Maui Banyan by Coldwell Banker Island Vacations

Hotel Description

You know what? The Maui Banyan isn’t going to blow you away with fancy lobby chandeliers or some Instagram-perfect infinity pool, but honestly – that’s kind of what I love about it. It’s one of those places that just works, especially if you’re actually trying to experience Maui rather than just hide in a resort bubble.

The property sits right in Kihei, which means you’re basically in the sweet spot of South Maui without the crazy Wailea prices. I mean, you can walk to some seriously good beaches here – Kamaole Beach Parks are literally across the street, and trust me, that’s where the locals take their kids on weekends. The snorkeling at Kamaole III is actually better than some of the touristy spots people pay big money to visit. What really surprised me was how quiet it gets in the evenings, considering you’re so close to South Kihei Road. The trade winds do their thing, and you’ll hear the ocean more than traffic most nights.

The condos themselves are… well, they’re vacation rentals, so your mileage may vary depending on which unit you get. Some owners have clearly put more love into their places than others – I’ve stayed in units with updated kitchens that made me want to hit up the Foodland and actually cook, and others that felt a bit stuck in the ’90s. But here’s the thing: they’re all spacious, most have decent lanais, and the AC works (which honestly matters more than you think when you’re dealing with that afternoon Maui heat). The pools are nothing fancy, but they’re clean and perfect for cooling off after a day at Haleakala or the Road to Hana. Plus, there’s something nice about having actual counter space and a full fridge – you start to feel less like a tourist and more like you’re just living in paradise for a week.

The location really is the star here though. You’re five minutes from some of the island’s best food trucks – Giovanni’s shrimp truck parks right down the road, and if you haven’t had their garlic shrimp, you’re missing out. Da Kitchen is walking distance too, and their loco moco will ruin you for mainland versions forever. For beach days, you’ve got options: the Kamaole parks for families, or drive ten minutes south to Wailea if you want that resort beach vibe without paying resort prices. And here’s a local tip – the best sunset viewing isn’t from the fancy hotels, it’s from Kalama Park right nearby, where you can grab a beer and watch the sky turn ridiculous colors over Lanai and Kahoolawe.

Look, this isn’t a luxury resort, and it’s not trying to be. The 4-star rating feels about right – it’s comfortable, well-located, and functional without any major complaints. Sometimes you get lucky with an updated unit, sometimes you don’t, but either way you’re getting a solid home base for exploring the island. If you’re the type who spends most of your time out and about anyway, the Maui Banyan gives you everything you actually need without the stuff you’re just paying extra for.

Visitors often choose Hawaii apartments over traditional hotels because they provide more space, kitchen facilities, and the opportunity to live like a local in this magnificent Pacific paradise.

Rooms

• One-Bedroom Apartment with extra-large double bed, 1 extra-large double bed, sofa bed and 1 sofa bed for 4 adults
• Two-Bedroom Apartment with 4 × 1 extra-large double bed, sofa bed and 1 sofa bed for 6 adults
• Superior Apartment with extra-large double bed, 1 extra-large double bed, sofa bed and 1 sofa bed for 4 adults
• Apartment with Balcony with 2 × 1 extra-large double bed, 2 × 2 large double beds, sofa bed and 1 sofa bed for 8 adults

Reviews

• Melanie from United States (7/10)

  There was no breakfast at our location!

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities