Message: Need your help to narrow down accomadations.
My husband and I went to Maui May 2000, stayed at the Kaanapali Alii. Very nice had a great time! This March (2002) we are coming back with our boys 8 and 10. We are really torn whether to stay at a condo and save on food, but not much of a pool area for kids. Not concerned about the beach area, all great on west side. We wouldnt mind staying at a hotel as long as it has coffee maker, refer and maybe a microwave. Would like a larger room with deck and view for the whales. Please let me know your opinon of each as far as room size, kid friendly pool areas, on site eateries. We just dont know if worth paying more for pool area for kids or should we stick to the condo's.
We have been quoted the following prices including car for 5 nights all taxes included. (air not included)
Marriott- Special Ocean View = 2185.00
Westin - Terrace view = 1816.00
Sheraton - Ocean view = 1800.00 (includes resort fee)
Alii condo - garden view = 2025.00
Which is the best hotel for the price.
Thank you to anyone that can help!

In March of 2001, we stayed at the Sheraton Maui on Kaanapali Beach. Had a ground floor - ocean front deluxe room. We watched the whales from our lani every day! Beach is great, snorkeling is awesome! Pool area is great for kids, too. Walk to Whaler's Village to shop and eat. Perfect spot for a family vacation!

I agree, Sheraton. We walked by the Hilton and Marriott, and the Sheraton was far superior. The pool area is great, and the beach is the best anywhere. Awesome.

Personally I'd check out Vacation Rentals By Owner (www.vrbo.com) because they have a lot of listings in Kaanapali and I think you'd do a lot better with the prices.

Except with those vacation rentals places there is near ZERO consistency, often spotty service, and much less accountability than with a normal chain hotel.
Think about it.
There's a REASON those places tend to be cheaper, and why the majority of people avoid them.