Hotels in Makena

Makena: Where Pristine Shores Embrace Crystal Seas

Nestled on the sunny shores of Maui, Makena is a tropical paradise that enchants with its pristine beaches and breathtaking ocean views. Famous for the stunning Makena Beach, also known as Big Beach, visitors can bask in the sun, swim in crystal-clear waters, or explore vibrant coral reefs just offshore. The nearby Maluaka Beach offers a serene escape, perfect for snorkeling and enjoying the lush landscape. With its laid-back vibe and natural beauty, Makena invites travelers to experience unforgettable sunsets, indulge in water sports, and embrace the spirit of aloha in this idyllic Hawaiian haven.

Discover great hotels in Makena

Makena offers a variety of hotel accommodations, from luxurious oceanfront resorts to cozy boutique hotels. Many options are conveniently located near Makena Beach, allowing guests to enjoy stunning views and easy access to the area's natural beauty, perfect for a relaxing getaway. Here are some of the best hotels in Makena that our travelers love:

1. Fairmont Kea Lani Maui Villa ExperienceOpens in a new window: This luxurious 5.0-star resort is an ideal haven for adventure seekers and beach lovers alike. With direct access to pristine beaches, it offers a thrilling escape with adventure sports both onsite and nearby, including waterskiing and personal motor watercraft activities. Travelers appreciate the seamless blend of comfort and excitement, making it perfect for those seeking distinctive experiences. The hotel's architectural design enhances the overall ambiance, creating a relaxing atmosphere. The high-quality amenities ensure a smooth journey, allowing guests to indulge in an unforgettable beach vacation.
2. Fairmont Kea Lani MauiOpens in a new window: Fairmont Kea Lani Maui is a sophisticated 4.5-star resort that caters to travelers with a passion for adventure and beach experiences. Guests enjoy direct beach access, complemented by a variety of adventure sports options such as rowing, canoeing, and nearby boat tours. The property’s stylish design and upscale offerings, including curated experiences, provide a unique and comfortable stay. Frequent travelers appreciate the blend of relaxation and excitement, ensuring every moment spent here is memorable and enriching.
3. Hotel WaileaOpens in a new window: Experience unparalleled luxury at this exquisite 5.0-star hotel, perfect for adventure enthusiasts and golf aficionados. With top-notch amenities like a business center and conference facilities, it excels in providing a sophisticated atmosphere for leisure travelers. Guests can immerse themselves in golfing experiences and explore nearby adventure sports options, including surfing and parasailing. The architectural elegance of the property, combined with high-end dining options, creates an inviting ambiance. Travelers relish the distinctive experiences and smooth, high-quality service that define every stay.

Top locations to stay in Makena

Some great areas to stay in when visiting Makena, Hawaii, are Kihei, Maalaea, and Ulupalakua. Kihei offers stunning beaches and breathtaking sunsets, while Maalaea features an aquarium and scenic views. Ulupalakua is ideal for a romantic getaway. For first-time visitors, Kihei is best suited, providing easy access to the beach and vibrant local culture.

1. KiheiOpens in a new window: Kihei is a fantastic spot for beach lovers, boasting some of the best sunsets on the island. With its beautiful sandy shores and warm waters, it’s perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and snorkeling. The area is also dotted with parks and picnic spots, making it ideal for family outings. Kihei offers a vibrant atmosphere with a variety of shops and local markets, where you can pick up unique souvenirs and tasty local treats. Plus, the laid-back vibe of this town means you can unwind and enjoy the island's natural beauty at your own pace.
2. MaalaeaOpens in a new window: Maalaea is a charming coastal area known for its aquarium and stunning ocean views. The Maui Ocean Center is a must-see, showcasing the rich marine life of Hawaii and providing an educational experience for visitors. Maalaea Harbor is also a hub for whale watching tours and sunset cruises, making it a great base for ocean activities. With a quieter atmosphere than some other locations, you can enjoy peaceful walks along the waterfront and relax in the scenic surroundings.
3. UlupalakuaOpens in a new window: For a romantic getaway, Ulupalakua offers a serene setting surrounded by lush landscapes and mountainous views. This area is known for its wineries, where you can enjoy tastings in a picturesque environment. The tranquility of Ulupalakua makes it perfect for couples looking to escape the hustle and bustle of busier tourist spots. Explore the nearby hiking trails or simply take in the breathtaking scenery, making it a delightful retreat for those seeking a peaceful vacation.

