Hawaii is for anyone who wants to indulge in lots of sunshine, beaches, and vibrant local culture in one vacation. While there are countless luxury properties dotting its islands, two popular hideaways under Hyatt’s roster are Andaz Maui and the Hyatt Regency Maui.
One is an indulgent escape, touted as among the most expensive resort on the island. Meanwhile, the other has been around for decades and is geared toward a budget-friendly clientele. These two, however, are among the most popular Hawaiian resorts to book on points.
Get to know more about these amazing destinations and find out which is for you in this Andaz Maui at Wailea vs. Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa comparison.
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Quick Glance: Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort vs. Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa
| Andaz Maui at Wailea | Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa | |
| Location | Maui, Hawaii | Maui, Hawaii |
| Getting There | Requires a 30-minute drive from Kahului Airport (OGG). You can reach the resort via cab, car rental, or private airport transfer. | Located 27 miles from Kahului Airport (OGG). it takes about 40 minutes to reach the resort. Book an airport transfer, take a cab, or rent a vehicle. |
| Room | 297 rooms and suites | 810 guestrooms and suites |
| Amenities | Fitness center, swimming pool, grand ballroom, conference center, boutiques, spa, beach access | Swimming pool, spa, golf course, beach access, kid’s club, fitness center, tennis court, business center, shops, etc. |
| Food and Dining | 6 restaurants, bars, & market | 9 restaurants and bars |
| Staff and Guest Services | Professional, attentive staff ready to assist with any request. Lacks consistency though. | Great staff who know how to make guests feel welcome at every turn. |
| Price | Cash bookings start at $998 to $2,566 (average $1,200) | Cash rates start at $760 to $1,856 per night (average $1,108) |
| Points Redemption | Yes, this is a Category 8 World of Hyatt hotel so you can book points by exchanging 30,000 to 45,000 Hyatt points per night. | You can book this on points since this is a Category 7 hotel. Exchange 25,000 to 35,000 Hyatt points per night. |
The Details: Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort vs. Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa
Andaz Maui at Wailea
Andaz Maui. Image Credit: Andaz Maui
Not only is Andaz Maui at Wailea one of the most expensive properties on the island, but it’s also one of the best beach hotels in the world!
Location
This modern and stylish resort is located on Wailea, an area known for extravagant resorts, premium condo residences, and a seemingly endless supply of golf courses.
To reach this fantastic spot, guests fly into the Kahului Airport (OGG) and then take a 30 to 40-minute car ride. Guests can rent a car – the most convenient since you need a vehicle if you intend to explore other parts of the island. It’s also possible to book a taxi or arrange transport with the hotel or a third-party service.
With its oceanfront setting, getting to the beach water isn’t a problem. The entire stretch of beach is walkable (unless heavy rains come) so you can stroll on the path while checking other resorts.
Room
Andaz Maui at Wailea – King Studio Room. Image Credit: Andaz Maui at Wailea
The moment you arrive at the property, you get a warm welcome. Bellhops will be ready by the entrance to greet you, take your car keys, and ensure you get settled into your hotel – no matter what time of day you arrive.
A stylish walkway leads to the lobby and from here you’ll catch a glimpse of the stunning ocean beyond. The base-level rooms provide 380 to 420 square feet of space. While not spectacularly impressive as higher-category rooms, the rooms are stylish and provide ample room for two people.
Decked in stylish whites, neutrals, and earth tones, these spaces come with a king bed or two queen beds with full or partial ocean views. Teak furniture injects richness into the space while upholstered chairs and sofas present a place to de-stress. The beds are outfitted in crisp white linens with tufted-down pillows, creating a restful night.
Other in-room touches include a large desk, chair, full-length mirror, mini fridge, coffeemaker, a flatscreen TV, and reusable water bottles. Andaz has gone green and provides pitchers of water instead of plastic water bottles.
