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

01

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.

7

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.

24

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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