Trip to Maui, HI

The resort has quite a secluded feel to it, even though it is centrally located between some of the biggest tourist areas on Maui. The beach is amazingly quiet - much more serene than anything you will find in Ka'anapali. Here you will find peace and quiet on a beautiful white-sand beach. The rooms, while nothing extraordinary, have always been well kept and clean. These are privately owned condominiums, so each comes fully furnished, including a kitchenette and lanai with a beautiful view of the water, and, best of all, you couldn't get any closer to the beach. From the pool area, it is literally a 5-second walk to the beach.

First of all, I have to say to not plan to stay here if you depend on luxury to have a good vacation. Don't get me wrong: this place has everything you could possibly need to have a great trip, but there is no spa or on-site dining facilities. I feel, however, that the Sugar Beach Resort is the perfect place to take a family or group of friends. Having the kitchenette is a huge plus if you plan on staying for much longer than a week and you don't feel like going out every night. While this place is family-friendly, it is also very quiet, and families tend to respect the quiet hours. (Sound could otherwise carry through the courtyard that the two towers are situated around.)

The pool is always clean and never overcrowded. On-site is a small convenience store for anything you may need right away and a bar/sandwich shop that would be great for lunch. The staff here is great. They never bother you - in fact, housekeeping is only available upon request - but if you ever need anything at all, from dining recommendations to booking activities for your stay, just visit the main office and they will be more than helpful in assisting you. The beach is 5 miles long, with white sand, and while the waves aren't the best for surfing, they are perfect for boogie boarding or snorkeling.

Sugar Beach Resort has everything you would need out of a hotel to enjoy your trip in Maui, minus the big-resort feel. Its central location on the west coast of Maui makes it an ideal place to spend your vacation.

• Unit Type: 1 Bedroom
• Activities: Good
• Amenities: Good
• Unit Satisfaction: Very Good
• Family Friendliness: Very Good
• Service: Excellent

Alexander's is extremely casual dining. It is fast food-style, as in you order at the counter, get a number, and pick the food up yourself. There is no wait staff. All dining is outdoors, which is great, because Alexander's is across the street from Kihei Beach, and if you go in the evening, you have a view of a beautiful sunset. This place is extremely popular, however, because they have the greatest fish-and-chips. It is all they really serve, but you have your choice of fish and side dish. The prices can't be beat, and the food is great. I know I will be going back to Alexander's on my next trip to Maui.