The Spirit of Maui at Napili Kai Beach Resort

The locals of Maui and especially the staff at Napili Kai want tourists to know they are welcoming you back with open arms and they are anxious to get guests back at their resort. Napili Kai is located right on Napili Bay, close to Kapalua. Far from the hustle and bustle of Kaanapali, it's quiet and removed from the bulk of visitors. You have almost exclusive access to Napili Bay, as other visitors have to park and the lot is only so big. Grab snorkel gear and head over to some of the best and easiest snorkeling you'll ever find -- and almost guaranteed turtle sightings.

The rooms are older, but all have great lanais which is what every Maui hotel room is craving and there are really great room set-ups for families including two-bedrooms and small kitchenettes and refrigerators. And the price point is incredibly reasonable for being steps to the ocean.

There's a oceanside pool that's perfect for families with a small little snack bar for casual bites. This is not a pool service/staff type of pool so if you're good with that, this is your jam. There's a putt putt area behind the pool for the kids to play at and beach chairs you can grab and walk down and claim a spot in the sand. There's an adults-only pool and hot tub that my husband and I often snuck away to as well.

The Sea House restaurant is popular for Aloha Hour (4-6 p.m.) with good drink specials and tasty pupus with a great view of the ocean and the sunset.

While you can't walk to many places from here, to me, that's the allure. The best restaurants are close enough; Merriman's, Plantation House, Burger Bar at the Ritz, The Pour House. We ate many vegetarian lunches at AA Roots, which is a two-minute drive and our favorite place by far.

If you are one with the Hawaiian way and aren't looking for a fancy ultra-luxe showy modern spot in Maui, stay at Napili Kai and allow the magic of the island to transform you. This is an incredible spot to go with family (or a multi-generational family) and get the best Maui has to offer.

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to Maui. In need of further inspiration? Check out Serene Gunnison’s guide, The Ultimate "Road to Hana Maui" Guide.