The Hana-Maui Resort in Hawaii is pure paradise, with its endless stretch of coastlines, dense tropical forests, hidden valleys, and rugged cliffs. The Hawaiian Island of Maui also offers some of the most breathtaking landscapes on the planet. So yes, there’s that, along with this possibly being the only all-inclusive hotel in Hawaii.
Travelers who visit Hana look forward to discovering the untouched beauty of this part of the island while indulging in luxury at the exquisite of what was previously the Travaasa Hana Resort.
Rebranded as a Destination By Hyatt property (a group of their higher-end luxury hotels), you can use Hyatt member points to stay here at a discount. Basically, a king-bed Garden View Suite that’s around 697-835 square feet is 30,000 points a night, or $629 per night.
Whether it’s lounging on pristine white beaches, exploring ancient Hawaiian culture, or uncovering the area’s local delicacies, a visit to Hana-Maui is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
Is the Hana-Maui Resort an All-inclusive Hotel?
Hana-Maui Resort is the one true all-inclusive resort in Hawaii, with 3 meals a day, transportation, and daily resort credits included as part of the package. Along with being kid-friendly, this makes this luxury Hawaiian resort unique and a great vacation spot for families and wedding parties.
You might have discovered Hawaii is not big on all-exclusive hotels and resorts, with the Hana-Maui Resort being the only one that can claim that. But it’s all for a very good reason.
Due to the proximity of Hawaiian resorts to each other, all-inclusive stays are not a feature of this tropical paradise. Unlike Mexico, the Caribbean, and Costa Rica, whose resorts tend to be more secluded and often guarded by security checkpoints, Hawaiian resorts offer a much more open atmosphere to their visitors. In other words, When it comes to hospitality, Hawaii operates as one big happy family.
If you’re looking for something a little more exclusive and just for adults, then Sandals Montego Bay in Jamaica is another exotic, couples-only resort.
This also encourages visitors to spread the wealth around and explore the islands in a non-committal way. You can indulge in local cuisine at different hotel restaurants while enjoying endless access to miles of beaches. This emphasizes “endless paradise.”
Getting to the Hana-Maui Resort
The journey to Hana-Maui is an adventure in itself. You have two options for reaching this paradise – either by driving along the famous Hana Highway or taking a short plane ride from Maui’s main airport to the Hana Airport.
Option 1: Drive along the Hana Highway
This 64-mile stretch between Kahului Airport and the town of Hana boasts unyielding twists and turns and is considered one of the best drives in the world. This iconic route will take you through Paia Town and down Route 360 towards Hana Town. This features awe-inspiring ocean views, waterfalls, bamboo forests, and single-lane bridges. Be prepared for a dizzying drive but an experience that is well worth it.
Should you decide to drive, there’s a myth that the road around the back of the island is reserved exclusively for 4WD vehicles, so don’t be fooled by what you may hear from the rental car folks.
It may be a bit bumpy and consist of a few miles of dirt road, yet unless there’s a deluge of rain, you can certainly pass with your regular vehicle.
Venture around the entire circumference of the island for a unique visual adventure – from lush, verdant tropical rainforests to experiencing the windswept arid lava fields, you’ll want to make this drive a slow crawl.
Option 2: Fly to Hana Airport
For those who prefer a quicker mode of travel, opt for a short plane ride from Maui’s main airport to Hana Airport, which is only a 12-minute drive away from the resort, after a 20-minute flight.
The flight to the Hana-Maui resort is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, offering breathtaking views of the island’s natural beauty. As you soar over the turquoise waters, you can catch glimpses of marine life swimming beneath the surface, including dolphins and sea turtles.
The aerial view also provides an excellent opportunity to appreciate the scale of the island and its diverse landscape. From the soaring peaks of the West Maui Mountains to the rugged coastline of the eastern shore, the sights are truly unforgettable.
Whichever route you choose, make a note of your favorite way to get there as this is also one of our top winter beach escapes, a great way to escape the cold!
About The Hana-Maui Resort – Your luxury boutique Hotel and Resort in Maui, Hawaii
The 74-year-old property, previously known as Travaasa Hana, was acquired by Mani Brothers Real Estate Group in December 2019 and has since partnered with Hyatt’s Destination Hotels brand. This exquisite hideaway offers a unique blend of lush natural surroundings and top-notch amenities, making it the perfect beach paradise for your next getaway.
