The Westin Maui Resort & Spa, Hawaii

Years ago this was the Maui Surf. The property is next to the Hyatt Regency, and much smaller. There are two wings, the Ocean Tower and Beach Tower (preferred, higher floors). Standard rooms are well appointed in dark woods and beiges with that Westin look and Heavenly Beds, but they are small, particularly in comparison to other properties. Suites however were large and spacious, some with wrap around lanais. The hotel is popular for its pool area (there are five), which features a 128’ water slide popular with kids of all ages, and lovely landscaping. There is an adults only pool – the only property in West Maui with one.

The property features a new fitness center open 24 hours that overlooks the pool, and is part of an elegant $5 million 15,000 sq ft. luxury spa with 16 treatment rooms and open from 8 – 8. There is a nice atrium and outdoor lobby area with flagstone flooring, and a large pond with koi, ducks and wite and black swans. Clean and relatively compact, the property can fit the bill for those wanting “”luxurious feel”” in a property that’s not as spread out and as large as the Hyatt, Sheraton or Grand Wailea.

A nice touch is an extensive morning coffee bar with fresh pastries, for those not desiring a full restaurant breakfast. The resort also has an Unwind Ritual from 5 – 7pm at sunset, offering Polynesian entertainment, 5-minute massages, etc.

$20 daily resort fee which includes self parking, internet access, local calls, 2 bottles of water daily. Kids camp $45 – $75, open from 9 am – 10pm. Cabanas can be pre-reserved (from $75), as can umbrellas on the beach. Beach lounges are teak with thick cushions, a step above many of the other plastic ones.