Hawaiian Heritage Meets Modern Luxury at This Beloved Maui Hotel

Experience the best of both worlds as the Outrigger Kāʻanapali Beach Resort embraces tradition and transformation.

Overlooking one of the best beaches in the world, Kāʻanapali Beach Resort has proudly served as Maui’s most Hawaiian hotel since 1964—an accolade earned through its continued commitment to authentic Hawaiian culture and experiences.

Honored with prestigious readers’ choice awards from the likes of Condé Nast Traveler for Top Hawaiʻi Resort in 2023 as well as HAWAIʻI Magazine for Maui’s Best Value Resort, Best Resort for Families and Best Resort for Romance in 2024, this oceanfront paradise invites guests of all ages to immerse themselves in island life.

Kāʻanapali Beach from the hotel // Photo by Aaron K. Yoshino

After recently transitioning to an Outrigger property, the Kāʻanapali Beach Resort has begun an exciting new chapter. Guests can expect both refreshing updates and a continuation of the beloved features that have made this resort a fan favorite.

The pool at the Outrigger Kāʻanapali Beach Resort // Photo by Aaron K. Yoshino

One aspect that will always remain is truly the heart of this hotel: The Kawenaokeao Cultural Center, located in the lobby, invites guests to immerse themselves in Hawaiian culture by talking story with its cultural experts or signing up for complimentary classes.

The popular cultural classes at the Kawenaokeao Cultural Center won’t change with the new ownership. // Photo by Aaron K. Yoshino

A variety of activities are available here, including hula (Hawaiian dance), ʻōlelo (Hawaiian language), mele (music through ʻukulele), lei (garland) making, maʻawe (fiber art), kāpala (stamping art) and moʻolelo (storytelling). Other demonstrations offer insights into Hawaiian musical instruments, ocean navigation or the expansive on-property garden. Guests can also participate in a weekly celebration of Hawaiian music, song, and dance at 11:30 a.m. every Aloha Friday.

Repeat visitors will be pleased to know the Kāʻanapali Beach Resort under Outrigger ownership will retain the kukui lei tradition. // Photo by Aaron K. Yoshino

Additionally, the resort’s signature lei kukui (candlenut garland) farewell ceremony continues to be an iconic departure ritual. Returning guests are invited to bring their lei kukui and replace one black kukui nut with a white one, serving as a representation of each time they’ve stayed at the resort.

Maui Brewing Co. is now at the Outrigger Kāʻanapali Beach Resort. // Photo by Aaron K. Yoshino

While some elements haven’t changed, the property is evolving in other ways. One notable difference is the on-property restaurant transitioning from Huihui to a new Maui Brewing Co. location. Open now, diners can sip on locally crafted beers (including limited-edition releases) paired with island-inspired fare. Happy hour specials are available from 3:30 to 5:30 p.m., followed by live music from 6 to 8 p.m. daily.

Inside a premium oceanfront room. // Photo courtesy of the Outrigger Kāʻanapali Beach Resort

Moving forward, renovations will include a redesigned lobby, expanded pool area and revitalized guest rooms to meld the resort’s traditions with modern amenities.

2525 Kāʻanapali Parkway, Lahaina, Maui, (800) 262-8450, outrigger.com/hawaii/maui/kaanapali-beach-resort-hotel

Lead photo courtesy of the Outrigger Kāʻanapali Beach Resort