You’ll experience total indulgence at this luxurious retreat situated on 66 acres of unspoiled countryside. Every one of the 75 rooms, suites, and family residences comes complete with a private lanai (an open wall to the elements), where you can take in the soothing island breeze or marvel at a magnificent sunset.
There are also ocean-front single-story bungalows dotting the lush grounds, so you can be even more secluded as you escape the worries of the day. Bungalows are popular with habitual travelers and the Hana-Maui Resort doesn’t disappoint with its generously spaced-out private bungalows.
Things to do while Vacationing at the Hana-Maui Resort
Cuisine: The resort features a spa, fitness center, and pool, while the all-inclusive package at Hana-Maui Resort lets you spoil yourself morning noon, and night with delectable cuisine made from locally sourced ingredients.
Review the dining options available at the resort, including any specialty restaurants or themed dinner nights. You may need to make reservations for certain dining experiences, so be sure to plan accordingly.
Wai’anapanapa State Park: A must-see attraction in Hana, Wai’anapanapa State Park offers visitors the opportunity to experience black sand beaches, freshwater caves, and ancient Hawaiian sites.
You can spend a few hours exploring and picnicking, or plan ahead to camp overnight in one of the park’s 12 cabins. Amenities include BBQ areas, shower facilities, and public restrooms.
Garden of Eden Arboretum & Botanical Garden: This lush garden offers a tranquil setting to explore the diverse plant life native to Hawaii. It’s an ideal place to visit with kids and offers a delightful break from the beach.
Authentic Local Experiences: Hana-Maui allows visitors to experience an authentic side of Hawaii away from the tourist-heavy areas. For example, Ono Organic Farms offers tours where you can taste exotic fruits, visit an organic orchard, and meet the local workers.
Family-Friendly Activities: Hana-Maui has plenty of activities that cater to families with kids, such as Hoaloha Jeep Adventures and Maui Off-Road Adventures. These guided tours take you on exciting excursions through the area’s stunning landscapes and provide a fun and engaging experience for all ages.
Horseback Riding: A Unique Adventure in Hana-Maui, Hawaii
One of the best ways to experience the breathtaking beauty of Hana-Maui is by horseback riding. In fact, horseback riding is therapeutic and even integrated as part of many wellness resorts.
Hana-Maui Resort offers a unique opportunity for both experienced equestrians and beginners to explore the wild east coast of Maui on horseback. We will guide you through the steps to prepare for and enjoy an unforgettable horseback riding adventure along the coastline and through the lush tropical rainforest of Hana-Maui.
1. Choose your level of experience:
Hana-Maui Resort caters to riders of all skill levels. Whether you are an experienced equestrian or a beginner, there is a suitable horse and tour for you. Make sure to inform the staff at Hana-Maui Resort about your riding experience so that they can match you with the perfect horse and guide for your adventure.
2. Dress appropriately:
When preparing for your horseback riding adventure, it is essential to dress comfortably and safely. Wear long pants to protect your legs from chafing and closed-toe shoes with a small heel to prevent your feet from slipping out of the stirrups. Hats, sunglasses, and sunscreen are also recommended to protect yourself from the sun. Remember, you’re not John Wayne. We touched on this on our top luxury dude ranches.
3. Attend a safety briefing:
Before embarking on your horseback riding journey, you will be given a safety briefing by the experienced staff at Hana-Maui Resort. They will teach you about the basic riding commands, how to control your horse, and the safety rules you must adhere to during your ride.
4. Get acquainted with your horse:
Take some time to get to know your horse before starting your adventure. Approach your horse calmly and confidently, allowing it to sniff your hand before petting its neck gently. This helps establish trust and reassures the horse that you are its friend.
The Beaches at Hana-Maui Resort
While the resort itself does not have direct beach access, it is surrounded by stunning beaches that are just a short drive or walk away.
Hamoa Beach: Located just a few minutes from the resort, Hamoa Beach is one of the most beautiful and popular beaches in the area. This crescent-shaped beach features powdery white sand, clear blue waters, and lush tropical vegetation.
It is perfect for swimming, snorkeling, and sunbathing. The resort provides a shuttle service to Hamoa Beach for its guests, making it convenient and easy to access.
