We are planning our honeymoon for this August and we have the first part of our trip set - Hyatt in Kaui. HOWEVER, it is our 2nd part that has left us confused. We keep going back and forth between the Fairmont or Hyatt in Maui. Money is not a major issue but is a consideration. So for my question... what are the differences between the Ka'anapali and the Wailea area? I am afraid that Ka'anapali will feel like a huge tourist trap and Waliea will feel like we are stuck on a resort. I usually prefer vacations in Europe and hated the one cruise I went on. He thinks I have lost my mind and is threathening to book the two Hyatts by Wednesday! I just want to make sure that we make the best decision and spend our money wisely. We both love the beach and he surfs so pools are not our main concern even though they are nice for a dip in the afternoon!
Thank your very much!

You actually also need help in posting a decent header! Please don't take this the wrong way, but "we need help" says NOTHING to anyone. Next time, please use Kauai, Hyatt or something similar!

Your header is O.K.
Other poster is just mad he could not help

My trip report on Maui from last summer has some detail about what each area is like. It's at http://www.fodors.com/forums/threads...1&tid=34436140

In general, the Kaanapali area felt more crowded, touristy, and Ft Lauderdale like. Wailea was much quieter, the beaches more empty, and generally more tropical feeling. But some people feel "cut off" when they stay in Wailea, they're looking for more action. You have to decide what's right for you. You shouldn't feel "stuck on a resort", there's a million things to do on Maui, not the least of which are Wailea's fantastic beaches and snorkeling! And don't feel like you'll be "stuck down there" in Wailea, most things worth doing on Maui require driving anyway.

Let me know if you have anymore questions.

love
roxy

Also, what happened to Paris and Costa Rica?

love
roxy

My vote goes for the Fairmont. If I have to narrow it down to one reason why I would say the sheer romance of the area. I have never stayed at the Fairmont but the Wailea area is just more romantic, less hectic and more laid back. If you need to, you can always drive up to Lahaina and Kaanapali as it only takes about 45 minutes. The hotels in the Kaanapali area seemed crammed together a bit compared to Wailea. The last time we were at the Maui Hyatt, 2 seperate conventions rolled through, filling up most of the public areas with loud drunken folk all wearing plastic name tags everywhere they went. I'll bet there aren't too many booked for August but I'd check before I booked it.

Honeymoon??? Definitely Wailea!!It is only as quiet as you want it to be. Lots of great and not to crowded beaches, unlike Kaanapali.
A great walk from the Fairmont to Kihei if you want to walk that far! The first almost 2 miles from the Fairmont is either on the beach or the adjoining walkway that passes above lava areas where there is no beach. You can rent boats, golf, tennis, rent a car and drive around the island, both to the north side or south from Kihei to Haleakala, Hana and back...takes HOURS! Good restaurants in Kihei as well and then you can just...HONEYMOON!!!

Great choice for the Hyatt in Kauai (my favorite) We have also stayed at the Hyatt in Maui and while nice we prefered our stay at the Fairmont in Wailea. We were concerened with the "remoteness" of Wailea also, but it wasn't really that remote as you drive anywhere you stay. Yes, Lahaina was a pretty long drive but the walks between properties and options for meals and water fun are unlimited. Kaanapali is definately more touristy in my opinion. We are trying the FS in Wailea in 30 days! Good luck!