year, but eventually we decided to stay at the Andaz. Thank God we did. By looking at the photos, I can say for certain that this is not the type/style of hotel for me!
This report is terribly lacking, which is super disappointing. I spent every summer growing up going to Ka'anapali Beach, staying at the Whaler, which is right next door to the Westin. In my experience, staying at a condo is much preferred for a family of 6, as it's expensive to eat out for every meal. Everyone has their personal preference...
Location:
Ka'anapali Beach, and western Maui is my absolute favorite part of the island. the views over to Lana'i and Molokai are spectacular, and being on the west side of the island gives the most spectacular sunsets one could ever imagine. Although Ka'anapali beach is my favorite beach on Western Maui, other beaches like Napili and Kapalua are also beautiful, with lovely beaches, mountain and island views, and world class golf courses within close proximity. Regarding Ka'anapali in itself, the whole area is nice, but the most preferred (and expensive area), is the stretch of sand next to and south of Black Rock. The stretch is connected by a long beach pathway, and is perfect for spending days on the beach wandering around the area. At night, it's easy to go to Whaler's Village, but the hot spot on the Island, with the best restaurants and night-time activities, is Lahaina. It's a short drive away from Ka'napali. When I've stayed on other parts of the island, I've missed that area.
Traffic:
Maui has changed since I was a young kid (started going there as in infant in 1985). Throughout the years, the traffic has gotten worse as more development has sprung up. It seemed to come heavily in the 90's, and has seemingly died down a bit since then. I don't think the traffic is that bad, but it can get backed up on the road from Kahului. In my experience, when we've driven to other parts of the island for day trips, we go at odd hours, eg very early in the morning, which helps with avoiding traffic. I have never once had a bad traffic experience negatively impact my time on Western Maui.
Activities:
There's zip lining on Western Maui, and basically every other thing you could imagine. Amazing golf, trips to the sugar cane fields, water activities, catamarans, shopping and dining, beach bars, cliff jumping, etc.
To be honest, I'm slightly biased, because on the amount of time I've spent on Ka'napali. But there is just so much more to be said about this area than given in this report. I couldn't recommend a place with more excitement! Even if not Western Maui, the island is simply one of the most incredible places in the world.
Nice review....I'm Platinum with the resorts...this is my favorite home base in Maui. Several weeks and I never want to leave. I agree there is more to this resort. But its a nice piece. I very much enjoyed reading it. Plus you have more to discover for your next visit. 🙂 Thank you for sharing. I travel the globe alone and this resort, the entire area, and most of Maui is a solo travelers and family paradise. You must always travel smart and wise with personal safety priority.
@Andrew (or others who have been):
Is the hotel sharing the property and common areas with the Westin timeshare by the same name? or two totally different properties? We are staying in the timeshare in Jan.
Recently came across your site, thoroughly enjoying it.
I know the review is a few years old just wanted to mention the Westin property just completed remodeling, I will be staying there in July 2020. The bypass completed last year (?) helps avoid some of the traffic as you approach Lahaina. While Wailea, may be better in regards to traffic (driving through Kihei to Wailea can be slow), we prefer the Kaanapali/Lahaina area for restaurants, and bars. Wailea does have some beautiful resorts but if you prefer not staying at resorts that start at 500 to 700 Kaanapali has more options. Also the trade winds arent as strong IMO.