Kona Makai, Big Island

Kona Makai is a beautiful oceanfront complex located on famous Ali'i Drive, just over a mile south of historic Kona Village. The well-maintained resort features lush gardens with native Hawaiian plants, an oceanfront heated saltwater pool, hot tub, tennis courts, exercise rooms, ping pong, gas barbecues, and covered parking. Guests can enjoy oceanfront seating with loungers, watch spinner dolphins, whales, and monk seals, and experience stunning sunsets. The complex is gated at night for security and offers easy access to snorkeling, scuba diving, and other water activities when ocean conditions are calm. Kona Makai is conveniently located near restaurants, shopping, farmers markets, and various recreational activities, making it an ideal choice for vacationers seeking a tranquil and picturesque Hawaiian getaway.

    Kona Makai Quick Facts:


  • Address: 75-6026 Ali‘i Dr,Kailua-Kona, HI 96740
  • Property Size: ~4.0 acres (101 units)
  • Reviews: 4.78 / 5.0 (from 1206 reviews)
  • Average Price: $270/night for 1 bedroom units
  • Rentals: Kona Makai Vacation Rentals

Kona Makai Average Rates


As of October 2025, the average price of a 1 bedroom unit at Kona Makai is $270. The average price of a 2 bedroom unit is $418. These averages include Hawaii's 18% accommodation tax as well as the cleaning and booking fees rentals charge. Also note that prices vary depending on the specifc unit and season (holiday rates are usually higher). Visit the Kona Makai Rentals page to see specific unit prices for your dates.

Kona Makai's Best Rentals

View All 37 Kona Makai Rentals (with vacancy and search options)

What Do Guests Think? An Analysis of 907 Guest Reviews


Reviewer Portrait

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.

Kona Makai delivers a classic Kona experience: a peaceful, oceanfront complex on Ali‘i Drive with lush, meticulously kept gardens, dramatic lava-rock shoreline, and nightly sunset gatherings by the pool/BBQ area. Guests love lingering on lanais for ocean breezes, dolphin and whale sightings, and the constant sound of the surf. The location is a standout—about a mile from downtown shops and restaurants (walk or a short drive) and well placed for day trips north or south along the coast.

Most condos are clean, comfortable, and well equipped, often with full kitchens, in‑unit laundry, reliable Wi‑Fi, and plenty of beach gear (chairs, coolers, boogie boards, snorkel sets). Many units have air conditioning, though coverage varies (often bedroom-only; lofts can run warm), and hosts/property managers are widely praised for fast, friendly communication and quick fixes when needed. Onsite amenities—oceanfront pool and hot tub, gas grills, ping-pong, and tennis—enhance the laid-back vibe, but note there’s no sandy beach on property; ocean entry is over lava and better for confident snorkelers, with sandy beaches a short drive away.

The consistent caveats: this is a quiet, rule-forward HOA. Pool use is conservative (no splashing/floaties/loud play), phone calls on lanais may be restricted, and quiet hours are enforced—great for serenity, less ideal for energetic kids. As with any individually owned condos, interiors and upkeep vary; a few guests noted dated furniture, occasional cleaning lapses, bright bedrooms without blackout curtains, or loud/limited AC, though most issues were addressed promptly. Periodic building projects (spalling/painting) and the dated gym appear in several reviews, and upper floors require stairs (no elevators). Overall, Kona Makai suits travelers seeking oceanfront sunsets, tropical gardens, and a calm home base near town; those wanting a sandy beach and a kid-centric, free-form pool scene should plan to drive to nearby beaches.

This summary is based on a comprehensive analysis of 907 reviews

Recent Kona Makai Reviews


We had a great time staying at Kona Makai. It was a perfect complex for our multi family vacation! This condo was clean and had all the necessities we needed to dine in when we wanted to. Would definitely stay again!
Jalene N.
July 2025

This was a great location for a stay in Kona. Just minutes away from great shops and restaurants. The unit does have AC in the living room but not in the bed room unlike some other units. The bedroom was a little warm in the early evening but did cool down over the night. The kitchen had everything I needed to cook and make meals. The pool was great and very relaxing. Parking was easy and very accessible. I would stay here again!
Brian D.
July 2025

Has a great time in Kona. Beach stuff was particularly helpful. Could easily walk into town.
Dawna L.
June 2025

The place was a perfect location for our getaway. The view was spectacular from the Lanai. We would definitely stay here again! Mahalo Conrad & Sheri
Sherilynne D.
June 2025

We had a very good time staying there. It’s a peaceful and beautiful location. Mahalo.
Amira M.
June 2025

Rating Details: The property manager was very helpful. The vacation rental was spotless. I was very happy with the location. I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental. Overall, I recommend this vacation rental. Reviewer Comments: We had a wonderful stay at Kona Makia. The property was beautiful and very peaceful. The unit was well-kept, clean, and comfortable. I highly recommend this place to anyone seeking a comfortable, peaceful, and relaxing vacation. The pool was also great!
David S.
June 2025

Very nice, supplied with everything we needed. We were here for our sons wedding and it worked very well for us. The only thing negative i can think of is the tub is a little slick and the top plug of the outlets by the bed didn't seem to work. The bottom ones do? Overall it was a very nice stay.
Clay J.
June 2025

Nice condo, with lots of amenities. Very communicative, and really lovely people. Beds were comfortable, and the kitchen well stocked. Thoroughly enjoyed and 100% would stay here again. The location is perfect- close to all the restaurants, and also close to magic sands beach and a few other good snorkeling spots. Also, close to the airport.
Malissa C.
June 2025

The condo is equipped with everything you need from the location to the view to the utensils to the beach, chairs, etc. 100% satisfied thank you so much
eric d.
June 2025

Our family trip was perfect! The condo was set up nicely for a family of 6. If you forgot sunscreen or beach stuff they have you covered. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay.
Kaley O.
June 2025

We absolutely loved our stay in this condo! It was super comfortable with darling decor and had everything we needed! The view is of the ocean and we could actually see dolphins from the lanai in the morning! The pool and the Jacuzzi were excellent. It was quiet, peaceful and exactly what we needed! The hosts were great. Communication was wonderful and they even left us a couple of beverages in the fridge! Highly recommend!
emily
June 2025

Rating Details: The property manager was very helpful. The vacation rental was spotless. I was very happy with the location. I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental. Overall, I recommend this vacation rental. Reviewer Comments: Our condo was perfect for our Kona vacation. We loved the views from the lanai, and the peaceful nature surrounding the property. We were working online part of the time, and the wifi was perfect!
Carly R.
June 2025

As advertised, no issues, communication was great!
Andrew B.
June 2025

Rating Details: The property manager was very helpful. The vacation rental was spotless. I was very happy with the location. I was more than satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental. Overall, I recommend this vacation rental. Reviewer Comments: Our only problem was we have back out drapes at home, so while on vacation the sheer drapes had us awake at the crack of dawn.
MELINDA S.
June 2025

Wonderful property. Perfect location with ocean view and close to downtown Kona. Very quiet with the exception of construction going on downstairs a few days and across the courtyard. It would have been great to have the pool open earlier in the a.m. Condo was well stocked and clean. Patio furniture could use some updating as well as lanai ceiling fan. Lanai door VERY tough to open and close. Overall a very relaxing place to lay your head.
DarrellChristine B.
June 2025

It was comfortable and quiet. The furniture is a bit worn down as well as the flooring. It was fine for the week we spend there but I would not spend a month as this unit has no view whatsoever. Did appreciate the AC!
:Jacqueline F F.
June 2025

The condo was great, very well equipped with everything we needed for a 5-day stay. Great sunset views from the lounges in front of the pool. Contractors were restoring the building while we were there so there was noise during the day but not much of an issue since we were gone most of the day.
Duane C.
June 2025

Recommended to stay from a friend. Best decision ever! Great location, views, easy to navigate around town! Very peaceful and clean! Will come again!
Chantal C.
May 2025

Very comfortable, great location, but a little outdated. Kitchen easy to cook and eat in.
Diane K.
May 2025

