On a recent stay at Grand Wailea this past January, we found a hotel that has now entered the second phase of the largest renovation in its 30-year history. A limited number of cabanas are available for rent daily. What are some good guide and hiking books? Information about VOG (Volcanic Fog) Events on Maui. The holiday season is full of merriment this December with pop-up events, seasonal menus at Ikena, holiday treatments at Mhalu by Spa Grande. more. A symbol of longevity and serenity in Japanese culture, rocks were not only flown in from around the base of Mt. For the ultimate in privacy and luxury, stay in one of the propertys villas, which offer private lanais, views of the ocean, and separate living and sleeping areas. A newly remodeled twin room in the Napua Tower. Improve this listing Three Native Hawaiian groups Malama Kakanilua, the Pele Defense Fund and Hooponopono were granted intervenor status Jan. 28. The Live Grande menu includes energy treatments such as reiki, healing arts like reflexology and cupping, nutrition sessions, mindfulness lessons and metaphysical sessions, including birth and wedding charts and natal readings. All rights reserved. Grand Wailea will phase in renovations throughout its remaining inventory (the property features 776 rooms and suites) in the coming year. Leading that charge was the Wailea resort area, which by itself was best in the state last year for occupancy (88.4%, up 1.3%), average room rate ($618, up 5.7%) and revenue per available room ($547, up 7.4%). The Grand Wailea, a Waldorf Astoria Resort - is getting a massive makeover (renovations are happening as we speak). The property reopened on Nov. 15. Grand Wailea is near completion of a multifaceted revitalization across different phases, with each phase unfolding harmoniously into the next to allow us to provide our usual gold standard of service and hospitality, without interruption. Thanks to the speed limit I was late for my date. Landscaper Jim Heid (right) leads guests on educational tours of the ample gardens. Ikena, which can mean a view, seeing or knowing, is the name of the new brunch restaurant, an indoor-outdoor venue. After changing hands and hotel brands a few times over the years, the property was finally converted to Grand Wailea Maui, A Waldorf Astoria Resort in 2006; however, Mr. Sekiguchis vision has persevered thanks in large part to a dedicated team of stewards like Uwkoolani and Heid who continue to share the hotels fascinating history with guests via their free cultural and garden tours. Mahalo for supporting Honolulu Star-Advertiser. One Category Upgrade on arrival, subject to availability (upgrade is from room to room or suite to suite, upgrade does not apply to specialty one of a kind suites or bungalows), Daily Breakfast Credit for up to two guests per bedroom (value of $80 per bedroom, per day) in HaLani Restaurant, $100 USD Resort Credit for Dining, Spa or Golf per stay to be utilized during stay (not combinable, not valid on room rate, no cash value if not redeemed in full), Early check-in/late check-out, subject to availability, Complimentary Wi-Fi already included in the resort fee, Napua guests gain exclusive access to lounge with breakfast, snacks, afternoon canaps and drinks. On 40 acres of tropical gardens, phase one debuted with a newly revitalized Botero Lounge; totally revamped Napua rooms, suites and private lounges; and a transformation of 'Ikena brunch restaurant and Loulu grab-and-go market. The new cabanas at the Hibiscus Pool will certainly be in high demand. "We also have 43 beautiful acres to take advantage of, and we are looking to take programs outside using our garden spaces, luau grounds and other areas to make a bootcamp area and hold other activities.". Andaz, building A (19 units) should be completed mid-March 2021, crane removal early September. Other menu highlights include theTako carpaccio with chimichurri, Hawaiian snapper with miso, Albacore Truffle with yuzu dressing, and Spicy tuna with crispy rice. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Enjoy this free story! Embrace Hawaiian culture and learn the stories and traditions of our island home with our immersive experiences and activities. These club level rooms and suites are more modern, and guests have access to a private concierge along with daily tasting and happy hours are the exclusive to Napua Lounge guests. "We had all these elements in place, like the virtual concierge service, before the pandemic, but people were not really buying in," he said. 301 Route 17 N, Suite 1150, Rutherford, NJ With views over the Pacific, the buffet and a la carte options are a delightwhatever you do dont miss the Maui Honey Fried Chicken and Waffles and purple uala latte for some real local flavor. Its only the beginning for this resorts magnificent renovations. Rooms