I, like many other people struggled with the Wailea versus Kaanapali decision, and finally chose to stay in Kaanapali area. Our family of 5 is going to Maui for the first time this February, to celebrate our daughter's 18th B-day, and I want it to be special. Now I read the thread regarding the wedding party, and everyone tells her Wailea beaches are better, and I am wondering if I made the wrong decision. Can anyone tell me anything positive about Kaanapali beach, I am starting to panic.

Molly, they're both great....can't make a mistake! If I were 18, I'd like Kaanapali better because it seemed like more fun stuff for that age group. But drive down to Wailea, too, because of its utterly beautiful beaches.

both areas are great...it's a matter of preference. my family prefers kaanapali because its more active, especially for an 18 yr old. you will have a wonderful time!!

There is another thread here about erosion at Kaanapali. Apparently there is erosion in front of a few of the resorts with a lot of sandbags to try to keep ocean back. Someone just posted an update with photos. Of course by February things could change!

Don't worry. You will in be in Hawaii for god's sake. Kaanapali Beach is great, especially the area down by the Sheraton and the KBH around Black Rock.
You are 15 minutes away from Napili Bay and Kapalua Bay which are wonderful beaches too. This is your first time, you will be back, so scope out other locales while you are there for your next trip.

I would agree with "don't worry" and I empathize with the "I want perfection" approach. Wailea's beaches live up to their hype, for sure, but the crowd is a bit more stately and mature. With decisions like this one, much depends on the desired "feel" and "personality" you wish to create for the event. I've witnessed several weddings on the beach at Wailea and everyone was VERY formal (all Black Tie) and Japanese families outnumbered everyone.

Hi! Thank you all for your responses. I certainly am thankful that we are able to take this trip, and of course, anywhere we stay we will be in Hawaii. I think maybe I have gotten too caught up in the "I want everything to be perfect" syndrome. Maybe reading too many message boards, and overanalyzing everything. I am sure we will have the vacation of our lives. Thanks again for the responses.

I like Wailea the best on Maui but my teens prefer Kaanapali. I think you made the right choice!