Wellness and romance on Maui

Like many newlyweds, my husband and I honeymooned on Maui. As a destination, the island is renowned as a “lovers paradise,” and it offers sunny days on the beach, dramatic sunsets, spa, pampering, and ample opportunities for romance. Since our first trip, The Valley Isle has held a special place in our hearts and continues to be our favorite Hawaiian Island to visit. It’s where we go to relax, recharge, and feel a greater sense of wellness. Here are three romantic Maui luxury hotels that allow guests to relax, retreat and reconnect with the ones they love.

The Four Seasons Maui

Go all-in for luxury and romance at The Four Seasons Maui. Located on Maui’s south end in Wailea, the property has all the amenities you expect from a Four Seasons, including exceptional service, couples-only experiences and spa treatments that are second to none. The resort is nestled on a quiet corner of beachfront between The Fairmont Kea Lani and The Grand Wailea resort and spa. This means it’s in the perfect location to snorkel at Wailea Point, take a Bamboo Forest Hike, or just lounge. Another option: Rent the Oceanfront Missoni Cabana for a romantic way to spend a lazy day.

Viewfinder tip: As Maui can be an expensive destination, consider visiting during and fall months, when the weather is good and so are the hotel rates.

Andaz Maui at Wailea

Last winter on a morning jog, I ran by the new Andaz Maui at Wailea as it was being built; from that moment, I knew the place would be incredible. When it opened in September 2013, it was. From the hotel’s cascading infinitely pools (including an adults-only pool), to its ocean view guest rooms and suites with private lanais, this hotel is definitely on our short list for romantic escapes during our next trip to Maui. The full-service Andaz spa, ‘Awili, offers ten treatment rooms and an apothecary lounge, where visitors can use the blending bar to create custom lotions made with locally grown herbs, plants and fruits.

Photo: Lumeria Maui

Lumeria Maui

Looking to channel your inner yogi for a spiritual retreat away from the hustle and bustle of Maui’s beach resorts? Lumeria, located in Maui’s upcountry, near Makawao, bills itself as the “most luxurious boutique retreat,” and an “alternative to traditional hotel and resort vacations.” The hotel is big on wellness and provides a full program calendar with ample opportunities to meditate, reflect, and get away from the stresses of daily life. Plan to completely disconnect when you are at Lumeria; the property has just 24 rooms with ocean and island views, and each room is designed for ultimate relaxation (read: No TV). Lumeria is a short drive from the hipster/arty town of Paia, and features six acres of tropical landscaping, a yoga lawn, and farm-to-table dining on-site.

How do you seek romance when you visit Maui?