With whale watching season on Maui fast approaching (late Nov. to early April), Travelweek took some time out with Kā`anapali Beach Hotel to learn more about the resort, where guests staying in oceanfront units can enjoy whale sightings from their lanais (balconies). It’s no wonder the hotel typically sells out its oceanfront accommodations during whale watching season — and this is just one among many reasons why Kā`anapali Beach Hotel has grown to become a resort loved by single travellers, honeymooners and multi-generational families.

Travelweek: Kā`anapali Beach Hotel is known for its slogan “Hawaii’s Most Hawaiian Hotel.” What are some of the features that give KBH this reputation?

Kā`anapali Beach Hotel (KBH): Kā`anapali Beach Hotel is known as “Hawaii’s Most Hawaiian Hotel” for a variety of reasons. We are committed to perpetuating and promoting our Hawaiian culture through the services and activities we offer on property, as well as in the community. As part of the 100+ criteria KBH has met in order to be recognized as Hawaii’s Most Hawaiian Hotel, we offer complimentary Hawaiian activities including `olelo Hawaii (Hawaiian Language) classes, lauhala weaving, `ukulele lessons and cultural garden walk tour. All employees are required to engage in Mōhala Po’okela classes where their Hawaiian knowledge is expanded through topics ranging from Hawaiian history & Hawaiian current events to hotel mission statement. An entire staff of Hawaiian cultural advisors are also key to the success of our Hawaiian programs. KBH is also involved in various community organizations such as the Native Hawaiian Hospitality Association (NaHHA).

Travelweek: KBH is a popular resort with Canadians. What do you think Canadians love most about KBH that keeps them coming back?

KBH: Canadians come back year after year primarily due to our spectacular location! They are able to secure an oceanfront location for their family, at a value that beats out most other hotels and condominiums.

Travelweek: For Canadian agents who may not be as familiar with Kā`anapali Beach Hotel, can you give us a little more information about the travellers who most frequent your resort? Is KBH a property best suited to families and/or couples? What about single travellers?

KBH: Kā`anapali Beach Hotel is not only popular amongst single travellers, but couples and families as well.  We find that a couple’s first visit to the property is usually for their wedding or honeymoon. They return year after year, eventually bringing their family with each visit. As their children get older and start having families of their own, the trips become annual family reunions/vacations. KBH is definitely a multi-generational hotel. From our Children Stay Free program to the free Hawaiian cultural activities, there is something for everyone at Kā`anapali Beach Hotel!

Travelweek: Do you currently have any incentives in place for travel agents (beyond commissions)? Do you offer travel agent rates?

KBH: Special travel agent rates starting at $99 plus taxes are available for travel agents with valid IATAN number.

Travelweek: What are some of the new developments taking place at KBH? What can guests look forward to for the coming snowbird travel season?

KBH: To provide the best accommodations for all of our guests, we are constantly working to update guest rooms and common areas.  Currently, the Moloka`i Wing is in the process of being refurbished.  Ongoing updates to the Maui, Lāna`i and Kaua`i wings occur year-round.

During whale watching season from late November to early April, guests are able to enjoy daily whale “shows” from the beach, or by boat.  Our oceanfront units are typically sold out during this time, due to whale sightings the guests are able to enjoy right from their lanai (balcony).