Makahuena 1204 Ocean View

Hotel Description

Look, I’ll be honest – when I first heard about Makahuena 1204, I wasn’t expecting much from what sounds like just another condo rental. But this place actually surprised me in the best way possible. The moment you walk into unit 1204, that ocean view hits you right in the face (in a good way), and you sort of just stop whatever you were doing to take it in. I mean, we’re talking about unobstructed views of the Pacific that make you want to cancel all your plans and just sit on that lanai with a coffee.

What really gets me about this spot is how it manages to feel both upscale and completely unpretentious at the same time. The 4-star rating isn’t just hotel marketing nonsense – you can actually feel it in the details. The kitchen has everything you need if you want to cook (and honestly, with those grocery prices in Poipu, you might want to), but the real magic happens on that private deck. I spent way too many mornings out there watching the sunrise, and you know what? No regrets. The trade winds keep things comfortable even when it gets warm, and there’s something about the sound of the waves that makes you sleep better than you have in months. The complex itself sits in this perfect spot where you’re close enough to walk to some decent restaurants – Brennecke’s Beach Broiler is literally right there if you want a sunset dinner – but far enough from the main Poipu drag that you don’t get all the tourist chaos.

Here’s what nobody tells you though: parking is actually pretty easy (miracle in Hawaii, right?), and the property managers seem to have their act together. Check-in was smooth, no weird hidden fees, and when our AC got a little wonky on day three, they had someone there within a couple hours. The 9.0 rating makes sense when you experience it – it’s not perfect (the shower pressure could be better, and don’t get me started on the Wi-Fi during peak hours), but it hits all the important notes. You’re a five-minute walk from Poipu Beach Park, which is where all the locals take their kids, so you know it’s good. And if you’re into snorkeling, Lawai Beach is right around the corner – way less crowded than the main beach but just as beautiful. I keep thinking about going back, which honestly doesn’t happen with most places I stay. There’s just something about waking up to that view and having your morning coffee while watching the waves that spoils you for regular hotels.

Rooms

• Two-Bedroom Apartment with 2 × 1 large double bed and 2 × 1 extra-large double bed for 4 adults

Reviews

• Anoli from United States (9/10)

  I liked the cleanliness of the apartment, the beds were comfortable, parking was never an issue.

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities