MAUI INCENTIVE TRAVEL GUIDE
A PUBLICATION OF
BRIGHTSPOT
INTRODUCTION HOTELSWailea
Four Seasons Resort Maui Fairmont Kea Lani Grand Wailea - A Waldorf Astoria Resort Andaz Maui at Wailea Resort
KaanapaliHyatt Regency Maui Resort & Spa Sheraton Maui Resort & Spa Westin Maui Resort & Spa, Kaanapali
KapaluaThe Ritz-Carlton, Kapalua Montage Kapalua Bay
ACTIVITIES COMMENTARY
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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INTRODUCTIONHANDS DOWN, MAUI IS BEST SUITED FOR THE WIDEST VARIETY OF GROUPS.
It’s not surprising, then, that the island known for offering a sampling of all things
Hawaiian has been voted the #1 vacation spot in the world for 20 consecutive years
by the readers of Conde Nast. That’s because, for so very many visitors each year,
Maui is not too big, not too small, but consistently just right.
If luxury is what you’re seeking, there is no shortage of 5-star resorts along the
Maui coastline. The southern end of the island features the Wailea area and
includes Four Seasons Resort Maui, Fairmont Kea Lani, Grand Wailea, and the
Andaz.
The island’s northern Kapalua coastline is home to The Ritz-Carlton and the luxurious
Montage Kapalua Bay.
In between is Kaanapali, with a broad selection of more moderately priced resorts by
Hyatt, Westin, and Sheraton. In and around these properties, there is a
distinctly high concentration of restaurants, shopping, golf, and
boating. Family groups, in particular, enjoy the high energy
of this area and the tremendous selection of activities
available to all.
Many of the most popular activities on Maui are centered
around the natural elements that make the island such
a perennial favorite. These include watching the sunrise
atop 10,000-foot Mount Haleakala (and bicycling down
afterwards!), driving the scenic and winding road to take in
the waterfalls of Hana, and snorkeling amidst the vibrant fish of
the Molokini Crater.
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With 727 square miles of varied terrain, Maui offers groups the perfect foundation for
all kinds of beach activities and excursions, a full price range of dining options, and
ample outdoor adventures. In addition to its outstanding natural beauty, Maui’s small
towns and limited population makes it easy for visitors to explore the island without the
crowds of Oahu.
For the broadest appeal, the biggest selection of resorts, and the greatest selection
of restaurants and activities, Maui is unquestionably a must-see consideration for your
incentive travel plans.
LANDMARK Haleakala, the largest dormant volcano crater in the world.
#1 ACTIVITY Sunrise at Haleakala and biking down mountain.
FUN FACTThe largest Banyan tree in the world is found in Lahaina. Originally planted as an 8 foot tree in 1873, it spread to an entire acre.
RECOMMENDATION FOR GROUPS Start here – take your meeting or incentive trip here first.
THE VALLEY ISLE
KAHULUI
HALEAKALA
KAPALUA
WAILEA
HANA
KAANAPALI
MAUI
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HOTELS
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WAILEA
FOUR SEASONS RESORT MAUI As Maui’s only Forbes five-star and AAA five–diamond resort, the Four Seasons offers
the serenity of a secluded beachfront enhanced by the best-in-class guest service the
brand is known for. The vast majority of the 305 guest rooms and 75 grand suites enjoy
views of the Pacific Ocean, and a few face the tropical hillsides of Mount Haleakala or the
property’s exquisitely landscaped gardens.
The resort amenities include complimentary cabanas and beach umbrella service, an
award-winning spa, and three on-site boutiques. Other special touches include chilled
towels, Evian spritzes, fragrant sunscreen, and frozen fruit iced treats. Dining is a special
indulgence in any of the island’s three top-rated restaurants.
The resort’s championship paddling team stands ready for complimentary lessons and
excursions. Daily canoe trips take guests around the island as they learn Maui’s history
while observing Hawaiian green turtles, native reef fish, manta rays, and frequently an
active humpback whale.
MEETING PLANNER TIPThe complimentary amenities make the entire group feel like VIPs, and they don’t require any extra effort from meeting planners. Fantastic service. Fantastic dining options.
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WAILEA
FAIRMONT KEA LANI The Fairmont Kea Lani does an outstanding job of making each guest feel like a
privileged VIP by offering the state’s only all-suite, oceanfront design. The property
includes 413 spacious, one-bedroom suites and 37 additional private, two-and three-
bedroom villas.
The staff’s extraordinary efforts to create an exceptional spa experience have not gone
unnoticed by many repeat visitors and industry experts. The outstanding services of The
Willow Stream Spa have earned it the title of the “Best Spa in Hawaii” by the discerning
critics of Travel + Leisure magazine.
The resort’s dining options have something for every palate and preference, ranging from
traditional favorites to haute cuisine at the renowned Ko restaurant.
Because so many travelers to the islands are intrigued by the unique culture of Hawaii,
Fairmont Kea Lani has worked extensively to provide their guests with a deeper connection to
the island’s heritage. Their authentic Hawaiian experiences include classes and exposure to
cultural music, traditional celebrations, and local cuisine and have earned them the honor of
“Best Hawaiian Cultural Program” in Maui.
MEETING PLANNER TIPThe run-of-house, all-suite rooms (at 860 sf each) make every attendee feel like they received a VIP upgrade. It’s a good added value. The gorgeous beach is very private.
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WAILEA
GRAND WAILEA – A WALDORF ASTORIA RESORT Since opening in 1991 to critical acclaim, the Grand Wailea, an outstanding member of the
Waldorf Astoria group, has consistently been ranked among the world’s best resorts by
travel industry experts. The massive, 28,000 square foot Haleakala Ballroom is the largest in
Maui and can accommodate large crowds in grand style.
The hotel has 780 beautifully appointed guest rooms, suites, and villas, but the main
attraction for many are the pools and water activities. The Wailea Canyon Activity Pool
brings out the kid in everyone with waterslides, rapids, a rope swing, and even a water
elevator. The elegant Hibiscus Pool is reserved for adults and provides an oasis of relaxation
away from the crowds. Whatever their preference, few visitors can resist taking a dip in at
least one of the beautiful pools of the Grand Wailea.
MEETING PLANNER TIP“Grand” is the keyword. It’s excellent for large groups. Small groups could get lost (or alternatively enjoy the privacy of not seeing each other). The pool could be a mini-waterpark, so it’s a great option for groups with families. The Wailea beach is wide and gorgeous.
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WAILEA
ANDAZ MAUI AT WAILEA RESORT The Andaz Maui Resort at Wailea is the first resort-type property in the Andaz collection
of boutique hotels by Hyatt. As such, extreme attention was paid to the design and
construction of the hotel. Designed by the world-renowned architects of the Rockwell
Group, the Andaz beautifully captures the spirit of modern Hawaii and remains true to one
of the brand’s key elements—to be fully engaged in and representative of the surrounding
community.
The Andaz has 297 guest rooms, and this scale allows for a more intimate and intentional
service relationship between guests and staff. The Andaz experience is wonderfully
uncomplicated and pleasantly unpredictable at the same time.
As with all the beachfront resorts, the Andaz offers a full complement of water activities.
Golfing privileges on nearby, world-renowned courses, the Shops at Wailea, and Iao
Valley State Park are also frequent guest favorites.
Dining at the Andaz can be an event in itself. The famous Morimoto Maui restaurant makes
its home inside the hotel. Under the direction of Chef Masaharu Morimoto, of Iron Chef
fame, the menu predominantly features locally-sourced, season-fresh ingredients in dishes
that delicately blend the Western and Japanese influences so prevalent in Hawaiian history.
MEETING PLANNER TIPAndaz is the new, cool kid on the block (or beach). Modern, minimalist design feels like W meets Maui. Beach is secluded by massive rock formations and native trees. “Event” kitchen could be used for a unique “live appetizer” station.
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KAANAPALI
HYATT REGENCY MAUI RESORT & SPAThe Hyatt Regency Maui is a wonderful blend of tropical luxury and authentic Hawaiian
heritage. The resort’s 806 guestrooms (which includes 31 recently renovated suites) offer
guests Hawaiian sophistication with private lanais and panoramic views across the property.
With seven restaurants on site, there is cuisine for every taste and price range.
The resort is widely known for its popular Drums of the Pacific luau which takes place on
Kaanapali Beach. Long since voted the best luau on the island, it is often the highlight of
many guests’ trip.
In addition to the luau, the resort offers one of the most unique experiences around, “Tour of
the Stars.” In this one-of-a-kind experience, guests participate in a rooftop astronomy program
and learn the early history of the islands as told through the stars.
Championship golfing is available on two separate courses as is extensive shopping at
the always-bustling Whaler’s Village. A winding boardwalk along the adjacent beachfront
connects neighboring hotels, restaurants, and tourist-related activities such as tours, boat
charters, and catamaran adventures.
MEETING PLANNER TIPWe’ve hosted several club trips here. The Sales team is very flexible and works hard to build win-win budgets. We love the beachwalk along Kaanapali Beach. Whalers Village intersects the walkway with affordable shopping options.
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KAANAPALI
SHERATON MAUI RESORT & SPAThe Sheraton Maui is a charming mix of an established, trusted brand sporting a
relatively new facelift. As the oldest hotel in the area (built in 1963), the Sheraton Maui has
served and delighted guests for decades. In keeping with the brand’s commitment to
excellence, the hotel was closed from 1995-97 in order to give the property a $160 million
total makeover.
The results of the extensive overhaul have been impressive to say the least. Of the
508 guest rooms, over 80% feature an ocean view. Exciting dining venues, exceptional
snorkeling at the world-famous Black Rock, daily Hawaiian cultural activities, and a full-
service spa have made this resort a favorite for generations.
Each day ends with a long time crowd favorite: the nightly torch lighting and cliff diving
ceremony. Set against the backdrop of the setting Hawaiian sun, these rituals are part of
what makes this hotel so popular with returning guests. Veteran guests repeatedly vote
this Sheraton their #1 property within the brand from properties all over the world.
MEETING PLANNER TIPDon’t overlook this Sheraton. It’s the very best Sheraton we’ve seen. The property has low-rise buildings with ample lawns and large pool area, so the resort feels very spacious. The beachfront snorkeling is the best of any resort.
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KAANAPALI
WESTIN MAUI RESORT & SPA, KAANAPALIThe Westin Maui offers as many or as few planned activities as you want for your travel
reward. Activities abound should you wish, but so does the restfulness of a poolside
chaise, especially with five pools to choose from. Two towers, the Ocean and the Beach
Tower, house 759 rooms and have all been recently renovated to include luxurious
amenities such as the delightful Heavenly Beds in every room.
The hotel’s promenade showcases several boutiques for guests’ convenience and
indulgence. The Heavenly Spa by Westin offers unique services guaranteed to rejuvenate
mind and body pampering guests from head to toe.
FUN FACTThe Hawaiian alphabet has only 13 letters: A, E, H, I
K, L, M, N, O, P, U, W and the ‘okina (‘). The okina is a
glottal stop like the sound between the ohs in “uh-oh”
and is considered a consonant.
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KAPALUA
THE RITZ-CARLTON, KAPALUAFew hotels worldwide can boast of the extensive oceanfront expanse The Ritz-Carlton,
Kapalua has to offer. In all, the development is spread over a historic 23,000-acre pineapple
plantation including an impressive 54 acres of beachfront land.
