[trip style = sun + beach]
{Editor’s Note: I realize it's been awhile since we've dished up a dose of Roam+Board---oh so many properties are in the queue---but I wanted to get the party re-started with a casual, beachfront property outside of the Maui resort realm. Because I only feature properties I LOVE and think YOU would LOVE for R+B, while there I was already thinking ahead to my next visit.}
What
Started by a group of Vancouverites in the 60s, Napili Kai Beach Resort recalls vintage Maui in a way that made me want to break out into the hula (lucky for me, lessons are free). Winding its way over 10 beachfront acres along Maui's Northwestern shore, 11 low-rise condo clusters built over the 60s, 70s and 80s hover near the ocean---some so close, from the inside it looks like you're in a cruise ship cabin.
Built before the tidal wave of posh resorts started popping up along Maui's shores, Napili Kai perfected the easy-breezy Hawaiian vacation with tiki, plantation-style architecture hugging the crescent-shaped, sandy bay. Ocean-view pools scattered throughout the property followed, while the grassy beachfront hub makes you want to spread your beach towel in the shade of a palm or spend happy hour playing a round of shuffleboard with a glass sherry.
Taking a democratic approach to vacationing, every room has a lanai and there is NO resort fee {a big deal in Maui where some resorts charge up to $25 daily}. WiFi and parking and are also complimentary, as is use of on-site BBQs and snorkel gear. Sadly, not everything in life is free, you have to pay for the giant pineapple-coconut shave ice pictured above, but that will only set you back $5!
Where
Napili, Maui, between Ka'anapali and Kapalua. A 50-minute drive from Maui's main airport {OGG}.
When
Maui's 25-degree C average temperature attracts visitors year-round. High season tends to revolve around major holidays/breaks like American Thanksgiving, Christmas, spring break and summer. Visit in fall, Jan/Feb and late-spring for fewer crowds and cheaper rates.
Who/Why
Single and multi-generational families who choose the sand-in-your toes, laid-back location over the glitz and glam of nearby resort areas.
Cost
Off-season rates start at $270 but this can be lowered when you book multiple nights in a row with the current 5th, or 6th and 7th Night Free promotions. Washers and dryers with complimentary soap on-site. Note that luxury, oceanfront rooms have been recently renovated in sleek neutrals with a similar design palette carried over into all room categories.
More Roam+Board
Nita Lake Lodge - Whistler, BC
Hester Creek Winery – Oliver, BC
Fairmont Banff Springs – Banff
Thompson – Beverly Hills
The Sorrento Hotel – Seattle
The LIT! Bangkok – Thailand
Hotel De La Paix – Thailand
From ice hotels to Anna Wintour’s steal-of-a-deal holiday escape, find all featured R+B properties here.
[photos taken by @tripstyler--except 1st and 4th courtesy Napili Kai---while a guest of Napili Kai]