My husband has a class in Maui in late February which he can take in either Lahaina or Wailea. While we would prefer a quite secluded location, we are also traveling with 3 teenage daughters who would like to socialize, shop, etc on the trip. Any suggestions on how we can best meet everyones' needs?

This has been debated several times and it really depends on what you want. However, I would not stay in Lahaina. This is a harbor town with no great beach area. There is no choice in my opinion between Lahaina and Wailea. It is Wailea (even if it is a slower paced for your teenaged daughters). There are great beaches and pools (with the exception of the Renaissance has real small pool). There is a small shopping mall between the Outrigger and Grand Wailea.

The debate should be between Kaanapali and Wailea. I prefer Kaanapali but there are just as many who prefer Wailea. Your teanagers would like Kaanapali better. It is a toss up for you

My vote is cast for Wailea!!!

I just returned from Maui on a business trip. Wailea is upscale, quite, with very nice resorts, golf courses etc..
Lahina and Kaanapali are much busier with lots of action, people, places to shop, eat etc..
If I were a teenager I would vote for Lahina or Kaanapali.
As an adult who is looking for great surrondings and relaxation in a great setting, I would vote for Wailea
Good luck!!

I just returned from Maui with my family. Lahaina seemed to have a few too many weird "character"/dope-addict looking types for my tastes. I wondered what their jobs were because they were wandering around doing nothing in the middle of the day and were obviously not tourists. In spite of the "charm" of some of its older buildings, it also seemed like an extreme t-shirt hawking tourist trap. I would stay away from there and go to either lower kihei or Wailea

I agree that the choice is between Kaanapali and Wailea. We've stayed in both. As an adult, I like Wailea. We've stayed at the Grand Wailea and loved it. Lots of "excitement" like tons of pools, jacuzzi's, swim up bar, spa, great workout room, etc. Area has a great upscale mall, and there are many, many restaurants in Wailea and close by in Keihei, which is 10 minutes away.
I think that if I were a teenager, I'd like Kaanapali better. More laid back, with a great beach, and great shopping too. Lahaina would be a sure stop in the evening, although I don't know how safe it would be for teens alone. Lots of little shops, restaurants, etc. Maui closes up shop early, no matter where you are. The lobby bar in the Grand Wailea shut down at 10pm or 11pm, while I saw a restaurant with a "we stay open late (9pm)" sign. Many restaurants, both in Kaanapali and Wailea close by 10pm. When the Westin had a sushi bar, it closed at 9pm. Not sure how late Lahaina is open. I would not "stay" in Lahaina though.
Frank