A huge closet is supplied for luggage storage. It also has a safe and drawers. It’s here you’ll find robes, slippers, and an ironing board.
Andaz Maui bathrooms are a real beauty. These are big and spacious with enough room for two people to use them at any one time. A huge shower with both a rainfall showerhead and a handheld shower is in the showers. Toiletries, towels, hairdryers, and more are available for guests to use. There’s also a dedicated area for the toilet and twin sinks. When staying at a suite, guests can also lounge in a hot tub.
Amenities
Although technically not an amenity, the lobby area is a fantastic space where guests can hang out. It’s open air so there’s always a gentle breeze passing through. Loungers are in the area where guests can take a quick nap or just have a peaceful time alfresco.
A favorite amenity here is the Awili Spa and Salon. This spa is famous on the island as it provides different treatments and massages. In addition, there’s a sauna, a plunge pool, a steam room, and a tranquility pool inside. You can even get healthy meals and drinks while here.
Fitness lovers will appreciate the 24-hour gym. It’s loaded with a myriad of cardio machines, Pelotons, and weights. A fitness instructor is also available to assist with what you need. Beach yoga sessions are also offered.
The pool area is another key spot for guests. Luckily, these are divided between family pools and adults-only areas so if you want some peace, there’s somewhere you can retreat to.
If traveling with kids, the family pool is right by the lobby. This pool has a staggered design with the top level holding a hot tub. All around are cabanas and day beds for rent. As for the adults-only pool, it’s closer to the gym and also features a multilevel design.
In case you don’t want to stay at the pool, there’s always the beach to explore. Keep in mind all the beaches in Hawaii are public beaches so there’s a chance there will be hawkers and non-Andaz guests. The hotel supplies beach chairs and towels for its guests. One downside though is you won’t find beverages or food near this area.
Other things to explore in the property are the pop-up shops and boutiques, and kids club.
The resort tacks on a $48 resort fee unless you are a World of Hyatt member redeeming points.
Be treated like premium VIP guests and secure a free room upgrade or complimentary breakfast when booking your next trip with a points consultant. They can help secure these exclusive perks with ease.
Food and Dining
Andaz Maui at Wailea – Reception Lounge. Image Credit: Andaz Maui at Wailea
Dining is a splendid experience at Andaz Maui. The resort has several restaurants and bars with each one presenting unique and distinct fare.
The signature restaurant, Ka’ana Kitchen is open for breakfast and dinner. Breakfast buffets at the restaurant cost around $60 unless you get a complimentary breakfast or hold a Globalist Elite status. This dining area has fresh seafood with a selection of excellent wines.
However, the most famous restaurant at Andaz Maui is Morimoto Maui. Spearheaded by chef Masaharu Morimoto of Iron Chef fame, the restaurant requires advanced reservations. Just know they book out fast so make sure to secure seats at least weeks or months before arriving at the resort.
On certain evenings, the resort hosts an authentic Hawaiian luau called The Feast at Mokapu. This luau is popular with both guests and non-guests. Expect traditional meals and lots of beautiful singing and dancing through the night.
For light bites and cocktails, there are cocktail bars to explore. The Bumbye Beach Bar is wonderful for evening cocktails but if you feel like drinking midday, the Lehua Lounge is open all day.
Need some quick items? The Mokapu Market is ideal for grab-and-go items.
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Staff and Guest Services
The staff is attentive but the service isn’t without flaws. While the staff are professional especially when a problem is brought to their attention, it can take time for managers or the crew to act upon a request.
Price
You can book a standard room at Andaz Maui at Wailea starting at $998 to $2,566 (average $1,200).
Points Redemption
Yes, it’s possible to book a room here on points. Although, it is notoriously difficult to find single-night bookings. As a Category 8 hotel, you can exchange 35,000 to 45,000 Hyatt points per night.
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Who Is It For?
Andaz Maui is a terrific choice for honeymooners and couples. The modern and fashionable aesthetic is ideal for anyone who is style conscious. It has an unbeatable location with a fantastic walkable beach and stunning world-class restaurants.
