Set in the heart of one of Maui’s most popular resorts, the Aston at The Whaler on Kaanapali Beach checks all the boxes for that perfect Hawaiian vacation. Just steps from the sand and an assortment of shopping and dining, the property’s spacious accommodations know how to make beach living easy and relaxing.
The condo-hotel features 359 rooms spread throughout two 12-story towers, but thanks to six acres of lush landscaping and a striking koi pond, the resort doesn’t feel crowded. Guests receive a map of the property when checking in, but the resort’s refreshingly simple layout means you won’t need it for long.
Accommodations include studio, one and two-bedroom condominiums that range in size from 600 to almost 2,000 square feet. Furnishings can vary from one unit to the next, but all categories feature fully equipped kitchens and private lanais.
I stayed in a one-bedroom, two-bathroom Ocean View unit on the 6th floor. With an open floor plan, the kitchen, dining room, and living room are all one continuous space that lead to a generous balcony with garden, mountain, and ocean views. Modern furnishings including a sofa, two cushy chairs, and big screen television, made it easy to get comfortable.
In addition to the expected coffee maker, microwave, full-size refrigerator, and dishwasher, a washer and dryer were tucked behind a stretch of kitchen cabinetry. (Complimentary washer and dryers are provided on every floor for guests staying in units that don’t have their own.)
Along with a full bathroom located off of the living area, there was a second, larger bathroom steps away from the king bed. Broken into two spaces, a pocket door separated the spacious vanity with two sinks, from the walk-in shower and toilet, making it easy for two people to use the space at the same time and still have some privacy.
The lanai or balcony can be accessed from both the bedroom and the living area. The large space boasts a lounge chair, small bistro style table, and a dining table large enough to seat four people.
The pool and hot tub overlook the beach, making it easy to soak in the coastal view without ever getting sandy. The Spa at The Whaler offers a variety of treatment options. In addition to a fitness center, complimentary yoga classes are offered three days a week on a stretch of grass in the courtyard that looks out at the beach.
The shops and eateries that make up Whalers Village are located adjacent to the resort, but the resort’s barbecue grills and tables located steps from the beach offer some of the best dining views in the area.
A dedicated concierge team is available to assist guests interested in booking tours and excursions. Water activities like snorkeling cruises, parasailing, and whale watching tours, launch from the beach less than a 5-minute walk away from the resort.
Lahaina, known for its art galleries, shops and restaurants, is about a 10-minute drive. Plan on at least 45 minutes to reach the Kahului Airport.
Rates for a one-bedroom, two-bathroom Ocean View unit start at $399 a night. You can also go to Hotels.com to compare rates. There is also a daily $25 resort fee that covers a list of things including Wi-Fi, pool and beach towels, morning coffee, tropical ice tea and water in the lobby and at the pool, use of the tennis courts and equipment, and a welcome amenity upon arrival including goodies like fresh fruit, cookies, chocolate covered macadamia nuts, and wine. Parking is complimentary.
Review and photos by San Francisco Bay Area travel writer and television correspondent Dana Rebmann. Her stay was organized by the Kaanapali Beach Resort, but as always her thoughts and opinions are her own.
