Choosing the right vacation rental in Wailea can feel overwhelming. Two of the area’s most popular complexes—Grand Champions Villas and Wailea Ekahi Village—offer very different experiences. Both have beautiful grounds, well-equipped condos, and access to Maui’s world-famous beaches, but the vibe, location, and price points vary significantly.
This guide gives you a clear, side-by-side comparison, so you can confidently decide which is best for your Maui vacation. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, a family trip, or a longer stay, we’ll break down the key differences to help you choose wisely.
Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | Grand Champions Villas | Wailea Ekahi Village |
|---|---|---|
| Walk to Beach | 12–15 min walk to Wailea Beach, 5 min to Shops at Wailea | 5–10 min walk to Keawakapu Beach via beachfront path |
| Pools | 2 pools + hot tubs + BBQ areas | Multiple pools + beachfront pavilion |
| Noise Level | Quiet, tucked away from beach traffic and roads | Livelier atmosphere with more foot traffic |
| Parking | Free reserved spot + guest parking | On-site parking included |
| Value | $$ Excellent mid-tier pricing | $$$ Premium beachfront pricing |
| Best For | Families, golfers, longer stays | Beach walkers, sunrise swimmers, direct beach access fans |
Beach Access: A Tale of Two Experiences
Wailea Ekahi Village sits right along the beach path to Keawakapu Beach, one of the area’s most stunning stretches of sand.
- Guests can walk straight from their condo to the beach in just a few minutes.
- This makes Ekahi a favorite for travelers who plan to spend much of their trip near the water.
Grand Champions Villas, on the other hand, are set slightly inland on a quiet hillside.
- It’s about a 12–15 minute walk to Wailea Beach or a 3–4 minute drive.
- The complex is also just a 5-minute walk to The Shops at Wailea, restaurants, and cafes — perfect for evening strolls or grabbing coffee in the morning.
Pro Tip: If being right on the beach path is non-negotiable, Ekahi wins.
If you’re fine with a short walk or quick drive in exchange for peace and quiet, Grand Champions is ideal and significantly more affordable.
Atmosphere & Noise Levels
This is where the two complexes really diverge:
- Grand Champions feels like a private residential community.
- Buildings are spread out, landscaping is lush and tropical, and most guests are there for a relaxing, low-key vacation.
- The pools tend to be quieter, and the entire complex is set back from main roads and heavy foot traffic.
- Wailea Ekahi has more activity and a bustling vibe.
- Because of its beach proximity, there’s more coming-and-going to the shoreline, especially in the mornings and evenings.
- If you enjoy energy and people-watching, Ekahi is a great fit — but light sleepers or those seeking solitude may prefer Grand Champions.
Pools & Amenities
Grand Champions Villas:
- Two separate pool areas, both with hot tubs and BBQ grills.
- Generally quieter and more laid-back — perfect for families or couples unwinding after a day exploring Maui.
Wailea Ekahi Village:
- Multiple pools scattered throughout the property, including a beachfront pavilion area.
- Pools tend to be busier, especially during peak travel seasons.
Hot tubs are a unique perk at Grand Champions — not offered at Ekahi.
Parking & Convenience
- Grand Champions: Each unit has a reserved parking space, plus additional guest spots. Parking is easy and free — a major plus in Wailea where parking can be tight.
- Ekahi: Includes on-site parking, but spaces aren’t always as conveniently located depending on your unit.
Pricing & Value
Wailea is known for its luxury resorts, so pricing can swing dramatically.
Here’s how these two complexes usually compare:
- Grand Champions Villas:
- Mid-tier nightly rates, often 30–40% lower than Ekahi for similar 2-bedroom units.
- Great balance of comfort, amenities, and location.
- Wailea Ekahi Village:
- Premium pricing for the direct beach path access.
- Typically among the higher-priced condo complexes in the area.
For families or longer stays, Grand Champions often represents better overall value — especially when you factor in lower nightly rates and a quieter atmosphere.
Which Complex is Best for You?
Both properties have their strengths. Your choice depends on your vacation style:
- Choose Wailea Ekahi if…
- You want to step directly onto the beach path each morning.
- You don’t mind a livelier environment and higher price point.
- Beachfront convenience is worth the premium.
- Choose Grand Champions if…
- You value peace, privacy, and a more residential feel.
- You appreciate having hot tubs and quieter pools.
- You want great value without sacrificing too much on location — short walk or quick drive to beaches and Shops at Wailea.
Personal Note:
When we bought our condo at Grand Champions, we chose it specifically for its quiet atmosphere, two king suites, and unbeatable balance of location and value.
You can see why so many of our guests return year after year. View photos and book direct.
FAQs
Is Grand Champions walkable to the beach?
Yes. It’s about a 12–15 minute walk to Wailea Beach or a quick 3–4 minute drive. The Shops at Wailea are just a 5-minute walk.
Does Ekahi have hot tubs?
No. Ekahi has multiple pools and a beachfront pavilion, but no hot tubs.
Which complex is quieter?
Grand Champions is generally quieter because it’s set back from the beach path and main roads. Ekahi tends to have more activity and foot traffic.
Where is parking easier?
Grand Champions offers reserved spots plus guest parking, making it very straightforward. Ekahi has on-site parking, but location convenience varies by unit.
Either Way, Bring the Aloha
Both Wailea Ekahi and Grand Champions are excellent choices, but they cater to different vacation priorities.
If you want direct beach access and don’t mind a livelier vibe, Ekahi is worth the splurge.
If you’re looking for peace, quiet, and exceptional value with a short walk to beaches and shops, Grand Champions is the clear winner.
Ready to plan your trip? Check availability and book direct for our 2-bedroom Grand Champions condo.