Things to do in Makena

Makena is a tropical paradise where stunning beaches meet vibrant coral reefs, inviting travelers to dive into crystal-clear waters. Enjoy thrilling snorkeling adventures, relax on sun-kissed shores, or tee off against a backdrop of lush mountains. As the sun sets, experience breathtaking views that make every moment unforgettable.

• Wailea BeachOpens in a new window – Spend your day lounging on the golden sands of Wailea Beach, where the gentle waves invite you for a refreshing dip. With its stunning sunsets and crystal-clear waters, it's the perfect spot to unwind or catch up on your reading. Snorkeling enthusiasts will love exploring the vibrant coral reefs just offshore, teeming with colorful marine life.
• Kamaole Beach ParkOpens in a new window – This popular beach park offers a lively atmosphere, ideal for families and friends. Settle in for a picnic under the swaying palm trees, or take a stroll along the shoreline. The calm waters are perfect for swimming, making it a great place for both beginners and seasoned swimmers to enjoy the sea.
• Keawakapu Beach NorthOpens in a new window – Escape the crowds at Keawakapu Beach North, where you can enjoy a quieter beach experience. The soft sand and serene waters create an idyllic setting for sunbathing or beachcombing. Don’t forget your camera; the views here are stunning, especially during the golden hour.
• Maalaea HarborOpens in a new window – A hub for ocean adventures, Maalaea Harbor is your gateway to exciting activities like whale watching, snorkeling, and sunset cruises. Grab a bite at one of the nearby eateries after a day of exploring, and soak in the picturesque harbor views.

5 tips for savvy savings when booking a hotel in Makena

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most budget-friendly time to visit Makena is from September to November, when hotel prices are typically lower. For a great value for money experience, staying for at least 4 to 5 days is recommended to fully explore the area’s rich history and culture. During your visit, you can enjoy stunning sunsets, indulge in snorkeling adventures, relax on beautiful beaches, and even try your hand at golf. Plus, there are plenty of options for dining and shopping, all while soaking in the breathtaking views of coral reefs and the vibrant sea.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: To discover last-minute deals to Makena, visit the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections on Hotels.com, where you may find discounted hotel rates close to your travel date. By enabling email alerts or push notifications, you could stay informed about flash sales and special promotions, helping you seize opportunities to save. Additionally, the Smart ShoppingOpens in a new window tool available via the app allows you to compare hotel prices and amenities, ensuring you're more likely to see the best options. You'll receive updates on your favorite hotels, so you can act quickly if prices drop or rooms become available.
3. Be flexible with dates: Prices can fluctuate due to factors like the hotel's location, star rating, and the time of year, so being flexible with your travel dates might help you save on your stay at a hotel in Makena. If you're in search of something unique, boutique hotels often provide a more personalized experience and may offer better value. When you book through Hotels.com, we’ll inform you whether the price for your chosen dates is above or below the average. If the price is on the higher side, we’ll recommend more budget-friendly dates to increase your chances of getting a better deal.
4. Consider your location: Hotels located near the city center usually tend to be pricier, but thanks to Makena's great public transportation options, you might discover a more affordable independent hotel a bit further out that still offers good connectivity. If you're interested in exploring alternative, less crowded neighborhoods or even lesser-known nearby towns, there’s often excellent value to be found. Opting for these alternative destinations could provide a more authentic and budget-friendly experience.
5. Become a Member: Join our membership program for free and start planning your next getaway to Makena! By becoming a member, you'll gain access to exclusive member rates on over 100,000 hotels around the globe. Enjoy the benefits of quick tier progression, which unlocks exciting perks such as complimentary room upgrades (when available) and discounts on food and beverages at select VIP Access properties. Don’t miss out on these fantastic savings and added comforts—sign up today and make your next stay unforgettable!

Best time to go to Makena

Makena experiences its lowest average temperatures in February to March, at 70.3°F (21.3°C), while September is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 75.7°F (24.3°C). December tends to be the wettest month. The peak travel months to visit Makena are March, April, and July, which see a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, accompanied by light rainfall. In contrast, October to December are ideal if you're looking for a calmer vacation, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.