The Plantation Inn
"What was your first impression?With a plantation-style look, complete with ornate porches on both stories of the building’s facade, the Plantation Inn lives up to its name. What's the backstory?The inn was built in the late 1980s and feels halfway between a bed & breakfast and a proper hotel. Tell us about your room. How did it look, and what was it like to be there?Our ground-floor Kilohana suite had a separate bedroom and sitting room, a cute little lanai leading out to the pool, and a giant shower with double shower heads. The decor was lively and fun, with a bright-orange quilt and a palm-frond ceiling fan. The sitting area had a couch, chair, and small TV. Is there a charge for WiFi?The Wi-Fi is free. What's the food scene like?Gerard’s Restaurant, named for chef Gerard Reversade, does French takes on Hawaiian seafood as well as classical French dishes. Gerard’s also handles the breakfast menu, which is included in the room rate. The inn is also just a quick walk away from Lahaina Grill, one of the best restaurants in town. Did anything about the service stand out?After checking us in, the receptionist gave us a one-on-one tour to acquaint us with the property and its services, from breakfast and coffee, as well as the activities available at The Kaanapali Beach Hotel, the inn's sister property. Who's checking in?This property is geared toward couples of all ages. Kids are technically allowed, but the inn bills itself as “adults preferred.” What about the neighborhood? Were you in the thick of it?Plantation Inn is close to the action but thankfully not right in the middle of it; two short blocks away is Lahaina Harbor, full of touristy shops, restaurants, art galleries, and bars along Front Street. Don't miss the Old Lahaina Luau. Is there anything you'd change?The bed and linens were comfortable, but the pillows were small and overly square. Additionally, the sitting room furniture could use an update. What other features stood out to you?There’s a pool, and guests can use the beach services at Kaanapali Beach Hotel (about a 10-minute walk away). Bottom line: Worth it? Why?Come for a couple of nights—it's an old-timey, romantic escape." - Juliana Shallcross