Andaz Maui at Wailea Gallery
Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort. Image Credit: Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort
Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort. Image Credit: Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort
Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa
Hyatt Regency Maui – Resort. Image Credit: Hyatt Regency Maui
One of the biggest resorts on the island, the Hyatt Regency Maui sits on 40 acres of land fronting Kaanapali Beach. This exquisite resort is an outstanding choice if you want to bring the entire family or need a fun getaway with friends.
Location
The Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa is 40 minutes from Kahului Airport (OGG). Although the resort is farther away compared to other properties, it is massive with plenty of things to see and do that you won’t even want to leave the property unless exploring other attractions nearby.
Being one of the 3 resorts occupying the 3-mile stretch of Kaanapali Beach, you can walk to the other hotels and attractions with ease.
To reach the resort, renting a car is the best solution since it allows you to explore nearby attractions without any hassle. However, if you don’t want to rent a car, there’s a taxi available but it can get expensive. The ideal choice is to take a private transfer like Speedishuttle which costs around $62 one way from the airport.
You can explore downtown Lahaina within minutes by car. If you don’t mind an hour-long trek, you can walk there via a rough road. Whalers Village is also a wonderful place to explore. Check out the Whale Museum, dine outside of the property, or do some shopping.
Room
Hyatt Regency Maui – Bedroom. Image Credit: Hyatt Regency Maui
While the rooms aren’t massive compared to other properties in the area, it is big enough to accommodate two adults and even small children.
Standard room sizes start at 450 square feet. Renovations are currently ongoing in most towers. However, most rooms feature classic decor with white walls, subtly patterned carpets, and large king beds. A sofa, desk, flatscreen TV, a walk-in closet, and a minibar are all in the room too.
The bathroom is simple, with a shower and tub combination. Go for an upgrade and you’ll get a private tub, large showers, and more.
If you manage to snag one fronting the ocean and you visit during whale season, you’ll be treated to a private whale show from your balcony. The view of the ocean is wonderful and you’ll love seeing the whales play in the water.
Amenities
One reason why this resort is popular with families is because of the innumerable amenities in the area. No matter what you’re looking to do, you’ll likely find it here.
To start, there’s beach access. You can take a stroll on the powdery white sand to explore the sights in the area. The waters are superb for swimming, snorkeling, and kayaking, making it ideal if you have children in tow.
For those who prefer a pool, the resort has some of the most impressive pool complexes in Maui. There are two main pool areas, Lahaina and Napili. These are divided by beautifully landscaped waterfalls and a grotto. Lahaina is the quieter pool, but do expect a child or two to wander in.
Meanwhile, the Napilii pool is a favorite in the resort and for the young kids since it has a 150-foot tube slide and a lagoon. Unfortunately, there is no adults-only pool in the main resort. However, you can access the Residence Club pool area which has a dedicated adults-only spot.
Other must-check-out facilities include the Marilyn Monroe Spa where you can book massages, facials, and other pampering treatments. Like other Hyatt resorts, there’s a fully-equipped fitness center called the Moana Athletic Club.
Guests can also join cultural classes such as lei-making and hula dancing. If you love stargazing, the resort offers Tour of the Stars where you can go stargazing at the hotel’s rooftop at night.
Fancy a game of golf? The Hyatt Regency Maui is within steps of two 18-hole golf courses. You’ll find a free shuttle service from the resort to the golf courses. There are also tennis courts and a basketball court onsite.
Other things to expect include a business center, a laundry room, valet parking, wireless Internet, and you can even bring your pets here without any problem.
Food and Dining
Hyatt Regency Maui – Dining. Image Credit: Hyatt Regency Maui
Although there are restaurants outside the property, onsite, you’ll never run out of options. Ūmalu is a poolside grill and bar. It’s always busy but a great place for light bites and drinks.