The property includes two championship golf courses (with the Plantation Course
regularly hosting the PGA Tour each January), access to the award-winning P. T. Fleming
Beach, and one of Hawaii’s largest nature preserves, including two marine sanctuaries.
Other popular outdoor activities include a visit to the Maunalei Arboretum or a match
at the Kapalua Tennis Garden. Complimentary shuttle buses are available to transport
guests throughout the grounds.
Of the resort’s 463 rooms and suites, all are impeccably appointed in tropical elegance.
Precise attention to detail is evident throughout this property in ways large and small. The
result for guests and groups is a seamless, relaxing stay.
The hotel’s six restaurants feature dishes made from local ingredients and the resort’s
own sustainable organic garden on sight.
Specific only to this resort is the Jean-Michel Cousteau Ambassadors of the Environment
program for children, youth, and families. Through games and educational programs, the
staff works to promote an active awareness of Mother Earth during guests’ stay.
MEETING PLANNER TIPThe Ritz is by itself up north on Kapalua. The plus: group rates are often very attractive and it’s a retreat setting. The minus: not much nearby. The Ritz beach, P.T. Fleming, is award winning. Kapalua is often 5 degrees cooler from the trade winds. And, golfers love the PGA quality courses.
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KAPALUA
MONTAGE KAPALUA BAY What makes the Montage Kapalua Bay so unique is what it doesn’t have…lots of rooms
filled with lots of people. The resort features only 50 suites—50! and each one is exquisitely
designed. The result? An amenity-packed resort that offers guests the sense of exclusivity
usually reserved for celebrities and rock stars.
The focus on tradition is an integral part of the Montage experience. Tradition and heritage are
honored in ways large and small through the hotel’s restaurants, cultural events, and overall
design.
Full-service beach activities, live and local musical artists performing daily, and a world-class
spa combine to give guests a full complement of options during their stay. Even the hotel
swimming pool is a beautiful sight as the triple-decked pool cascades down the center of the
property, allowing guests to enjoy both the pool and the ocean simultaneously.
FUN FACTHawaii is the most isolated population center on the face
of the earth. Hawaii is 2,390 miles from California, 3,850
miles from Japan, 4,900 miles from China and 5,280
miles from the Philippines.
ACTIVITIES
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ACTIVITIES
ZIPLINE OVER THE CANYONS This five-line zipline tour offers almost three hours
of thrilling fun as you soar above trees, gulches, and
beautiful canyons of Haleakala.
HALEAKALA SUNRISE AND BRUNCH Greet the sun above the clouds on this narrated tour that
takes you to the peak of Mount Haleakala.
CHARTERED FISHING EXCURSIONS These all-inclusive trips are popular with all experience levels.
Reserved charters provide transfers to and from the harbor,
food, beverages and crews experienced in fishing for select
catch. Popular game fish frequently caught in the islands
include marlin, mahi-mahi (dolphinfish/dorado), ono (wahoo),
ahi (yellowfin tuna), aku (skipjack tuna), kawakawa (wavyback
bonita), shibi (bigeye tuna), kahala (amberjack), and ulua (giant
trevally).
HIKE & WATERFALL SWIM After a one-hour, narrated van tour, you’ll arrive at one
of the most popular valleys along Maui’s famous Hana
Highway. Once there, you can swim in large, freshwater
pools beneath a beautiful waterfall. For the adventurous,
there are rock ledges to jump from into the pools.
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ACTIVITIES
LANAI SAIL Start your morning off with a continental breakfast, then
enjoy the panoramic views as you cross the channel
between Lahaina Harbor and the Manele Harbor of
nearby Lanai. Once you arrive at Lanai, options include a
historical island tour by van, snorkeling in Kaunalu Cove, or
enjoying the day at Hulopoe Beach. Beachside you can
also swim, snorkel, explore nature trails, or even enjoy a
beach volleyball game organized by your sailboat crew.
