Maui Dreams – Travel Blog

The Lava Rock Fountain

Kaanapali Beach was developed in the 1960s by Amfac. The project focused on developing a mile long stretch of beach along Maui’s west coast. During the 1970′s a luxury condominium resort was built, it is called The Whaler. Recently, The Whaler completed a three year project to improve the property.  Today construction is done and the shovels have been put away, so now I pose the question, “was the project worth it?” In my point of view the answer is, “YES”.

The Whaler On Kaanapali Beach

Out of all the properties along Kaanapali Beach,  I have always felt The Whaler had an “inviting” quality that made it special.  Not that the other properties on Kaanapali Beach are “not welcoming”, they are. However, The Whaler has always encouraged groups by the pool, a cold drink at the barbecue, or a pot luck at the picnic benches. So when setting out to redo the landscaping I was concerned. I did agreed the property was in need of renovation, but in the pit of my stomach I was afraid they would destroy the ohana feeling. I worried the renovations would create a new look that included a “new feel”. That was three years ago, today I’m reveled to report The Whaler was not changed, but …renovated.

Change Was On The Horizon

On the surface the courtyard and pool were the primary concerns; and for good reason. The Whaler had started to go from simple elegance, to tired and worn. In years past The Whaler had made some improvements, like putting new carpet in the corridors. These changes helped but the problems that surrounded the courtyard, pool and lobby were only getting worse. This feeling was shared by almost everyone and the majority of people were anxious to make the necessary investment.

Making The Old Shiny and New

With the project completed I’m happy to see the changes have made The Whaler better. The Whaler kept the original focal points like: the iconic bridge, pond and lava waterfall. Only now the pond has a new shape. The plants, grass and trees are also new.  The wooden bridge has been updated and the lava rock fountain is five times the size, with cascading waterfalls that spill to the waiting pond -it is just perfect. At night tiki torches are lit around the lava fountain and ambient lighting cast a romantic tropical mood though out the courtyard. It all amounts to a slice of topical heaven.

Courtyard From The Seventh Floor (Unit #762)

Looking Forward, But Not Forgetting

The Whaler has been around since the 1970s. During those years a lot of people have become attached to the property. For owners, guest and employees it was a little scary to think that everything was going to change. But thankfully that is not what happened. Upon completion of the project The Whaler has maintained the familiar charm, blending of new and old with respect to over forty years of Whaler history.