Millions of travelers descend on Maui every year and fall in love with the place. Whether you’re an adrenaline junkie looking to cliff dive or plan to spend your days soaking up the sun, Maui offers luxury like nowhere else. In fact, the island is the epitome of opulence and luxury when we think of beach vacations! When it comes to a 5 star luxury hotel in Maui HI, they range from world-class resorts to boutique heritage properties. Adrenaline junkies will also find plenty to love here. What’s more, Maui’s swoon-worthy selection of high-end luxury hotels and resorts possesses a perk that many Hawaiian hotels only dream of – being directly located on the beach! While every place might be different, they all have lavish touches that one can only dream of. Think cascading infinity pools, oceanfront restaurants, decadent spas, and sprawling lush, landscaped grounds.
Furthermore, the bulk of these wonderful resorts lie on the southwest and northwestern sides of the island. Clearly, this sun-kissed Hawaiian island is a luxurious paradise waiting for you! To that end, here are the 11 best 5 star luxury hotels in Maui HI.
Table of contents
- Ritz Carlton Kapalua
- Montage Kapalua Bay
- Hana-Maui Resort
- Four Seasons Resort Maui At Wailea
- Hotel Wailea, Relais & Châteaux
- Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort
- Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort
- Ho’olei At Grand Wailea
- Fairmont Kea Lani
- The Westin Nanea Ocean Villas, Ka’anapali
- Hyatt Regency Maui Resort And Spa
- Recommended Restaurants/Bar in Maui
- Recommended Things To Do in Maui
- Where To Stay in Maui
Ritz-Carlton Kapalua
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The Ritz-Carlton Kapalua is one luxury hotel in Maui that gets you away from the resorts in a more secluded location. Tucked on an airy hilltop on the quieter side of Maui, the resort is primed for a romantic getaway, with a side serving of tee time action. Not only is it home to two 18-hole courses, but they both face different sides of Kapalua’s stunning coastline. Beyond the greens, the hotel is luxurious in every way. The spa is a particular highlight, with its exhaustive treatment menu offering oxygen-infused facials and aromatic cedar saunas. No matter the time of the day, lounge by the 10,000-square-feet huge three-tiered pool. It’s no wonder it’s one of the Best Hotel Pools In Maui. When it’s time to nom-nom, spend leisurely mealtimes digging into Hawaiian-influenced coastal cuisine at the Banyan Tree Restaurant.
Aside from that, there are five more bars and restaurants, including favorites such as Alaloa Lounge and the laidback Burger Shack. When it comes to the digs, they’re understated, modern, and indulgent, especially the suites which come with oceanview lanais and deep-soaking bathtubs. However, the Ritz’s partnership with the Ambassadors of the Environment program is what we love the most. It hosts activities such as whale watching, snorkeling, nature photography, and hiking. Putting out the Ritz, indeed.
Montage Kapalua Bay
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It might have originally been conceived as a timeshare, but Montage Kapalua Bay is one of the best 5 star hotels in Maui HI. This lavish West Maui resort lies just above Napili Bay and has just 50 spacious but swanky condos, making it one of Maui’s most intimate stays. What’s more, they all face one of Maui’s best stretches of sand, Kapalua Bay Beach. Among the resort’s blissful perks is the full-service spa, which dishes out highly personalizable seaweed wraps and Lomi-Lomi massages like it’s no one’s business. What’s more, it uses only luxury Swiss skincare products.
Add to that cocktails by the lagoon-style pools and snorkeling in a protected bay, and you’ll see why it’s not just another cookie-cutter chain outpost. However, one of the most memorable experiences here is the traditional barbeque in the form of Old Lahaina Luau, which attracts locals as well. Do you have kids in tow? Don’t miss the scavenger hunt and the aquatic adventure.
Hana-Maui Resort
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Are you looking for a secluded, rustic-chic luxury hotel in Maui? You can’t do any better than Hana-Maui Resort, where staying feels like completely dedicating yourself to authentic island life. Formerly Travaasa Hana, the resort, outshines some of the island’s most luxurious properties. This, despite being one of the only all-inclusive resorts in all of Hawaii. This sprawling east coast retreat is the antithesis of all the west coast glitterati; think 70 spacious suites and garden cottages built from sustainable materials such as bamboo and coconut wood. What’s more, they feature no radios, TVs, or clocks! Instead, you wake up to the sound of the waves and spend the rest of the day indulging in bamboo pole fishing, horse riding on the beach, paddle boarding, or learning to Hula. There is one indulgence here; the massive infinity pool peppered by sun loungers, which is the perfect place to relax.
When you feel like unwinding, head to the spa known for its traditional Hawaiian massages. All in all, the resort showcases a remote Maui experience that’s authentic and far removed from the rest of Maui’s tourist hubs. That said, there’s no shortage of things to do here, and you’ll be forgiven for simply wanting to laze on the beach and soak up the sunshine.
Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea
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When we hear Four Seasons, we immediately think of decadent luxury, and the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea is no exception. One of the most luxurious beachfront 5 star hotels in Maui HI, the 90s-era mid-rise façade fools almost everyone! On the inside, the airy and light-filled spaces are decked out with potted plants and original works of Hawaiian art. Staying here presents a travel Catch-22; should you revel in the luxury of the rooms or venture outside on the pristine sands of Wailea Beach? You can do both! Choose from 380 rooms, including expansive entry-level rooms with furnished lanais and chic bathrooms with deep-soaking bathtubs.
When you get out of the room, head straight to the stunning pool with cabanas, chaise lounges, and superb poolside service. Couples will love the adults-only Serenity pool that overlooks Ma’alaea Bay and features sunset drinks and poolside massages. It’s no wonder that it’s one of the Most Romantic Hotels in Maui! Later, head out to the waters beyond the beach for everything from whale-watching to snorkeling. When the hunger pangs come calling, head straight to Wolfgang Puck’s Spago for an East-meets-West spread.
Hotel Wailea, Relais & Châteaux
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The utterly romantic and stone-cold stunner of a Hotel Wailea is unarguably the best luxury hotel in Maui. Not only is it Hawaii’s first and only Relais & Châteaux property, but it’s all about romance. Lush acres of koi ponds, charming bridges, and mango trees at the foothills of Wailea set the tone at this adults-only getaway. Choose from just 72 suites, which feature sexy open showers and balconies looking out to the Pacific. For an even more splurge-worthy experience, go for the one-bedroom suites that come with a private chef menu, Hawaiian furniture, and jetted whirlpool tubs right by the window.
If you do get to step out of these decadent digs, there’s a lot to do on the property. Lounge by the cabana-lined pool before heading out to the beach for a lovely swim. Later on, dig into delectable meals at the award-winning restaurant or enjoy a romantic dinner with your bae on your very own stretch of Wailea sand. With beach club and Mercedes Benz shuttles, the hotel sure knows how to make its guests feel special and indulged.
Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort
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One cascading outdoor infinity pool at a hotel is special enough, but what if there are four? That’s what makes Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort one of the most lavish and opulent 5 star hotels in Maui HI. Walk up the lantern-lit pathway to reach the open-air lobby, complete with sweeping ocean views. The four-tiered ocean-facing pool lies just beyond, and is one of the best places to swim and relax on not just the region but the island! The rooms and suites are rustic-modern with gleaming marble and woods and all rough-hewn stone adding to the wildly sexy vibe. On the inside, the place maximizes the garden or ocean views. For instance, oversized love seats sit beside sliding balcony doors, while the plush bed lies right in the center of the room.
The Mokapu Beach is yet another huge selling point, as are the two destination restaurants of Ka’ana Kitchen and seafood central Morimoto. The azure-toned sea and all the tropical jungle florae make this resort something of a honeymoon hideaway. If that wasn’t enough, Andaz is not just one of Maui’s Top Gay-Friendly Hotels, but it’s amongst Hawaii”s Top Gay-Friendly Hotels!
Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort
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One of the best luxury hotels in all of Maui is the sprawling, 40-acre Grand Wailea, a Waldorf Astoria Resort, which lies right on Wailea Beach. Following a recent 4 million USD overhaul, this massive resort is all about amenities. Imagine this – 10 bars and restaurants, a spacious and decadent spa, a massive fitness center, a whopping 11 tennis courts, and three golf courses! And if all that wasn’t impressive enough already, there are the nine freeform pools, complete with a lava tube slide with LED-colored light bands and a 360-degree exterior loop, and Tarzan rope swings! While it’s great for families, it’s a no-brainer for honeymooners. This is thanks to the decadent spa, which is famous for doling out couples’ bath salt spa treatments.
Wind up the day with dinner at the gorgeous open-air restaurant of Humuhumunukunukuapua’a. Floating on a tiki torch-lit lagoon, this one serves sublime Hawaiian cuisine. If you’re the sort of person who loves a whole lot of pool and beach time, then this is where you should be, as this place is a water baby’s dream.
Ho’olei at Grand Wailea
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For those who love independent stays, Ho’olei at Grand Wailea is one of the most luxurious 5 star hotels in Maui HI. Even if it’s only for a week, treat yourself and stay at this luxe condo property where you can choose from two/three-bedroom villas. Even entry-level villas are massive – think 3,200 square feet! To top that, they come with expansive views of the Pacific, two expansive lanais, and modern bathrooms with outdoor showers. Thus, staying here offers a level of tranquility and privacy that other Maui resorts don’t offer. Despite the decor being different in them all, there’s a well-heeled aesthetic that weaves through all of them. Moreover, sliding walls offer an all-important indoor/outdoor island vibe. But, that’s not all. Amenities abound in the form of a pool with hot tubs and waterfalls, a well-equipped fitness center, and a free shuttle to Wailea Beach.
Fairmont Kea Lani
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Recently awarded the title of Fairmont’s hotel of the year, Fairmont Kea Lani is also the only all-suite and villa luxury hotel in Maui. Water babies and sun-seekers will love spending their vacation just steps from the serene waters of the crescent-shaped Polo Beach, which is one of Maui’s more private beaches. Kea Lani is very design-focused, as compared to other hotels on the island, and features spacious, family-friendly suites and two/three-bedroom villas. What’s more, they come with private plunge pools, courtyards, and full kitchens, all done up in an understated Hawaiian aesthetic of earth tones and muted whites. Lap up the amenities here, which include three pools, one with a swim-up bar and the other with a water slide. Switch between lounging beside the pool and lazing on the fine sand while sipping on cocktails.
