Condos Mahana at Kaanapali

Hotel Description

Honestly, when I first pulled up to Condos Mahana at Kaanapali, I wasn’t sure what to expect – the name made it sound like it could go either way, you know? But man, this place really surprised me in the best possible way. It’s tucked right into that sweet spot along Kaanapali Beach where you’re close enough to all the action but far enough from the mega-resorts that you can actually hear the waves at night instead of pool parties.

What I love about staying here is that it feels like you’re borrowing someone’s really nice beach house rather than checking into a hotel. The condos have that lived-in comfort – actual kitchens where you can make your morning coffee (thank god, because resort coffee prices are insane), and lanais where you can sit with your feet up watching the sunset paint Lanai and Molokai purple and gold. The beach access is what sold me though – you literally walk out and you’re on some of the softest sand I’ve felt on Maui. During whale season, I mean, you don’t even need to book one of those whale watching tours because the humpbacks are right there putting on a show while you’re having breakfast.

The location is actually pretty genius when you think about it. You’re walking distance to Whaler’s Village if you need to grab groceries at Foodland or hit up Leilani’s for fish tacos, but you’re not dealing with the chaos of being right in the thick of it. Parking is straightforward – none of that valet nonsense – and the front desk folks actually remember your name after a day or two. I stayed during spring break season once (rookie mistake) and while the beach got busier during the day, mornings and evenings were still pretty peaceful. The units vary quite a bit since they’re individually owned, so you might get lucky with recent renovations or you might get something that’s a bit more… lived-in. But honestly, when you’re spending most of your time on that beach or exploring the island, who cares if the bathroom tile is from 1995? The trade winds keep everything cool, and there’s something really satisfying about falling asleep to actual ocean sounds instead of air conditioning units. If you’re looking for that authentic Maui vibe without the resort markup, this place gets it right.

Rooms

• Two-Bedroom Apartment with 4 × 1 extra-large double bed for 4 adults

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities