Honua Kai is quite new and very big -- 600 units, some 3-BR, in a nine-story 'U' shaped building. The beach in front isn't great, but there are nicer spots nearby. It is set back from the ocean with a pool complex in between. I don't believe it is on the main Kaanapali/Lahaina shuttle route.

I prefer low-rise, low-density areas, so I'm probably not the best person to ask about Kaanapali or the HK. This is the original 'destination resort' part of Maui with mid-range chain anchors like Sheraton and Hyatt.

Wailea in South Maui is also 'resort', but more upscale -- home to Four Seasons, Fairmont, and Grand Wailea. Napili and Kapalua in West Maui are quieter. South Kihei in South Maui is a real beach town. If you plan to tour the island, that is easier from South Maui. Lahaina/Kaanapali have more tall buildings and nightlife.

This site has aerials and reviews of almost every lodging in Hawaii: www.wizardpub.com

Thanksgiving is always busy. Reserve your rental vehicles ASAP.

Honua Kai is good for families. Nice pools for kids. Also nice for families is the Marriott condos --- it's closer to better beaches, restaurants and shops.

Let me put a plug in for Kaanapali Ali'i. It is not a mega-resort condo complex with fantasy pools and the like, but the location is fantastic for families with access to lots of activities and restaurants.

Ditto Kaanapali Ali'i - great location and very upscale condos, plus they're huge, upwards of 2000 sf for a 2-bdr unit. If you want a resort-type pool, though, the villas at the Marriott (next door to KA) would suit you better. Sorry, don't know anything not HK.

Its hard to go wrong with the Houna Kai, so unless you are looking for something in particular or a different price range...its a fine choice

Where is Honua Kai located?

sf,
Its at the very north part of the Kaanapali Area.

Honua Kai has an excellent restaurant called Dukes Beach House.