Kaanapali Shores Studio #742

Hotel Description

Look, I’ll be straight with you about Kaanapali Shores Studio #742 – it’s one of those places that grows on you once you figure out what you’re actually getting. When I first walked into this studio on the seventh floor, I honestly wasn’t blown away by anything fancy, but you know what? Sometimes that’s exactly what you need.

The thing about this particular unit is that it sits in this older condo complex that’s got character – I mean, it’s not going to win any design awards, but there’s something refreshingly unpretentious about it. You’re literally steps from Kaanapali Beach, and I’m talking about the north end where it’s actually less crowded than the resort strip down south. The studio itself is pretty compact, which you’d expect, but whoever set it up clearly understood that people come here to be outside, not to hang around indoors. The lanai faces west, so if you’re into sunsets (and honestly, who isn’t when they’re in Maui?), you’re going to spend a lot of time out there with a drink just watching the sky do its thing. The kitchen setup is basic but functional – I managed to make decent breakfast and pack lunches for beach days without any drama.

What I really appreciated was how quiet it gets at night, especially compared to some of the bigger resort properties nearby. You’ll hear the ocean, sure, but not much else. Parking was surprisingly hassle-free too, which anyone who’s dealt with Lahaina traffic will tell you is worth mentioning. The beach access is through a little path that most tourists don’t even notice – it dumps you right onto this stretch of sand that feels almost private some mornings. I spent quite a few early hours there with just the joggers and dog walkers for company. The building itself shows its age a bit, and the elevator makes this weird humming sound, but everything works fine. Check-in was smooth, though I’d recommend getting there before the afternoon trade winds really kick up if you’re planning to grill on that little BBQ area by the pool. Speaking of the pool, it’s small but gets great afternoon sun, and there’s usually space unlike the zoo at the Grand Wailea down the road. Honestly, for the price point and location, this studio delivers what matters most – you’re in Maui, you’re near the beach, and you’ve got everything you need without paying resort fees or dealing with crowds in your elevator every morning.

Rooms

• Studio Apartment with 2 × 1 extra-large double bed and 1 sofa bed for 4 adults, 3 children

Reviews

• Alicia from United States (9/10)

  Quiet and nice little studio with a view… Nicely appointed with full size appliances. Parking is easy to access and is well priced.

• Sarah from United States (8/10)

  It had everything you needed kitchen wise and cleaning supplies. Love the bigger size bottles of shampoo,crème rinse and lotion.

• Mike from United States (6/10)

  It was great

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities