Written by Ethan Goddard, Wheel The World, February 24, 2024
Maui is widely considered to be the best of the Hawaiian islands to spend a vacation. Despite it’s many accesses to diverse adventure, including pristine beaches, lush outdoor landscapes, and curvy streets on the Road to Hana, Maui is very accessible.
In this article, we will highlight the top hotels and resorts to choose from. The criteria involves the presence and quality of accessible features and the hotels location among nearby beaches, activities, restaurants, and shops.
We understand that everyone has different needs when it comes to finding an accessible room. However, our accessible travel community has perpetually shared the most commonly required features. This is why the resorts and hotels mentioned in this article will include accessible features like:
- roll-in shower
- toilet grab bars
- proper door width
- plenty of turning space
Among those features will be additional information and measurements to ensure at least one of the stays will suit you.
Is Maui Accessible?
Travelers with disabilities will find that there are outstanding accessible hotels and resorts to choose from. And, with the right accessible equipment, the adventures are open for everyone to enjoy regardless of physical abilities.
Wheelchair Accessible Things to do in Maui, Hawaii
Have you ever experienced adaptive surfing? This is your chance! Maui has many activities like this that you can book with experienced instructors. They will assist and guide you with anything you need, making it a comfortable, yet thrilling experience. Some of the other top accessible things to do in Maui are:
- Adaptive Kayaking
- Explore Haleakala National Park
- Whale watching on a boat
- Snorkeling and swimming
…And so many more things. We have a separate article that details these experiences and highlights the top accessible things to do in Maui. Check that out here.
Best Areas to Stay in Maui
The west side and south side are generally considered to be the best areas to stay in. Both areas feature top beaches on the island, a vast amount of things to do and see, as well as the best accessible hotels.
West Side of the Island
- Kaanapali: located on the west side of the island, Kaanapali is a great area to stay. It is one of the more popular hot spots for tourists, but for good reason. There are several accessible resorts to choose from with two amazing beaches nearby: Kaanapali Beach and Airport Beach. The 3-mile stretch of sandy shores on Kaanapali Beach is equipped with a paved pathway that allows wheelchair users navigate along the town with incredible views. Visitors will have access to a plethora of high end shops and restaurants, make Kaanapali and easy town to consider.
- Lahaina: About 15 minutes south of Kaanapali is Lahaina, two towns that can be a toss-up in which to choose. The actual town of Lahaina can be more expensive due to the limited options of accommodation. Kaanapali is a more convenient place to stay because you will have everything you need close by. Lahaina may win in terms of attractions and things to do, but Kaanapali has one of the best beaches on the island.
Since the town are so close to each other, you can always visit the other one you’re not staying in. Renting an adapted vehicle is recommended because there are things you will want to do around the Island that require driving.
South Side of the Island
- Wailea-Makena and Kihei: South Maui is not as touristy as the western side of the island. There is a great selection of less crowded beaches, beautiful weather, and relatively affordable accommodation. Beaches and ocean activities are plentiful in this region. The downside is that you will not find as many high-end restaurant or shopping options like you would in Kaanapali.
Overall, the west and south sides are the best areas to stay in. Regardless of which you choose, if activities like Haleakala National Park, whale watching, and the Road to Hana are a priority, you’re going to need to rent an adapted vehicle to do so. The landscape is quite spread out. However, there really isn’t a wrong decision on where to stay – you’ll still be in Hawaii! For convenience, Kaanapali would be a top recommendation.
The Best Accessible Hotels in Maui, Hawaii
Now lets get into the best accessible hotels in Maui. Every one of these will either be in the west side of the island (Kaanapali and Lahaina) or south side (Wailea-Makena and Kihei).
Four Seasons Resort Maui at Wailea
Located in Wailea, the Four Seasons Resort is undoubtedly one of the nicest stays on the island. This beachfront resort features excellent accessibility and amenities.
The deluxe garden view room and single ocean view room are each equipped with a roll-in shower, toilet grab bars, plenty of turning space, and much more. The resort has several options for onsite dining, including restaurants and bars, a cafe, and an outdoor pool with service. The pool is equipped with a lift as well.
You will find an accommodating staff at the Four Seasons Resort. They are available to assist with pushing wheelchairs, carrying luggage, or with transfers.
Accessibility Details at Four Seasons Resort Maui:
✅ Roll-in Shower✅ Shower Grab Bars✅ Shower Seat✅ Toilet Grab Bars✅ Turning Space – 60+ inches (Bedroom, Bathroom, and Balcony)✅ Door Width – 35 inches✅ Step-Free Access✅ Space Under Sink
Amenities at Four Seasons Resort Maui:
Outdoor Pool with a Lift Onsite Dining Onsite Bars Spa and Wellness Services Free Sauna Oceanfront Cabanas Tennis & Pickleball Courts Free Wifi
Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa
Located on the west side of the island in Lahaina, Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa sits on the oceanfront of Kaanapali Beach. It takes up 40-acres of property and within the premises lies everything you need for a perfect vacation.
The accessible rooms have incredible features such as a roll-in shower, low bed height, and toilet grab bars. Onsite you’ll find restaurants, bars, and a cafe that covers every meal. And, since you’re on vacation, the afternoon drinks and snacks are readily accessible.
