3543 Lower Honoapiilani Rd, Lahaina, Hawaii, United States | (618) 248-8274
Gorgeous panoramic ocean views in mellow atmosphere
Two crystal clear pools feature adjacent hot tubs
Two putting greens on-site, as well as frequent mini-golf tournaments
A dozen gas grills with picnic areas dot the property
Yoga, Pilates, and swim workouts are free for guests
Free Wi-Fi
Lighted tennis courts are kept in pristine condition
Advanced surfing classes for additional fee
Evening mai tai receptions
No on-site restaurant
Not directly on a sandy beach (guests must walk to the next property)
No children's pool
Resort fee at checkout to cover activities and parking
Rooms vary in quality and decor
The 364-room mid-range Aston at Papakea Resort is a relaxed ocean-view condo complex on 13 acres of lush grounds with a rock sea wall. Dolphins, seals, and other wildlife can be seen right off the property. There’s no on-site restaurant, but guests may dine at the companion property next door. Apartments vary in decor and amenities because they're independently owned, but all have balconies and full kitchens, and most have views of the water.
Scene
Koi ponds and ocean views as well as picnic areas
The Aston is on 13 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds and gardens, set back from the road so that the property feels mellow and secluded. Still, the hotel is within handy walking distance of the busy, fun-filled beaches and area shops. There are several lovely koi ponds on the grounds and the resort extends right to the edge of the Pacific, where there’s a rock wall set against perennially crashing waves. Dolphins, whales, seals, and other ocean wildlife can be seen from benches and lounge chairs on the lawn overlooking the sea. There are gas grills (that are cleaned daily), and picnic areas dot the property -- so guests who want to cook outside rather than in their apartments can do so. The pool and hot tub areas do not offer shade of any kind, but are ringed with lounge chairs and aren’t crowded.The resort looks like a generic condo complex with nothing special about the architecture. There are no restaurants, bars, or common areas at the property, but there are plenty of dining and drinking options an easy walk away.
Location
Grounds feel secluded, but the hotel's actually near shops, restaurants, and beaches
Aston at Papakea Resort is located on West Maui, 50 minutes by car from the airport. Although the resort is set back from the road and doesn’t have a sand beach, there’s plenty to do in the immediate area. The beach is next door, accessible via a small footbridge. Whaler's Village, with several restaurants and a food court, is a short drive south. Kaanapali Golf Course and historic Lahaina are close by as well, along with opportunities for surfing, hiking, biking, parasailing, and snorkeling, among other activities.
Rooms
Full kitchens, sea views, and washer/dryers in each, but decor varies
All rooms at the Aston have full kitchens and washer/dryers along with PlayStation 3 consoles and Blu-Ray machines; there's a DVD library in the lobby, but guests must book through the resort for borrowing rights. Each apartment is individually decorated by the owner; not all are air-conditioned. Guests are advised to request an updated apartment with pictures for pre-screening of the actual unit they are renting. Visitors who rent directly from the resort have more options if issues occur; those who rent directly from owners have limited choices, as the resort is simply hired as manager in these instances. Nearly all rooms have ocean views.
Features
Gas grills and picnic tables, lighted tennis court, and grocery delivery
Aston at Papakea Resort has two medium-sized pools and spacious hot tubs, but there’s no toddler-friendly shallow end for kids. The tennis courts are lit for night-time play while yoga, Pilates, and water-exercise classes are offered to guests each morning, free of charge. Quiet seating areas are found near the sea wall, where guests can enjoy Pacific views, and a dozen gas grills and picnic areas are on hand for family cookouts. Grocery delivery is available for guests who want to stock their kitchens without hassle.