2026 Readers Choice Awards: Maui
Our take
Maui continues to capture the hearts of travelers with its breathtaking landscapes and luxurious offerings, and the 2026 Readers Choice Awards have highlighted this island's allure. Renowned for its stunning beaches, lush natural wonders, and a vibrant culinary scene, Maui represents more than just a tropical getaway; it embodies an elevated island lifestyle that invites exploration and indulgence. As we delve into the best hotels and resorts on the island, including the Grand Wailea Maui and The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua, it’s essential to consider what these accolades signify for potential visitors and the local community alike. Readers can also find insights on homeownership initiatives in our article, Mortgage program helps local folks become homeowners, which speaks to the growing desire for local stability amid such tourism-driven luxury.
The recognition of luxury resorts like the Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea and Montage Kapalua Bay serves as a testament to the island's commitment to providing exceptional experiences. These establishments not only showcase the beauty and culture of Maui but also emphasize a farm-to-table philosophy that resonates with the island’s ethos. Innovative culinary experiences at these resorts reflect Maui's commitment to sustainability and authenticity, allowing guests to savor locally sourced flavors that tell the story of the land. For those interested in the evolving dining scene, we also recommend reading about the current dining trends in our piece, Forget the white tablecloths and stiff service, which highlights a more relaxed yet gourmet approach to Hawaiian cuisine.
The significance of these awards extends beyond mere accolades; they illuminate the importance of tourism in Maui’s economy and culture. With the island's natural beauty and luxury offerings recognized on a global stage, there is a heightened responsibility to preserve its unique environment and local heritage. This recognition can drive further investment in sustainable tourism practices, ensuring that both visitors and residents can continue to enjoy the island's treasures without compromising its ecological integrity. As travelers seek authentic experiences, this is a pivotal moment for Maui to emphasize its cultural narratives and community connections, reinforcing the idea that luxury and authenticity can coexist harmoniously.
Looking forward, it will be fascinating to observe how Maui balances its luxurious offerings with the need for sustainability and community engagement. As travelers become increasingly conscious of their environmental impact, the demand for authentic, curated experiences will likely shape the future of tourism on the island. Will Maui continue to lead in innovation while preserving its rich culture and natural beauty? This evolving dialogue between luxury, community, and sustainability will undoubtedly influence the next chapter of Maui's story, making it a destination not just for indulgence but also for meaningful connections. As we celebrate the island's achievements, we invite readers to explore its vibrant culture and stunning landscapes, leaving room for discovery and adventure at every turn.
Maui is known for its gorgeous beaches, incredible natural wonders, luxury resorts, innovative farm-to-table restaurants and so much more.
Best Hotels and Resorts on Maui
Photo: Courtesy of Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort.
Best Luxury Resort
- Grand Wailea Maui, A Waldorf Astoria Resort
- The Ritz-Carlton Maui, Kapalua
- Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea
- Montage Kapalua Bay
- The Westin Maui Resort & Spa, Kā‘anapali
- Wailea Beach Resort – Marriott, Maui
- Fairmont Kea Lani
- Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa
- Hotel Wailea, Relais & Châteaux
- Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort
Best Value Hotel or Resort
- The Westin Maui Resort & Spa, Kā‘anapali
- Outrigger Kā‘anapali Beach Resort
- Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows
- Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa
- Maui Beach Hotel
- Napili Kai Beach Resort
- Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa
- Aston Maui Kā’anapali Villas
- Mana Kai Maui Resort
- Castle Kamaole Sands
Best Boutique Hotel
- Napili Kai Beach Resort
- Fairmont Kea Lani
- Hāna-Maui Resort
- Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort
- Hotel Wailea, Relais & Châteaux
- AC Hotel by Marriott Maui Wailea
- Kula Lodge
- Mana Kai Maui Resort
- Pā‘ia Inn
- Lumeria Maui
Best Hotel or Resort for Families
- Outrigger Kāʻanapali Beach Resort
- The Westin Maui Resort & Spa, Kā‘anapali
- Grand Wailea Maui, A Waldorf Astoria Resort
- Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa
- Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows
- Wailea Beach Resort – Marriott, Maui
- Napili Kai Beach Resort
- Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa
- Fairmont Kea Lani
- Aston Kā’anapali Shores
Best Hotel for Romance
- Grand Wailea Maui, A Waldorf Astoria Resort
- The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua
- Wailea Beach Resort – Marriott, Maui
- Hotel Wailea, Relais & Châteaux
- Hāna-Maui Resort
- Fairmont Kea Lani
- Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows
- Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort
- Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa
- Outrigger Kāʻanapali Beach Resort
Best Hotel or Resort Spa
- Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea
- The Westin Maui Resort & Spa, Kā‘anapali
- Montage Kapalua Bay
- The Ritz-Carlton Spa, Kapalua
- Wailea Beach Resort – Marriott, Maui
Best Hotel or Resort Pool
- Grand Wailea Maui, A Waldorf Astoria Resort
- The Westin Maui Resort & Spa, Kā‘anapali
- Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa
- Wailea Beach Resort – Marriott, Maui
- Fairmont Kea Lani
Best Hotel or Resort for a Wedding
- Grand Wailea Maui, A Waldorf Astoria Resort
- The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua
- Wailea Beach Resort – Marriott, Maui
- Fairmont Kea Lani
- Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort
Best Bed & Breakfast or Inn
- Kula Lodge
- Pā‘ia Inn
- Lumeria Maui
- ‘Īao Valley Inn
- Mangolani Inn
Best Food and Drink on Maui
Photo: Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority (HTA)/Tommy Lundberg
Best Restaurant
- Mama’s Fish House
- Monkeypod Kitchen
- Hula Grill
- Merriman’s Kapalua
- Gather on Maui
Best Hotel or Resort Restaurant
- Duke’s Beach House at Honua Kai Resort & Spa
- Humuhumunukunukuāpua‘a at Grand Wailea Maui, A Waldorf Astoria Resort
- Nick’s Fishmarket at the Fairmont Kea Lani
- The Banyan Tree at The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua
- The Restaurant at Hotel Wailea, Relais & Châteaux
Best Farm-To-Table Restaurant
- Mama’s Fish House
- Hali‘imaile General Store
- Merriman’s Kapalua
- The Banyan Tree at The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua
- Lineage
Best Seafood Restaurant
- Mama’s Fish House
- Pā‘ia Fish Market
- Hula Grill
- Nick’s Fishmarket
- Seascape Mā‘alaea Restaurant
Best Plate Lunch
- Aloha Mixed Plate
- Tin Roof Maui
- Da Kitchen
- Kalei’s Lunchbox
- Sam Sato’s
Best Poke
- Tikehau Lounge
- Foodland
- South Maui Fish Co.
- Fish Market Maui
- Tamura’s Market
Best Banana Bread
- Aunty Sandy’s Banana Bread
- Halfway to Hāna
- Leoda’s Kitchen and Pie Shop
- Maui Bread Co.
- Julia’s Best Banana Bread
Best Shave Ice
- Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice
- Halfway to Hāna
- Surfing Monkey Hawaiian Shave Ice
- Tobi’s Shave Ice
- Peace Love Shave Ice
Best Noodle
- Star Noodle
- Tin Roof Maui
- Sam Sato’s
- Ramen Ya
- Da Best Pho & Vietnamese
Best Pizza
- Monkeypod Kitchen
- Pizza Madness Maui
- Flatbread Co.
- Marlow
- Dollie’s Pub & Café
Best Burger
- Hula Grill
- Cool Cat Café
- Teddy’s Bigger Burgers
- Stewz Maui Burgers
- Havens
Best Steak House
- Roy’s Kāʻanapali
- Ruth’s Chris Steak House
- Wolfgang’s Steakhouse Maui (closed)
- DUO Steak and Seafood
- Son’z Steakhouse
Best Food Truck
- Thai Mee Up
- Maui Fresh Streatery
- Kina‘ole Grill Food Truck
- Geste Shrimp Truck
- Dino’s Gourmet On-The-Go
Best Breakfast or Brunch
- Kīhei Caffe
- Duke’s Beach House at Honua Kai Resort & Spa
- Grandma’s Coffee House
- Momona Bakery & Coffee Shop
- Pā‘ia Bay Coffee & Bar
Best Bakery
- Leoda’s Kitchen and Pie Shop
- Maui Bread Co.
- T. Komoda Store & Bakery
- Sugar Beach Bake Shop
- Baked on Maui
Best Coffee Shop
- Maui Coffee Roasters
- Wailuku Coffee Co.
- Pāʻia Bay Coffee & Bar
- Baked on Maui
- The Coffee Store
Best Bar or Lounge
- Tikehau Lounge
- Monkeypod Kitchen
- Maui Brewing Co.
- Hula Grill Barefoot Bar
- South Shore Tiki Lounge
Best Happy Hour
- Tikehau Lounge
- Monkeypod Kitchen
- Maui Brewing Co.