are warm and inviting. The lounges namesake comes for the nine bronze Fernando Botero statues, all of which have lived on property from the beginning and are part of Mr. Sekiguchis private collection. J.P. Oliver, managing director for Grand Wailea, said in a statement, Grand Wailea understands and is very sensitive to the significance of iwi kupuna. Their website doesn't seem to be much help. This is the version of our website addressed to speakers of English in the United States. Ho'olei at Grand Wailea Condominium Rentals Hawai'i Best Vacation Timeshare Property The Westin K'anapali Ocean Resort Villas Marriott's Maui Ocean Club Diamond Resorts & Hotels, K'anapali Beach Club Honua Kai Resort & Spa Kama'ole Sands Categories: Best of 2021 Tags: 2021 Readers' Choice Awards, Hotels & Resorts, Its main benefit appears to be a 30% discount on the property's Best Available Rate. Now, for the first time since opening in 1991, Grand Wailea is undergoing a property-wide revamp. All rights reserved. Wailea Update Grand Wailea has the preliminary approval for . Oliver said in some ways the pandemic has been a boost for getting guests to adopt new technology that was previously catching on at a much slower rate, such as QR codes that enable them to download things such as restaurant menus, spa services and general resort information directly to their smartphones. Cruise Ships Schedules for Maui and other islands? Grand Wailea, which houses the largest private collection of Botero sculptures in the world, restored the pieces to their original form as part of the wider revitalization. Expansion plans for the Grand Wailea Maui, a Waldorf Astoria Resort, recently hit another snag when the Maui Planning Commission granted a petition to intervene in the wake of community pushback against the $150 million project. Is it safe to travel along the Road to Hana? It will increase guest satisfaction and lead to higher spending so that the resort brings in more tax revenues, Vieira said. What are some good things to know about traveling to Maui? 4 0 obj Find your next adventure with our interactive map. To speak with a friendly Grand Wailea representative. "But we're really getting back to the fundamentals of tourism and hospitality. <> Experience more with a $100 resort credit each night of your stay, ready for any experience or relaxation. Where do I find information about ocean safety? Its why Ben Rafter, managing director of Ampersand Venture 1, which recently bought the Maui Beach Hotel on the Kahului shoreline and plans to build a new hotel next door on the former Maui Palms site, said he doesnt think all of the hotel development being discussed on Maui will advance. The Top Island Itineraries for 2023s New Cruise Ships, One Lucky Amateur Meteorologist is about to Become Arubas New Weatherperson, 7 Ideal Island and Coastal Destinations for a Bachelorette Getaway, 13 Spectacular Places and Ways to Pop the Question this Year, 20 Great Ways to have the Best Adult Spring Break of Your Life, Club Med 2 is Back with New Elevated Amenities and Exciting Destinations, For Beachy Bajan Beauty, Level Up with a Stay at this Spectacular Barbados Rental, Cas en Bas Offers a Realistic Opportunity to Enjoy a Personal Slice of St. Lucia. Just Go with It Hawaii Scenes Filmed mostly at Grand Wailea. Grand Wailea Unveils First Phase of Resort-Wide Renovation. "We plan to open our restaurants in a phased approach, starting with two restaurants plus room service and then opening the rest in phases as occupancy builds. The Grand Wailea Resort & Spa is a 40-acre Waldorf Astoria luxury resort located on the beach in Wailea, Maui, Hawaii. This late in the cycle, people historically go negative on tourism. Botero Lounge will also be the setting for Grand Waileas The Art of series, featuring educational/experiential workshops that include: The Art of Sushi Making (with Chef Moony), the Art of Cocktail Mixing (with bar masters from New York Citys Employees Only), and The Art of Whiskey (small-batch tastings led by certified spirits specialists). Hawaii, Hotels, Travel Marissa December 12, 2022 Hawaii, hotel, resort, review, renovations, Grand wailea renovation, Maui, Resort, Spa, maui, Napua Tower Comment. Their involvement has cast some uncertainty on the resorts plans, which might give other developers pause. Is Waianapanapa the only true black sand beach? One of the biggest changes thus far is the opening of Napua Tower, which debuted in June. When all is said and done, Grand Wailea will always hold a special place in my familys heart. Discover the worldin comforton Viking ocean cruises to Scandinavia, Mediterranean, Asia, Australia, the Americas or around https://www.travelweekly.com/Hawaii-Travel/A-reopened-Grand-Wailea-changes-with-the-times. I can't wait for those interactions with guests again. Now, he has seen