Went back and saw your post, sorry

Another vote for Hale Pau Hana but you'd have to see if they'd fit your whole family. I prefer the Wailea/Kihei part of Maui as opposed to Kaanapali. Not a fan of the all the highrises in Kaanapali so I'm joining the rest of the group about that. But with kids your age, they might feel there is more to do in the Lahaina/Kaanapali area.

There are several condos in Napili Bay which is slightly further north from Ka'anapali. It's easy to drive to Lahaina although not always easy to park.

I sooo appreciate all the suggestions, I am not sure Hawaii will work out this time, seems like California coast is as close as we can get this year. But I am holding on to all these suggestions for a possible me and hubby only trip in the fall for our anniversary.
Thank you thank you all!!!

>

Then you might want to rethink Maui as the destination for your anniversary trip. Because there are parts of Maui where you might wonder if you're not in California.

"Because there are parts of Maui where you might wonder if you're not in California."

Could you explain that please?

People say that a lot of Maui reminds them of the beaches in So. Cal. From someone who lives in So. Cal, I guess there is a little truth to that. But I love Maui and it's a whole different feeling than being in California.

As a native Californian and frequent visitor to Maui, I say the only part of Maui that reminds me of California is the inside of the Costco .

Try the Maui Sunset, right on Napili Beach, a very swimmable beach and nice snorkling too. They have several 2 bdrm condos, although most are 1 bdrms. These are not luxury condos, but you have the wonderful location. It is directly on Napili Beach and walking distance to the Kapalua Beach. It is a short drive to Kannapali where your teens will enjoy hanging out.

I have stayed at Hale Pau Hana, in a one bedroom, many years ago, but did not like the Kihei area so much. I have also stayed at the Grand Wailea, but mixed it up a bit - a few nights at the Grand Wailea with all the glitzy pools, slides, etc. and then moved on to the Maui Sunset condo for a simpler, more laid back time with great beach access.

"As a native Californian and frequent visitor to Maui, I say the only part of Maui that reminds me of California is the inside of the Costco."

LOL logandog! Ditto!

I agree about the Costco thing. haha I was just quoting what I've heard from people but I don't think it's true.

ellenbw- Thats a wonderful idea! I dont know it I never thought of splitting the trip to get the best of both worlds...

I will check out the Maui Sunset..

Maui Sunset is at the north end of Kihei, not Napili. Not a swimming beach -- sea-weedy. Also many full time residents coming and going for work and partying on weekends.

I think ellenbw meant Napili Sunset. It's right on Napili beach and next to Napili Surf where we usually stay. It is truly a wonderful location.

Ok big difference Thank you!!

I just love wailea area so will probably see about the condos there. Anybody stay at the Marriot Beach in Wailea?

I've stayed at the Marriott Beach in Wailea about 5 times. I was there for a tradeshow at the Grand Wailea each year but could get a better view room for less price than the Grand. Was usually done with the show each day around 1pm so had lots of free time. I always enjoyed the resort. Nice to walk along the path in front of the hotels in that area. Just a walk through the parking lot to the Wailea Shopping Center so would go over there for meals or to browse. Short drive into Kihei for dinners and also close to Makena Beach which is a favorite. I did eat a few times at the Marriott, food wasn't bad but of course any resort is pricey. Biggest downside of the Marriott is no beach out front, like at the Wailea but I'm not a big one for laying out at the beach and the pools are nice at the Marriott.

Besides the fact that I'm not a fan of the highrises in Kaanapali, I like the Wailea/Kihei area because it's a much shorter drive to see many of the sights. I usually did drive up to Lahaina at least once, needed my food fix at Star Noodle! Restaurant choices are a little more limited in Wailea but I always found my favorite places.

Thank you for all the details Paula, it really helps! The no beach is a drag but to save a lot of money I think itmight be worth it.
We will have a car so can drive out of Wailea for restaurants. Feel free to post your favorites

Two beaches are within a couple minute walk from the Marriott via the lovely beachfront walkway. Ulua in one direction and Wailea in the other. Both are nice, plus the Marriott has chairs and Cabanas set up along the coastline for your lounging pleasure. It is a great location.

Favorite eats on this last trip were Migrant at the Marriott, Monkeypod Kitchen, Sansei, Kimo's in Lahaina, and Da Kitchen in Kahului. We also liked Humuhumu at the Grand Wailea. Lunch at Mama's was over the top!

wekewooy= Thank you so much!! The last time we were there, my youngest was 4 now she's 16 so this will be a whole new experience for all of us!!