Our Favorite Places: Maui

If you’ve been grappling with whether it’s appropriate to visit Hawaii’s second-biggest island, know that the people of Maui are welcoming visitors once again. Before catastrophic fires ravaged the breathtaking island last year, tourism accounted for 40 percent of Maui’s economy, with more than three million visitors flocking to its shores annually, but the tragic loss of life, homes, history, and local businesses has left the community facing immense hardships and challenges. Tragically, the charming, historic town of Lahaina was razed to the ground. This major tourist hub was home to most of the island’s business community, meaning many have lost their livelihood.

The people of Maui have a long road to recovery ahead of them, and tourism dollars can help to support the rebuilding of their island home. However, there is a respectful and sensitive way for visitors to return to Maui and give back, so speak to one of our CIRE Travel advisors for advice on how to travel to Maui in a supportive and appropriate way.

Stay: Luxury Hotels in Maui

The beautiful Hawaiian islands are both a honeymoon haven and a fabulous family vacation spot. Each island has its own attractions and appeal, but you can’t overlook Maui’s elegant resorts, blissful beaches, and unspoiled beauty. Regularly named one of the best vacation destinations in the world, there’s no shortage of five-star splendor and impeccable service on this island paradise. Here are some of our selections for the top luxury hotels on Maui:

1. Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea

Maui’s most glamorous beach resort sits on 15 acres on the island’s southwest and was the location for the first season of the award-winning TV hit ‘The White Lotus’. The Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea is a luxe property with 379 spacious guest rooms, three restaurants and pools, and picture-perfect ocean views. The resort’s excellence is further enhanced by its wonderful staff, whose dedication and hospitality elevate every guest experience.

Sustainability Manager, Taylor Fujimoto plays a crucial role in the Four Season Maui’s community efforts. As well as coordinating donations to local organizations in need, Taylor assists with volunteer activities for hotel guests who are interested in giving back during their time on the island, contributing to meaningful causes, and learning about the local community.

This spirit of community and exceptional service is further expressed by General Manager, Ben Shank, who shares: “Our team of over 1,000 employees at Four Seasons Maui are some of the most special people I have ever worked with in my entire career. They exude a genuine sense of authenticity, generosity, care, and service—which translates into the most authentic display of Aloha. My favorite part of my day is walking through the beautiful grounds watching our team interact with guests—laughing, smiling, helping, and putting the fine touches on every little detail. Oh, and of course, the whales breaching in the background from right off of our world-class Wailea beach!” Ben’s reflections capture the essence of the Four Seasons Maui: a team deeply committed to creating a warm and welcoming environment for all.

2. The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua

Positioned in picturesque Kapalua on the northwest of the island, the award-winning Ritz-Carlton Maui is the epitome of serenity and seclusion. This lavish 54-acre oceanfront property underwent a $100 million transformation in 2022, and its world-class amenities include 468 rooms, six dining experiences, and a massive three-tiered pool.

3. Andaz Maui

A consistent inclusion in the Condé Nast Traveler Readers’ Choice Awards, the Andaz Maui is a sleek and modern resort with sensational island views. The property has 320 guest rooms, including 30 luxury villas and 35 spacious suites, cascading swimming pools, and a lavish buffet breakfast. And if you’re wondering how to spend your day at Andaz Maui, Sean Quigley, Director of Commercial Strategy, offers a glimpse: “What our guests enjoy about our resort is the ‘private’ beach, where they indulge in snorkeling, frequent encounters with sea turtles, and serene mornings perfect for outrigger canoe experiences, all of which make our property feel truly special.” This unique blend of luxury and natural immersion makes Andaz Maui an extraordinary destination for a memorable island escape.

4. Fairmont Kea Lani

If you’re looking for a Hawaiian family vacation, you can’t overlook five-star Fairmont Kea Lani. This oceanfront resort is known for its spacious rooms and recently completed a multi-million-dollar refurbishment. Situated on 22 acres in Wailea in the southwest, this tropical escape has something for guests of all ages, including a private beach, a large cultural center, and an award-winning day spa.

Eat: Best Restaurants in Maui

Farm-to-table dining is not a foodie trend but a way of life in Maui. The island is overflowing with high-quality produce, so you’ll be dining on delicious ingredients straight from the soil or the sea. The island’s cuisine is vast and varied, offering everything from traditional Hawaiian dishes to vibrant Asian, Mexican, and seafood options. To give you an idea of where to wine and dine, we’ve asked our luxury travel team for their tips on the best restaurants in Maui:

1. Merriman’s Maui

Breathtaking, romantic, elegant — you need all the adjectives to describe this high-end culinary experience. Guests at Merriman’s in Kapalua can watch the sky turn shades of crimson and gold as they dine at candlelit tables on the oceanfront terrace. This multi-award-winning restaurant’s five-star farm-to-table cuisine boasts almost 90 percent locally caught or grown produce.