Koki Beach: Another nearby beach worth visiting is Koki Beach, which is known for its unique red sand and strong surf. This beach is ideal for experienced surfers and bodyboarders, as the waves can be quite powerful. Keep in mind that swimming is not recommended for inexperienced swimmers due to the strong currents.
Wai’anapanapa State Park & Black Sand Beach: A short drive from the resort will take you to Wai’anapanapa State Park, home to Maui’s famous Black Sand Beach. The striking black sand contrasts beautifully with the turquoise ocean, making it a must-visit destination. In addition to swimming and sunbathing, you can also explore the park’s hiking trails, freshwater caves, and ancient Hawaiian burial sites.
Kaihalulu Bay: The resort itself overlooks the breathtaking Kaihalulu Bay, which offers stunning views of the rugged coastline and the Pacific Ocean. Although there is no direct beach access, the bay’s beauty can be enjoyed from the resort’s grounds and accommodations.
Tips for Enjoying the Beaches Near Hana-Maui Resort
– Bring reef-safe sunscreen to protect your skin and marine life.
– Be mindful of weather conditions, as the East Maui coast can be windier and rainier than other parts of the island.
– Respect the local Hawaiian culture and natural environment by leaving no trace and not disturbing any historical or cultural sites.
– Take advantage of the resort’s activities, such as horseback riding, biking, stand-up paddleboarding, and hiking, to fully immerse yourself in the beauty of Hana’s coastal landscape.
Waterfalls and Natural Wonders
Hana-Maui, Hawaii, offers an unparalleled experience for nature enthusiasts who want to explore its breathtaking waterfalls and natural wonders. Check out these must-see locations and activities that will make your visit to Hana unforgettable.
One of the top attractions in Hana is Wailua Falls, a magnificent 80-foot waterfall that cascades into a beautiful pool below. Visitors can enjoy a short hike to reach the falls and take in the stunning views from the lookout point.
Another popular spot is the Seven Sacred Pools, a series of natural pools connected by waterfalls that are perfect for swimming and picnicking. For those seeking a more adventurous experience, Hana offers plenty of opportunities for hiking, kayaking, and snorkeling.
The Bamboo Forest is a unique hiking trail that takes you through a dense bamboo forest, while the pristine beaches of Hana Bay are ideal for kayaking and paddleboarding. Snorkelers can explore the colorful coral reefs and abundant marine life at Hamoa Beach or Red Sand Beach.
No trip to Hana would be complete without a visit to the Haleakala National Park, home to the dormant Haleakala volcano and a diverse range of flora and fauna. Visitors can hike the scenic trails, go stargazing at the summit, or simply marvel at the breathtaking sunrise or sunset views.
Hana-Maui Resort Kids Club: Creating Unforgettable Memories for Your Little Ones
Traveling with children can be both rewarding and challenging, but the Hana-Maui Resort offers an exceptional kids club to make your family vacation a breeze.
With a range of engaging activities that cater to the unique interests and needs of your little ones, the Kids Club at Hana-Maui Resort ensures an unforgettable experience for the entire family.
With age-appropriate activities curated by experienced staff, you’ll find activities rich in Hawaiian heritage. From lei-making to hula dancing, the resort’s remote, natural setting also offers a unique playground for children to explore the rainforest-like landscape, craggy coastal cliffs, and waterfalls surrounding the property.
Under the supervision of the staff, your little ones can participate in nature walks, scavenger hunts, and other outdoor adventures that will ignite their curiosity and appreciation for the environment.
In addition to cultural and outdoor activities, the Hana-Maui Resort Kids Club offers workshops that promote creativity and personal growth. Your children can try their hand at arts and crafts, yoga, meditation, or even cooking classes, allowing them to learn new skills while having fun.
Conclusion
Hana-Maui Resort is a stunning all-inclusive resort that provides guests with an unforgettable experience on the wild east coast of Maui. With its breathtaking location, world-class amenities, and exceptional service, this luxurious retreat promises a vacation like no other.
With peaceful ocean-view suites and activities capitalizing on this lush tropical island, you can customize your adventure to be non-stop or full-stop. Whether you’re a nature lover or an adventure seeker, Hana-Maui Resort has something for everyone. Pack your bags, grab your camera, and get ready for an unforgettable journey through one of Hawaii’s most beautiful and enchanting destinations.
