For the past year, I’ve made it my mission to embrace new experiences, step out of my comfort zone, and dive into the unknown. My journey reached a pinnacle during a recent visit to Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort, a relaxing haven and a playground for exploration and personal growth.
Each morning at Andaz Maui began with a serene run along the coastal boardwalk. These runs were more than exercise; they gave me time to connect with the natural beauty of Maui and clear my mind. The refreshing start mirrored the resort’s recent design enhancements, where every detail has been curated to elevate the guest experience.
The Allure of Andaz Maui
Nestled on Maui’s premier southwestern coastline, Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort recently celebrated its 10th anniversary with stunning enhancements. The luxurious beachfront property features 290 redesigned guest rooms, including 35 suites, each meticulously crafted. The new furniture, updated lighting, and redesigned living areas create a contemporary yet cozy ambiance that mirrors the island’s natural beauty.
“For more than a decade, Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort has offered a tranquil retreat for guests looking to immerse themselves in the property’s breathtaking surroundings and rich cultural offerings,” said Richard Elliott, general manager of Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort. “These curated room enhancements draw inspiration from the property’s unique location, allowing us to elevate the guest experience further with personalized service and thoughtful touchpoints.”
In addition to the guest rooms and suites, The Villas at Andaz Maui provide an ideal retreat for multigenerational families or large groups traveling together. The ‘Ilikai Villas are a collection of 19 three-bedroom, residential-style accommodations. Designed by WCIT Architecture, each 1,900-square-foot villa is equipped with a gourmet kitchen and private lanai. The ground-level villas include a private plunge pool and expansive lawn space, while the penthouse villa offers 3,750 square feet of indoor/outdoor living space and a glass bottom cantilevered pool.
Enriching experiences
Andaz Maui offers a myriad of opportunities to explore and learn. From ukelele and lei-making lessons to mixology and art classes, my experiences at Andaz Maui confirmed there is always time to learn something new.
One evening, I found myself donning an apron and diving into the art of poke making in the ‘Ilikai Villas penthouse. The chef provided a massive spread of fresh spices and ingredients to blend with the delicate tuna and octopus, introducing a variety of poke recipes and then letting me create an original recipe.
Later, I dove into resin painting at the Welzie Gallery at Andaz Maui. Welzie, the artist in residence at the resort, creates bright and whimsical resin art on surfboard foam. As someone who has never considered themselves artistically inclined, this creative outlet pushed me to step outside my comfort zone. Swirling colors together to create a unique piece—now proudly displayed in my home office—was rewarding. Guests can book a hands-on class with one of the gallery’s talented artists—and bring a piece home as a personalized and custom souvenir.
Lounging by the pool, soaking in the sun’s warmth, and indulging in the exquisite spa treatments were the perfect counterbalance to active pursuits. Andaz Maui’s 15-acre beachfront property includes three cascading outdoor infinity pools with unobstructed ocean views and an adults-only pool near the full-service Awili Spa and Salon. The spa offers customizable treatments, providing a sanctuary for relaxation and rejuvenation.
The culinary scene at Andaz Maui is equally remarkable. With ka’ana meaning “to share” in Hawaiian, Ka’ana Kitchen’s communal concept extends beyond the restaurant’s creations perfect for sharing and embodies the spirit of community and hospitality that defines Hawaiian culture. The restaurant stands as a culinary gem in Wailea, celebrated for its innovative yet authentic approach to Hawaiian cuisine, emphasizing locally and sustainably sourced produce, meats, and fish. Highlights of the dining experience include views of Mokapu Beach, an open-air kitchen design, and one of Wailea’s only Chef’s Table experiences.
Andaz Maui is more than just a luxurious getaway; it’s a celebration of the island’s rich culture, natural beauty, and the spirit of aloha. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a blend of both, the resort offers a unique and authentic Maui experience that will leave you enriched, rejuvenated, and planning your return visit.