A quick search of Maui accommodation options will yield a dizzying number of results- from condos to timeshares to upscale hotels. Most visitors are drawn to the ultra-touristy environs near Ka’anapali or the luxe resorts in Wailea. These areas orbit around tourism and have been designed and marketed as such. However, the visitor-populous resort towns can feel a little less than laid back- think lines for every restaurant, crowded beaches, fighting for pool chairs- activities that don’t scream relaxing vacation. For a more leisurely pace, set your sights on the peaceful west side beach town of Kahana- namely, the well-appointed digs at the Elikapeka Suite in the Sands of Kahana Resort.
The Elikapeka Suite in the Sands of Kahana Resort is located in the heart of Kahana- an idyllic, laid-back West Maui beach town. Set a few miles from the tourism-saturated Ka’anapali strip, a stay at the Elikapeka Suite allows guests to settle into the local pace without sacrificing resort amenities such as swimming pools, tennis courts, a fitness center, an onsite restaurant, and bar, among other things. Plus, the golden sands that front the resort see a fraction of the crowds than Ka’anapali or Wailea Beach.
While the resort is charming in itself, the lodgings in the Elikapeka Suite are arguably the property’s biggest allure. The three-bedroom, two-bath condo strikes a balance between budget and luxury. Recently renovated, the spacious layout and tropical-boho decor rival some of Maui’s top resorts without the hefty price tag. The spacious unit can sleep up to eight people, and with a sizable full kitchen and dining table, the Elikapeka Suite is an unparalleled choice for families or large groups. Additionally, the homey amenities like HD flatscreen TVs, in-unit washer/dryer, travel crib, Vitamix blender, cookware, and coffee maker make it ever-so-easy to settle into the suite for extended stays.
Beyond the walls of the Elikapeka Suite, nature takes center stage. Ocean vistas abound from the unit’s two lanais, and the bedrooms feature both ocean and mountain views. With the sand at Kahana Beach only steps from the resort, the Elikapeka Suite is duly stocked with beach amenities- beach towels, boogie boards, a large cooler, umbrellas, and beach chairs.
As tempting as it might be to kick your feet up at the resort, in the suite, or on Kahana Beach all day, every day, Kahana’s ideal West Maui location is the perfect jumping-off point for all types of adventures. Just across the street from the resort sit two renowned West Maui establishments- Miso Phat, widely considered to have some of the best sushi on the island (also see Nuka), and Dollie’s, a divey local watering hole, great for watching sports and chowing on pizza.
A short drive up the road to the Napili-Kapalua area will reveal award-winning beaches, golf courses, restaurants, and snorkel spots. The kaleidoscopic waters at the famous Honolua Bay are only a 10-minute drive from the property, meaning you can be watching surfers or gearing up to snorkel mere minutes after leaving the resort. To the south, Ka’anapali Beach and Whaler’s Village (rife with shopping and dining opportunities) are less than 10 minutes away by car. The walkable Front Street in Lahaina, dotted with shops and restaurants on the oceanfront, is only another 10 minutes beyond that. It’s safe to say that by staying at the Elikapeka Suite, all of West Maui is at your fingertips.
The Elikapeka Suite is a privately owned, county-licensed vacation rental operated by Hawaiian Haven.
Sands of Kahana Resort
4299 Lower Honoapiilani Hwy
Lahaina, HI 96761
808-215-9216
Born and raised on Maui, I have a deep love for language and writing. At present, I work as a content writer at Hawaii Web Group, where I have the opportunity to showcase my passion for storytelling. Being a part of Hawaiian culture, storytelling holds a special place, and I am thrilled to be able to share the tales of the amazing people, beautiful locations, and fascinating customs that make Maui such an incredible place to call home.
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