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When it comes to tropical getaways, I do thorough research to find a luxurious, relaxing place. Originally Joe and I planned this trip for May 2020 (and ended up going a year later) so we had a lot of time to find our accommodations. We decided on the Westin Ka’anapali because it had great reviews and looked stunning. We wanted multiple pools, close by bar (ideally swim up but we settled for pool adjacent!), and oceanfront location. The Westin Ka’anapali is conveniently located in Lahaina, on the west side of Maui. It’s surrounded by other resorts, restaurants, and shopping. There is a long path along the beach that will take you anywhere from Whaler’s Village to Black Rock Beach. I briefly discussed our hotel in my Maui travel guide. This resort is huge and I have a lot of thoughts so let’s dive into it.
LOCATION
2365 Kaanapali Pkwy, Lahaina, HI
GUEST ROOM
Joe and I opted for an ocean view room in the ocean tower. These rooms are one of the cheaper options at this resort. Our room was situated at the end of the hall so it felt a little quieter. The room was comfortable and had a fantastic view. We had a balcony with seating, which was a great reading spot. While it was overall nice, there were a few things we didn’t love. The room did feel dated; the carpet needed to be replaced and bedding did have some stains. The walls were thin. It didn’t feel like there was much privacy in the bathroom or from our neighbors. Also, we didn’t realize we had to request the cleaning service. We were able to do it through the Marriott app and it was easy.
Two days before our trip ended, we had a leak in our bathroom ceiling. We were moved to a new room in the Hokupa’a tower. The Hokupa’a tower was renovated within the past year. The rooms are significantly larger and more modern. We actually had a sitting area with a couch and table. We also had considerably more room in the bathroom – double sinks, separate water closet, and thicker walls (haha). Our lanai was bigger and the seating was more comfortable than our original room. The view wasn’t quite as nice as our ocean tower room but I think that’s just because we were on a lower level. The Hokupa’a tower also had this lounge called the Lanai. We thought it was included but we’re told we’d have to pay an extra $240/day if we wanted to use it (no thanks!). It included a continental breakfast, happy hour (drinks and apps), and infinity pool. I believe it’s located on the second floor.
AMENITIES
The Westin Ka’anapali is located in Lahaina in West Maui. This resort is beachfront alongside several other large hotels. The property has six pools including an infinity pool, adult pool, and plunge pool. Unfortunately the hot tub was closed while we were there. Of course there is also Ka’anapali beach, just steps past the pools. There are cabanas available for rent but I believe the cheapest options are $100+. We didn’t consider it but it could be fun if you’re traveling with a group. The resort also features a gym, business center, and kids center. Also, there is a spa. Honestly once I saw the spa prices, I looked elsewhere for our couples massage. Guests receive a few perks upon arrival. We each got a complimentary drink ticket, reusable tote bag, and reusable water bottles.
DINING
We ate at Waicoco twice during our trip. I believe that’s the only sit down restaurant (or at least the only one open during our stay). Our first visit was for brunch on my birthday. They have a patio, right next to the beach, which was beautiful. Joe and I both went for the prix fixe breakfast. I got the avocado toast (starter), Hawaiian lemon pancakes (main) and sweet bite (everyone gets the same thing). Joe ordered the pineapple (starter), short rib hash (main), and sweet bite. Joe thoroughly enjoyed his meal but I was less impressed. The portions were small and I wasn’t a huge fan of any of my items. They mentioned they were starting to serve dinner too. Since Joe really liked Waicoco, we decided to try it out for dinner. We went a couple days later and I was still unimpressed. The food was good but definitely not my favorite of the trip. The portions were small and the menu was limited. The views are unbeatable though!
We also stopped by Mahele Market & Eatery a couple times. We got snacks and breakfast one day. I really liked the mango smoothie but it was $12 and small. Yikes! We also got drinks from pool bar. They were fine but again, wasn’t overly impressed. Overall I recommend walking over to Whaler’s Village (literally next door) for meals.
TRANSPORTATION
We flew into Kahului/Maui (OGG) because Southwest had non stop flights from San Jose. It is a little ways from the Westin (~45 minute drive). We rented a car so it really didn’t bother us. Also, check in wasn’t until 4PM so we were able to drive around and get lunch after we landed. Thankfully we were able to check in early though! The Westin website says they do offer a complimentary shuttle to Kapalua Airport – Maui (JHM). We did have to pay for parking, which was $30/day. They have valet as well but we didn’t use it. The Westin Ka’anapali also has a shuttle that goes to Whaler’s Village and other Marriott properties nearby. You can learn more about transportation in my Maui travel guide.
VERDICT
Would I stay at the Westin Ka’anapali again? Definitely but only under the right circumstances. I would choose the Westin if I could stay in the Hokupa’a tower and it would have be during an off season/cheaper rate. I’d love to stay in an oceanfront room, but they are crazy expensive. I really want to stay in Wailea so I’d probably check out the Grand Wailea, Four Seasons or Fairmont next time; although those are all expensive too. I really liked the beach in front of the Fairmont so that’s currently my top choice. If you’ve stayed at the Westin Ka’anapali before, I’d love to hear your thoughts!
Looking for more Maui travel tips?
MAUI TRAVEL GUIDE 2021 – TRAVEL LOGISTICS, HOTEL & PACKING LIST!