demand through December even out as guests and their children have more flexibility to take their responsibilities on the road. endobj The updates to the Botero Lounge feature select outwork from Grand Waileas 900-piece outdoor museum, equipped with nine bronze sculptures by renowned contemporary artist, Fernando Botero, each flown in from Italy over 30 years ago. In comparison, Honolulus air seat growth was only about 2%, and there were fewer air seats to Hilo, while Kona and Lihue stayed flat. The beachside Maui resort shuttered at the start of the pandemic in March, when Hawaii instituted a mandatory two-week quarantine for everyone arriving to the Islands. While the 5% climb in visitor arrivals to the Valley Isle contributed to a visitor spending increase of 2.4% to $5.12 billion, some Maui residents dont think thats enough to offset the corresponding strain on infrastructure, affordable housing, natural resources and quality of life. Respecting Wildlife Underwater Photography Tips and Equipment Ideas New York-based Blackstone Group LP, a private equity firm, purchased the 776-room Grand Wailea for $1.1 billion, a real estate price trumped only by the sale of Manhattans Waldorf Astoria for $1.95 billion. Members who are knowledgeable about this destination and volunteer their time to answer travelers' questions. Ikena, Grand Waileas signature breakfast and brunch venue, provides a gorgeous setting at any time of the day, with its soaring ceilings and indoor-outdoor setting accentuating all the natural beauty that surrounds. Growing up in Southern California, my introduction to the Grand Wailea was through my parents, who planned a family vacation here circa 1992 after my mom read an article calling it one of best hotels in the world that year. Other changes centered on the Napua Tower, an exclusive enclave of hotel rooms and suites that debuted in June following a complete renovation. Just below Botero Lounge is Ikena, the resorts newly reopened, indoor/outdoor breakfast buffet, while Loulu, a nature-based artisanal caf/market offering pizza, acai bowls, fresh-brewed coffee and more, will open in late July. 2020, 1:19 PM HST . Commercial Cleaning New York > Cleaning Tips > grand wailea renovations 2020 Why The Right Cleaning Equipment & Supplies Are Vital Posted on February 8, 2022 by Even with the current multi-year, multi-phase renovations, the vision and the magic that Takeshi Sekiguchi first set out to create are still alive and thriving, and I for one, cant wait to see what the future holds on my next visit. History is in the Making at the Iconic Grand Wailea Maui. Resistance to tourism-related development has accelerated in recent years as the states visitor arrivals have grown. From reviews, it appears the (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? #7-500 We are thrilled to update the classic charm of Grand Wailea, while enhancing the luxury and heritage for which it is known, and to commemorate this new chapter with so many exciting activations and partnerships, Managing Director JP Oliver said in a news release Thursday. This photo shows the Four Seasons hotel, left, and the Grand Hyatt, right, now the Grand Wailea resort, under construction in April 1989. The newly renovated breakfast restaurant Ikena has views over the Pacific Ocean. They contend further construction would disturb even more iwi, or bones, which many Native Hawaiians believe carry spiritual power and are protected by state law. While we didnt get to stay in Napua Tower on this visit, I did get a chance to check it out on a tour of the hotel, and the rooms are downright beautiful. Additional nights will receive an additional $200 resort credit daily. Guests can request a room or area at the hotel with their own workstation, including a monitor, conferencing equipment and other supplies. Offer applies for travel now through ?? 2023 is a year to allow the visionary within to come out. Recent reviews discuss the remodel/renovation. The Grand Wailea team has spent the last seven months reimagining the guest experience and how the resort functions with local, federal and brand standards for health and safety in mind. Wailea, Maui, HI (October 27, 2022): Grand Wailea, a Waldorf Astoria Resort, has announced the phase-one completion of its property-wide refresh, marking the most extensive renovation since its launch more than 30 years ago.The iconic resort, perched along 40 acres of lush, tropical gardens fronting Maui's Wailea Beach, presents a newly revitalized Botero Lounge at the heart of the resort, a . Experience more with a $100 resort credit each night of your stay, ready for any experience or relaxation. Hawaii in February, How's the Weather and How's Tourism? Already a subscriber? The Grand Waileas owner, BRE Hotels & Resorts, a Blackstone portfolio company, did not oppose the