How a $160 Million Renovation Has Transformed the Westin Maui Resort & Spa

Most times a multimillion renovation to a resort only benefits the guests.

But part of the $160 million renovation to the Westin Maui Resort & Spa Kā‘anapali is open to everyone—and that was exactly the point.

Seven months after deadly wildfires devastated Lahaina, killing at least 101 people, the hotel wrapped up renovations that included a social center, a unique, 10,000-square-foot arcade space where guests and residents could relax and unwind. This social center, located off the hotel’s lobby in the Kūkahi Tower, is anchored by TopGolf Swing Suites and includes duckpin bowling, modern and classic arcade games, virtual reality games, claw machines, and a bar and lounge that serves food.

It’s the first venue of its kind in Hawai‘i—and a way the hotel could give back to its West Maui community.

Duckpin bowling at the new social center at the Westin Maui.
Photo: Catherine Toth Fox

The rest of the renovation, which started in 2017, includes the complete overhaul and rebranding of the Ocean Tower into the new Kūkahi Tower, aimed at creating a calm and rejuvenating stay. The guest rooms feature original wall-mounted wood sculptures, unique printed textiles and woven area rugs made specifically for the tower.

The word kūkahi means to “stand alone or stand upright” in Hawaiian, explains Josh Hargrove, Westin Maui’s general manager. “But like many Hawaiian concepts, it has a deeper meaning: the elementary and energy force that creates growth from the land. In line with this theme, our hope is that guests in Kūkahi would experience an empowering sense of well-being and personal growth during their time here.”

The view from the room at the Westin Maui Resort & Spa.
Photo: Catherine Toth Fox

The 217-room Hōkūpaʻa Tower has also been upgraded, too. Guests who stay in this luxury beach tower have access to The Lānai and its bespoke culinary and cultural activities like lei po‘o making and ‘ukulele lessons. In the mornings and evenings, guests can enjoy snacks and small bites. And in this second-floor space is a shallow pool, where you can lounge—half-submerged, if you want—and sip craft cocktails and watch the sunset.

The day bed at the Lānai.
Photo: Catherine Toth Fox

Guests looking to elevate their escape can book the extravagant Hōkūpaʻa Suite 288, which features a spacious entertaining area, day beds and an expansive rooftop terrace with a private hot tub, lounge and outdoor dining space, and unparrelled ocean views. This is a great space for an intimate wedding reception or celebration.

The hotel also opened a new restaurant concept by beloved local chef Peter Merriman. ‘Ulu Kitchen boasts a menu of local-style dishes made with fresh, seasonal and locally grown ingredients—all with a commanding view of the ocean. (If this space looks familiar, it used to house Waicoco.) Menu items include lobster ravioli, Hāmākua mushroom pot pie and Maui Nui venison. At lunchtime, guests can pick up grab-and-go items like poke bowls, smash burgers and avocado toast at The Sandwich Aisle.

Breakfast at ‘Ulu Kitchen.
Photo: Catherine Toth Fox

But what guests have always loved about the Westin Maui remains: a 87,000 square feet of pool playground, a world-class spa and a location just steps from the golden sands of Kā‘anapali Beach.