Grand Wailea Waldorf Astoria Resort
A sprawling 40-acre luxury resort in Wailea, Maui, boasting 9 pools, a world-class spa, and direct beach access.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds for chairs
Grand Wailea Waldorf Astoria Resort
Best Time
Beat the crowds for chairs
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sprawling 40-acre luxury resort in Wailea, Maui, boasting 9 pools, a world-class spa, and direct beach access.
"The pools are countless and super fun, and the ocean view rooms are so worth it."
🎯 Early Bird Gets the Chair
Claim your pool or beach chair before 7 AM, or consider the Napua Lounge for guaranteed spots.
💧 Bring a Refillable Bottle
Stay hydrated by utilizing the resort's water refill stations.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Pools
Resort-wide
Nine pools, including a lazy river, slides, and waterfalls, offer endless aquatic fun for all ages.
Ho'olei Villas
Separate villa complex
Luxurious villa accommodations offering a more private and spacious experience, perfect for families.
Award-Winning Spa
Spa Grande
Indulge in ultimate relaxation with a wide range of treatments at this renowned spa facility.
Wailea Beachfront
Direct beach access
Enjoy stunning ocean views and direct access to the beautiful Wailea Beach for sunbathing and water activities.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Secure Your Spot: Pool & Beach Chair Strategy
Navigating Dining & Costs
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Early Bird Gets the Chair
Claim your pool or beach chair before 7 AM, or consider the Napua Lounge for guaranteed spots.
💧 Bring a Refillable Bottle
Stay hydrated by utilizing the resort's water refill stations.
💰 Explore Nearby Dining
Save money by dining at walkable restaurants and ABC stores near the resort.
💳 Utilize Hilton Honors
Consider using Hilton Honors points or credit card rewards for potential savings.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Early Bird Gets the Chair
Claim your pool or beach chair before 7 AM, or consider the Napua Lounge for guaranteed spots.
💧 Bring a Refillable Bottle
Stay hydrated by utilizing the resort's water refill stations.
💰 Explore Nearby Dining
Save money by dining at walkable restaurants and ABC stores near the resort.
💳 Utilize Hilton Honors
Consider using Hilton Honors points or credit card rewards for potential savings.
🚗 Valet Parking Wait
Be prepared for potential wait times for valet parking.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
The Grand Wailea offers a visually stunning resort with impressive pools and beautiful grounds, making it a popular choice for families and special occasions. However, some guests have reported issues with cleanliness, service inconsistencies, and high costs, particularly concerning dining and securing prime seating at the pools and beach.
"Came here for our honeymoon. 1st attempt at a room in the chapel wing was filled with spiderwebs, pubic hair, and a dirty room. It was pretty nasty. We were moved to a deluxe room which was cleaner and much more enjoyable. We were happy with the room for the 7 day stay. We spent quite a bit of time at the resort. Breakfast buffet is delicious. The fitness center is fantastic. The pools get a bit dirty throughout the day. The swimup bar was alot of fun! The hotel offers complimentary classes, but makes it difficult to edit if changes are needed. Based on the website prior to arrival, we thought we had to pay for chairs at the pool and beach. Wasnt the case. We did rent a clamshell at the pool and it was enjoyable. The wristband in the pool area is a bit much.. could gate off entry and make the entry for room keys. The grounds landscaping is beautiful. They do a great job maintaining the landscape. We walked down to the Marriott next door, and that hotel is better in every way possible. Updated, more welcoming lobby area, cleaner, and more enjoyable. The hotel is in a good location and has plenty of walkable stores and restaurants nearby. Considering the options around the Grand Wailea, I would stay else where... Four seasons, Marriott."
Christopher Heist
"My low rating is primarily due to the disappointing breakfast experience—especially surprising for a 5-star property. We’re staying here for 8 nights, and honestly, finding a decent, satisfying breakfast has been a real challenge. The buffet is extremely limited, greasy, and very basic. We’ve even spoken to other guests who’ve stayed here before and are now reconsidering future visits. They mentioned the food quality has noticeably declined over time, even as prices continue to rise.