intervenors application, although theres a lot riding on the renovation. Looking for grass huts & advice! The Grand Wailea is owned by BRE Hotels & Resorts and is the largest private employer on the island of Maui. Situated on 40 acres of lush, tropical Hawaiian gardens, Grand Wailea opens onto Maui's beautiful Wailea Beach, voted one of the best beaches in America, with elegant and newly-renovated accommodations, indulgent spa treatments, fine dining and thrilling recreational options. Encompassing one wing on the 4th floor adjacent to Caf Kula, and accessed via a lantern-lit hallway, these 19 rooms-turned-treatment-sanctuaries offer a spacious and private setting for Hawaiian-inspired treatments for singles and couples, such as Lomi Lomi and Pohaku Stone massages and the Honey Macadamia Nut Indulgence (a relaxing mask and massage combo). Print subscriber but without online access? Mohalu by Spa Grande will redefine serenity. . Grand Wailea, a Waldorf Astoria Resort completed phase one of its property-wide refresh, its most extensive renovation since its opening more than 30 years ago. To me this is an ideal situation where you have a resort in a resort district staying on a property footprint but adding more rooms that will bring more employees. New colors will be brighter but will keep nods to the Grand Wailea corals and pinks that guests love. Located on 40 acres fronting Wailea Beach, the resort unveiled a newly revitalized Botero Lounge; a total revamp of its exclusive Napua rooms, suites and private lounge; and the transformation of two dining venues into a brunch restaurant, Ikena, and a grab-and-gourmet market, Loulu. With their help, and based on the feedback of the community, our thoughtful plans show the utmost respect for iwi, and demonstrates our commitment to building a strong and more sustainable future for Grand Wailea and Maui.. Hear untold stories and immerse yourself in the rich heritage of our island home through our bespoke signature experiences, including hands-on workshops at Hpuu, Grand Waileas new cultural center, and weekly tours with our expert Cultural Ambassador. Lounge, soak, and enjoy at our serene adults-only Hibiscus Pool, or play with the entire family at our Wailea Canyon complex of interconnected activity pools, slides, a Tarzan swing, swim-up bar, and more. Art Teacher with a demonstrated . photo of Grand Wailea pools at sunset by Kathy Marsh / @travelkat74 from Unspash via SquareSpace and is not owned by travelhappier. Many products featured on this site were editorially chosen. TRAVELHAPPY LLC. dba travelhappier is a registered travel agency in the State of Hawaii (TAR 7250) and an independent affiliate of The SmartFlyer. A few rooms were completely redone as private "gym pods" with Peloton stationary bikes, treadmills, free weights and other equipment. Deepen your connection with Maui with our range of exclusive resort experiences, hand-selected by our team of local experts. The Grand Wailea seems underpriced right now, it's actually cheaper than Wailea Beach Resort and all the others in Wailea, and I have a feeling it's due to the renovations I'm reading about in . Better known as HumuHumu, this Hawaiian fusion fine dining restaurant has been mainstay at Grand Wailea for almost 30 years. Islands may receive financial compensation for products purchased through this site. ", Copyright 2023 Northstar Travel Media, LLC. When its not reserved in advance (and if you ask nicely) its worth waiting for, especially at sunset. MLS: 398265 (Active - For Sale) New Listing! The rooms have a natural contemporary Hawaiian feel. We want to take advantage of each day and provide engaging and educational experiences. Meet the Winemaker featuring Kosta Browne, Featured Cocktails by Employees Only Mixologists, Mini Astrology Readings with Resident Astrologer, Juliet Butters Doty. One of the biggest renovation overhauls happening on property right now is to the hotels spa, which will reopen as a new concept in a 50,000-sq. Located at Maui Marketplace between Office Max & Old Navy, the 25,000sq ft warehouse is filled with Ritz Carlton, Grand Wailea and Westin furniture and accessories. [3] [4] The hotel opened in 1991 as the Grand Hyatt Wailea. Devotees of the coral-hued hotel are going to be thrilled with the results and I am going to give you a sneak peak! Islands may receive financial compensation for products purchased through this site. By the time the 776-room mega-resort finally opened as a Grand Hyatt Wailea in 1991, Mr. Sekiguchi spent an estimated $600 million on the projectover $1 billion todayin what was then reported as one of the most expensive hotel's ever built in the U.S. "Of the $600 million it took to create to create the property, $40 million went to . One of Grand Waileas signature experiences, Spa Grande, is undergoing a major revitalization