Despite a pretty miserable customer service experience that nearly ruined our staycation before it even began, we enjoyed the newly renovated grounds and rooms at the Wailea Marriott Resort.
The south has some serious gems when it comes to epic luxury Maui resorts. And when it comes to Maui residents staycationing, there’s a ton to choose from. We usually hit up the Kaanapali Sheraton or try to pull at least a few days in Hana. We used to love doing the Kamaaina deals at the Four Season Lanai, but those days are long gone since its rebuild and price changes.
Nalu Adventure Pool and Big Kid Slides
After having walked past the kids pools, the Nalu Pool, on our way down to attend the Wailea Marriott Luau, Te Au Moana (tickets (808) 670-1061, we felt it a must to stay there. The new kids pool is pretty epic for little ones. A few small water slides, waterfalls, fountains, and rubber dolphin and honu make it a lot of fun for the small keiki. For the bigger kids, the 2 new big slides are unreal. On my third day there, I finally decided to suck down a cocktail and try them both out. I did the open one on the left first. It was fun, but I didn’t understand why I kept hearing grown men screaming down them. Then I went up for the enclosed slide to the right. Ten times faster and really fun! I did it again another dozen times throughout the day. It doesn’t offer quite as much as the Grand Wailea for the little ones, but it’s definitely good enough.
Maluhia Serenity Pool – Adult Infinity Pool
Having one of the cabanas literally hovering over pool is a dream. This has to be one of the best infinity pools in Hawaii. Perfect location for sunset over the water too.
‘Ohi Pools – Family Infinity Pool
The northernmost pools are pretty great. Epic views with infinity pool, only this one allows kids and has 2 jacuzzis. We had a great time at these pools.
Our Rooms
Having experience with our kids and hotel rooms in the past, we decided to opt for 2 adjoined rooms. I had fantasies of romance, cocktails, and violent movies on the big screen while the little ones peacefully dozed next door. Turns out we’re old and hit the hay when they did. If we had actually been able to stay up, it would be the perfect spot for spending a night or 2 in. Ocean views, warm breezes, and a view of the hula dancing and fire knife show at the luau across the pool.
The remodel went really well. These rooms are top-notch.
Customer Service & Dining
Some of the staff were awesome. Friendly, helpful, and genuine. But, with some of the staff there seemed to be confusion with rules, and understaffed areas, and we felt hurried in more than a few situations. The room service food was not up to par, especially considering the prices. I’m sad we didn’t get a chance to try Humble Market Kitchen, which we’ve heard really good things about. We did, however, manage a few poolside meals at Kapa, which were pretty good for pool food.
