What it is

Amidst abundant tropical flowers, it’s a sprawling, family-friendly resort with a sincere nod to Hawaiian culture.

What it isn't

A boutique collection of bungalows nor a sleek, young party pad.

What we think

The all-suite property sprawls atop 24 lush, tropical acres on the western coast of Maui. One to four bedrooms, the 50 suites vary in floorplan and size as well as view (garden or ocean) but all are rooted in the Hawaiian ideals of cultivating pono and hookipa- harmony and hospitality. The suites are contemporary, but have the backbone of island authenticity. Local woods like macadamia, mango, and teak as well as bamboo and rattan anchor the spaces to the island, while color-saturated textiles in bright gold, coral and teal bring in the vibrant tropical landscaping outside. The resort relies on “cultural ambassadors” to inform and direct the atmosphere: guests are welcome to learn how to make lei’s, play the ukulele, learn the hula’s symbolic movements or tour the local museums to get a sense of the island. The resort also offers the necessities of the modern traveler; albeit with Hawaiian flare. The huge three-floor spa includes a eucalyptus steam room and cedar sauna, an outdoor bamboo rainfall shower and a heated salt water infinity-edge pool that overlooks the ocean as well as a tome of treatments that range from the mani-pedi spa standards to ‘awa and cacao or algae and aloe cocoons that touch up sun-kissed skin. Aptly named Sunset Pool, the main pool cascades down the center of the property in a series of waterfalls, coves and adjoining pools. Beach access is found at the end of a lovely garden walk. Guests can have a chef come to their suite and prepare a meal in their private kitchen (and enjoy it on their private lanai) or choose from the multiple restaurants on the property: Cane & Canoe serves gourmet Hawaiian fare inside a space that’s based on the island’s traditional canoe houses that function both as functional and social space. However, instead of making sails together, guests bond with their friends over crispy pork belly and grilled octopus. Additionally, there is a casual terrace bistro and grab and go market pantry for food to take on nearby hikes or to the beach.

You're here because

You’re looking for golden Hawaiian beaches that are away from the usual tourist-choked areas. On the quiet West coast of Maui, (and after their 15 million dollar renovation) the Montage offers an alcove that’s personalized and exceptionally lush.

The Moment

The late afternoon horseback ride wandered through pineapple fields and stands of Ironwood trees. As the trail meandered along the coastline, the waves crashed on the gold sand, and the prehistoric islands of Moloka’i and Lana’i rose in the background. Images of the day rolling through your mind, you sink into one of the Sunset pool’s upper alcoves just in time to to see the first streaks of pink cross the sky.

Restaurants & Bars

Cane & Canoe - Fresh seafood

Sunset Patio - Casual local cuisine

Location

With the West Maui Forest Reserve at it’s back, the resort sits on a stretch of golden sand on the island’s western shore. It’s 4-minute walk to Kapalua Golf Club's Bay Course and about 10-15 minutes on foot to the Dragon's Teeth rock formations. The property is roughly an hour’s drive, which hugs the coast for its entire duration, from the regional Kahului airport.