and wont reopen until Fall 2023but the property has created a soothing stand-in in Mohalu by Spa Grande. My wife and I are now trying to decide between staying at the Grand Wailea and the Wailea Beach Resort in two weeks. Fuji, but prior to shipping them over, Mr. Sekiguchi had them photographed and meticulously placed to mirror the exact replica of what they looked like on the mountainif thats not attention to detail I dont know what is. Grand Waileas revitalization project was featured in Travel + Leisure, with writer Devorah Lev-Tov offering a first-hand experience of the enhanced resort experience. "We haven't gotten a lot of folks yet who want to come to Hawaii to work, but homeschooling has been coming up, and I think the pandemic is really changing the way people are traveling," he said. Expectations are always high for the most expensive hotels ever built, and it never fails to deliver. William Meheula of the law firm Sullivan Meheula Lee testified on behalf of the Grand Wailea at the Jan. 28 Planning Commission hearing, saying: We have done everything we can to plan responsibly for the proposed project to minimize ground disturbance and locate development activities in areas of low sensitivity. What are some of the best restaurants on Maui? Grand Wailea Pool Renovations 3 years ago Save During a longer stay on the island, wanted to try GW for a night or 2 for the pool. "Thanks to Governor Ige's don't come to (ta && ta.queueForLoad ? The Grand Wailea, a Waldorf Astoria Resort and one of Mauis largest hotels, has wrapped up the first phase of its most extensive renovation since it launched more than 30 years ago. Keith Vieira, principal of KV & Associates Hospitality Consulting, said: Unfortunately, the Grand Waileas challenges, especially the delays in time, will make some developers and hotel owners think twice about expansion. The Grand Wailea was purchased by BRE Iconic GWR Owner LLC in April 2018 and had publicly announced improvement plans for the property, which prompted both interest and concerns. That growth is fueling a development cycle that could add 10 or more new hotels and timeshare properties to a market that over the last two decades had lost more than 25% of its hotel inventory. Telephone: 808-529-4747. While not a bad seat in the house, word to the wise, Table 70 is one of the most coveted spots in town, and perfect for groups or special occasions. Bistro Molokini will be undergoing enhancements starting in 2023. This is not a new project, rather a fully developed resort where proposed excavation will occur in areas excavated before and iwi was not found.. Free Travel Planners for Hawaii & each island. I had an exceptional Hawaiian LomiLomi massage with an angel of a masseuse named Laurie, and not that she needed it, but my mom loved her age-defying facial which left her skin looking brighter and better than ever. Two of the resorts former food and beverage venues also got a refresh. We are excited to announce a new spa concept called Mhaluby Spa Grande, a new intimate spa experience and personal escape, inspired by the same Spa Grande heritage and traditions. The tutors are an included amenity, and Oliver said he was overwhelmed by the level of interest from the community of Maui teachers. 2 0 obj "There's a feel to it, an energy created by the people. <>/ExtGState<>/ProcSet[/PDF/Text/ImageB/ImageC/ImageI] >>/MediaBox[ 0 0 612 792] /Contents 4 0 R/Group<>/Tabs/S/StructParents 0>> Lounge also has special activities and crafts daily exclusive to Napua guests. Read more Suggest edits to improve what we show. Thats great like yo hear about renovations, You are right easy walk to other resorts on a very nice beach. We treasure our island community and play our part to conserve its natural resources by implementing resort-wide water-saving, solid waste reduction, and energy-saving measures. taking guests on a veritable grand tour of the island's beauty and bringing focus on Haleakal as its majestic backdrop," a . Nov 22, 2020 | The pool area at the Grand Wailea, a Waldorf Astoria Resort. NEW Ahihi-Kina'u Map and Snorkel Info, October 2018 Can I Still Snorkel Ahihi-Kinau Area Reserve? * Blackout dates apply. Grand Wailea is near completion of a multifaceted revitalization across different phases, with each phase unfolding harmoniously into the next to allow us to provide our usual gold standard of service and hospitality, without interruption. Copyright 2023 StarAdvertiser.com. Grand Wailea Maui, A Waldorf Astoria Resort. Theres also a new fast casual market on property called Loulu, which is the all-day cafe serving up everything from delicious breakfast sandwiches, acai bowls, and coffee to pizzas and salads. Grand Wailea renovations Mar 28, 2022, 9:12 AM Save Plan on visiting in late July. This carpet from one of the Napua Tower suites reimagined by