Of all the accommodations in Maui’s tony Wailea resort community, the 22-acre, waterfront Fairmont Kea Lani may be the most family-friendly of the bunch thanks in large part to its all-suite-and-villa setup. The property’s 450 guest rooms are some of the biggest on the island—the smallest suites start at a generous 860 square feet, while the two- and three-bedroom beachfront villas weigh in at 1,800 square feet and up. All cater to families, with separate sleeping and living areas, entertainment systems, furnished outdoor space (for lounging and dining), sleeper sofas, and some type of kitchen facilities, while villas encourage group gatherings with plunge pools and BBQ grills. Both adults and kids will love the deep-soaking tubs, too. Elsewhere, three indoor and three outdoor pools provide space for fun when kids’ club activities (among them volcano building, hula lessons, and tide pool excursions) aren’t on the agenda. Grown-ups can also amuse themselves with activities like outrigger canoe journeys, cultural programs, tee times at three nearby championship golf courses, and locally inspired treatments at the Willow Stream Spa, which offers dedicated fitness and wellness programs. Fuel your adventures at the five on-site restaurants, including the seafood-focused Nick’s Fishmarket Maui (with its 2,000-bottle-strong wine cellar) and the award-winning Kō, where the flavors are inspired by Hawaii, the Philippines, Korea, and beyond.
Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui
Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui
Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui
Photo By Fairmont Fit
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A romantic resort rendezvous
It is true that resorts do sometimes peddle tired themes of romance as their business model. But many of Hawaii’s properties really do meet the desires of the diverse couples who come for weddings, honeymoons, or a simple getaway. The Moana Surfrider, a Westin Resort & Spa, whisks guests to old Hawaii in the middle of Waikiki. Koa Kea Hotel and Resort on Kauai offers a chance to unwind, Hawaiian-style, at its spa, where treatments emphasize the beneficial properties of local red clay, awapuhi root, and seaweed. And for couples hoping to learn as much about Hawaiian culture as their relationship, the Fairmont Kea Lani on Maui offers Hawaiian language lessons and traditional canoe excursions.
Mediterranean Influence in Maui
The Fairmont Kea Lani is one of the nicest resorts I’ve seen. I spent two nights here during my trip to Maui and really enjoyed my experience. When you first arrive, you are adorned with a beautiful purple lei and a welcome drink. Another interesting twist is the Mediterranean-themed architecture throughout the property. While this resort isn’t exactly cheap, there are great rates during the off season, and as part of the cultural program, all guests can participate in activities like Hawaiian language courses and an outrigger excursion for free.