Or, you and your bae could spend the day with massages and body treatments at the ultra-pampering Willow Stream Spa. Wind up the day with creative Hawaiian cuisine at the hotel’s open-air restaurant before sleeping off your food and Hawaii coma. Hotel of the year indeed.
The Westin Nanea Ocean Villas, Ka’anapali
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Located on 16 lush acres of Ka’anapali Beach, the Westin Nanea Ocean Villas is one of the best 5 star hotels in Maui HI. The modern and stylish all-villas property is, without a doubt, the most relaxing of all of the four Westin properties on the island. Choose from a whopping 390 villas, each of which comes with Westin’s signature Heavenly Beds, full kitchens, and huge bathrooms with deep-soaking, freestanding tubs. For an indulgent and memorable stay, go for the villas right out front, which boast lanais with views of the ocean. Nevertheless, palm-tree-lined pathways meander through the undulating greens to lead to the beach out front. Aside from that, there’s lots of space by the pool, which is peppered with chaise lounges and umbrellas.
Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa
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Located on the quieter southern end of Ka’anapali Beach is Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa, the best luxury hotel in Maui. One of Maui’s first full-amenity resorts, this Hyatt outpost checks all boxes for an indulgent Hawaiian getaway. Think immediate beach access, an onsite luau, expansive pools with separate ones for adults only, and a palate-pleasing variety of restaurants and bars. But, that’s not all. You’ll also find resident penguins (yes!), a cave grotto bar surrounded by waterfalls, and a rooftop astronomy program! Come evening, and you can dine at any of the five restaurants. We’d highly recommend Japengo for its Pacific Rim cuisine. Do you want to indulge in a champagne brunch? You’ll find it here!
Plus, every single room and suite at the Hyatt Regency Maui comes with a private lanai for enjoying the magnificent views outside. It’s worth splurging on an ocean-facing suite, so you can fall asleep to the sound of the waves.
Recommended Restaurants/Bar in Maui
- Ka’ana Kitchen: Overlooking Andaz Maui’s terraced pools sits Ka’ana Kitchen, a moder, earthy, and sun-kissed space during the day and romantically low-lit by night. Featuring a seasonal menu, the restaurant serves favorites such as risotto with local Ali’i mushrooms and miso, grilled octopus with Big Island chevre, and Kona Kampachi poke with local beets and Hawaiian chili pepper. Do save space in your tummy for dessert – the chocolate tres leches with Kona coffee ice cream is to die for.
- Merriman’s Maui: With its candlelit tables, vaulted ceilings, and panoramic ocean views, Merriman’s is one of Maui’s most romantic, elegant and upscale restaurants. The dishes are made using 90 percent of the local ingredients, with favorites including taro cakes with local Swiss chard and Hamakua mushrooms, Kahua Ranch lamb with papaya salad, and Keahole lobster with Hawaiian chili pepper and Maui corn.
Recommended Things To Do in Maui
- Maui Dream 65-minute Helicopter Flight: After exploring Maui from the ground, how about seeing bird’s-eye views of it? Soar high abiove Maui’s dramatic coastline in this scenic and narrated helipcopter flight, catching glimpses of its most celebrated sights such as Haleakala National Park and Hana Rainforest.
- Haleakala Maui Sunrise Tour with Breakfast: There’s nothing like a Hawaiian sunrise. This Haleakala Sunrise Tour takes you to the top of the majestic Mt. Haleakala, which is renowned for its beauty and stunning sunrises. There’s something completely overhwleming about standing on the edge of the Haleakala Crater and watching a Mauian sunrise.
Where To Stay in Maui
Maui might be an island, but it’s huge with varied experiences across its different coastlines. Firstly, the South Maui areas of Maalaea, Kihei, Wailea, and Makena are perfect for the luxurious and laidback experience. Sun-kissed South Maui is home to some of the most lavish seaside resorts and hotels and upscale restaurants and bars for all sorts of splurge-worthy experiences. Besides that, it’s home to some of the island’s most gorgeous beaches. Those looking for well-rounded indulgent experiences of dining, shopping, entertainment, beach life should head straight to West Maui. This is where the well-heeled and touristy areas of Maui are, namely Lahaina, Napili, Kahana, and Kapalua. This is also where you’ll find indulgent water-based experiences, as many luxury catamaran tours and cruises depart from Lahaina harbor.
Do you love seclusion and getting away from it all? Then you need to head to the Northern Maui areas of Paia and Haiku, which are known for lush jungles with hiking trails and tons of surfing spots. There are more luxurious B&Bs and inns here than in any other part of Maui. Finally, there’s Eastern Maui which is for travelers looking to explore the wild and unexplored areas of Maui. This region has otherworldly sand beaches, waterfalls, bamboo forests, and natural pools.
Do you want to stay in luxury near the airport? Check out the Best Hotels Near Kahului Airport.
