Beach Resorts and Hotels in Maui, Hawaii

Perhaps it’s the contrast of the stark, moon-like volcano towering above the vibrant, kaleidoscope forest below. It could be the quaint villages and their rich whaling heritage, manicured gardens, and smiling faces. And the picturesque sunsets over the shimmering Pacific surely have some influence. Whatever the reason, artists and art-lovers from around the globe have made Maui a must-see destination for creative inspiration. The “Valley Isle” delivers a unique perspective on life that cannot be replicated on the mainland. So come and peer down through the field of cotton ball clouds from high atop Haleakala, have a front row seat for a tiki-lamp-lit luau, and watch first-time surfers practice the sport of kings while you unwind on the golden sands in front of your Maui hotel on the beach—like the popular Maui Seaside Hotel.

Where are the best restaurants in Maui with an ocean view?

You could easily grab a quick carry-out meal and take it back to your lounge chair at your Maui beachfront hotel. Or you could dine in proper island style by watching the sun say “Aloha” to the day as it dips into the Pacific at one of these amazing eateries:

• Merriman’s Kapalua: Enjoy some of the best Hawaiian regional cuisine created by award-winning chef Peter Merriman at his signature restaurant on Maui’s northernmost point.
• Lahaina Grill: Appreciate the delectable food, original artwork, and an incredible ocean view at this refined, upscale bistro on the beach.
• Mama’s Fish House: The view of the ocean is a mere appetizer at this Polynesian-style fish place, located in a coconut grove on a secluded beach.
• The Feast at Lele: You are not going to find a better ocean view than from the sandy shoreline. Lele’s brings the music, costumes, and dance from a traditional Hawaiian luau to you for an evening you won’t soon forget.

Can I go whale watching during my trip to Maui?

You’ll be happy to know that there are many opportunities to witness the graceful migration of the majestic marine mammals while you are in Maui. The prime whale watching season runs from December through May. Depending on where you are on the island, there is a whale watching tour or a beach close by to see the humpback breech the surface of the calm clear waters:

• Lahaina Harbor: Take your pick of everything from charter boats to passenger rafts. The larger boats are more comfortable, but the smaller rafts can get you closer to the 45-foot gentle giants.
• Maalaea Harbor: Just north of Kihei, you’ll find another small harbor that is home to whale watching excursion companies.
• From Land: You don’t need to head to open waters to see the whales. McGregor Point Lookout west of Maalaea offers an elevated view, and the beaches of Wailea Kaanapali, and Kihei give you the chance to watch the whales pass by while you soak up the sun.

When you use Travelocity to book your vacation on the “Valley Isle,” you’ll have access to a wide array of impressive Maui beach hotels like the Four Seasons resort at Wailea. With a lava rock landscape as a backdrop and the clear waters of the Pacific at your feet, you’re bound to have a whale of an adventure.