Wailea Beach Resort covers 22 oceanfront acres between two golden-sand beaches on Maui’s southern coast. The winding paths and secluded corners are part of its charm, but they’re hard to figure out when you’ve just come off a long flight.
The Challenge: A Beautiful Property That Was Hard to Navigate
Paper maps and verbal directions left new arrivals lost and kept staff busy pointing the way. With so many hidden spots across the property, many guests checked out without seeing everything the resort had to offer.
The Approach: More Than a Map
Wailea worked with Phunware on a branded mobile app. Phunware mapped the property on site and added custom design overlays, so the directions follow the resort’s real paths and terrain. The app carries Wailea’s warmth and culture, down to the “E Komo Mai” welcome on the home screen. Beyond directions, it points guests to events, wellness classes, dining, and hidden spots they might not have thought to ask about.
“We expected a map. What we got was a platform for storytelling, helping guests discover experiences they didn’t even know to ask about.”
Laurie Garzon, Director of Sales & Marketing, Wailea Beach Resort
The Results
More than 70% of guests use the app during their stay, and over 30% use it to find new experiences. Wailea now leads its sister resorts in Hawaii in ancillary revenue. Guests book spa time, cabanas, and activities through the app without feeling sold to, and staff spend less time giving directions.
Laurie admits there’s always concern about how much work a new system will take. With Phunware, she says, “the lift was light and the payoff was immediate.”