One of the top powerhouse resorts on Kaanapali Beach, the four-pearl Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa has a seemingly endless list of amenities, restaurants, a massive pool complex, modern rooms, and nightly luaus -- but there are major crowds, extra charges for parking and resort fees, and construction noise. Overall, the Hyatt Regency's massive grounds and friendly-but-impersonal service aren't too different from its Kaanapali competitors, like the Westin Maui. The major difference? While they're all technically located on the same great four-mile stretch of Kaanapali Beach, the Hyatt faces a stretch that's far narrower and not as convenient for swimming.

This low-key, low-rise condo hotel in serene Napili Bay has an authentic Hawaiian vibe that you won't find at Maui's mega-resorts. The pools are small, the gym is small and dank, and some rooms could use renovation, but it's still a gem for travelers intent on quiet, beachside relaxation and an ocean view from every room.

A Marriott Vacation Club property with 442 studio, one-, and two-bedroom villas, Marriott’s Maui Ocean Club - Lahaina & Napili Towers primarily appeals to families with kids. The property’s three massive pool complexes feature kid-friendly amenities, like water slides and climbable pirate ships, and the hotel’s beachfront location means guests have easy access to Maui’s famous Kaanapali Beach. Most villas are equipped with full kitchens and in-unit laundry, and feature separate living and sleeping spaces. The resort has one full service restaurant, a poolside grab-and-go, and a Starbucks, but on-site dining is mediocre at best. It’s worth comparing rates at The Westin Kaanapali Ocean Resort Villas, a similar (though much newer) property with nicer rooms. 

Honua Kai Resort & Spa, made up of individually owned units, combines hotel amenities in an upscale condominium complex. The rooms are huge, with full modern kitchens and private lanais, though not all have the best ocean views, and different owners provide different decor and amenities. The expansive beachfront grounds have multiple connecting pools and hot tubs that can get overrun with kids making the most of the waterslide. Couples can find solace in the adults-only pool, but the laid-back vibe may be lacking. Eco-conscious travelers will likely appreciate the restaurant and cafe's focus on local produce -- even the spa features an organic Hawaiian product line whose ingredients are sourced from the islands. The steep prices and the daily resort fee might trigger a bit of sticker shock, but as family-friendly Maui destinations go, this one is highly recommended. 

The 463-room mid-range Aston Kaanapali Shores, located on the western shore of Maui, is an oceanfront resort offering hotel rooms and apartments of various sizes with full kitchens and furnished lanais. The resort has a laid-back, homey vibe, combining hotel amenities and the benefits of a casual condo community. There’s also a golden sand beach right on the grounds. Rooms and apartments are privately owned and vary in terms of decor and furnishings, but all are pleasant and clean.

Situated right on the popular Kaanaapli beach with views of the landmark Black Rock, the location of the Sheraton Maui can’t be beat. And this upscale mega-resort fully takes advantage of its prime real estate, offering ocean views from a majority of its 508 sleek, contemporary rooms. Spanning 23 acres, the expansive resort features a full array of features, including a lovely spa, modern fitness room, five restaurants, and a large lagoon pool and lazy river. The snorkeling from the end of the beach is some of the best in Maui -- and it’s no secret, as this area is often crowded, especially in peak seasons. Starwood fans may want to compare rates with the Westin Maui, which has an especially impressive pool complex. 

Situated on 26 acres, the expansive Westin Ka’anapali Ocean Resort Villas is an upscale family-friendly resort offering a slew of amenities for all ages. There are three lovely pools, two fitness centers, a beautiful spa, and a daily entertainment program that includes activities ranging from Hawaiian culture classes to craft fairs and koi fish feeding. Food is good and varied, and the hotel’s three restaurants offer Italian, Hawaiian, and American eats, plus outdoor seating surrounded by beautiful tropical gardens. Rooms include spacious studios and suites with one and two bedrooms, all featuring fully equipped kitchens, balconies, and marble bathrooms with separate showers and jetted tubs. The atmosphere is heavily geared toward families; couples or solo travelers looking for a quiet escape may want to consider the sensational, all-inclusive Travaasa Hana or Makena Beach and Golf Resort.

The mid-range Royal Lahaina Resort is a solid bang-for-your-buck pick on Kaanapali Beach. With 350 rooms, two pools, a nightly luau, 11 tennis courts, an open-air restaurant, a tiny spa, and a modern fitness center, this property has many of the same amenities as its pricier neighbors. Plus, it offers free Wi-Fi and doesn’t charge a daily resort fee. The hotel shows some signs of age, but its rooms have been nicely refreshed and feature tasteful Hawaiian inspired decor. Travelers should note that entry-level rooms are located in the not-so-nice Kaanapali Ocean Inn next door. Those looking for something a bit more upscale may prefer the Sheraton Maui Resort, which has better amenities but is pricier. 

The expansive Westin Maui Resort & Spa is an upscale property with direct access to swimmable Kaanapali Beach and popular Whalers' Village. There are a whopping 771 rooms with either simple, Hawaiian-inspired decor or more modern and elegant furnishings in the Beach Tower. Regardless, rooms have flat-screen TVs, desks, and mini-fridges, plus furnished balconies. With the number of guests and size of the resort, lines can be long and service is more efficient than personal. Prices here are lower than neighboring hotels, though, and this Westin offers a slew of above-average amenities like a five-pool aquatic playground, three restaurants, and a full-service spa and gym. Unfortunately, the resort is undergoing renovations to the property through April 2020, with some areas, including parts of the pool, being closed or disturbed. Additional, a daily resort fee (common in Maui) is charged. Couples looking for a quieter, more romantic getaway may prefer the hip Andaz Maui at Wailea.

Direct beach access and guaranteed ocean views are the biggest draws at the Aston Mahana, but the quality of the 215 individually owned condominiums varies widely. Plus, guests get next to no service and few amenities. Trade oceanfront for consistent room quality at the Outrigger Aina Nalu, or go with a fuller package of stuff to do at the Marriott or Westin time-share rentals.