Hawaii is well known as one of America’s premium vacation destinations. With its white sand beaches, crystal clear water, temperate, tropical climate, and beautiful local culture, Hawaii is not only one of the most beautiful states but also among the most unique destinations in the world. In addition to its stunning physical qualities, Hawaii is also the happiest state in America. Whether you’re looking to invest in a vacation home, make a permanent move to the Aloha State, or already live on the islands and are looking for a new place to call home, here are the three best places to find a luxury condo or home in Maui. After all, we are here to share the best of the best! And when it comes to lifestyle, Maui truly is “No Ka Oi.”
Lahaina
This beautiful town located on the west side of Maui was once the capital of the Hawaiian Kingdom and one of the most significant fishing spots in the Hawaiian islands. If you’re drawn to Maui for its promises of tropical nature, Hawaiian culture, and oceanfront activities, then look no further than Lahaina. This community is replete with all of the little qualities that make Hawaii special. If the ocean appeals to you, you’ll want to join some local canoeing groups who regularly take to the water for exercise and to take in the beauty of Hawaiian ocean life. You’ll also want to be sure to take some time for whale-watching; Lahaina is home to a large community of humpback whales, and it is one of the best places in the world to enjoy these majestic creatures.
If you haven’t quite gotten your sea legs under you, Lahaina offers more than enough to keep you entertained on solid land as well. Over 55 acres of Lahaina are official historic districts and offer some of the most immersive ways to experience Hawaiian culture. You’ll want to be sure to check out the Lahaina Historic Trail, a self-guided tour through the area’s deep history and culture; the local Banyan tree, a massive natural landmark that is one of the largest of its kind throughout the whole country; and the Jodo Mission, a Buddhist temple that has been operating on the island for nearly a century. Lahaina is also known for its high-quality restaurants and authentic luau experiences.
Key neighborhoods in Lahaina include Launiupoko, Lahaina Town, Puamana, Lahaina Shores, and Aina Nalu.
Kaanapali
Another beautiful neighborhood on Maui’s western coastline, Kaanapali is known for its stellar beachfront and clear ocean water and was recently awarded the title of America’s Best Beach. With such a prestigious title, Kaanapali luxury homes are perfect for anyone who loves the ocean and all of the classic Hawaiian water activities that come with it. Whether you’re an avid surfer or love to take daily walks in the sand and enjoy the tropical Hawaiian climate and beautiful views, the Kaanapali beaches have everything there is to offer.
Kaanapali also offers some of the most immersive experiences in Hawaiian culture that you can find on the island. The Kaanapali Cliff Diving Ceremony is a long-standing tradition of Maui’s Chief Kahekili, who would ceremoniously jump into the ocean from the Pu’u Keka’a Black Rock as a show of strength. The tradition lives on today: every day at sunset, a ceremony occurs followed by a diver jumping from the same rock Chief Kahekili used to jump from. It’s a beautiful way to experience Hawaiian culture and immerse yourself in the rich local history of Maui and Kaanapali.
In terms of leisure, Kaanapali also has two of its own world-renowned golf courses: the Royal Kaanapali and the Kaanapali Kai. There aren’t many places in the world where you can enjoy tropical coastline views in between drives, but Kaanapali is home to two of the best and most unique courses in the world. You’ll also want to be sure to check out Whaler’s Village, the local walking district and cultural hub. The village also offers a wide variety of high-quality restaurants and shops for locals to enjoy. It’s the perfect place to take in Hawaiian culture and lifestyle and connect with locals.
When it comes to neighborhoods you should definitely consider, the Masters at Kaanapali and Kaanapali Golf Estates are two standout locations. The Kaanapali Alii Resort is an oceanfront resort that’s rejuvenating and has ready beach access. The Whaler at Kaanapali Beach and Kaanapali Villas are both high-end hotels.
Kapalua
Located at the base of the West Maui mountains, this beautiful town is one of Maui’s most popular resort destinations, and with a name that translates to “arms embracing the sea,” it’s easy to see why. Known for its white sand beaches and stunning bays — hence the nickname — Kapalua offers everything that Hawaii is known for and adds a twist of luxury. Home to some of the island’s most luxurious resorts, including the local Ritz Carlton, Kapalua is among Maui’s most affluent neighborhoods.
Similar to Kaanapali, Kapalua is also known for its world-class golf courses. The Bay Course and The Plantation Course, in addition to offering some of the most stunning views of the Maui coastline, have both been featured in PGA tournaments in previous years and have hosted some of the world’s best golfers. If you’re interested in water-based leisure activities, the bays in the Kaanapali area offer some of the island’s best snorkeling opportunities in addition to all of the water activities that Hawaii is known for.
With the abundance of resorts in the area, Kapalua has one of the best selections of restaurants in all of Hawaii. Many of the hotels have their own award-winning restaurants and bars and offer their own worlds of nightlife experiences and entertainment. Whether you’re looking for a traditional Hawaiian luau experience or fine dining with some of the island’s most renowned chefs, all of your expectations will be exceeded by the luxury dining venues that Kapalua boasts.
The Montage Residences at Kapalua Bay is a brilliant resort. Rent an apartment for the holidays from Kapalua Bay Villas, Kapalua Golf Villas, Coconut Grove, or Kapalua Ridge Villas. For excellent hotels, check out The Plantation Estates and Pineapple Hill Estates.
Ready to take the next step?
With a median property value of about $650,000 and a yearly growth rate of almost 4% as of 2020, property in Maui is consistently growing more expensive. As home to some of the most luxurious neighborhoods and resort destinations across all of the Hawaiian islands, it’s no secret why property in Maui is so sought after. If you’re interested in Kaanapali luxury homes or Kapalua homes for sale, or you want to learn more about the real estate market in Maui, reach out to an experienced real estate agent like Jeff Onderko to begin your search.
