Wailea Ekahi 40D condo

Hotel Description

Look, I’ll be honest with you – when I first pulled up to Wailea Ekahi 40D, I wasn’t expecting much from a 3-star condo. But you know what? This place actually surprised me in the best way possible. The whole Wailea Ekahi complex sits right on Keawakapu Beach (which, by the way, is way less crowded than the main Wailea beaches where all the resort guests hang out). Unit 40D specifically has this perfect spot where you can actually hear the waves from your lanai – not just see them, but really hear that constant ocean rhythm that makes you forget you ever had stress in your life.

What really got me was how the condo felt like someone’s actual home rather than a sterile vacation rental. The kitchen had real spices in it, good knives that weren’t dull as butter, and – this might sound weird – but the shower pressure was incredible. I mean, after a day of snorkeling at Ulua Beach (literally a 5-minute walk down the coast), that shower felt like pure luxury. The living room opens right onto that lanai I mentioned, and honestly, I spent most mornings out there with coffee just watching the sunrise paint Molokini Crater in the distance. The furniture’s a bit dated – we’re talking maybe early 2000s tropical vibes – but it’s comfortable and everything works. Parking was never an issue, which if you’ve spent time in Wailea, you know that’s actually a big deal.

Here’s the thing about this place that makes it special: it sits in this sweet spot between budget-friendly and genuinely nice. You’re not getting marble bathrooms or a concierge, but you’re also not dealing with paper-thin walls or sketchy air conditioning. The beach access is what really seals the deal – you walk maybe two minutes through some tropical landscaping and boom, you’re on one of Maui’s prettiest stretches of sand. Most people drive right past Keawakapu to get to the fancier resort beaches, which means you’ll often have whole sections to yourself, especially in the mornings. The snorkeling right out front is decent too, though I’d still recommend hitting Molokini if you get the chance. One small thing – the lanai furniture could use an update and the WiFi gets a bit sketchy during peak evening hours, but honestly? You’re in Maui. Put the phone down and listen to those waves instead.

Rooms

• One-Bedroom Apartment with large double bed, 1 large double bed, sofa bed and 1 sofa bed for 4 adults

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities