This 15-acre beachfront resort setting was completed in 2013, making the Andaz Wailea’s newest resort. The buildings are modern in both style and décor while still embracing the resort’s beachfront location. Their modern lobby is where every guest is personally greeted with a lei. There’s even a large “sandbox” (actually a sand-covered floor area) to hang out in and dip your toes into while you wait for your room.
Outside, the three cascading infinity pools ensure great ocean views no matter where you plop down, while the lagoon pool at the bottom gives keiki plenty of space to frolic. They pass out complimentary snacks in the afternoons. The relaxed atmosphere extends across the property, which doesn’t feel as busy as some of the other Wailea resorts, even when full. Though still a family friendly place, there are no pirate ship pools or water slides as there are at some other resorts (their giant chessboard lawn game is cool, but not something many kids will call the highlight of their trip). Luckily, the Hub 808 kids’ program is included in the resort fee and has plenty of outdoor activities to keep the young ‘uns occupied. The resort’s beach, Mokapu, has a nice sandy bottom. Poolside cabanas can be rented for $200 per day, which includes pupus and some drinks, or you can enjoy the shade in one of the two poolside lounges or under a free poolside umbrella.
Their ‘Awili Spa has an apothecary who can mix a plethora of herbs and minerals to suit your specific tastes. Their sushi restaurant, Morimoto, is a winner. One of the unique features of Andaz is their wide range of activities for adults. You will want to take advantage of them because they are part of the steep mandatory resort fee.
The rooms are comfortable, feeling spacious even in the standard floor plans. The furnishing is modern meets seaside beach house with lots of light tones and wood accents that result in a nautical feel. The modern bathrooms are particularly well done, if a little odd, in that the rainfall shower overlooks the bed (sliding doors can provide privacy if needed). Minibars are restocked daily to your tastes with snacks and non-alcoholic drinks as part of your resort fee, as are pods for your Keurig coffee maker (you have to request the coffee maker but at no extra charge). The ten villas on the property take the experience to another level with elegant furnishings, huge amounts of space, a dining area and full kitchen, Viking BBQs, and private outdoor plunge or whirlpools. The large windows afford great views of the ocean but could leave you feeling a little exposed at night to anyone walking along the Wailea seaside trail that links all the resorts. Motorized shades on all the ocean side windows can be used for enhanced privacy.
The Andaz creates a unique experience, but it’s not cheap. If you are looking to enjoy more of the island on your own, then it will be hard to justify the rack rates, but if you want to plop down and hang out, this place may be just what you are looking for. Rooms (300–420 sq. ft.) are $419–$1,619. Suites (800–1,500 sq. ft.) are $669–$3,750. Villas (1,800–4,070 sq. ft.) are $3,469–$12,400. Packages can usually be found to bring the cost down a bit.
3550 Wailea Alanui Dr, Wailea