This 15-acre beachfront resort setting was completed in 2013. The buildings are modern in both style and décor while still embracing the resort’s beachfront location. Their lobby is where every guest is personally greeted with a lei. There’s even a large “sandbox” (actually a sand-covered floor area) to hang out in and dip your toes into while you wait for your room.
Outside, the three cascading infinity pools ensure great ocean views no matter where you plop down, while the lagoon pool at the bottom gives keiki plenty of space to frolic. They pass out complimentary snacks in the afternoons. The relaxed atmosphere extends across the property, which doesn’t feel as busy as some of the other Wailea resorts, even when full. Though still a family friendly place, there are no pirate ship pools or water slides as there are at some other resorts, but they have some programs like art classes and coconut weaving. The resort’s beach, Mokapu, has a nice sandy bottom. Poolside cabanas can be rented per day at their adults-only pool, or you can enjoy the shade in one of the two poolside lounges or under a free poolside umbrella.
Their ‘Awili Spa has an apothecary who can mix a plethora of herbs and minerals to suit your specific tastes. Their sushi restaurant, Morimoto, is a winner. One of the unique features of Andaz is their wide range of activities for adults. You will want to take advantage of them because they are part of the steep mandatory resort fee.
The rooms are comfortable, feeling spacious even in the standard floor plans. The furnishing is modern meets seaside beach house with lots of light tones and wood accents that result in a nautical feel. The modern bathrooms are particularly well done, if a little odd, in that the rainfall shower overlooks the bed (sliding doors can provide privacy if needed). Minibars are restocked daily to your tastes with snacks and non-alcoholic drinks as part of your resort fee, as are pods for your Keurig coffee maker (you have to request the coffee maker but at no extra charge). The ten villas on the property take the experience to another level with elegant furnishings, huge amounts of space, a dining area and full kitchen, Viking BBQs, and private outdoor plunge or whirlpools. The large windows afford great views of the ocean but could leave you feeling a little exposed at night to anyone walking along the Wailea seaside trail that links all the resorts. Motorized shades on all the ocean side windows can be used for enhanced privacy.
The Andaz creates a unique experience, but it’s not cheap. If you are looking to enjoy more of the island on your own, then it will be hard to justify the rates, but if you want to plop down and hang out, this place may be just what you are looking for. Rooms are 300–420 sq. ft., suites are 800–1,500 sq. ft, villas are 1,800–4,070 sq. ft. Packages can usually be found.
3550 Wailea Alanui Dr, Wailea