- Roy’s Kā‘anapali
- Sea House Restaurant
Best Cheap Eats
- Cool Cat Café
- Tin Roof
- Kalei’s Lunchbox
- 808 Deli
- Sam Sato’s
Best Outdoor Adventures on Maui
Photo: Aaron K. Yoshino
Best Beach
- Kā‘anapali Beach
- Mākena Beach (aka Big Beach)
- Wailea Beach
- Nāpili Bay
- Kapalua Bay
Best Snorkeling Spot
- Molokini Crater
- Kā‘anapali Beach (Black Rock)
- Kapalua Bay
- Honolua Bay
- Maluaka Bay
Best Surf Spot
- Ho‘okipa Beach
- Kā‘anapali Beach
- Lahaina Breakwall
- Kīhei Cove Park
- Launiupoko Beach Park
Best Hiking Trail
- Haleakalā National Park
- ‘Īao Valley State Park
- Kapalua Coastal Trail
- Pīpīwai Trail
- Waihe‘e Ridge Trail
Best Botanical Garden
- Maui Tropical Plantation
- Maui Nui Botanical Gardens
- Ali‘i Kula Lavender
- Kula Botanical Garden
- Garden of Eden Arboretum
Best Dinner Cruise or Sunset Sail
- Trilogy Excursions
- Pride of Maui
- PacWhale Eco-Adventures
- Ali‘i Nui Sailing Charters
- Hawaiʻi Nautical
Best Extreme Tour
- Blue Hawaiian Helicopters
- Maui Off-Road Adventures
- Kapalua Ziplines
- Skyline Eco-Adventures
- Rappel Maui
Best Zipline
- Maui Zipline Company
- Kapalua Ziplines
- North Shore Zipline
- Skyline Hawai‘i
- Jungle Zipline
Best Farm Tour
- Maui Pineapple Tour
- Maui Tropical Plantation
- Maui Chocolate Tour
- Surfing Goat Dairy
- Waikulu Distillery
Best Guided Tour
- PacWhale Eco-Adventures
- Hāna Tours of Maui
- Valley Isle Excursions Road to Hāna
- Roberts Hawaii Heavenly Hāna Tour
- Kai Kanani Sailing
Best Golf Course
- Kapalua Golf
- Wailea Golf Club
- Kā‘anapali Golf Courses
- The Dunes at Maui Lani
- Maui Nui Golf Club
Best Lūʻau
- Old Lahaina Lū‘au
- Te Au Moana Lū’au at Wailea Beach Resort – Marriott, Maui
- Drums of the Pacific at the Hyatt Regency Maui
- Myths of Maui Lū‘au at The Royal Lahaina Resort & Bungalows
- The Feast at Mōkapu at the Andaz Maui
Museum
- Maui Ocean Center
- Whalers Village Museum
- Hāna Cultural Center & Museum
- Hale Hō‘ike‘ike at the Bailey House
- Hale Pa‘i (aka Lahainaluna Printing Press)
Best Shopping on Maui
Best Shopping Center or Mall
- Whaler’s Village
- The Shops at Wailea
- Queen Ka‘ahamanu Center
- Kalama Village Kīhei
- Pi‘ilani Village Shopping Center
Best Art Gallery
- Maui Hands Art Gallery
- Lahaina Galleries
- Hui No‘eau Visual Arts Center
- Viewpoints Gallery Maui
- Curtis Wilson Cost Gallery
Best Clothing/Boutique or Store
- Mahina
- Keani Hawai‘i
- Driftwood Maui
- Holoholo Surf
- Kai Aloha
Best Store for Souvenirs
- ABC Stores
- Maui Swap Meet
- Hilo Hattie
- Maui Hands Art Gallery
- Beachbumz Tiki and Gift Shop
Best Surf Shop
- Maui Surfboards
- Hi-Tech Surf Sports
- Second Wind Maui
- HIC
- Foam Co.
Best Services on Maui
Best Surf Instruction
- Maui Surfer Girls
- Maui Waveriders
- Royal Hawaiian Surf Academy
- Maui Beach Boys
- Waves Hawaii Surf School
Best Beach Gear or Water Gear Rentals
- Maui Dive Shop
- Snorkel Bob’s
- Boss Frog’s
- The Snorkel Store
- Auntie Snorkel Beach Rentals and Activities
Best Snorkeling/Scuba Rental or Instruction
- Snorkel Bob’s
- Maui Dive Shop
- Boss Frog’s
- Maui Diving & Snorkeling
- Maui Surfer Girls
Best Wedding Venue (Not a Resort)
- The Plantation House, Kapalua
- White Orchid Beach House
- Merriman’s Kapalua
- Olowalu Plantation House
- Gather on Maui
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