The following executive summary is based on a comprehensive and impartial AI analysis of guest reviews. Keep in mind that all units are individually owned, and review scores among units can vary considerably.
Most reviewers rave about the setting: true oceanfront condos perched right over the Banyans surf break on Ali‘i Drive, with nonstop views of surfers, glowing sunsets, and frequent sightings of turtles, dolphins, whales, and reef fish. The lanai is the star—guests linger there for morning coffee and evening sunsets, lulled by the sound of waves. The location is a strong plus: a short drive to downtown Kailua-Kona, Magic Sands Beach, and Kahalu‘u Beach Park (great snorkeling), with handy perks like reserved covered parking, an elevator, oceanside pool/hot tub and BBQs, and even Da Poke Shack or a small market nearby. Units are generally described as very clean, comfortable, and impressively stocked—well-equipped kitchens, in‑unit laundry, beach gear (chairs, umbrellas, snorkel sets, boogie boards, coolers), and often thoughtful touches from responsive hosts.
Stays feel relaxed and homey rather than “resort-y.” Many guests cook in, pack the cooler for beach days, and spend downtime simply watching the waves and surfers from huge picture windows or the lanai. The complexes are smaller and quiet, and the pool and hot tub area is often uncrowded with sweeping ocean views. It’s an easy base for exploring the Big Island in all directions; several reviewers used the free trolley or appreciated quick drives to groceries, coffee farms, and restaurants. Comfort gets frequent shout-outs—good beds, effective fans/AC in many units, and clear, proactive communication from owners/managers.
Common caveats to know before booking: these are older oceanfront buildings, so expect some normal coastal wear in common areas and occasional minor maintenance hiccups (usually resolved quickly). Air-conditioning varies by unit—some have split AC only in the living room or one bedroom, and road-facing bedrooms can run warm or pick up street noise; light sleepers may want earplugs. HOA rules keep things peaceful, which can feel strict for families wanting rowdier pool time. Directly in front is lava rock and reef (great for tidepooling and watching, not a beginner swim beach), though sandy beaches are minutes away. A few units have layout quirks (sliding partitions, sunken living areas, smaller lanais), and garage parking can feel tight. Overall, travelers who prize epic, front‑row ocean views and a calm, well‑equipped home base consistently love this stay.
This summary is based on a comprehensive analysis of 662 reviews
We were so impressed with this condo! Very relaxing, and loved being able to hear the waves and watch the surfers. We have rented many condos and houses before, and this one was so well stocked with things you need for the beach and the condo itself. Really made our stay relaxing! Excellent!
Becky Mark C.
April 2026
Absolutely wonderful! We had everything we needed, and enjoyed watching the surfers from the Lanai with our coffee in the morning. There were also some days where the water was so clear we could use our binoculars to see fish.Highly recommended!
Laura B.
April 2026
Can't say enough great things about this place! Located right on the water with a great view of all the surfers! Best stocked vacation rental that we've ever stayed in - there are beach towels, a cooler, a beach umbrella, even snorkel gear!! Beds are very comfortable, easy check in, plenty of towels, extra pillows and linens. Fold out beds in living room were perfect and comfortable for our 2 teens. Fall asleep to the waves crashing and wake up to breakfast and coffee on the large balcony. Can't wait to come back! Would highly recommend!
Chrissy M.
April 2026
We had a lovely stay at Banyan Tree 300. The view was awesome and the location was perfect for our trip. The condo is modern, comfortable and well equipped. We would absolutely stay here again the next time we come to the Big Island.
Jeff Y.
April 2026
This was a great stay. We appreciated the mini splits that kept us cool. The view can't be beat. Great communication.
Nicole S.
April 2026
Everything we were looking for and more!
danielle e.
April 2026
Great place, wish we could’ve stayed longer. Large bedrooms, comfortable beds, beautiful kitchen, and living/dining area. Very clean and right across the street to a convenience store! No complaints
Roslyn M.
April 2026
Would highly recommend. Very clean, had everything we needed for a great stay. Very spacious and a/c was nice. Beautiful views, right on the beach! Walking distance to some great Poke and Tacos were an added bonus! Would absolutely stay here again if venturing back to the big island.
David H.
April 2026
The views are all they’re made out to be and more! Spacious, comfy, smartly equipped and so convenient. We loved the lanai, the thoughtful room partition, and the kitchen with spices and seasonings on hand (as well as coffee—bless you for that). We walked to nearby beaches, food trucks, and markets. Downtown Kailua Kona was a short drive away. Location was wonderful!PRO TIP: Don’t use Google Maps. We learned the hard way that it is not the most trustworthy map service for locating the property, as well as other attractions on Kona side. Lesson learned!Will most certainly have to book this gem again!
Melissa S.
April 2026
Loved this place for the view but nothing else. Zero communication from the host. Will not be back.
Amber N.
