[trip style = beach + sun + budget conscious]
{Editor's Note: This is the final post (for now---there's always time for Maui), in our four-part Maui Waui miniseries exploring the tropics by way of boutique hotels, budget stays and big-name resorts.}
What
Makena translates to “a land of abundance and plenty” in Hawaiian, and this 1800-acre version of Hawaii is on full display at Makena Resort, a quiet, lush and sprawling ode to super natural Maui. Within minutes of arriving at the removed resort, I hit the beach {priorities, right?} and true to the translation, spot a turtle as I'm snorkeling just offshore.
Reinventing the face of the 80s-built Maui Prince, the hotel’s new owners graced the 310-room space---in the multi-millions---with retro-nouveau injections like reimagined circular pools accented by citrus-hued umbrellas and seven free-to-use cabanas, and restored mid-century furniture throughout.
One feature that makes the hotel really special is its shape and uber use of indoor-outdoor space. Every room has a lanai and from every lanai there's an ocean view. At night I take advantage of my seafront setting and fall asleep with my balcony door open to the sound of the wind rustling the palms and the crashing ocean waves. Ahhh.
Where
Makena, Maui, five minutes South of Wailea and a 30-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
Budget-conscious travelers who don't want to sacrifice setting or style, and score on amenities like a sugary-sand beach with super snorkeling, an 18-hole Robert Trent Jones-designed golf course, tennis club, multiple restaurants and open-air beachfront spa to name a few.
Cost
Rates start at $209 and include self-parking, WiFi, pool cabanas, and a complimentary shuttle service that takes you to and from nearby Wailea. NO RESORT FEE! Oh, and every room has a fridge.
More Maui
Maui Waui :: What's New In Wailea
Roam+Board :: Napili Kai
Maui Waui :: Paia
Another Side of Hawaii
Finding the Modern in Waikiki
[photos taken by @tripstyler---except arial shot courtesy makena resort---while exploring Maui as a guest of the hotel]