Hi! My husband and I are making our first trip to Hawaii, going to Maui in mid-April. We're willing to splurge a bit on this trip, since we so seldom get to travel. He wants to windsurf and we both want to explore and see beautiful sights. So two questions... what hotel should we stay in, and what airport should we fly into? Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa looks very nice, but i don't know if that's a good location (Lahaina). And should i fly into Kahului? I appreciate any advice you have! thank you!

buy the "Maui Revealed" tour book (aka the blue bible). There are lots of great places to stay and visit on Maui and everyone has their own favorites.

Do you prefer condo or hotel? West shore or south? So many choices!

We stayed at the Hyatt near Lahaina and it's very nice - great location too. We also stayed at the Grand Wailea last time we went - absolute heaven! We stayed at the Ritz one year and it was very rainy on that part of the island and chilly when we were there. A car rental (jeep or convertible is fun) is great for "finding the sun" if you do happen to get rain.

Hi!
First of all you will LOVE Maui, no matter where you stay. It is a beautiful place. I would decide what side of the island you will prefer before choosing a hotel. Wailea is definetely more laid back than the Lahaina/Kanapali area. Most of the luxury resorts that you have probably heard about (Four Seasons, Fairmont Kea Lani) are in Wailea although I hear the Hyatt is very nice. I am with the other poster...before you decide on a hotel, purchase the book "Maui Revealed." You will be using it anyway on your trip, and it will give you some great information about all sides of the island that may help you with your decision. You will soon discover that everyone has their own opinion about what side of the island to stay on. I am more of a "Wailea girl" and if money is no object, I HIGHLY recommend the Four Seasons Wailea. One more thing...keep in mind that no matter what side of the island you stay, you will always have the option of driving to the OTHER side for one day, which is what most people do.For example, we stayed in Wailea, but spend one day around Kanaapali for a sunset cruise (Awesome!)
have fun!

I have only been to Maui once on a family reunion trip. We stayed in Lahaina and I loved it. You can get out and around the island very easily, but you also have lots of shops, restaurants, galleries, etc. walking distance along Front Street in town.

I've been to Maui a number of times. The past 2 times w/my husband we've stayed at the Hyatt & have been very happy. Some people stay away from Lahaina as it is very touristy - but we find we prefer to be nearby, since there are many restaurants in the area & also up & down the beach in Kaanapali. But we always make a point to drive all the way to the other side to what they call "Big Beach/Little Beach"