This resort has been through quite a lot. Built decades ago as a high-end getaway for the well-to-do, it fell into disrepair. A few owners later it has reclaimed much of its former glory and now exudes an old-world feel. It’s impossible to stay here and not feel relaxed—unless you contemplate the bill that awaits you at the end.You’ll find tranquil green hillside grounds, fairly large rooms and relaxed staff. Their spa is small, but their treatment rooms are fairly large, and you get to use all the facilities when you book an appointment. They have daily yoga classes and a number of Hawaiian cultural activities. There are tennis and pickleball courts as well as a three-hole putting course. They also offer a shuttle to Hamoa Beach.
But for this edition, we had to pull the Real Gem, and here’s why. With their last few price hikes, we’re having a tough time swallowing their biggest issue: no A/C in some rooms. The fact is that when the sun goes down, you’re left with a stark choice. If you want any kind of visual or audio privacy, you gotta seal up your unit and roast. We could accept this—because it’s Hana—with prices starting at these rates, a cheap Walmart fan next to the bed is ridiculous (the ceiling fans look cool, but they actually don’t move much air). Yes, it’s dreamy Hana, but it’s not Bora Bora. Their prices are higher than most of the resorts on Maui. They gotta pick up their game a bit if they’re going to command these rates.
Rooms are comfortably-sized, if a bit stark, and many have nice ocean views. No TVs or alarm clocks. This is Hana, and you’re not supposed to care what’s on TV or what time to get up.
Hana-Maui is expensive, but it’s the kind of place that captures the essence of Hana’s unique place in Hawai‘i. Rooms are 543–835 sq. ft., suites are 942–1,475 sq. ft.
5031 Hana Hwy, Hana