One of the traditional Hawaiian parties known as a Luau occurs daily at this resort. It’s a must-do event while in Hawaii. Indulge mouthwatering native Hawaiian cuisine and drinks with fun entertainment. Make sure to reserve your tickets in advance!
Accessibility Details at Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa:
✅ Roll-in Shower✅ Shower Grab Bars✅ Shower Seat✅ Toilet Grab Bars✅ Bed Height – 22 inches✅ Door Width – 33 inches (Bedroom)✅ Door Width – 31 inches (Bathroom)✅ Turning Space – 60+ inches (Bedroom and Bathroom)✅ Space Under Sink
Amenities at Hyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa:
Onsite Dining Onsite Bars Pools with a Lift/Ramp Room Service Spa, Sauna & Boutique Free Wifi Pet Friendly Golf Course Event and Meeting Venues
Wailea Beach Resort
Just steps from the white sandy shores of Wailea Beach is this resort. There are two types of accessible rooms available: Premium Ocean Sundeck which features a roll-in shower and a balcony with ocean views. The Garden View Room is another option, but that one has a bathtub instead.
Wailea Beach Resort has four unique pool experiences on the resort grounds. The Adventure Pool is perfect for the whole family. The large area is quipped with water slides and large cabanas, a bar, and food trucks with options for all ages. You can find a couple other outdoor pools, though one of them is adult-only. The pools either have a self operating lift or sloped entry for access.
Several restaurants and bars are scattered throughout the property. With a variety of unique cuisines and menus, guests are sure to enjoy their food and drink experience during their stay. Breakfast, coffee, lunch, dinner, snacks, drinks, desserts, and room-service is all available to you.
Accessibility Details at Wailea Beach Resort:
✅ Roll-in Shower (or Bathtub)✅ Shower Grab Bars✅ Toilet Grab Bars✅ Turning Space – 60+ inches (Bedroom, Bathroom & Balcony)✅ Smooth Flooring✅ Door Width – 35 inches✅ Bed Height – 29 inches✅ Space Under Sink
Amenities at Wailea Beach Resort:
Four Pool Areas with Lift or Sloped Entry Access Onsite Dining Options Bar Onsite Beachfront Spa Services Free Wifi Activities for Kids Accessible Parking
Kaanapali Beach Hotel
Kaanapali Beach Hotel is located in one of the best areas of the island. This beachfront resort prides itself on representing Hawaiian culture to its truest form, ensuring an immersive experience for every guest. From cultural activities to snorkel tours to Luau’s, Kaanapali Beach Resort is a top option to consider.
The featured onsite restaurant represent the local flavors of Maui. They even have Maui Brewing Company, a perfect spot to unwind and try local craft beers paired with their food menu. There is a cafe and snack shacks within the resort, too.
Accessibility is outstanding at Kaanapali Beach Resort. The rooms and bathrooms are both spacious with plenty of turning space. As you can see from the photo above, the bathroom has a bathtub and roll-in shower with a shower seat and grab bars.
Accessibility Details at Kaanapali Beach Hotel:
✅ Roll-in Shower✅ Shower Grab Bars✅ Shower Seat✅ Turning Space – 60+ inches (Bedroom & Bathroom)✅ Free Space Under Bed✅ Step-Free Access✅ Space Under Sink✅ Handheld Shower Head
Amenities at Kaanapali Beach Hotel:
Pool with a Lift Accessible Parking Restaurant Onsite Brewery Onsite Beachfront Fun Activities, Lessons, and Tours Free Wifi Laundry / Dry Cleaning
Hotel Residence Inn by Marriott Maui Wailea
This highly rated 3-star hotel is a relatively affordable stay nearby Wailea Beach. Guests have a complimentary shuttle to the Wailea Resort area and can enjoy a variety of amazing amenities and accessibility features. The accessible studio room has a kitchenette that has all the necessities. If you are looking for an extended vacation, this one is a perfect choice.
As you can see from the photo above, the roll-in shower is spacious with shower grab bars and a low handheld shower head. Both the bathroom and bedroom offer plenty of turning space, step-free access, and an accommodating staff that can assist people with limited mobility.
Guests are given a complimentary hot breakfast each morning. There is a restaurant and bar lounge available that features live music and Kanikapila nights on Tuesdays and Fridays. There is a plethora of nearby restaurants and cafes, beaches, and activities that make this hotel a solid vacation stay. The outdoor pool is equipped with a lift.
Accessibility Details at Hotel Residence Inn by Marriott Maui Wailea:
✅ Roll-in Shower✅ Shower Seat✅ Shower Grab Bars✅ Toilet Grab Bars✅ Turning Space – 60+ inches (Bedroom, Bathroom & Balcony)✅ Door Width – 34+ inches (Bedroom & Bathroom)✅ Bed Height – 28 inches✅ Space Under Sink
Amenities at Hotel Residence Inn by Marriott Maui Wailea:
Pool with a Lift Complimentary Breakfast Restaurant / Bar Onsite Free Wifi Rooms with a Kitchenette Convenience Store Laundry Pets Allowed (Extra Fee)
Final Thoughts
Although these 5 resorts are incredibly accessible and some of the best stays on the island, there are several other accessible hotels to consider in Maui, Hawaii. If you would like to check out the comprehensive list with detailed information on their accessibility, click here.