Napili Kai Beach Resort

Though this resort was built in the 1960s with only 11 rooms, they’ve certainly grown. But at the same time they’ve managed to retain that old world charm with new world amenities. And these amenities are almost always free, weekly cultural classes such as lei making, SUP board storage, putting greens with clubs, shuffleboard, morning coffee and talk story by the ocean, weekly putting competitions with cheaply priced drinks (couples are split up because they often don’t “play” well together, we were told), afternoon tea in the lobby, free weekly keiki hula show, etc.

They have weekly slack key guitar concerts on site that are very popular hosted by slack key guitar virtuoso (and Maui resident) George Kahumoku Jr. Dinner for two by the ocean can be arranged on a secluded grassy area at the point.

The multi-level grounds are serene and well-groomed. They’re adjacent to Napili Beach, which is excellent, and Kapalua Beach isn’t a far walk. Their restaurant, Sea House, is also a winner and nearly on the beach (kids eat free with paying hotel guest). The original “Lahaina” building rooms tend to be smaller, and the bathrooms have showers only. Most of the renovations have been replacing tubs with showers only, so if you need a tub, ask for one. Some buildings have adjoining lanais and rooms—great for families. The rooms from studio and up all have kitchenettes with large fridges. Air conditioning was being installed in the remaining two buildings at press time.

This is place great to relax—the adopted cats certainly seem to agree. All those freebies don’t come cheap, but there is no resort fee here, so you feel less nickel and dimed than at some other resorts. Hotel rooms are 680 sq. ft., studios are 450–680 sq. ft., 1/1s or 1/2s are 865–960 sq. ft., 2/2s are 960–1,930 sq. ft., 3/3s are 2,040 sq. ft.—three adjoining rooms. Square footages include the rooms’ lanais.