Wailea Ekolu 104 condo

Hotel Description

Okay, so Wailea Ekolu 104 – honestly, this place caught me off guard in the best way. You know how sometimes you book a condo and you’re crossing your fingers it actually looks like the photos? Well, this one delivers, and then some. It’s tucked into this quieter section of Wailea where you’re not dealing with the crazy resort crowds, but you’re still close enough to walk to some really solid beaches (Grand Wailea is maybe a 10-minute stroll if you take the coastal path).

The condo itself feels properly lived-in, I mean that in a good way – like someone actually uses this place and cares about it. The kitchen’s got everything you need if you’re planning to hit up Foodland in Kihei for groceries, which honestly makes sense because eating out every meal in Wailea will destroy your budget fast. The lanai is where you’ll spend most of your time though – I was out there with my morning coffee watching these tiny geckos dart around the railings, and the trade winds actually pick up nicely in the afternoons. You can catch glimpses of the ocean through the palm trees, though it’s not what I’d call a full ocean view. The complex has this decent-sized pool that never seemed too crowded when I wandered by, probably because most people are off at the beach clubs.

What I really appreciated was how quiet it gets at night – you’re far enough from the main Wailea strip that you don’t get the late-night resort noise, but close enough that you can easily grab dinner at Monkeypod Kitchen or hit up the shops at The Shops at Wailea (though fair warning, everything there is pretty pricey). Parking was straightforward, which sounds boring but trust me, it matters when you’re dealing with rental cars and unfamiliar driveways. The unit could use a refresh here and there – the bathroom’s a bit dated and the living room furniture has that “vacation rental” vibe – but honestly, for the price point and location, you’re getting solid value. I’d definitely stay here again, especially if I was planning one of those longer Maui trips where you want a home base that feels more residential than resort-y.

Rooms

• Two-Bedroom Apartment with 4 × 1 extra-large double bed, sofa bed and 1 sofa bed for 6 adults

SURROUNDINGS

Facilities