Another concern: the food trays were left uncovered, and we saw birds pecking at the food multiple times. This is not acceptable for any hotel, let alone a luxury one.
The service is also quite slow, adding to the frustration. It’s only our fourth day here, and I’m already dreading the remaining meals. As someone who’s pregnant, I was relying on the breakfast buffet to help manage my morning nausea. Unfortunately, it’s become a daily stressor instead.
Unless there are significant improvements, I wouldn’t consider staying here again ever."
GiggleAndWiggle
"This hotel is actually awesome!!! The views are great and the property is huge with beautiful gardens and ponds. The pools are countless and super fun. I came here with my girlfriend (now fiancé) and proposed to her on the beach. The rooms are also pretty large and the ocean view rooms are so worth it. It was a wonderful stay overall. The only negative was that we decided to extend the stay for a day and asked they combine the reservations. They said they had but it never got combined, they just put us in the same room for two stays, which is alright but it made the payments at the end confusing. I just wanted to put $50 on one of my Hilton credit cards and the rest on another, but somehow it got confusing??? I don’t know, but the lady who came in to help our original front desk person (who was super sweet and trying her best) was rude to both us and the original lady trying to help us. It just left a bit of a bitter taste in our mouth as we were leaving. But, like I said, our overall trip was amazing and I would 11/10 recommend this hotel as the views are stunning, right on the beach, and has plenty of activities to keep you entertained. I will always remember this trip as a fond memory."
Daniel Mason
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The most common ways to reach the Grand Wailea from OGG are by taxi, rideshare service, or pre-booked shuttle. The drive typically takes about 30-45 minutes, depending on traffic. Rental cars are also readily available at the airport if you prefer to have your own transportation during your stay.
While there isn't direct public bus service to the resort, you can utilize Maui's public bus system to get to the Kihei area and then take a short taxi or rideshare to the Grand Wailea. This is a more budget-friendly option for those not renting a car.
The Grand Wailea offers valet parking, which is mandatory and comes with a daily fee. Some guests have noted long wait times for valet. Self-parking is not typically available for resort guests.
The resort is generally accessible, with elevators and ramps in most areas. However, due to its large size and sprawling grounds, navigating can involve some walking. It's advisable to contact the resort directly to discuss specific accessibility needs.
Yes, the Grand Wailea is located in Wailea, which has a walkable promenade with shops, restaurants, and other resorts. You can easily stroll to nearby dining and shopping options.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, as a resort guest, you do not need separate tickets to enter the Grand Wailea. Your room key grants you access to the resort's amenities, including the pools and beach areas.
Yes, like most luxury resorts, the Grand Wailea charges a daily resort fee. This fee typically covers amenities and services such as Wi-Fi, fitness center access, and some resort activities. It's important to check the most current fee structure when booking.
Standard check-in time is typically around 3:00 PM, and check-out time is around 11:00 AM. Early check-in or late check-out may be available upon request and subject to availability, sometimes for an additional fee.
Yes, the Grand Wailea is a Waldorf Astoria property, which is part of the Hilton portfolio. You can redeem Hilton Honors points for stays here, and some travelers have successfully used reward nights.
While casual resort wear is generally acceptable during the day, some of the finer dining restaurants may have a 'resort casual' dress code in the evenings. It's best to check with individual restaurants for specific requirements.
🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience
The resort boasts nine pools, including a lazy river and waterslides, which are generally open from morning until early evening. Some pools may have specific hours or age restrictions. Be aware that chairs can be difficult to secure without arriving very early.
Wailea Beach, adjacent to the Grand Wailea, is generally swimmable and beautiful. However, ocean conditions can vary, so always check local advisories for safety.
The resort offers a fantastic range of kid-friendly activities, including waterslides, a lazy river, and various supervised programs. The pools themselves are a major draw for children.
Yes, the Grand Wailea features Spa Grande, an award-winning spa offering a comprehensive menu of treatments, massages, and wellness therapies.
