I'll be spending a couple of nights in Maui in August with my wife and pre-teen and have a temporary booking for the Kapalua Bay Hotel, a Sheraton property. Does anyone have an opinion about this resort? Is it a bit formal? I heard the wind and weather can be a negative, even in summer. I'd appreciate any thoughts. Thank you.

It was very windy when I went there for brunch and it was quite a drive (with plenty of traffic) from Lahaina. Yes, it was ritzy. It was too far away from everything for me. I like solitude, but I also like to be 15 minutes away from civilization!

I was there last year. I didn't find it pretentious as all, especially compared to the Ritz or the Wailea resorts. There was, however, A LOT of construction going on throughout the property. It made for a very loud and very dusty trip. The Beach area was beautiful but extremely crowded. It was very windy but this made it more tropical to me. If you are a golfer, this is the place to stay in Maui but overall I prefer the Wailea area. Have a great trip!

A little stuffy and old for my family. My pre-teen and teen really liked the Hyatt in Maui--also the Westin had alot of fun stuff.

Heidi,
What do you mean stuffy and old?
This is supposed to Be Sheraton's Luxury property in Maui. But this is the info I'm looking for. someone said far away also. If you have a car-what makes it so far if you're used to driving? I am concerned about the stuffiness and potential wet, windy weather. What makes Wailea so much better, other than a Four Seasons and drier days???

Kapalua Bay, first off, has only been owned and operated by Sheraton for a few years. It is a rather old hotel, and last I was there, felt worn. (That's why the construction I suppose). It did not feel 'stuffy' at all. Very casual feeling, but nice lobby and public areas. Rooms are somewhat dark and bathrooms felt dated to me. KB is not in the same league as Kea Lani, Ritz, Four Seasons, etc, and is more on the level of a typical nicer Sheraton. What about the newly refurbed Sheraton in Kaanapali (since you need to stick with Sheraton)?

If you are into golfing and old, people who walk around with their noses to the ceiling - than Kapalua Bay is for you. I am sure your preteen- unless/he or she is into golfing and have manners up the ying yang - will be as bored as hell. Suggestion visit there the weather is the same on maui as on Kapalua.

I posted this message.
Seems the resort is old and stuffy and dark and dank.
I am not into old people sitting around or whatever the comment, and I am not stuck with Sheraton. But i do get the point-the place sounds like a downer.
So screw it. I'm cancelling.

Hi CK, if you got a good rate I think it would be worth the stay. I was there for a week in September. The major con while there was the construction going on adjacent to the hotel. It may be through now but I'm not sure. Plusses were a good breakfast buffet, great snorkeling and beautiful views of both Lanai and Kauai? from the hotel. I didn't notice any stuffy older people (I'm in my early 30's). Most people were in the 30-40's age group. The weather was overcast a few days & windy but I liked it. If the construction wasn't going on I think the stay would have bee much more enjoyable, I do think the views there are amazing & among the best on the island. Good luck whatever you choose!

Sorry you got shot down Mark, but I guess that is what this board is for. I'm the one with teens, and the Sheraton in Kaanapali would be a more luxurious, and better located hotel. The snorkeling right in front of this Sheraton is fantastic (Black Rock it is called) and also the Whaler's Village shopping/restaurants will thrill your wife and pre-teen.

Heidi,
You're right-that IS what this board is for and the info is welcome. I'm looking for advice for an august trip so now is indeed the times to debate.
Funny thing is, I switched from Sheraton maui to the Bay since the latter is part of the luxury collection. Guess I'll go back to the original idea. thanks. Mark

Now Mark, who's this JK that you'd place so much weight on his opinion? The Kapalua Bay is not dark and stuffy. Read rants and raves, find other reviews, balance his opinion with others.

It's interesting to see the range of opinions on this board. I have a reservation at Kapalua for this September. I haven't stayed at this property, but I have stayed at the other Luxury Collection properties in Hawaii (Princeville Resort, Orchid at Mauni Lani, Manele Bay Hotel). Please remember that the Luxury Collection and St. Regis hotels are Starwood's upscale hotels. I am a very picky traveler and have NEVER been disappointed with the service and amenities offered by these properties. If anyone can beat the Princeville resort in Hawaii, I'd love to see it!