Kaye

I posted a question yesterday regarding which condo to stay at Aston Kaanapali or Kaanapali Alii...since talking with my husband he would rather stay at a resort. We'll probably only go to Hawaii once, therefore, we want to stay somewhere nice. I'm working with a travel agent and I'm already locked into using Apple Vacations because I've reserved a condo in Maui & Kauai, but I can switch places to stay at without any penalty. Probably would like to stay in Kaanapali area. Any suggestions?

Nova

I suggest that you first decide what part of Maui you want to stay in. If it is Kaanapali, then your choices are: The Sheraton (Hotel), Kaanapali Beach Hotel. The Whaler (condo), The Westin (Hotel), Kaanapali Alii (condo), Marriott (Hotel), and Hyatt (hotel), plus a few others. The Sheraton is probably the best.

You don't mention price range. If price is no object go for the Sheraton. However, the best value is The Whaler. Some of the condos are no different than the resort hotels; they have all the amenities. However, some condos don't have everything.

And be aware that the Aston Kaanapali Shores is not on Kaanapali Beach. It is three miles north on a terrible beach.

If you need more information let me know.

kaye

Thanks for the information. We are travelling with another couple and thought that a condo would be best, but you are right about some of the condos do not have everything. We are looking for a nice pool area, close to shopping and golf. I understand that the Alii is between the Marriott & Westin and that guest have signing privleges, but I'm not sure what that really means. I'll have to call the resort. Maybe we could use their pool area and other amenities. I also know that there is a golf course within walking distance and Whaler's Village close by too. We don't want to be cheap about anything, but somewhat price conscious. We really do want to make the best of it..since we might never get back to the Islands.

jan

Kaye

I personally recommend the Aston Kannapli Shores. It's right on the beach. Not dirty or small to me. Beautiful grounds & property. Stayed there twice. I personally loved having a condo. Grocery store was right across the street. Was able to go there to pick up grocerys. It's not far from the golf courses and shopping. Probably 5 minutes from Whalers Village & Front street. Lots of shopping & stores in that area. (I'm jealous)... Been to Maui twice and LOVE this place. So magical. I also e-mailed you in your previous e-mail asking about the Ali vs. the Shores. I heard the Aston Mahana is nice also. All oceanfront condo's. Hyatt is nice too. But this is a hotel not condo property. Very upscale & expensive. If I went to Maui today, I'd stay at the Kaanapali Shore in a minute.

Nova

If you want to golf and shop and be on a nice long beach the Kaanapalii Alii is a great choice. It is two properties away from Whaler's Village (shopping, restaurants, etc). It is right next to the golf course. And it is right on beautiful Kaanapali Beach. The Aston Kaanapali Shores can't match the Kaanapali Alii in any of these areas. The beach in front of the Kaanapali Shores is practically non-existent.

Check these web sites:

The Kaanapali Alii including an aerial view of the Kaanapali area:
http://www.kaanapaliresortrealty.net/kaanapalibeachresort.htm

An aerial view of the Kaanapali Alii
http://www.wizardpub.com/maui/mrkaanapalialii.html

An aerial view of the Kaanapali Shores:
http://www.wizardpub.com/maui/mrkaanapalishores.html

I repeat that the Kaanapali Shores can't compare to the Kaanapali Alii in any way. The Kaanapali Shores is not in Kaanapali. It is in Honokawai three miles north. The Kaanapalii Alii is right in the middle of Kaanapali Beach. I have stayed at the Kaanapali Shores and while it is a nice property I won't go back because of the poor beach and also it is too far from everything. I now stay at the Whaler on Kaanapali Beach but I would be at the Alii or Sheraton if they weren't so expensive.

The Kaanapalii Alii has a nice pool but it doesn't have a restaurant. "Signing privileges" means that guests at the Alii can charge meals to their room at the Alii when eating at the restaurants at other resorts.

There are many restaurants within a five minute walk at Whaler's Village and at the other resorts along the beach.

If you want any more detailed info I can provide you with an e-mail address

SG

We've stayed at the Aston about 10 times. I like it.

Penny

I have also stayed at the Kaanapali Shores and while the condo was nice, I would not stay there again. If I am staying in Hawaii, ocean front - I want to be able to swim in the ocean. There, you will have to get into your car and drive to a beach. I have also stayed at the Sheraton & being able to swim right there and walk down the beach, just for fun or to dinner at someplace in Whaler's Village is a great part of staying there. If you think this is your only visit, do not stay at the Kaanapali Shores. You will definitely miss part of the experience.