Going to Maui at Christmas - looking at staying in Kahului or Lahaina. Can anyone give me advice on which side of the island is best? I thought one area was rainer than the other? Also, is a car rental necessary to reach the sites?

Hello Nina

Just got back from Maui. BEAUTIFUL PLACE!! (I'm jealous!)
We stayed in Kaanapali area at the Aston Kaanapali Shores. Nice resort. Near Lahaina. I prefer staying in Kaanapali because you are closer to the activities, shopping and restaurants.
Definetly rent a car. They have a few car rental places right at the airport. I definetly recommend it.
Have fun!
jan

Are you sure you mean Kahului? That is where the airport is and it's really not a great vacation area.

Yes, you definitely need to rent a car on Maui. There is no public transportation to speak of, and if you want to explore the island you will need a car.

Do a search using the word "Maui" and you will find lots of helpful info. I stayed in Wailea and loved that area. It is less crowded than Lahaina.

maui is awesome. i got engaged there. we stayed in wailea. you will need a rental car. the road to hana was fun and the sunsets, surfing, snorkeling, food, and shopping in kehai. the christian rise lassen studio was amazing. we stayed on the west side of the island for three days it only rained once for about a half an hour.

Nina:
Don't know what you are looking for or if you'll cosider other areas. I just got back from the Aston Maui Lu in Kihie. There is a whale sanctuary center right across the street from it.
There were no whales in Oct. but that should change by Dec. according to the staff. They also said Kihie does not get much rain. The Maui Lu seems to be an old property with not many extras but that is why we like it.
You will need a rental car.

Thanks to everyone for the helpful info.