A secluded tropical paradise perched above the Pacific, Hotel Wailea is Maui’s secret gem and Hawaii’s best honeymoon resort. The five-star property is a part of the exclusive Relais & Châteaux association, a collection of luxury boutique hotels and gourmet restaurants that provide an immersive local experience. Hotel Wailea is laid out over fifteen acres of lush gardens and serene waterfalls, with all the amenities imaginable—including top-rated dining, luxury suites, and vehicles for personal transport. As an adults-only resort with just seventy-two suites, it provides an intimate experience that larger family-centered resorts just can’t replicate. The romantic property is perfect for honeymooners and any couples looking for an unforgettable Hawaiian vacation. Planning a trip to Maui? Read more about the island in the Ultimate Maui Travel Guide.
Property – Waterfalls, Gardens, and Panoramic Ocean Views
The soothing sounds of a cascading waterfall greets you upon arrival. The stream flows underneath the lobby and restaurant through the property until it reaches the fountain-studded pond below. Champagne in hand, you walk past reception inside the breathtaking open-air lobby. Immerse yourself in tropical gardens, winding pathways, and panoramic ocean views. Traipse through the breezy outside corridors to your suite, which—depending on your preference—looks out onto a cozy garden or an expansive view of the ocean miles below.
The pool is one of the best hangout spots on the property. Huge, shaded cabanas line one side while a wall of greenery frames the poolside bar. Inflatable swans drift on the turquoise pool inviting guests to jump in. Just above the pool deck you’ll find the state-of-the-art fitness center and wellness studio. Take advantage of the Peloton Bikes or schedule a private aerial yoga lesson. Afterwards, revive your muscles with a Hawaiian spa treatment.
Service – Tesla’s, Picnic Baskets, and Birthday Booze
The service at Hotel Wailea is everything you would expect from a five-star luxury property—and more. As a boutique resort with a limited number of suites, the staff is highly attentive to each guest and his or her requests. And forget waiting for an Uber. The hotel has a fleet of touchless Telsa Model X cars for transport to the restaurants and beaches of Wailea. The valet service not only drives you to the beach, they also provide complimentary chairs, umbrellas, towels, and waters. You can even request a picnic basket for a snack between swims!
The concierge is at your disposal to set up any and all activities as well as restaurant reservations. And the list of activities is long. Indulge in a Hawaiian-inspired spa treatments. Learn to surf in a private surf lesson. Look for sea turtles and Humpback whales on a guided Hawaiian outrigger canoe excursion. Even cruise around Maui in a replica vintage 1957 Porsche Speedster. The options are endless.
We visited the property over my husband’s birthday. I had mentioned this to the staff in our arrival notes—and then promptly forgot about it. Much to our delight, chocolate cake and champagne awaited us upon arrival to our room, making for a very special celebration!
The Restaurant at Hotel Wailea, Treehouse & Birdcage Lobby Bar
Dine on the garden terrace under the stars or on the balcony with sweeping ocean views at Hotel Wailea’s eponymous restaurant. This top-rated restaurant serves island-to-table cuisine as a three or five course prix menu in a romantic setting. If you’re looking for an even more intimate setting, arrange a private dinner in the hotel’s Treehouse. The seven-course meal is designed to meet your preferences and prepared tableside by a personal chef.
During our visit, we watched the sunset and enjoyed a light dinner and drinks at the Birdcage Bar. The open-air cocktail lobby lounge features views of the Pacific, posh drinks, and tasty bites. What’s most striking about the aptly-named space is the design and décor. Birds glide in and out of the lounge, which is draped with greenery and deep jewel-toned fabrics. The lounge showcases quirky furniture that includes nest-like chairs and tables supported by bird feet. From piña coladas in a pineapple by the pool to our departing breakfast, we were thoroughly impressed with everything we ate and drank.
Spacious Suites
The accommodations are not your typical hotel room—they’re luxury suites. The airy living quarters are made up of several rooms including a fully-stocked kitchenette and living room and an outdoor patio with lounge seating. Other notably amenities include a Nespresso machine, giant sectional couch, and a deep soaking tub. We stayed in a Luxury Garden View Suite and had a lovely view of the pond with a soothing fountain to listen to.
