| What to expect: Kihei is a bustling, sunny town filled with small shopping malls, restaurants, and beach parks. The 279 units at the red-roofed Maui Vista Resort share open-air hallways and lush gardens that create a casual, family-friendly ambience. Guests check in at a small office near the main entrance before visiting the beach park across the street or the pools on-site. Vacationers return to the hotel for its prime location close to stores and restaurants. Amenity highlights: Three four-story buildings built in 1979 are set amidst extensive gardens, with six tennis courts, three secluded picnic areas with barbecues, and three swimming pools. Conveniences include an activity desk and on-site soft-drink machines. The office offers tennis racket rentals and complimentary newspapers. A beach park, safe for swimming, lies across the street, and stores and restaurants are a 10-minute walk away (0.5 miles). Insider tip: Eight miles south of the hotel is an undeveloped landscape and the golden sand and fishing preserve of Makena Beach. At dawn or at dusk, guests might see spinner dolphins at play. |