Since its opening in 1991, the Grand Wailea has established itself as a premier destination for luxury accommodations in Hawaii. This innovative resort, created by Japanese entrepreneur Takeshi Sekiguchi, was crafted to honor art, nature, and the spirit of Maui. Set within 40 acres of meticulously maintained botanical gardens, the Grand Wailea rapidly became an iconic retreat—known not only for its opulence but also its unique character. Now, over 30 years later, it has undergone an impressive $350 million renovation that reflects thoughtful enhancements rather than drastic alterations. Sekiguchi’s personal $40 million art collection continues to adorn the property, alongside a spa influenced by celestial elements and Hawaiian healing practices, and the newly opened Nobu, marking the second of its kind in the islands.
Nobu Creates a Stir on Maui
JP Oliver, Area Managing Director at Grand Wailea, described their partnership by saying, “A perfect synergy between the unparalleled luxury of Grand Wailea and the culinary experience that made Nobu a global phenomenon.” The unveiling of Nobu Grand Wailea provided guests with an unforgettable experience, starting from their descent down a grand staircase from the open-air lobby into a dining area that exudes both serenity and splendor—complete with a captivating finale from Hawaiian fire dancers.
With 35-foot ceilings, the design reflects the natural beauty of Maui—incorporating textures reminiscent of driftwood, sunlit colors, and subtle nautical details. An innovative floating linen installation above the main dining area simulates the gentle flow of ocean waves. The interiors artfully combine Nobu’s hallmark materials, such as black cerused wood and white onyx, with local elements like teak wood and oceanic shades of blue. The local artscape is enriched by Hawaii-born artist Windy Chien’s custom rope installation for the clerestory windows, harmonizing art with the environment. Moreover, the venue benefits from soothing ocean breezes, making air conditioning unnecessary.
For Chef Matsuhisa, this marks a return to his roots; he originally created his signature yellowtail jalapeño dish in Maui, 35 years ago. The stunning 13,000-square-foot restaurant was designed by the Rockwell Group, the same firm responsible for the original Nobu in Tribeca, established in 1994.
Though the menus closely resemble those at nearly 60 Nobu locations worldwide (including the popular black cod with miso and rock shrimp tempura), Matsuhisa emphasized the importance of supporting Maui’s local farms. Diners will discover produce sourced directly from Kula Country Farms and other regional partners. Additionally, Nobu Grand Wailea will offer three exclusive desserts, like a delightful Kona coffee tres leches cake crafted using beans from Kona District and a “Laie Vanilla” Pavlova made with vanilla from Oahu’s Laie Vanilla Farm.
From Chef to Cultural Icon
Nobu’s impact reaches beyond the culinary realm, becoming a chic, cosmopolitan lifestyle brand that merges minimalism with elegance. It has transformed the dining scene, inspiring not just new gastronomic experiences but also hotel designs (with new Nobu venues planned in Cairo and Dubai, among other locations). Beyond being a renowned chef, Nobu has become a cultural phenomenon, often mentioned in rap lyrics as a symbol of high status. “We are thrilled to introduce Nobu’s signature style to Maui,” stated Matsuhisa. “The Grand Wailea is an iconic destination, and we are honored to expand our brand within one of Hawaii’s most prestigious oceanfront hotels.”
A Renowned Retreat on Wailea Beach
Located on the sun-kissed shores of South Maui, the Grand Wailea stands as both a landmark and a lush sanctuary in Wailea—a region famed for its golden beaches and stunning sunsets. Early risers can start their day with yoga, engage in sound healing sessions, or take an outrigger canoe tour to snorkel alongside sea turtles just offshore. Weekly garden tours, led by landscaping manager Jim Heid, who curates over 600 plant species on the property, are also a guest favorite.
At the newly reimagined Kilolani Spa, celestial wellness is prioritized. Inspired by ancient Hawaiian astronomers, this 50,000-square-foot sanctuary aligns its treatments with the Helu Po, or Hawaiian lunar calendar, with offerings that change every ten days to coincide with lunar phases. Upon entering, guests partake in a cleansing ritual with salt and can place a flower as a means to set an intention or release something. A serene hydrotherapy garden, accommodating both men’s and women’s saunas and cold plunge circuits—along with Hawaii’s sole coed hammam—provides a peaceful retreat before or after treatments.
Beyond the spa, the resort offers a range of aquatic experiences, from lively to serene. Families flock to the Wailea Canyon Activity Pool with its lazy river and lava tube slide, while those searching for tranquility may unwind in private cabanas at the adults-only Hibiscus Pool, decorated with Hawaii’s state flower made from over 630,000 hand-laid Mexican glass mosaic tiles.
Room options range from spacious guest rooms to luxurious suites, but for a more exclusive experience, guests can book the “resort within a resort,” the Napua wing, which offers tailored services, curated amenities, and a private eighth-floor lounge featuring complimentary cocktails, hors d’oeuvres, and desserts from 4 to 7 p.m.
Dining options abound throughout the property: enjoy drinks at the refined Botero Lounge (named for the collection of Fernando Botero statues in Mr. Sekiguchi’s art collection), relax by the pool at the Grotto Bar, savor pizzas and pasta at Olivine, or delight in breakfast at the thatched-roof restaurant Humuhumunukunukuapua’a, set by a scenic private lagoon and also open for dinner.
While Nobu may capture the latest headlines, Loulu—a wellness-focused café created in collaboration with the popular Los Angeles grocery chain Erewhon—is also worth a visit. The varied menu offers poke bowls and salads with a strong focus on plant-based options, including the vegan soft-serve Cosmic Bliss with a unique “Lava Bliss” flavor developed with pro surfer Kelia Moniz in homage to the island’s volcanic landscape and atmosphere. The Grand Wailea continues to evolve and flourish while honoring the spirit of aloha. For more information, visit grandwailea.com.
Image Source: Trip Advisor