The resort sometimes hosts special events, and you might find unique offerings like the Erewhon Love & Lava Sundae. Keep an eye on their schedule for any seasonal or special happenings.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The Grand Wailea offers a variety of dining experiences, from casual poolside cafes to upscale restaurants. Upcoming additions include Nobu, expected in 2025.
Reviews on the breakfast buffet are mixed, with some guests finding it limited and greasy, and noting a decline in quality over time. Others find it delicious. Consider exploring other breakfast options if you're particular about food quality.
While specific menus can change, most luxury resorts like the Grand Wailea strive to accommodate various dietary needs. It's recommended to inform your server of any dietary restrictions or preferences.
Yes, room service is typically available at luxury resorts like the Grand Wailea, offering convenience for guests who prefer to dine in their rooms.
Absolutely! The Wailea area has a walkable promenade with several restaurants and shops, including ABC Stores, offering more casual and affordable dining options.
📸 📸 Photography
The resort's architecture, lush gardens, numerous pools, and the beachfront offer stunning backdrops. Don't miss the Seaside Chapel for romantic shots or the expansive ocean views from various vantage points.
Drone usage is typically restricted at resorts and in many areas of Hawaii due to privacy and safety regulations. It's best to check with resort management and local authorities before attempting to fly a drone.
The western-facing location of Wailea provides spectacular sunset views. The beach and many of the resort's elevated areas offer prime spots to capture the vibrant colors of the Hawaiian sunset.
The resort is popular for wedding photography, family portraits, and capturing the luxurious tropical ambiance. The diverse landscapes within the resort provide a versatile setting for various types of shoots.
While not always advertised, many luxury resorts can assist in arranging professional photography services for special occasions like weddings or family photoshoots. Inquire with the resort concierge.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 The resort offers a variety of supervised kids' programs and activities, ensuring entertainment for younger guests. 💰 Budget-Conscious Travelers
+1 Take advantage of the resort's refillable water bottle stations to avoid purchasing bottled water. For dining, explore the numerous walkable restaurants and ABC stores in Wailea, which offer more affordable alternatives to resort dining. 💍 Couples & Honeymooners
+1 The resort's spa provides a perfect opportunity for couples' treatments. While the main pools can be lively, the resort also offers an adults-only pool for a more serene experience. Dining at one of the resort's restaurants or exploring nearby fine dining options can add to a romantic getaway. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Grand Wailea Pool Experience
However, securing a prime spot can be a challenge. Many guests report a 'Hunger Games' rush for chairs, with prime locations being claimed by 7 AM. Beyond the main pools, the resort offers an adults-only option for those seeking a more tranquil experience. The swim-up bar is also a popular spot for guests to enjoy refreshments while staying cool.
Key Takeaway: The pools are a major attraction, but strategic planning is essential to fully enjoy them without the stress of chair scarcity.
Dining at the Grand Wailea: A Mixed Bag
The breakfast buffet, in particular, has drawn mixed reviews. While some find it delicious, others describe it as limited, greasy, and a noticeable decline from previous years, even as prices have increased. For those looking for more budget-friendly options, the proximity of the Grand Wailea to walkable shops and restaurants in Wailea is a significant advantage.
Pro Tip: While the resort dining can be a convenient option, researching nearby restaurants or utilizing the walkable options can lead to a more varied and potentially cost-effective culinary experience.
Accommodation Options: Rooms to Villas
+1 For those seeking a more exclusive and spacious experience, the Ho'olei Villas are a standout option. These villas are often praised for their size and suitability for families or groups. When booking, consider the Napua Access Lounge upgrade. This premium offering provides access to an exclusive lounge with stunning views, complimentary food and beverages, and personalized service, which many guests find well worth the extra cost.
Key Considerations: Whether you opt for a standard room or a villa, inquire about specific views and amenities to ensure your accommodation meets your expectations. The Napua Lounge is a highly recommended upgrade for those seeking an elevated experience.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit