Grand Wailea Maui, A Waldorf Astoria Resort

Character and identity

Set on 40 acres of gardens fronting Wailea Beach on Maui's southwestern coast, this 844-room Waldorf Astoria opens with an open-air atrium of Botero bronzes (the largest collection of the Colombian sculptor's work anywhere) and Pacific views beyond. The resort is built around a nine-pool, six-level aquatic playground connected by a river, with the world's first water elevator returning swimmers to the slide. Seven restaurants and bars include the overwater Humuhumunukunukuapua'a, a new Nobu, and a poolside café. The 50,000-square-foot Kilolani Spa, Hawaii's largest, anchors the wellness offer with 40 treatment rooms and a hydrotherapy circuit.

Who's it for

Bottom line

The pool complex and the cultural and artistic programming, including the Botero collection, art tours, and on-staff Hawaiian Cultural Ambassador, are what set this resort apart from its Wailea neighbours; service inconsistency is the genuine trade-off. Families and groups get the most value here. If budget allows, book the Napua tower for the dedicated lounge, concierge, and a calmer experience away from the main pool crowds.