Napili Shores Maui by Outrigger

Napili Shores Maui by Outrigger has a simple, unassuming lobby, with stone walls, comfy bamboo furniture, a tour booking desk, and a collection of stylish period Hawaiian travel posters. The restaurants give the property a more distinct persona. Iron Imu BBQ serves Southern-style barbecue in a casual, family-friendly environment. The quirky decor combines southern and western themes with island touches -- the wood chairs have pineapple carvings, and hanging lights are embellished with cowboy hats. Walls are hung with horseshoes, belt buckles, and other memorabilia. At the Gazebo, one of the island’s most famous restaurants, locals are willing to wait an hour for the famed macadamia nut pancakes. The eatery also has covered open-air seating with views of Napili Bay and the resort's gardens.

Grounds are beautifully landscaped with a huge central lawn where kids can run around and parents can work on their tans. Turtles and humpback whales are frequently seen right offshore; when whales are spotted, a bell is rung to alert the guests. There are two small pools with lounge chairs in the shade and sun. The beach, a short walk down a path, offers excellent swimming and snorkeling.

Napili Shores Maui by Outrigger is located on the west coast of Maui on a quiet back road off the main drag, surrounded primarily by private homes. A pretty ocean-side path leads from the resort grounds to a sandy beach. Golfers will be in heaven with three world-class courses nearby. The complex is an hour’s drive northwest from the airport, going around West Maui Forest Reserve, and about 20 minutes from downtown Lahaina. Free parking is available to guests.

Studios and one-bedroom suites at the resort are not air-conditioned, but all come with ceiling fans and the ocean breeze helps keep spaces cool. Each unit has a furnished patio or balcony with peaceful ocean or garden views. Kitchens are large with granite countertops and full-sized appliances, microwaves, and plenty of cookware and dinnerware. Rooms are individually decorated by owners but all are unfussy, with tropical fabrics and island-style artwork on the walls. Guests are advised to check the amenities in the unit they’re renting as they tend to vary slightly.

Napili Shores Maui by Outrigger has two small pools suitable for taking a dip but not for lap swimming. The beach, on the other hand, is a swimming and snorkeling spot, and the resort's Water Works Sports shop sells or rents snorkel packages, boogie boards, surfboards, paddle boards, and a variety of other items. There’s an on-site coin laundry for travelers' convenience and a business center for working visitors. Gas and charcoal grills are located around the grounds for cookouts. Tennis and golf are close by as well, but the resort offers shuffleboard, croquet, and outdoor checkers for those into less taxing activity.