HELICOPTER TOUR OF MAUI + MOLOKAI Specially outfitted helicopters, complete with near
soundproof headphones and recorded narratives provide
you with a perspective of the islands unlike any other. This
flight combines two islands in one tour. The Maui portion
includes views of the West Maui mountain range and the
valleys of Iao, Honokohau, Olowalu, Ukumehame, and
Waihee. Across the channel, the views of Molokai include
the spectacular sea cliffs.
HORSEBACK RIDING On this 90-minute trek, riders will follow a walking trail
through a working cattle ranch complete with expansive
pastures and towering eucalyptus trees. Once you make
the trip to the top of Haleakala Crater, you can enjoy a
360-degree view of the island and the ocean, 2,000 feet
below.
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ACTIVITIES
SCUBA FOR CERTIFIED DIVERS Certified scuba divers will enjoy a thrilling outing
with Ed Robinson, locally respected within the Maui
dive community for more than 25 years. As a noted
underwater photographer, his images appear in many
popular diving publications. Each of the dive boats
are fast, comfortable, and custom-designed by Ed
for group diving trips. All boats have shaded areas, a
bathroom, fresh water, dry storage, and a large dive
deck (including easy waterway entry and exit).
ROAD TO HANA TOUR The best way to enjoy the world-famous “Road to Hana”
is as a passenger – and preferably in an air-conditioned,
12-person, luxury van. When you leave the driving to
guides, you are free to enjoy all 52 miles of winding roads
(617 hairpin curves!), lots of one-lane bridges (56 in all!),
and unbeatable scenery that includes pineapple fields,
spectacular cliffs, bamboo jungles, waterfalls, tropical
streams and pools, fragrant island flowers, and rainforest
vegetation.
KAYAK + SNORKEL ADVENTURE This excursion allows you to enjoy the ocean from above
and below. No experience is necessary
as all guests are given complete instructions
on paddling and water safety before
heading out to Makena Bay.
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ACTIVITIES
MAUI OCEAN CENTER EXPLORATIONS Dubbed “The Hawaiian Aquarium,” visitors can see
spectacular live coral displays, including the largest
collection of coral in the country, the popular green sea
turtles, and the more dangerous sharks and manta rays,
all while learning about Hawaii’s history and cultural
heritage.
UNDERWATER ADVENTURE After a 15-minute ferry ride, you’ll board a high-tech
submarine and begin your 100-foot descent into a side of
paradise that remained hidden to many for centuries. The
ultimate destination for the ride is a porthole-view of The
Carthaginian, a sunken 1921 steel-hulled sailing vessel,
retired to the sea in 2005.
SURF-PADDLING LESSONS Originally called “beach boy surfing” after the famous
Waikiki beach boys who combined their outrigger canoe
skills with their surfing skills, this sport now has many
names. Instructors show you how to paddle and steer while
aboard a surfboard to tame the waves.
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BRIGHTSPOT COMMENTARYAsk most people their dream of the ideal vacation and you’ll likely hear mentions of
three must-haves: tropical beaches, one-of-a-kind opportunities for adventure, and
fabulous dining options. Corporate meeting planners and incentive travel attendees
have the same goal.
Few places in the world can not only meet, but so expertly surpass these qualifications like the
Hawaiian Islands. Fewer still are as extremely well-suited for group travel as The Aloha State.
With a vast and unique range of outstanding accommodations, an endless array of activities,
and mile-upon-mile of pristine beaches, an escape to the islands of Hawaii can offer the thrill of
a lifetime to incentive travelers.