The Grotto Bar is a unique area where you can order a frozen daiquiri while also soaking up in the water. They also serve food here.
Craving sushi? Japengo overlooks the waters. It’s a high-end sushi restaurant and you’ll need to book a reservation to dine here. Those who want to experience a true luau can join the Drums of the Pacific Lu’au. It’s performed every night but can cost a hefty $200 for adults and $100 per child.
If you want a good steak, Sonz Steakhouse is the place to visit. It’s right in the atrium lobby with a stunning view of the pond. In the morning, the same space is transformed into the Swan Court where you can have a sit-down breakfast in the company of the resort swans.
Coffee lovers who want to be on the go can visit Honolulu Coffee, found in the atrium lobby. They also have pastries, acai bowls, and snacks.
In-room dining is possible, once at breakfast between 6:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and again at dinner, from 5:00 p.m. to 11:00 p.m.
Aside from the main resort area, there are also pocket dining areas where you can grab affordable and decent food as well as drink items.
A number of these are at the Residence Club area, particularly the Lahaina Provision Company, Pau Huaka‘i, and Ululani’s Hawaiian Shave Ice.
For Hyatt Globalist members, the Regency Club is another area where you can dine.
Staff and Guest Services
The staff are genuinely warm and friendly. They make your stay at the resort convenient by assisting with whatever request you may have.
Price
You can book a stay at the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa in cash starting at $760 to $1,856 per night (average of $1,108).
Points Redemption
It’s possible to redeem a standard room on points at this resort by exchanging 25,000 to 35,000 Hyatt points per night.
Who Is It For?
Although it can accommodate couples, the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa shine best when you bring the entire family along. It’s a wonderful kid-friendly spot with plentiful amenities to keep the kiddos (and adults) happily entertained.
Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa Gallery
Hyatt Regency Maui – Swimming Pool. Image Credit: Hyatt Regency Maui
Hyatt Regency Maui – Cabana. Image Credit: Hyatt Regency Maui
Hyatt Regency Maui – Bedside. Image Credit: Hyatt Regency Maui
Hyatt Regency Maui – Grounds. Image Credit: Hyatt Regency Maui
Best For: Which Resort Should You Go For?
| Winner | What Makes It Great | |
| Best for Food | Andaz Maui at Wailea | Both resorts have fantastic dining establishments, but Andaz Maui has the coveted Morimoto Maui. |
| Best for Pools | Tie | The Andaz pool is Instagram perfect but the Hyatt Regency Maui pool complex offers all-around fun for the entire family. |
| Best for Spa | Andaz Maui at Wailea | The spa at Andaz Maui is chic and relaxing. |
| Best for Beaches | Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa | Because of its length and diverse places to explore, the Hyatt Regency Maui beach edges out that of Andaz Maui. |
| Best For Adults | Andaz Maui at Wailea | No doubt, the ideal resort for adults is Andaz Maui. |
| Best for Families | Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa | It’s the perfect selection when traveling with kids or in groups. |
| Best Location | Andaz Maui at Wailea | Andaz Maui at Wailea has the better location of the two. |
| Best for a Calm Vacation | Andaz Maui at Wailea | Because it’s primarily geared toward adults, the Andaz Maui naturally offers a calmer vibe. |
| Best for Service | Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa | Hyatt Regency offers a more consistent service compared to Andaz Maui. |
| Most Exclusive | Andaz Maui at Wailea | No doubt, Andaz Maui is the more exclusive property of the two. |
Wrapping Up
Get the most out of your vacation when you choose to stay at any of these two resorts.
Andaz Maui at Wailea is suited for a relaxing adults-only escapade. It has luxury amenities, gorgeous rooms, and a chic, modern vibe.
On the other hand, the Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa lean toward entertaining families and groups. The countless amenities they have along with the expansive footprint of the property is a huge plus.
So, if you’re ready to discover the Big Island, consider any of these great hideaways.
Safe travels!