Maui | Grand Wailea Resort
As soon as you step out of the Maui airport, you'll notice something amazing—the air literally smells like flowers. Paradise means different things to different travelers, but for me it's hard to beat the gorgeous island of Maui. I typically prefer smaller hotels over giant resorts, but Grand Wailea's massive size actually works to its advantage by being able to offer something for everyone while still being able to deliver tranquility and that famous aloha spirit. Situated on 40 lush acres with spectacular Pacific views, the resort offers a vast selection of room types from standard (but fabulous) guest rooms to suites and two-story villas. Best of all, there are lots of adults-only options throughout the property and nearby.
grandwailea.com
grandwailea.com
5 Reasons to Visit Grand Wailea Resort
Hibiscus Adult Pool
The location of this 18-and-up retreat in the middle of the resort isn't ideal for truly escaping kids as they often walk through the area to reach their own dedicated water park extravaganza. But that's only a tiny complaint because it's easy to block out everything around you once you're inside the 4,850-square foot pool or one of its two jacuzzis. Drinks from the Hibiscus Pool bar don't hurt, either. |
Adults-only Grotto BarThis bar is really fun and unique thanks to its cave-like atmosphere. Belly up to the bar and perch yourself on one of the underwater stools and kill a half hour or so with a frosty beverage. The location of this escape is also confounding because it adjoins a kid-friendly pool and on more than one visit, children found it fun to swim through the adults-only bar to get to the other side just because they could. Yet again, the drinks make that easy enough to overlook.
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Spa Grande
The largest spa in Hawaii beckons you to escape the outside world, which is a welcome experience even in paradise. A variety of signature island therapies can be enjoyed, from massages to facials. The Healing Waters of Maui located in both the men- and women-only areas of the spa feature five specialty baths with their own healing properties. A nice selection of plunge pools and shower varieties make the clothing-optional portion of the spa extra enjoyable, all of which can be enjoyed after a complimentary body exfoliation treatment. Kids and teen treatments are available, but it's unlikely to encounter anyone under 18 during your visit. |
Humuhumu
Even though the resort offers multiple dining options from casual to elegant, this fantastic eatery is actually located on the water for a unique experience. Named for the state fish (whose full name is Humuhumunukunukuapua'a), the dinner and brunch restaurant also offers Table 70, a private floating oasis offering a la carte service, as well as four, five or six course chef's tasting menus. Definitely try the local lobster, which is caught fresh from the waters beneath the restaurant. |
Little Beach,
Lots of Nudity If you like to let it all hang out, Little Beach beckons. Only a 10-minute ride from the airport (I suggest Uber or Lyft), the beach can be found at Makena State Park. It's a bit of a hike (and not well-marked), but when you arrive make sure to ask a local (someone operating one of the food trucks is always a safe bet) and they'll tell you how to find it. Be prepared to climb up a hill with steep inclines, and then back down the other side to reach this secluded section. Technically, nudity is illegal, but due to the beach's popularity and its visitors usually very respectful of nature, authorities look the other way. Booze also can't legally be consumed, but if you're discreet about it, you shouldn't have any issues. |