There are many good reasons, that year after year, the readers of Travel + Leisure, Conde
Nast Traveler, and TripAdvisor rank Hawaii as their top choice for vacationing: that’s
because whatever your pleasure (or that of your group),
TOP 10 ISLANDS IN THE WORLD TOP ISLANDS IN THE WORLD
Maui #2 Maui #3
Kauai #3 Kauai #4
Big Island #4 Big Island #10
Oahu #6 Oahu #16
TRAVEL + LEISURE CONDE NAST TRAVELER
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Collectively, the islands embody the Aloha spirit - that gracious acceptance and
warm welcome extended to all who visit; individually, each island is known for its own
distinct personality and unique attractions that set it apart. Catering to groups is the
specialty of the world-class resorts that dot the islands. All were originally designed to
accommodate groups and their unique needs.
So, whether your team is seasoned travelers looking for unique, never-been-done-
before experiences or they’re relative newcomers to the rewards of incentive travel,
each and every trip to Hawaii can offer new sights, adventures, and memories for
everyone.
When Hawaii is in the meeting or incentive plans, it’s amazing how work becomes so
much more rewarding.
BRIGHTSPOT RECOMMENDATIONS
Visit a different Hawaiian island every 3 years for
top-ranked islands, luxury hotels,
popular activities, and a varied mix of
world class experiences.
No two visits to Hawaii are ever the same. Each
island graciously promises something different,
something distinct, and something tremendously
popular for your
top-performing employees.
ISLANDEXPERIENCES
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LANDMARK Haleakala, the largest dormant volcano crater in the world
#1 ACTIVITY Sunrise at Haleakala and biking down mountain
FUN FACTThe largest Banyan tree in the world is found in Lahaina. Originally planted as an 8 foot tree in 1873, it spread to an entire acre.
RECOMMENDATION FOR GROUPS Start here – take your meeting or incentive trip here first.
THE VALLEY ISLE
KAHULUI
HALEAKALA
KAPALUA
WAILEA
KAANAPALI
HANA
MAUI
MAUIStart here - take your meeting or incentive trip here first.
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LANDMARK Waikiki
#1 ACTIVITY Pearl Harbor & USS Arizona
FUN FACT Iolani Palace, located in downtown Honolulu, is the only Royal Palace in the USA.
RECOMMENDATION FOR GROUPS
Most walkable options for free time activities or lower budget.
THE GATHERING PLACE
OAHUMost walkable options for free time activities or lower budget.
WAIKIKI
HAUULA
KAILUA
HONOLULU
WAIALUA
OAHU
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LANDMARK Waimea Canyon, known as the “Grand Canyon of the Pacific”
#1 ACTIVITY Exploring the Na Pali Coast
FUN FACT More than 60 Hollywood movies have been filmed here, including Jurassic Park, Raiders of the Lost Ark, and Avatar.
RECOMMENDATION FOR GROUPS Best for adventures.
THE GARDEN ISLAND
KAUAIBest for adventures.
POIPU
LIHUE
PRINCEVILLE
NA PALI COAST
WAIMEA CANYON
KAUAI
KAPAA
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LANDMARK Kilauea Volcano
#1 ACTIVITY Hawaii Volcanoes National Park
FUN FACT11 of 13 world’s climate zones are here, from tropical rainforest to volcanic desert to polar tundra, due to the shielding elevations of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa.
RECOMMENDATION FOR GROUPS
Most diverse natural activities – check off your bucket list: “see volcano”.
THE BIG ISLAND
BIG ISLANDMost diverse natural activities – check off your bucket list: “see volcano”.
HAWAII
HAWAII VOLCANOES
KAPAUU
WAIKOLOA
KAILUA KONAHILO
BIG ISLAND
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LANDMARK Luahiwa Petroglyphs
#1 ACTIVITY Munro Trail
FUN FACT The entire island of Lanai was rented out in 1994 by Bill Gates for his wedding.
RECOMMENDATION FOR GROUPS
If group is well-traveled, few have visited here, so Lanai offers a new experience.
SECLUDED ISLAND WAS PINEAPPLE ISLAND
LANAIIf group is well-traveled, few have visited here, so Lanai offers a new experience.
LANAI
LANAI CITY
MANELE BAY
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