Nina Chiappa Interiors reminds me of a coral reef. Treatments can be taken outside to a poolside cabana or reserved in the guest's room. Where do I find some good, inexpensive restaurants on Maui? The resort has added a Wellness Ambassador, who helms an office where guests can pick up masks and other personal protective equipment, get their temperature checked and access other health resources. The Grand Wailea Hotel in Maui is looking to hire a Chief Creative Photographer who will receive a three-month residency at the hotel, daily food and beverage stipend, and $10,000 to capture . Maui County hotels in 2019 led Hawaiis four island counties in average daily rates and the all-important revenue per available room, the amount a hotelier earns per room regardless of its occupancy status. During the Wailea Canon renovations project, the Grand Wailea's adults-only Hibiscus Pool will remain open. Just be prepared to pay up for the additional amenities that come with the club level access if you stay here. All Dining Venues at Grand Wailea Humuhumunukunu- kupuaa. All Rights Reserved. It's not about bricks and mortar, it's about engagement and creating experiences. It features an island-inspired BBQ menu (Hawaiian-style pulled pork sandwiches and avocado tacos, for example) and is open for breakfast and lunch. ta.queueForLoad : function(f, g){document.addEventListener('DOMContentLoaded', f);})(function(){ta.trackEventOnPage('postLinkInline', 'impression', 'postLinks-111169818', '');}, 'log_autolink_impression');Hawaii now statement the resort is at only 30 to 35 percent capacity". Grand Wailea has the preliminary approval for major expansion, however, they are pending approval from the county. Several dining places and the Napua Tower rooms and private club are completely refreshed and ready for visitors. At the heart of this remarkable project is a desire to preserve and update Grand Waileas rich heritage and unique character, allowing us to deliver a fresh, modern interpretation of Hawaii and the relaxed elegance for which Grand Wailea is known and celebrated. . During the pandemic hiatus, the property renovated its 4,850-square-foot, adults-only Hibiscus Pool, which now features new cabanas and Casabellas (clam-shaped shaded daybeds for two) available to rent. Grand Wailea renovations. Enjoy a $150 daily resort credit to indulge your senses. We are undertaking a multi-faceted revitalization of Grand Wailea in a phased manner to minimize disruptions to our guests and ensure that we are able to deliver our usual gold standard of service and hospitality throughout the revitalization period. In theory, a host agency is not liable to clients of a sub-IC for their acts or omissions. 07070 USA Telephone: (201) 902-2000. Windstars 2023/24 Middle East program kicks off in November. Grand Wailea, a Waldorf Astoria Resort that's located in Wailea, Maui, recently announced the phase-one completion of its property-wide refresh, presenting a newly revitalized Botero Lounge, a total revamp of the Maui resort's exclusive Napua rooms, suites and private lounge, and the transformation of two dining venues, 'Ikena and Loulu. Spa Grande treatments can be taken outside to a poolside cabana or reserved in the guest's room. In 2019 the visitor count hit 10.4 million, and Maui residents have become some of the most vocal in expressing over-tourism concerns. The beautiful Grand Wailea in Maui, Hawaii houses 780 guestrooms, including 52 suites. The Spa Grande location is temporarily closed while enhancements and additions are being made. Ultimately, its up to the Maui Planning Commission to decide whether that is true. Grand Wailea will phase in renovations throughout its remaining inventory (the property features 776 rooms and suites) in the coming year. "It's definitely become a more bespoke experience, and I've been joking that we're now running the largest boutique operation in the world," Oliver said. Grand Wailea also offers IT support, desks, school supplies and on-demand tutors for students. The sculptures have been restored and the design of the lounge has been enhanced with bespoke globe-style lighting that adds drama along with fabrics in rich emerald-green paired with hibiscus pink to reflect Mauis verdant landscape. "One thing we've heard is that people right now don't want to be around other people sweating it out in a big, indoor gym," Oliver said. These trends have caused more hotel developers to eye Maui, but many, like the Grand Wailea, are finding that barriers to entry are as tight as ever. Complementing the sushi offerings are Japanese-inspired craft cocktails such as Sakura in Bloom (featuring Suntory gin and garnished with sakura powder and dried sakura blssoms) and House of Otemae (featuring Suntory Haku vodka made from Japanese white rice and garnished with a matcha Pocky stick).