I am planning a trip to Maui with family. Kids are 18 and 21. Any comparisons between West Maui and South shore as far as hotels, condos? Thanks!

Not "activities" and "nightlife"? Based on what I've read on here, and having been to Kaanapali a number of times (but not to the Kihea or Wailea areas in 30 years), I think the kids would be much happier/less bored in Kaanapali. So, West Maui would be my pick.

The Hyatt at Kaanapali is great. It's at the southend of the hotel strip so parents would have some quiet time (hammocks perhaps) while the teens/young adults would be close to the action. If ya all want to be closer to the action choose either Westin or Sheraton. Sheraton has a huge nice beach in front along with some great snorkeling right outside the door. The Westin is at the center of the strip and near Whalers Village. "Dig Me" beach in front is decent. They can easily walk down to snorkel. Pools are nice.

Kihei is for the 21-25 crowds. There are many bars and bands and such. I personally don't think the beaches there are as nice as Kaanapali though, plus I find it windier on that side. Kaanapali may not offer alot of night time activtity but they do have, parasailing, night scuba, snorkeling, nearby zipline, hiking, etc. You can even find coupons online for those things at: http://www.mauileisureguide.com to save a few bucks.

Kaanapali has more going on, more bars, nightlife for your age kids...We prefer Wailea b/c it's definitely more upscale. Our kids are 6 & 9 and we drive over to Kaanapali but wouldn't stay there. We have stayed at the Grand Wailea, the Fairmont Kea Lani & the Four Seasons in Wailea and love them all. Great restaraunts & golf in Wailea also.

South Maui: Wailea (more upscale), and Kihei (typically a less expensive area than Wailea)

West Maui: Kaanapali and Kapalua - Kapalua has some pretty upscale places to stay, and great golf too!... Kaanapali is a bit more low-key.

If you're interested, I've written a profile for the following areas here:

Kaanapali

http://www.paradise-found-in-maui.co...pali-maui.html

Wailea:

http://www.paradise-found-in-maui.com/wailea.html

Kapalua:

http://www.paradise-found-in-maui.com/kapalua-maui.html

I hope this helps! Have a great trip!

They each have their own charm.

I perfer West Maui because of weather (less wind) beautiful beach, excellent dining, close to some good snorkeling and I like Lahaina.

South Maui probably has better entertainment selections, it's is closer and faster to the other parts of the island, i.e. less commuting time and some nice restaurants.

The difference are not major and I am sure you will like either side.

Bill