The beaches of Wailea in South Maui are framed by the fabulous resorts that have made the area so popular with vacationers.
The Four Seasons is perhaps the most eye-catching of them all, as it looks over the tourist hub that is Wailea beach. Further down the road is the Maui Fairmont Kea Lani, a more private location and plenty of room.
So, which resort is best for you?
When Were The Fairmont Kea Lani And The Maui Four Seasons Opened?
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The Maui Fairmont Kea Lani was first opened in 1991. The Maui Four Seasons opened a year earlier, in 1990. Over the years, both properties have undergone renovations.
Both the Fairmont Kea Lani and the Four Seasons are located in Wailea, in South Maui. Weather in Wailea is sunny and warm, with less rain showers than other parts of Maui. A hub for the rich and famous, Wailea tends to cater to those after a luxury vacation.
What Are The Rooms Like In The Fairmont Kea Lani And The Four Seasons?
Standard rooms at the Fairmont Kea Lani are spacious, with tasteful decoration and ample amenities. Marble bathrooms complete the package, and add a touch of luxury to every room.
Even the simple guest rooms at the Four Seasons are elegant, using earth tones and natural materials to create a welcoming environment. If you’re willing to pay for larger suites, you can turn luxury into lavish.
Can You Rent A Villa At The Maui Fairmont Or The Four Seasons?
A villa at the Maui Fairmont adds privacy and space to a stay. These attractive accommodations are fantastic for large groups, or families who like to take things at their own pace.
Villas aren’t available at the Four Seasons, but the luxury suites are fairly similar. If you’re after ample room and plenty of privacy, you can easily find it here.
Which Property Has The Best Pool, The Maui Fairmont Or Four Seasons?
Lagoon Pools At The Fairmont
Two family-friendly lagoon pools greet guests at the Fairmont Kea Lani.
With plenty of seating, fun activities, and a monitored slide, kids and grown-ups will enjoy swimming here.
Adults Only Pool At The Fairmont
Calm and relaxing, the adults-only pool is a luxury location at the Maui Fairmont.
Popular with couples, it’s a step back from the crowds that are found at the lagoon pool. Spend an evening in the water, and stop for a cocktail at the nearby Ama Bar and Grill.
The Fountain Pool At The Four Seasons
The massive fountain at the center of this saltwater pool is an incredible place that all guests will enjoy.
This domineering feature perfectly frames the spectacular views visible from the pool, making it the best place for a photo opportunity.
The Waterfall Pool At The Four Seasons
Families love the waterfall pool at the Four Seasons, where the sound of running water makes for a surprisingly relaxing backdrop.
It may not have the sheer thrills to be found in pool parks like the Grand Wailea, but your keiki are sure to be kept happy.
The Serenity Pool At The Four Seasons
An adults-only pool with a swim-up bar and hot tubs, the serenity pool is like a slice of heaven. “Serene” really is the best word to describe it.
Which Property Has The Best Restaurants, The Maui Fairmont Or Four Seasons?
Dinner at any one of the Fairmont’s restaurants is sure to be a treat. But for some of Maui’s best food, it has to be Spago at the Four Seasons.
Restaurants At The Maui Fairmont
Dining at the Fairmont Kea Lani offers plenty of variety.
Head to Ko for local specialties and an open air experience.
Nick’s Fishmarket is one of the most romantic spots in Wailea, with a seafood menu that delights. Or try Ama Bar and Grill, for casual food with a poolside setting.
Restaurants At The Maui Four Seasons
There are some lovely restaurants at the Maui Four Seasons, but the one you’ll hear the most about is Wolfgang Puck’s Spago. Serving a fusion of Hawaiian and Californian foods, Spago is one of the premier eating establishments on Maui.
Another high point is the lounge, where you can enjoy fabulous cocktails in an impeccable setting.
What Is The Spa Like At The Fairmont Kea Lani And The Maui Four Seasons?
Both the Fairmont and the Four Seasons offer luxury spa treatments, although the range of available treatments at the Four Seasons is unmatched.
Willow Stream Spa At Fairmont Kea Lani
Enjoy a mixture of modern spa technologies and locally-inspired techniques at the Maui Fairmont Willow Stream Spa.
This award-winning spa offers treatments for the head to the toe, designed to bring energy to your spirit.
The Spa At Maui Four Seasons
The spa at Maui Four Seasons is well respected for its mixture of wellness and rejuvenation services.
Enjoy an open air massage, an innovative facial, or even a haircut.
What Does The Maui Fairmont Kea Lani Do Best?
The standard rooms at the Maui Fairmont are massive, even larger than those at the Four Seasons. Well decorated, with a sleek color palette and plenty of amenities, these are rooms you’ll rarely want to leave.
The Fairmont is positioned over Polo beach, which is quieter than the neighboring Wailea beach. Calm waves and soft sands makes it a great swimming beach, and snorkeling is good here as well.
What Does The Maui Four Seasons Do Best?
The Four Seasons does luxury, and it does it well. The sprawling location has everything you could need, including a barber shop, waterfall, and world-class dining.
A large resort that rarely feels overwhelming, there are corners for couples, and play areas for families.
Which Is Best For You?
The Maui Fairmont Kea Lani is for people who prefer their privacy. A quieter spot, tucked away at Polo Beach, laid-back holidaymakers will find it an ideal destination.
The Four Seasons is elegant, efficient, and opulent. A place to go if you want to see and be seen, but large enough for you to create your own experience.
Other Places To Stay In Maui
We’ve written quite a bit about all of Maui’s available lodging, and continue to do so, but we wanted to share a few more places to stay from our friends at Booking.com.
A Resort Stay: The Four Seasons Resort in Wailea is the cream of the crop of resort stays, with restaurants, ocean views, an on-site spa, and the Shops at Wailea are just down the road. Couples particularly love The Four Seasons!
Bed and Breakfast: Sometimes, it’s all in a name, and Adventure in Paradise is exactly what it sounds like, located in Haiku on Maui’s north shore. Wake up to a 180 degree view of Haleakala summit every morning from your private patio.
Hotel: The highly rated Maui Sunset hotel combines laid-back atmosphere and the beach of Waipuilani Park. Also, it’s only 1.7 miles from the Elleair Maui Gold Club!
Vacation Home: Find your home away from home at Puu Koa Palms, six minutes from Hookipa Beach, and near the Hana Highway. Also particularly great for couples!
Villas: If you’re looking to vacation in style with your own villa try the Andaz Maui, which include all the expected amenities along with grills and plunge pools.