Maui
Hawaii


The Experience

Since it debuted in 1990 as the first Four Seasons in Hawaii, this jewel of a property has been winning raves and hospitality awards. Set on the southeast coast of Maui (which also boasts the island’s nicest weather), the resort feels like an oasis of privilege even though it’s surrounded by upscale properties. Site-specific renovations began in August 2006, sparing guests excessive construction hassles but bringing the resort’s decor, which was just starting to look a tad outdated, into the same league as its service. Fortunately, the resort was spared any major damage in the earthquake of October 2006.

The Rooms

The entry-level rooms at 600 square feet are the largest in Hawaii, but be sure to book at least a partial ocean view -- on Maui, a “mountain view” can often entail a stunning vista of the parking lot. The new decor has a more Hawaiian feel, with Chinese-inspired dark-stained bamboo coffee tables, drum-shaped side tables and beige upholstery. Every room has at least one balcony, sliding wood shutters and large bathrooms with marble tile floors and tub surrounds, separate showers and double sinks in dark wood vanities. One of the nicer touches? An in-room coffee grinder with a supply of whole beans. The suites scale up to the 5,000-square-feet Maile Suite, featuring three bedrooms and a long list of celebrity occupants.

The Service

There’s absolutely nothing to complain about here, but if you do have a problem with your room, policy mandates that it is solved promptly or the room is switched. Over the course of its 16 years the hotel has perfected the art of service, from those spritzes of Evian and iced towels by the pool, to the afternoon poolside treats. The restaurant waiters manage to be both cordial and quick, and the rooms are immaculate and constantly restocked.

The Highlights

The resort’s location couldn’t be better -- Wailea is simply beautiful and delivers sunshine all year round. It’s just a short drive to restaurant-rich Kihei, and only 30-45 minutes to the isolated upcountry beaches. Four Seasons also provides transportation to the Wailea shopping mall. The two pools and beach have cabanas, and there’s an extensive children’s program, along with a children’s pool. The hotel’s restaurants include Wolfgang Puck’s Spago and the Italian cuisine of Ferraro’s, as well as the casual open-air Pacific Grill. You also have the pick of three championship golf courses.

-- Laurel Delp

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