Needed to have a good cleaning by sliding door. Looked like a critter left some droppings behind. Floor fans need cleaning. Blew out dust so didn’t use. Housekeeper needs to do better. Liked the location and convenience of property amenities. Enjoyed watching the sunsets. We walked to one of the restaurants one evening down on Ali’i drive which was nice since it was only a mile away. Host was attentive and checked in on us. Liked the security of a gated community. Would stay there again.
Janette D.
May 2025

The place was in a great location, it was very clean. The bedding was great. They left us laundry detergent and dish detergent. There were beach towels, coolers, chairs (albeit somewhat broken). The property was well laid out, and everything worked. Under normal circumstances my only complaint would have been that it was HOT when we arrived, and it took 2 days of both acs of full blast (which was loud) to cool down. The upstairs loft part really didnt get below 79.2 hours before we arrived we wereinformedd that the 'possible' spalling work listed as an asterisk was in fact occuring on our balcony. Which meant 1/4 was roped off and we couldnt use it. And 2 of the mornings there were workers actively chiseling. So no morning coffees on the balcony for us. Plus there was construction dust and equipment so even when we were alone it was not comfortable to be on the balcony. This was an extreme dissappintment as the view and the balcony were a huge reason we chose this place.So overall, its probably a great place to stay most of the time. It just so happened the 'possible spalling' since april of 2024 meant my 5 days in May of 2025 had active concrete sanding, tiling, construction dust and a closed section of our balcony. I was hugely disappointed.
h c.
May 2025

First time trip to Hawaii and we were very pleased with our booking. Easy parking, kitchen fully stocked, relaxing lanai with a gorgeous view, tons of beach equipment (chairs, cooler, towels, boogie boards,..), walking distances to beaches and shopping/dining places. Fans worked great, kept the place nice and cool!
Annika S.
May 2025

This condo is beautiful, inside and out. There is a pool, hot tub, ping pong, workout room and ocean view. Has all the amenities of home.
Michelle B.
May 2025

Having grown up here, the fact that The Kona Makai is still the Kona Makai I remember, made this trip that much better.Kona has grown up, but Kona Makai
Brandy D.
May 2025

Thank you Jon and Suzanne! Both you, as hosts, and your property are 5-star all the way. The location, amenities, communication with us, and attention to detail are everything we hope for when we dream of vacation time in Hawaii. Mahalo!
Darrell K.
May 2025

This property is well maintained, pool was cold this time couldn’t enjoy it. The ocean view from the pool is beautiful. Regarding the cold pool you have to use a key to get in and out of the pool area and also for the pool bathroomss. If you have a small bladder it may be a problem getting out of one are and into the next.
sally S.
May 2025

The room was great! Kitchen was well stocked and there were lots of supplies available for the beach! It was walking distance to a market and beach and sunsets watchable from next to the pool area. If you have young kids, just be aware that they do not like splashing, jumping or "excited play" in the pool area. There are a lot of full time residents there that don't like it Besides that, it was amazing!
Rhonda H.
May 2025

The view from the lanai is truly gorgeous!! And the lush landscaping made it feel private even though it's surrounded by other condos. The pool, hot tub, and ping pong table down by the water were great. Our host was friendly and quick to respond to all our questions. Convenient location. We will gladly stay here again if/when we come back to the Big Island!
Laura G.
May 2025

The condo complex and pool was nice, right on the shoreline for great sunsets. Condo was clean with all the amenities expexted. Clean and comfortable, no complaints other than would prefer a keyless entry rather than having the lock box when you have your hands full.
T B.
May 2025

We had a great stay. The property was big and nicely located. The facilities were great and our family loved the property. Any concerns were answered in a very timely manner.
Jason D.
May 2025

Rating Details: The property manager was very helpful. The vacation rental was spotless. I was very happy with the location. I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental. Overall, I recommend this vacation rental. Reviewer Comments: Amazing location in a beautiful condo that was well stocked with everything you needed plus beach items. Management was easy to communicate with over text and I was able to organize an early check in. Will be recommending to friends and using again when in Kona.
A guest from Buena Park, CA
May 2025

The property was great for our group (5 adults). The condo was as advertised, clean and well stocked with basics spices and beach amenities like chairs and mats. The balconies are large and had ocean views. There was a great pool/BBQ/lounge/hittub/ping pong area for hanging out, as well as access to the shoreline (note there’s not sand beach here or within walkable distance). The only caution is the loft - the stairs were steeper than we expected and not accessible for some of our group (ie. to steep for easily carrying up luggage or for someone that need to go down starts to the washrooms in the night for example). It worked for us just fine but we definitely had to be aware when going up and down.I gave the location 4 stars only because most things were more than walking distance away so it meant always taking the car out and limiting options if our group didn’t want to go out together or if we all wanted to have a few drinks together.The communication, cleanliness and overall property were great! The island is beautiful!
Danna
April 2025

Clean, comfortable, ocean breezes keep the unit cool. Ocean view from lanai is spectacular. Over the years, we have stayed in various units at Kona Makai. All have been very nice, but this one is a gem at a very reasonable price. It is our favorite.
Rich H.
April 2025

Property seemed a little restrictive but I understand gated communities so it wasn’t bad for a gated community. Had everything we needed and it had an amazing view.
Colleen C.
April 2025

What a lovely property! Great communication before and during our stay. They offered us a late check out without our asking and responded to questions. Even responded with a thank you when I asked to leave remaining groceries for cleaning staff. I will definitely recommend to friends!
Jana M.
April 2025

The property is well kept. We loved seeing all the birds, geckos and plants from our lanai. The beds were great and we were thankful for the two AC units. Kitchen had everything we needed.
Marjolein D.
April 2025

Rating Details: The property manager was very helpful. The vacation rental was spotless. I was very happy with the location. I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental. Overall, I recommend this vacation rental. Reviewer Comments: Clean and in a nice location. Appropriately priced and has a good kitchen setup.
A guest from ALAMEDA, CA
April 2025

Beautiful way to start the morning with coffee and an incredible view from the wrap around lanai. Property management went above and beyond with any questions or needs. The condo grounds were beautiful. Having washer & dryer was a bonus. New cushions on lanai furniture would be appreciated.
Jennifer J.
April 2025

Three of us stayed for 5 days and we really enjoyed ourselves. The location was really convenient and it was so close to the ocean! We ate quite a few meals on the lanai and enjoyed the quiet and the view!
Darcy P.
April 2025

A very nice place, everything was perfect
Sean S.
April 2025

Very happy overall with the rental. All went well.
Douglas M.
April 2025

We were very pleased with our stay at this property. Amenities were great and location was perfect.
Pamela R.
April 2025

Comfortable unit with fantastic location and view. I will definitely stay here again!
John P.
April 2025

Very nice place. Grounds and pool well taken care of. Excellent view from lanai, love hearing waves crashing on lava rocks. Very clean with ample kitchen appliances, lenins, snorkeling stuff. Didnt see that they had boogie boards tell last day because they were hiding under bed. Probably should have been on info, who looks under a bed? Only 2 extra kitchen bags, not sure why, had to buy a box of 30 bags. Bed Probably should be taken out and shot, very used. But we slept well. Everything else was Primo.
Jordan C.
April 2025

Clean property, nice view from balcony, the hot tub and pool are amazing!
Anton S.
April 2025

It is always wonderful!
Joan J.
April 2025

Perfect place for our family of four. We will be back.
Paul H.
April 2025

This comfortable, conveniently located condo is your ideal place to stay when in Kona. It had everything you needed to make your own meals if you wished. It’s really close to Kona if you wanted to go out. The pool was a perfect size with lots of lounge chairs. The unit had plenty of air flow to keep cool and a brand new A/C unit was replaced in the bedroom. We really appreciated the quick action from owner Janet to get that done as soon as we alerted her that it wasn't working. Great communication for checking in and to address any concerns we had. We will definitely be returning!
Sherry H.
April 2025

The property was stunning. We enjoyed staying 10 nights. Highly recommend and hope to return soon! Mahalo
Dawn L.
April 2025

Great location walking distance to shops and restaurants. Very clean property. Views are great. Can't wait to come back.
Jerry F.
April 2025


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