Weekender Update

Whether you want to knock back a wheatgrass shot at the Kai Cafe or a Maui Brewing Co. Bikini Blonde at Alaloa Lounge across the way, the lobby opens up to new fire pit hangs for sunset and scenery gazing.

The former bright palette was traded for more subtle earth tones inspired by the lush greenery of West Maui mountains.

Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort opened just five years ago, and has been doling out the understated luxury so deftly that it’s easy to believe it’s been a part of the valley isle’s landscape forever.

Guests are greeted by name and hosts check you in as you sip on a cool drink, seated on comfy lounges in the lobby that overlook the pool and ocean beyond. Gaze upon the view that you’ll be gifted with each day of your stay.

The rooms are sleek, yet inviting—like a hug from your most stylish friend. The design encourages guests to open each room to the lanai, bringing the lush beauty of Maui indoors.

For the ultimate accommodations, opt for one of the villas, available in two- three- and four-bedroom configurations. Each offers ample space and a gourmet kitchen making it the perfect place to unwind with friends and family.

However, it’s what the resort has to offer outside its rooms that really make it shine.

Depending on the getaway you want, the resort is there to serve. Those craving rest and rejuvenation will thrill at the award-winning Āwili Spa & Salon (it was named the No. 1 resort spa by USA Today in 2017) and its Apothecary Blend Bar, which ensures patrons a customized experience regardless of the service. The area resembles an old world teashop, with walls lined with drawers filled with all the elements to create a beauty potion for each guest. Consultants share the healing properties of each of the vast selection of essential oils, serums and essences to create a custom elixir that’s blended into spa products used in the treatments. Go for the Indulge pack- age that includes the aforementioned blending experience, a Thai massage, bath ritual, lunch in a cabana and a spa mani-pedi.

The 15-acre beachfront locale also offers many places to luxuriate. Choose from three cascading infinity pool, grab some gourmet snacks at Mokapu Market and head down to the beach or sit in the cool comfort of the lobby lounge area and take in the views.

Looking for a sense of place? There are cultural lessons for hula, coconut husking and lei making. The Feast at Mokapu is a luxury lu‘au that elevates the experience with a menu created by executive chef Isaac Bancaco and handcrafted cocktails.

For those wanting a more active vacation, there’s a lot to discover here as well. Amenities aimed at getting guests out and about include unlimited use of GoPro HERO 5 cameras, daily outrigger canoe experiences, single and tandem bikes with helmets, unlimited use of snorkel equipment and body boards, yoga and Pilates classes, guided kayak tours and SUP lessons. Searching for whales while paddling an outrigger canoe (and filming it all with a GoPro) brings a whole new perspective to whale watching.

Foodies will find lots to love here as well. From the Lehua Lounge and Bumbye Beach Bar for more casual fare to Morimoto Maui and the acclaimed Ka‘ana Kitchen, there’s a lot to savor on-property. Ka‘ana Kitchen has been garnering raves for its family-style approach to farm-to-table cuisine. Delectable dishes include the Watermelon Salad (goat cheese feta, li hing mui and candied walnuts); Grilled Octopus (served with Big Island chevre, watercress and asparagus) and the Wagyu Striploin (served with ‘ulu tater tots, ginger hiyashi and pok choi). Book a Chef’s Table Tasting—diners are served a customized menu with wine pairings—or try the interactive Bitters & Bites cocktail experience.

So, whether pool babe, gourmand or adventurer, Andaz Maui has the perfect escape for you.

Andaz Maui, 3550 Wailea Alanui Drive, (808) 573-1234, maui.andaz.hyatt.com