Maui’s Hana Highway is one of the most beautiful stretches of road in the country. It ends in the city of Hana, on the much less populated eastern shore of Maui, Hawaii. The Travaasa Hana, formerly known as the Hotel Hana-Maui, offers a secluded getaway from the more touristy areas like Lahaina. Travaasa Hana, originally opened in 1946, blends nicely with its Hawaiian surroundings while still maintaining a modern feel. For those who like pedigrees and distinguished hotel titles, Travaasa Hana is a Preferred Boutique member, as well as a AAA Four Diamond-awarded hotel. Personally, I like the fact that hotel employees have stayed committed to this property through thick and thin – this resort embraces the meaning of ‘ohana – the Hawaiian word for family.
Infinity pool at Travaasa Hana Maui in Hawaii.
Something for everyone
Travaasa Hana is divided into two sections. One section, the Garden Suites, is family friendly. It features a pool, spa, activities center, and dining options for the whole family. On the other side of the resort, the Sea Ranch Cottages are adult-only, and require a key card for access. The Sea Ranch side features an infinity pool, perfect for a little relaxation.
Keeping busy
While Hana lacks some of the more touristy activities, guests will find plenty to do both in town and at Travaasa Hana. The resort has a variety of culinary, culture, fitness, and wellness options. For guests who opt for an all-inclusive experience, Travaasa offers spa treatments, yoga, Pilates, bike riding, lei making, hula lessons, horseback riding, and a shuttle to local beaches for kayaking and snorkeling.
Travaasa Hana Maui Sea Ranch Cottage
The rooms
Travaasa Hana features 70 cottages and suites, comprised of 47 Sea Ranch Cottages and 23 bungalow Garden View Suites. All guestrooms have organic linens and showcase Hawaiian art. All the cottages have private lanais, some even with private hot tubs.
Dining options
Don’t worry about going hungry during your stay at Travaasa Hana. If you opt for the Total Travaasa Package, everything from spa treatments to meals is included in the cost. If you prefer to opt out of the package, there are still plenty of dining options.
The Ka’uiki dining room offers ocean-to-table choices, with most of the produce, fish, and beef coming from Hana and the rest of Maui. Executive Chef Barry Villimarimo is a Hana native, as is evident by his use of local flavors and ingredients. Ka’uiki is a little pricey, but offers a unique look into authentic Hawaiian cuisine.
Sea Ranch Cottage living room at Travaasa Hana Maui
For a cheaper option, Hana Ranch Restaurant is right across the street from the hotel. Go on the right night and you might even get to enjoy some local live music.
R&R
A trip to Maui wouldn’t be complete without a little relaxation. Travaasa Hana has you covered there, too. The Spa at Travaasa Hana, overlooking Hana Bay, has nine treatment rooms in its indoor/outdoor facility. The outdoor lava rock whirlpool, indoor and outdoor relaxation areas, private garden, steam room, and cold plunge pool combine to create a tranquil atmosphere that will make it difficult to leave.
Getting there
If traversing the windy Hana Highway doesn’t sound fun, don’t worry. Mokulele Airlines offers twice-daily flights from Kahului Airport to Hana, Maui, starting at just $59. The plane ride offers a spectacular view of the island from the air, and takes only 20 minutes. Check airline website for current pricing.
Check prices at Travaasa Hana (855) 868-7282.
Hotel review and photos by San Francisco-based travel, food, and wine writer Nancy D. Brown. I was a guest of Travaasa Hana and Maui Visitors Bureau.
