At a glance:
Cradled by two golden-sand beaches, the Wailea Beach Resort – Marriott, Maui is perfect for couples planning a destination wedding, tropical honeymoon, or holiday in heavenly Hawai’i.
From the moment you enter the grand lanai — an airy terrace that functions as the lobby — it’s hard to look away from the glimmering Pacific Ocean beyond. And don’t worry, those Insta-perfect views will be a regular feature of your stay at this gorgeous 22-acre property.
From the contemporary and comfortable rooms to the extensive amenities, everything you need for a memorable Maui escape is right here. And the resort’s newest addition, the Sundeck collection of suites, has added another layer of luxury that’s perfect for couples.
The thoughtful design — think low-rise accommodation rather than rooms housed in towers — really won us over. It feels like you’re staying right on the water, making it easy to while away the hours watching waves wash into shore. It’s lovely in the late afternoon, as the ocean swallows the sun from a sky ripe with vibrant reds, oranges, purples, and pinks.
Few things can top an epic sunset to close out each day in Hawai’i.
The location:
Famed for its beaches, Maui is the second-largest Hawaiian island and boasts nearly 200 kilometres of shoreline. Wailea Beach Resort – Marriott, Maui is situated on the southwest coast in the exclusive enclave of Wailea, about 35 minutes from Kahului Airport.
Because Maui is an island made for exploring, adventure is at your fingertips (if you want it). Swimming, snorkelling, turtle tours, paddleboarding, Hawaiian outrigger canoeing, kayaking, national park helicopter tours, and more, await. And for the really adventurous, there’s the option to hike a volcano … and cycle down the other side!
Nearby, the Wailea Golf Club sits at the foot of Mt. Haleakala and offers three award-winning courses with magnificent ocean views. Even if you’ve never even picked up a club, this would be the most beautiful place to learn the sport. For keen golfers, it’s a must-see.
Best room for two:
The Wailea Beach Resort offers 547 oceanfront, residential-style guest rooms, each with a private lanai (patio/terrace) and all the mod-cons including king beds, air conditioning, Nespresso machines, speedy internet, and 55” flatscreen tvs with Netflix.
Honeymooners and couples will love the new Sundeck suites and their extra-large lanais, ideal for enjoying a coffee or morning mimosa. The ground-floor design offers easy access to the pools and beach path for a seamless, private island feel.
Food & drink:
You’ll never go hungry at the Wailea Beach Resort – Marriott, Maui. Start the day at signature restaurant Humble Market Kitchin by Roy Yamaguchi, one of the pioneers of Hawaiian fusion cooking. The superb cuisine draws from the chef’s childhood, showcasing local ingredients and seasoned with flavours from Japan, China, Portugal, and Korea. The ocean outlook (remember I said those views would be a regular indulgence?), breakfast buffet, and excellent dinner menu kept us coming back for more.
KAPA Bar & Grill offers a more casual way to dine in an open-air setting while beach bar/coffee house Whale’s Tale will sort you out with smoothies and sunset cocktails. There’s also a food truck dishing up poke bowls and shaved ice. Love the poolside life? Let the attentive staff grab a set of tropical cocktails you can sip under the sun. Or have drinks delivered to your private cabana. Need caffeine? There’s even a Starbucks on the property!
If you’re honeymooning or celebrating a special occasion, you must indulge in a private dinner. The resort will set up the most incredible (and romantic!) table for two, right at the ocean’s edge, where you’ll enjoy sweeping sunset views. Five spectacular courses are tailored to your preferences and served by your devoted personal attendant. Undoubtedly a highlight of any Hawaiian holiday.
Another tip? Catch the Te Au Moana (the ocean tide) lu’au show. The sumptuous buffet, tropical cocktails, and interactive music and dance performance channels the Aloha spirit in spectacular style.
Pools, play & pampering:
Float your way around the resort’s four sparkling pools and whirlpool spa. Just don’t be surprised if you gravitate towards the infinity-edge Maluhia Pool (Maluhia means ‘peace, stillness’ in Hawaiian). The perfect place to unwind, sip a cocktail, and soak up those Pacific panoramas, this adults-only haven goes the extra mile with floating cabanas that can be booked in advance.
Side note for the young at heart: Wailea Beach Resort – Marriott, Maui also boasts the longest resort slide in Hawai’i as part of their NALU Adventure Pool!
If you’re anything like us, you’ll also find your way to the Mandara Spa for a couples’ massage, served with a side of calming ocean views. I enjoyed one of the best massages ever here — a traditional Hawaiian Lomi Lomi number that was perfect after an overnight flight from Australia.
Continue your wellness pursuits in the 24-hour gym, get into the swing of things at the Wailea Tennis Club, or hit the upscale shopping and dining precinct Shops at Wailea next door. Hoping to pick up a few local skills? The resort offers Hawaiian cultural activities and workshops where you can learn to hula dance, play the ukulele, and make floral leis (or just have fun trying!).
Couples will love:
The Pacific Ocean vistas, top-notch cuisine, and thoughtful design. While the expansive resort is welcoming for everyone, it also has plenty of areas for couples to escape and enjoy quality time together. Thanks to a comprehensive $100-million renovation in 2016, the entire property feels fresh and relaxed, comfortable yet luxurious. A place where contemporary touches blend with Maui’s cultural and island vibe, and spaces flow as naturally as the ocean beyond.
Discover the Wailea Beach Resort – Marriott, Maui here.
Hawai’i Tourism Oceania is the official tourism board responsible for promoting the Hawaiian Islands in Australia and New Zealand. Hawai’i offers six beautiful islands to visit. From north to south: Kaua’i, O’ahu, Moloka’i, Maui, Lãna’i and the Island of Hawai’i/Big Island. No matter which you visit, you’ll be overwhelmed by its beauty, diversity, and the warmth of its people. Visit gohawaii.com/au to plan your dream Hawaii Wedding and/or Honeymoon
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The writer flew with Hawaiian Airlines, the hometown carrier of Hawai’i, for over 93 years. Flying five times a week from Sydney to Honolulu, with 130 connections daily to neighbouring islands, guests can experience the generous hospitality of the Hawaiian Islands with award-winning service, complimentary meals, beers and cocktails. Flights depart Sydney in the evening, arriving mid-morning in Honolulu. The Airbus A330 flying Sydney-Honolulu offers lie-flat Business Class, Main Cabin and Hawaiian Airlines’ popular Extra Comfort seating with more legroom, priority services and additional amenities. Visit hawaiianairlines.com.au to book.
Are you engaged and love to travel? Why not consider a wedding in Hawaii? We’ve got the ultimate guide to a Destination Wedding in Hawaii at our sister site here!