March 2026
Kona low caused some AC issues, but we spent 99% of our time at the condo on the lanai. Absolutely breathtaking views. Kyle was great to work with, would 100% stay at this property again!
Emily D.
March 2026
This condo is located just 2 miles from downtown Kona. Condo was very clean, well stocked, in fact it was the best stocked condo I have ever rented in the 30 yrs I have been traveling! The owner responds very quickly if needed. She even gave me some ideas for beaches near Kona and answered any question related to the area or the island. The oceanfront view is amazing.
Shari S.
March 2026
We loved this place! The view was wonderful and we enjoyed watching the surfers. The place was spotless, and the beds were comfortable. The location was excellent too. Unfortunately we chose to leave a few days early due to the storm, but we hope to return someday.
Kathy M.
March 2026
Beautiful ocean views with surfers and fish right out front! The pool & hot tub were great and so clean. The grounds and condo were immaculate. Close to Kona with lots of great restaurants and shopping. Location is perfect for any activities you want to do. We will be back!
Susan T.
March 2026
Great view
Snigdha P.
March 2026
Beautiful view, sound of crashing waves all night made the entire trip!! Spacious!… especially with use of the Kai Lanai!!!
Lori B.
March 2026
Beautiful view with surfers right out front. Hist was amazing. Great communication and kind. We enjoyed our stay!
Crystal T.
March 2026
This was a great property! Watching the sunset, the surfers, and hearing the ocean waves every night was incredible. They had beach gear too which I didn’t see listed and was a happy surprise. Very clean, fully stocked and all good things to report!
Katherine G.
March 2026
We were so impressed with the condo! Everything was so clean and comfortable, well labeled and organized. The view is amazing… we had so much fun hanging out on the balcony watching the ocean.
Lori M.
March 2026
Great!!
Bradley B.
February 2026
Excellent view and great communication!!!
Phillip L.
February 2026
Fully equipped kitchen and comfortable beds. Personal response from property managers after asking a couple of questions. Bathrooms could be updated, but would stay there again.
Susan T.
February 2026
The ocean view was great and very close. Kitchen was well equipped. Beds were comfortable. Close to downtown as far as driving. Totes and wicker shelves by entry way came in very handy. And having beach towels there was great.
Aaron S.
February 2026
Good grief…where to start. Russ is an amazing host. Incredibly accommodating and responsive. The condo is all it’s cracked up to be: clean, light, quiet, great location, cool, well appropriated. We wanted for nothing (except spoons…lol). We walked to the fruit market nearby and ate fresh mangoes and cucumbers while looking at the ocean at our feet. Thank you so much, Russ, for sharing your exquisite piece of paradise.
Carmon A.
February 2026
The best vacation rental I have ever stayed in. My family had the vacation of a lifetime. The view and sounds of the ocean completely envelope you from the living area. If you are staying in Kailua-Kona PLEASE try to rent this condo. You will not be disappointed.
Scott M.
February 2026
Banyan Tree 200 had everything we needed. It was at a great location with a phenomenal ocean view. The kitchen was well stocked and didn’t lack anything.
Nathan L.
February 2026
Loved the high chairs on the lanaithe refurbished screens were lovelyGreat furniture in the living room.
Susan H.
February 2026
Amazing place, pictures don't do it justice and an even better host. 11/10 stay here if you're in Kona!
Nicholas Z.
February 2026
Really good location to restaurants, shops & markets. We luv’d being so close to the water. Grills were nice also. The unit itself was real nice. Kitchen was nicely appointed. We had some internet/TV issues. The owners were on top of everything and very pleasant during this issue. We’d stay again.
Mark H.
February 2026
This is an extraordinary place! Everything about our experience was amazing- the unit is in a spectacular location as the views and proximity to beaches, hikes, etc., was perfect! The host was extremely responsive and helpful and the condo had all the amenities... We will return and can't say enough positive things about our experience here...
Joe S.
February 2026
We had a wonderful 5-day stay at this beautiful waterfront condo near Kona! The location was perfect—peaceful, right on the ocean, and close to great beaches, restaurants, and shopping. Watching sunsets from the lanai was a highlight, and we were lucky enough to spot whales passing by—such a special experience.The condo was spotless, comfortable, and well equipped with everything we needed. We appreciated the thoughtful touches, easy parking, and great communication from the hosts.This was the perfect home base for exploring the Big Island, and we would happily stay here again. Highly recommend!
Duane O.
February 2026
The bed and pillows were comfortable. The home was clean. The ocean view was incredible. The location is very convenient. There is no AC in the master bedroom, so the door must be left open.
Kathleen v.
February 2026
I have stayed at The Banyan Tree about 15 times through the last 25 y. The location and Ocean view and activity has always been the motivation. Russ's condo stood.out asA wonderful compliment to this location. Spotless, fully equipped for beach activity and entertaining and home dining. He offers the use of his car to top it off.. Highly recommended.
