Hawaii Luxe Hotels for Less

Fun in the sun is getting cheaper -- even in traditionally pricy Hawaii, and even at the luxurious end of the market -- as the pallid global economy is prompting hoteliers to craft special deals to gin-up business.

Some of the most attractive offerings are on Maui, which saw a 15.9% year-over-year drop in visitors in November 2008, according to state tourism officials. Maui, with an average hotel nightly room rate of $220.35, is the most expensive of the six major Hawaiian Islands when it comes to lodging. The statewide average in November was $177.41. But while it would be a stretch to say that paradise is on sale, the traveler's dollar will stretch farther this year.

Recent structural upgrades, restaurant makeovers and new, cheaper package deals at lovely Maui retreats such as the Fairmont Kea Lani and the Ritz-Carlton Kapalua allow visitors to snare luxe for less in 2009. ...