Everywhere you turn on Maui there is a snapshot-worthy view. The island is well-known for its iconic points of beauty, including Haleakala National Park, Iao Valley and, of course, its beaches.
Planners won’t have trouble finding picturesque spots that inspire memorable events.
“The majority of our hotels are right on the beach, allowing them to have about 80 percent to 95 percent ocean views,” says Sherry Duong, director of meetings, conventions, incentives and international sales at the Maui Visitors and Convention Bureau.
Duong says planners should also check out area attractions and restaurants for “rooms with a view.”
- At The Fairmont Kea Lani, Maui (www.fairmont.com/kealani), the Polo Beach Lawn is an oceanfront venue with a built-in stage and sound system that’s well-suited for meal functions under the stars, and the Lobby Mezzanine has floor-to-ceiling windows with views of palm trees and the ocean.
- Makena Beach and Golf Resort (www.makenaresortmaui.com) rises to the occasion with Makena Vista, set at 600 feet in elevation on the 14th hole of the Makena Golf Course. Boasting memorable views of the resort, ocean and sunset, it is popular for corporate events and elegant dinners.
- Hyatt Regency Maui Resort and Spa (www.maui.hyatt.com) features Napili Garden and Lawn, which overlooks the Pacific Ocean and offers 30,000 square feet of grassy lawn and flagstone patio, and the Statue Garden, a lush space that boasts panoramic views of the Pacific and is ideal for cocktail parties of up to 75 people.
- The Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua (www.ritzcarlton.com) features the Beach House Lawn, which also offers pretty ocean views and is perfect for large parties and receptions of up to 500 people.
- At Grand Wailea, A Waldorf Astoria Resort (www.waldorfastoria3.hilton.com), the Molokini Gardens and Chapel Gardens are two outdoor venues along Wailea Beach that offer fantastic sunset views.
- Maui Ocean Center (www.mauioceancenter.com) is an aquarium in Ma’alaea Harbor that offers groups a backdrop for standout evening events including full access to the exhibits and ocean views.
- Leilani’s On the Beach (www.leilanis.com) is one of several eateries in Lahaina Town that offers ocean views. Surf and turf is on the menu here, and groups of up to 90 are accommodated.
