Anybody been to Grand Wailea recently? Just wanted to check to see if it's still a great place or not.

I just returned from a trip to Maui - stayed at the GW. It is an awesome hotel - dramatic architecture. Great pools and waterslides for the kids - even for the adults.

The rooms were nice. My only disappointment - and it is a large one - was with our bed - extremely uncomfortable. The pillows felt like they were made out of rubber. We talked to the manager and they replaced the pillows with feather pillows (much better) and put an egg crate on the mattress. It helped some, but was below standard given the price of the rooms. When you're paying that much, you should have down-filled everything IMO.

I was at the GW for my honeymoon about a year and a half ago. My wife and I loved it. It was worth every penny. The staff was amazing. They practically fell over themseves trying to make our stay perfect. The grounds and pools were spotless. The food at the Italian and seafood restaurants (sorry forgot their names) was not as good as I expected considering the price, but the Japanese restaraut was excellent. It is pricey, but well worth it, especially if you like sushi.
The only down side I saw was that the pool was a bit crowded. I suggest going during an off season (i.e. when the kids are in school) if you can.

Thanks for the reply. What room types did each of you stay in? Did you receive an upgrade by any chance?

Our family (incl. 10 year old girl and 17 year old boy) stayed at the GW in February '02 and we all loved it (and we all have different tastes and preferences!) Heavenly spa, nifty kids pool area, gracious service. Food was a bit weak (eat dinner elsewhere), but breakfasts were great.

the Grand Wailea is the most unbelievable hotel in Maui, in my opinion. We did the spa there as well-amazing experience. plus, if it matters to you, Makena beach (Big Beach) is down the road, and over the rock cliff (a bit of a hike, but well worth it) is Little Beach-the only nude beach outside of Red Sand Beach (which is on the road to Hana, and clearly a LONG LONG drive to get there). Been to Maui 4 times, other islands about a total of 7 or 8 times. Maui is my favorite. If you like shopping and urban stuff though (live in SF, DONT need that on vacation), then Oahu is better. Nightlife seems to be only in Lahaina, but is a true tourist trap (expensive, no parking, crowded). might try Kahului for surfing. (depending on the season you are traveling). I liked Kihei as well. good farmer's market.

the Grand Wailea is the most unbelievable hotel in Maui, in my opinion. We did the spa there as well-amazing experience. plus, if it matters to you, Makena beach (Big Beach) is down the road, and over the rock cliff (a bit of a hike, but well worth it) is Little Beach-the only nude beach outside of Red Sand Beach (which is on the road to Hana, and clearly a LONG drive to get there). On a side note, several celebrities have stayed there recently, if it's good enough for them, i assume it's still a great place

Was there last September w/ my husband. GW is a truly exceptional hotel.
We booked a deluxe ocean room & did not recieve an upgrade- but we also didn't ask for one.
Since I am an avid spa-goer, it was a spectacular experience. You cannot be treated better anywhere else.

Sidenote: Friends just recently went to Maui & stayed at the Four Season & regretted not staying at the Grand Wailea instead.

They were just saying that to be polite jacquee.

GW is for the gold chain wearing, Caesar's Palace loving crowd.

Not only a STUPID remark, "Elvis," but a downright STUPID comparison as well!!

Are the rooms in need of re-furbishing? I heard that they are very tired looking anf the furniture is getting kind of shabby.