If daily January temperatures in the 70’s, ample sunshine, and a location in the middle of the Pacific Ocean sound appealing for a winter getaway, then pack your bags (Ghurka, of course) for Wailea-Makena on the Hawaiian island of Maui.
Situated in the southwest corner of the island, Wailea-Makena is home to world-class hotels, golf courses, and ocean activities. One of our favorite places to visit is the Four Seasons in Wailea, which has multiple dining experiences, a pool perched above beach, and a spa worthy of a morning or afternoon out of the sun. Children and teens will especially love the game room featuring foosball, billiards, and ping-pong if they need a break from the beach.
A favorite pastime of vacationers is to take in the fantastic views of the Pacific along the 1.5-mile walkway stretching from the Fairmont Kealaui hotel to the newly constructed Hyatt Andaz overlooking the beautiful Mokapu and Ulua beaches. Joggers, families, and couples saunter along the path, taking in views of neighboring islands Kahoolawe, Molokini, and Lanai, as well as the northwestern Maui mountains.
Anywhere you venture on Maui, the Haleakala volcano looms overhead at 10,023 feet – a natural location for the best sunrise or sunset view on the island (clouds permitting). Explorers will want to head to the east side of the island to complete a rare sea-to-summit ascent along the un-tamed Kaupo trail. Far less physically demanding and mere footsteps from the resort pools are many other activities including paddle-boarding, snorkeling, and of course kicking back with a beach novel.
The Wailea Gold and Emerald golf courses regularly host PGA events and offer views found few places in the world. Neighboring Lanai has its own championship courses designed by Jack Nicklaus and Greg Norman, respectively.
One week in Wailea-Makena will drift by as quickly as a passing afternoon shower, which may entice you to follow the way of many celebrities and executives who have secured permanent getaways on Maui’s beautiful southwest corner. Either way, you’ll leave with a healthy dose of the aloha spirit.