Hotel Wailea, Maui

Maui – the home of gorgeous postcard worthy sunsets, pristine beaches and its pride – the native Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle. On the south shore of Maui, lies the planned luxury resort community of Wailea featuring crescent-shaped beaches and first-class golf.

Less than a five-minute drive to the beach, shops and restaurants, Hotel Wailea is situated in the lush tropical hillside away from the hustle of Wailea’s large hotels. It’s a beautiful adult only boutique hotel with 72 ocean facing suites. Seated neatly on 15 acres with tropical fruit and lush trees, the property is split by its waterfall. Its Zen inspiration nods to the Japanese-owned hotel it once was. It’s private, serene and un-crowded even when at full capacity.

Bleached white oak floors, coral and natural Hawaiian wood touches throughout give each beautifully appointed suite a relaxed, yet elegant beach vibe. A deliciously large soaking tub filled with Molton Brown products will add to your delight after a long day in the sun. Rooms are fully equipped with kitchenettes and Nespresso machines; though you may want to just indulge in room service with Mimosas. The room is pure romance.

On the grounds, the friendly and attentive staff greets you at every corner. You will not want for anything here. The pool is peaceful and contemporary with community cabanas facing their ivy covered buildings (cabanas are first come, first served, but can also be reserved in advanced if you have your eye on one). The open air pool bar and restaurant feature healthy local and organic fare, along with the likes of truffle French fries and gourmet burgers, if the mood suits you. Throughout the afternoon, the chef brings out tempting amuse-bouches such as fresh edamame in sesame seed oil and mini crispy chicken spring rolls to whet your appetite. Their principal bartender, James, is truly passionate about his craft, mixing unique house made drinks with local fresh ingredients and the classics like Mai Tais and Pina Coladas. Let him know what you have a taste for by picking from his bowl of fresh fruit and he will work his magic into something you’ve never experienced before. If you can’t decide, ask for something with fresh lilikoi, the Hawaiian word for passion fruit. Trust me. You will not be disappointed. Though, he’ll tell you he’s most proud of his Painkiller, which you don’t typically see, this side of the Pacific. James also offers a complimentary mixology class on Saturdays that shouldn’t be missed and of course you get to enjoy the drinks as you learn.

The latest edition to Hotel Wailea’s culinary offerings, a grand treehouse suspended among the canopies in the property’s mango and avocado orchard provides an intimate private dining experience complete with stunning coastline views.  The treehouse can be reserved for a private chef dinner, with a seasonal menu created around what is readily  available from the island’s own farms and fisherman. Priced at $795 per couple, the private dining consists of  a customizable five-course menu.

This property is truly magical and the service so impeccable, that you won’t want to leave. But, if you do decide to venture out to go to Wailea Beach or out for dinner you can enjoy complimentary amenities such as beach valet services (beachfront lounge chairs, umbrellas and bottled water) and Mercedes limousine service around the Wailea area so everyone in your party can enjoy a few drinks without worry. Other amenities include, complimentary Hawaiian outrigger canoeing every Wednesday morning and yoga classes in their studio with an immaculate view of the ocean. The hardest part of your stay will be leaving to go home.

James’ Mai Tai

Pour ice into your vessel, then add the following in order:

• ½ oz Castillo Silver Rum
• ½ oz Amaretto (or some other nut element)
• Juice of ½ of a fresh lime, 2 parts pineapple juice, 1 part alternate juice, such as Lilikoi
• 1 oz Dark rum (floater)
• ½ Lime from which you squeezed juice and fresh mint (Arrange so mint appears to be a palm tree on a lime island)

Okole Maluna (Bottoms up!)