The Grand Wailea pool renovation project is set to commence next month and will close nearly all of the property’s pools.
Yesterday, I detailed two massive Hawaii hotel renovations. But, I seemed to have missed news regarding the Grand Wailea’s own renovation plans. And it’s not like this news is new either, the property made the initial announcement last November!
The Grand Wailea Pool Renovation
If you’ve ever been to the Grand Wailea, you know it’s a massive, regal property. It’s home to what is probably the largest spa in the state of Hawaii and a huge art collection. But, the Grand Wailea is also famous for its immense pool system. The centerpiece of the pool system is the Wailea Canyon Activity Pool. Covering 25,700 sq/ft, the Wailea Canyon is actually a collection of 9 pools spread across six different levels, all of which are connected by waterslides. In addition to these features, guests will also find a lava tube slide, a whitewater rapids slide, a rope swing, swim-up bar, 3 jacuzzis, a sandy beach, and the world’s first water elevator.
The pools, however, like the rest of the property, needs periodic maintenance and upgrades. And so, from September 22 through October 19, 2017, the entire Wailea Canyon pool system will be closed. The Grotto and Volcano Bars will also be closed. During this time, the pools will be drained so that re-tiling work may be done, along with other upgrades. Grand Wailea’s website notes that work will be done on the pools 7 days a week from 8am to 5pm. High levels of noise should be expected from 9am to 5pm. Work on the Lava Tube Slide, which is already closed, won’t be completed until sometime in December.
Alternative Activities
During the Wailea Canon renovations project, the Grand Wailea’s adults-only Hibiscus Pool will remain open. This pool doesn’t have any special features, but is impressive for its large hibiscus mosaic, water features, and sculptures. And while usually only available to those 18 and older, the pool will be open to all guests between 7am and 10pm. From 10pm to midnight, the Hibiscus Pool will revert to being an adults-only pool. And to accommodate for the bar closures, the Botero Lounge will be opening earlier in the day, while Bistro Molokini will continue to be open throughout the day too.
Aside from the Hibiscus Pool, the property states that guests may also enjoy the following complimentary activities:
- The ROCK and Camp Grande sessions for keiki
- Unlimited Fishpipe Maui rides
- Water play on our giant blow-up water slide
- Aqualani Beach and Ocean Recreation stand-up paddle boards, boogie boards, snorkel gear and kayaks
- Beach Cruiser bikes
- Hawaiian Cultural, Art, and Garden Tours
- Lawn casabellas
- Dive-in movies
- Beach Yoga
- Access to Keiki Whale Pool at The ROCK
- Spa Grande Fitness Facilities: 24-hour fitness center access, in-door basketball & racquetball court
Grand Wailea Pool Renovation Final Thoughts
As a child, my family stayed at the Grand Wailea a few times for our annual Maui trips. And back then, the pools were definitely a main draw for me. But guess what? If I were to stay there again now, I’m sure I’d feel the same. The Grand Wailea’s pool is like a miniature water park, and is definitely the best hotel pool system in Hawaii at the moment. Especially since the water elevator I previously mention means you don’t have to get out of the water to get back to the top of the system.
Even if you don’t like the slides, there’s still something for everyone. I’m sure the adult me would like the idea of the Grotto Bar too. And if I were staying on-property while this renovation took place, I’d definitely be bummed. The pools, to me anyway, are the primary reason you stay here. But, the property has given guests ample warning, and it’s great to see improvements being made. And perhaps I’ll have to head there again sometime!
My wife and I stay there every 3-4 months just to use the pool (I’m also a member) and the pools are in need of some TLC, although aren’t “horrible” by any stretch of the imagination. I’m excited to see what it looks like when it’s done, but we’ll probably hold of staying there again until the slide opens back up.
Luck you, Eric! Next time you stay, be sure to let me know what you think! Would love to hear what improvements were made from a regular.
You stayed at a NON MARRIOTT property KH46?!!??! Say it isn’t so! lol j/k
lol, you’d be surprised KS77! While I love Marriott, I do stay with others too! Favorite Maui hotel? Andaz Maui, but have also stayed at the Grand Wailea, Hyatt Regency, and Sheraton back in the 90s. Been to Hilton Waikoloa a couple of times too. Here on Oahu, Hyatt Place Waikiki, Hilton Hawaiian Village, Turtle Bay (Hilton and post-Hilton days), Disney’s Aulani, and Parc Waikiki. You probably don’t want to see my wishlist hotels… ;)