2. Mama’s Fish House

This Maui icon is on a sheltered lagoon in Paia on the island’s north shore. Mama’s Fish House, which opened in 1973, has a fascinating backstory and has earned a multitude of awards over the years. This family-owned and operated restaurant offers fine dining island style, with an ambient beachfront setting and the freshest seafood around. But be warned! Reservations can be fully booked up to a year in advance, so speak to your CIRE Travel advisor if you’re eager to try this top dining destination.

3. Gather on Maui

As soon as you arrive at this south Maui restaurant, you’ll understand why it’s a sought-after wedding location — check out those views! Renowned Maui restaurant Gannon’s was taken over by new owners and rebranded as Gather on Maui. Situated on the Wailea Gold and Emerald Golf Course, the restaurant offers a menu that blends eclectic modern cuisine with Hawaiian flavors. Guests can enjoy cocktails at the bar while marveling at the magnificent sunset views.

Do: Best Things to do in Maui

A Hawaiian vacation is a blissful island escape, so you’re guaranteed glorious beach days and cocktails by the pool. But a stay on Maui is so much more than sand and sun and sea! Maui is known for its rolling hills and awe-inspiring landscapes, brimming with adventure, rich culture, and natural wonders. So, whether you’re on a romantic escape or have the whole family in tow, this captivating island has something for vacationers of all tastes and ages.

1. Road to Hana

Immerse yourself in the beauty of Maui by driving the iconic Road to Hana. This famous 52-mile journey starts at Kahului, Maui’s commercial center in the north, before hugging the rugged eastern coastline to the quaint town of Hana. The two-to-four-hour drive is jam-packed with amazing views, lush forests, incredible waterfalls, and natural pools. This popular scenic drive should be at the top of your list of things to do in Maui — it’s an excellent adventure that showcases the island’s striking beauty.

2. Beach Life

Hawaii is synonymous with beach time. And with 120 miles of Maui coastline, there’s a beach that’s just right for everyone. The west is home to some of the island’s most beautiful and sought-after beaches, from the lively atmosphere of Wailea to the crystal-clear waters of Ka’anapali, which are perfect for snorkeling. The north of the island is known for having exceptional surf breaks, and if windsurfing or kiteboarding is your thing, head to Ho’okipa Beach Park. For those looking for a more secluded experience, explore the untouched Big Beach in Mākena State Park or the tranquil waters of Napili Bay on the northwest coast, which are great for families.

3. Nature Adventures

Hawaii is a brilliant place for bushwalking thanks to its incredible landscape and scenery, and Maui has some fantastic trails to explore. For family-friendly adventures, try Iao Valley in central Maui. An easy paved trail will take you to one of the best places on the island to view the iconic Iao Needle — a lush, green rock spire. Or journey upcountry to Polipoli Spring State Recreation Area for towering pine trees, strawberry picking, and panoramic views. For something more strenuous, check out the Kaupo Trail. Embark on the ultimate wilderness adventure, where you’ll experience breathtaking views while tackling challenging terrain from sea to summit.

4. Volcanic Views

One of Maui’s most popular attractions is Hawaii’s third-largest volcano — Haleakalā. At more than 10,000 feet above sea level, this dormant volcano is the ideal place to be for a sunrise, a sunset, or even some star gazing. Located within Haleakalā National Park, you can hike or take a guided tour into the spectacular crater at the top, where you can even spend the night in a wilderness cabin! (Top tip! It’s pronounced “HOLLY-ah-kuh-luh”)

5. Tasty Wine

Upcountry Maui is an amazing part of the world. For an enjoyable day trip, take the picturesque drive to MauiWine on the slopes of the Haleakalā volcano. Maui’s only winery sits about 2,000 feet above sea level and is known for its famous pineapple wines and traditional method of sparkling wine. But make sure to book in advance as places on MauiWine’s vineyard tours and the chance to sip and savor their offerings fill up quickly. Speak to one of our luxury travel team to help you secure your spot.

6. Surfing Goats?!

If you need to soak up some of that tasty pineapple wine, head north to Surfing Goat Dairy and indulge in some delicious artisan cheese. The cheese at the island’s biggest commercial dairy comes from the milk of the property’s 120 resident goats, and you can hang out with them during a guided tour. Learn about the dairy’s sustainable farming practices at this popular tourist attraction, which also produces gourmet chocolate truffles. A fun time for the whole family!

7. Island Shopping

If you’re seeking alternatives to beach time and nature fun, how about some island-style retail therapy instead? Maui’s premier shopping destination is The Shops at Wailea, which houses more than 70 global retail luxury and lifestyle stores, such as Prada, Tiffany & Co., and Gucci. In addition to the high-end boutiques, this pristine outdoor mall has unique local stores and souvenirs, surf shops, great places to eat and drink, and traditional entertainment, too!

CIRE is Here to Help

Tourist spending can help support Maui’s economic recovery, so please get in touch with our CIRE Travel team to learn how you can support the people of Maui in a respectful and mindful way.

CIRE Travel is a full-service travel agency headquartered in New York, NY.  Our expert corporate travel planners, honeymoon travel agents, and luxury travel planners support clients across the country and around the world.