David C.
February 2026
Our time in this Condo was very good and the vies were outstanding. We watched the surfers every morning and evening. That was great entertainment. There were a few small problems that were fixed very quickly. The ceiling fan in the master bath needed to be replaced and it was done in just 3 hours after I reported it. The dryer was strange. It was a novented type and the clothes never got completely dry but no big deal. I will be renting this Condo again. Thanks
Duane C.
February 2026
![Banyan Tree Penthouse #402]()
Everything about this condo is lovely. Super well-provisioned, literally over the ocean. Fabulous views. Outside balcony is limited in size but met our needs, we spent hours on those high chairs watching the surfers, the whales, the sunsets. Owner provided lovely binoculars for use too. The roar of the ocean at night is loud at first, then you get used to it. Inside furniture was comfy, beds were excellent. We only used a/c one afternoon upon arrival, their split units are modern and effective, the rest of the time we were fine opening front screen door and back windows and sliders for comfortable days and sleeping. Our guest in the rear bedroom did use her a/c at night as she chose to close her window to reduce road noise but that was a personal choice. My boyfriend swam every morning in the pool and we noticed many guests enjoyed sunsets from there too. Building is quiet in a good way. We would rent here again in a heartbeat. We had one question and the owner was immediately responsive and helpful. Would give more stars if we could. Thanks again!!
Pamela W.
February 2026
The location and views from this property is outstanding.
Dennis E.
February 2026
Everything was as expected, great location..!
Jeanne W.
February 2026
Great location! Enjoyed watching the whales, dolphins & surfers from the lanai. Also super convenient to the Ali’i restaurants & shops. Owner was very responsive as well! Would definitely stay here again!
Deanna S.
January 2026
Beautiful view and sunsets! Great part of town.
Heidi S.
January 2026
Great communication from start to finish. The location on the water and the large lanai and comfortable beds made this an ideal home base for our Big Island vacation. We also used the full kitchen and in unit laundry too. Each room has a great AC unit as well so we could leave it off in the rooms we weren’t in at the moment and when we were on adventures away from th space. We would stay here again !
Sally K.
January 2026
The view is spectacular! The place is spacious and comfortable. Don't let the icky elevator fool you (it's smelly and damp). Although we could never get in the front door on the first try with our code everything else worked. We did go buy some softer toilet paper though LOL. Great place to relax and watch the surfers and sunsets.
Chris C.
January 2026
Always beautiful.
Mike W.
January 2026
Love the spacious condo, amazing views of the ocean and surfers out in the water from Banyan Beach both morning and evening. So fun to watch them! Unit was well stocked, and also had chairs and snorkel equipment available. Very comfortable bed. Nice to have an assigned parking spot to come back to. Easy check-in and communication with owner. Would definitely stay here again!
Cathy S.
January 2026
The view was off the chart. It was a pleasure waking up to such an amazing gift. The only downfall of this unit was the floor stepping up to go into the kitchen and stepping down to enter the living room and bedrooms. Otherwise we lived everything about the stay.
Caren C.
January 2026
Amazing view, amazing location with the best beach within minute for waves or snorkeling , a small mart right in front for all your last moment purchase. Could not have thought of anything better.
Bimalendu Varsha C.
January 2026
Wonderful 2 bedroom 2 bathroom apartment. The beds were comfortable and the condo is exactly as the pictures depict. Kitchen was well stocked with pots, pans etc. The view of the beach is magnificent. I would love to stay here again
belinda h.
January 2026
The property location and comfort was top notch!The owners were most accommodating and answered quickly! I loved watching the surfers from the Comfort of the living room! Kitchen was most convenient and beds were comfortable! So close to the water and not a high rise!
Karen H.
January 2026
We had a wonderful stay at this condo with the most incredible ocean views! The views really were spectacular. We really enjoyed sitting on the balcony or in the living room or bedroom with all the windows and watching the surfers and the sunsets. Great location and easy to get to other parts of the island. We had everything we could need including the use of the car, thank you, Russ! Russ was excellent with communicating and fast responses and with recommendations. The beds were very comfortable and the unit was clean. Highly recommend!
Kathy W.
January 2026
The view is amazing and we loved listening to the waves and watching the surfers! The unit itself was adequate. It suffers from deferred maintenance and it’s too bad because the location is very nice. The refrigerator is very old and rusty, with an ice cube tray only. The Internet was very poor in the unit but fine out by the elevator, so no movie watching, and taking care of reservations or travel plans within the unit was very difficult. The electrical outlets were loose so the lamps constantly flickered and it was hard to charge our phones. The cleaning was superficial, for example it was very dirty under the bed. I really think it’s a great location but overall condition was disappointing.
Brenda S.
January 2026
Host was very communicative and accommodating. Excellet/best view of the ocean
January 2026