Menehune Shores by Coldwell Banker Island Vacations

Hotel Description

You know what? Menehune Shores isn’t trying to be something it’s not, and honestly, that’s exactly why I keep recommending it to people. It’s one of those 3-star places that actually gets the basics right – which, let me tell you, is rarer than you’d think in Hawaii where some places coast on location alone. The whole setup feels more like staying at a local friend’s condo complex than a typical hotel, which I mean in the best possible way.

The first thing that hits you is how quiet it gets here, especially in the evenings when the trade winds pick up and you can actually hear the ocean without straining over traffic noise. The units themselves are spacious – like, actually spacious, not “hotel spacious” where you’re bumping elbows trying to open your suitcase. Most have these lanai areas where you can sit with your morning coffee and watch the sunrise without dealing with crowds of other tourists doing the exact same Instagram shot. The kitchenettes are properly equipped too, which saves you from eating out for every single meal (your wallet will thank you). I’ve stayed in places where they give you a mini-fridge and call it a kitchen, but here you can actually cook real food if you want to hit up the local farmers market.

What really sets this place apart though is the vibe – it attracts a lot of return visitors who know the island well, so you’ll find yourself chatting with people who can tell you which beaches are worth the drive and which local spots serve the best plate lunch. The property manager usually knows everyone by name after a day or two, and they’re the type who’ll actually help you figure out logistics instead of just handing you a tourist brochure. Sure, you’re not getting daily housekeeping or a concierge desk, but the trade-off is this relaxed, residential feel that makes you feel like you’re living somewhere rather than just visiting. The grounds are well-maintained without being overly manicured – there’s something refreshing about palm trees that haven’t been trimmed into perfect shapes, you know? And parking is never an issue, which anyone who’s dealt with Hawaiian hotel parking will appreciate. It’s the kind of place where you’ll find yourself extending your stay if you can swing it.

Hawaii hotels range from charming beachfront bungalows in traditional Polynesian style to elegant oceanfront luxury resorts and modern accommodations with panoramic Pacific views.

Rooms

• Two-Bedroom Apartment with 2 × 1 extra-large double bed, 2 × 2 single beds, sofa bed and 1 sofa bed for 6 adults

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities