Hotel Wailea

Hotel Wailea: A Serene Michelin Key Selected Retreat in Maui

Hotel Wailea, a Michelin Key Selected property and the only Relais & Châteaux hotel in Hawaii, consistently receives glowing reviews for its tranquil, adults-only atmosphere, exceptional service, and stunning design. Perched 300 feet above the sea, this all-suite resort offers panoramic views of three Hawaiian islands, making it a highly recommended destination for romantic getaways and peaceful relaxation.

1. Overall Rating & Sentiment

The general consensus for Hotel Wailea is overwhelmingly positive, with guests frequently describing it as a "true oasis" and an "incredible hotel" that exceeds expectations. It's celebrated for its peaceful and serene environment, particularly appealing to those seeking an escape from the bustling, family-oriented resorts on the beach. The Michelin Guide itself notes the peaceful and beautiful nature of the property, highlighting its oasis-like feel compared to larger resorts.

2. Key Highlights

Guests consistently laud Hotel Wailea for several standout features:

• Adults-Only Serenity: The 18+ policy is a significant draw, ensuring a quiet and relaxing ambiance that many guests find invaluable.
• Exceptional Service: The staff's attentiveness, professionalism, and ability to make guests feel special are frequently praised.
• Stunning Location & Views: The resort's elevated position provides breathtaking ocean views and a sense of seclusion amidst 15 acres of tropical gardens.
• Luxurious Design: The aesthetic is described as "island luxury," blending Polynesian tradition with modern elements. The property features winding footpaths, waterfalls, koi ponds, and lush tropical plants.
• Comprehensive Amenities: Despite not being beachfront, the hotel offers a complimentary shuttle service to nearby beaches, complete with reserved seating, towels, and snorkel gear. Other amenities include a tranquil 24/7 saltwater pool with cabanas, an open-air fitness studio with ocean views, and complimentary yoga and aerial yoga classes. In-room massages are also available.

3. Room Quality

Hotel Wailea consists of 72 spacious, identical one-bedroom suites, each designed for comfort and luxury. Key features include:

• Spacious Layouts: Suites offer separate living rooms and bedrooms, providing ample space for relaxation.
• Elegant Design: Decor features light wood floors, oatmeal-colored sectional sofas, wicker chairs, bleached coral, and tribal art, creating a soft, relaxing, and beachy feel.
• Well-Appointed Kitchenettes: Each suite includes a kitchenette equipped with a dual-drawer refrigerator/freezer, microwave, dishes, glasses, and utensils, along with complimentary soft drinks and snacks.
• Luxurious Bathrooms: Bathrooms feature deep soaking tubs, rain showerheads, and are stocked with high-quality Molton Brown toiletries and plush robes.
• Private Outdoor Spaces: All suites have private, furnished lanais (balconies) with views of the ocean or gardens, perfect for enjoying sunsets or morning coffee. Higher-floor rooms offer more expansive ocean views.

4. Dining Experience

The dining experience at Hotel Wailea is highly regarded, emphasizing island-sourced ingredients and unique settings.

• The Restaurant at Hotel Wailea: This popular, upscale restaurant offers ocean views and garden seating, serving breakfast, brunch, and dinner. Guests praise the quality of the food and the exceptional dining experience, with options like eggs benedict, avocado toast, and local Hawaiian specialties such as Loco Moco.
• Birdcage Bar and Lounge: Known for its creative cocktails and Japanese-inspired cuisine, often accompanied by lovebirds, it's a serene spot for drinks and lighter fare.
• Unique Experiences: The hotel also offers a "Kitchen Table" experience and the "Treehouse" for a private chef's dinner.
• Breakfast: While often not included in the room rate, à la carte breakfast options are available in the main restaurant or delivered to your suite.

5. Service & Staff

The service at Hotel Wailea is consistently highlighted as a major strength, often described as "exceptional," "accommodating," and "personable." Guests appreciate the staff's attention to detail, proactive approach, and ability to create a warm and welcoming environment. The concierge and bell attendant services are specifically noted for their efficiency and helpfulness, managing everything from reservations to transportation.

6. Location & Accessibility

Hotel Wailea is situated in Wailea, 300 feet above sea level, offering stunning views and a secluded feel.

• Secluded yet Accessible: While not directly on the beach, the hotel provides a complimentary luxury vehicle shuttle service to various local beaches and shopping areas in Wailea. The closest beach is about a 15-minute walk, or a short 5-minute drive via the shuttle.
• Nearby Attractions: Wailea is known for its beautiful beaches like Wailea Beach, which is excellent for swimming and snorkeling. Many popular attractions in Wailea are within a short drive.
• Transportation: A rental car is recommended for exploring more of Maui, especially for venturing beyond Wailea to places like the Road to Hana or Kahului Airport (approximately 30 minutes away).

7. Value & Pricing

Hotel Wailea is considered a luxury property, and its pricing reflects that, with rates beginning around $1000 per night. Despite the high cost, many guests feel it offers excellent value, especially given its adults-only exclusivity, spacious suites, exceptional service, and unique amenities. Some guests have noted benefits when booking through programs like AMEX Fine Hotels and Resorts, which can offer perks like upgrades and resort credits. The peace and quiet afforded by the no-kids policy are frequently cited as being "worth every penny."

8. Common Complaints

While overwhelmingly positive, a few points are occasionally mentioned, though often mitigated by the hotel's services:

• Distance from the Beach: The most common point raised is that the hotel is not directly on the beach. However, this is largely counteracted by the efficient and complimentary shuttle service that transports guests to a dedicated beach area with full amenities.
• Cost: While deemed worth it by many, the high price point can be a consideration for some travelers.
• No On-Site Spa: Although the hotel does not have a dedicated spa facility, in-room spa treatments, including traditional Hawaiian lomi-lomi massages, can be arranged, offering a private and relaxing alternative.

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