Makahuena, Kauai

The Makahuena Resort is a picturesque condo resort located in Poipu, Hawaii, on the southernmost point of Kauai. The resort sits on a cliff overlooking the ocean, providing breathtaking views and easy access to nearby attractions. Guests can enjoy a range of amenities, including a saltwater pool, Jacuzzi, tennis and pickleball courts, and a barbecue pavilion. The resort is within walking distance to top-rated sandy beaches such as Shipwreck Beach and Brennecke's Beach, as well as the Poipu Bay Golf Club and the Grand Hyatt Hotel with its fine dining options.

In addition to its prime location, the Makahuena Resort offers a relaxing and enjoyable experience for vacationers. The well-maintained grounds and ocean-view pool deck provide a serene atmosphere, while the resort's proximity to various beaches and activities cater to different interests, from sunbathing and surfing to snorkeling and golfing. With its combination of amenities, stunning views, and convenient access to local attractions, the Makahuena Resort is an ideal choice for vacationers seeking a memorable stay in Poipu, Hawaii.

    Makahuena Quick Facts:


  • Address: 1661 Pe'e Rd,Koloa, HI 96756
  • Property Size: ~3.9 acres (79 units)
  • Reviews: 4.78 / 5.0 (from 1763 reviews)
  • Average Price: $649/night for 2 bedroom units
  • Rentals: Makahuena Vacation Rentals
Makahuena panorama

The Top 8 Highest Rated Rentals at Makahuena

Makahuena Average Rates


As of September 2026, the average price of a 2 bedroom unit at Makahuena is $649. The average price of a 3 bedroom unit is $740. 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 Makahuena Rentals page to see specific unit prices for your dates.

What Do Guests Think? An Analysis of 1000 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.

Staying at Makahuena feels like classic Poipu: dramatic oceanfront cliffs, constant surf, and front‑row seats to sunrises, sunsets, whales, turtles, and even a small blowhole right off the point. Guests love the location—an easy walk or short drive to Poipu and Brennecke’s beaches, Shipwreck Beach, and the Maha’ulepu Heritage Trail—plus landscaped grounds with benches for sunset viewing. Condos are spacious and family‑friendly, many with multiple bedrooms/baths, full kitchens, in‑unit laundry, and thoughtful extras like beach chairs, umbrellas, coolers, boogie boards, and snorkel gear. The pool, hot tub, grills, and even pickleball/tennis are popular, and many reviewers praised responsive hosts/property managers and welcome baskets that make arrivals feel seamless.

Do note the complex is older, and units vary: plenty are updated and spotless, while others feel basic or due for a refresh. Air-conditioning differs by condo (some have none or bedroom‑only portable units that can be loud), and living areas can run warm without the trade winds. A recurring theme is stairs—no elevators, multi‑level layouts, and some longer walks from parking—so mobility and luggage can be a consideration. Several guests mentioned intermittent maintenance quirks (sticky sliders, fogged windows, appliance hiccups), occasional tropical pests or musty odors, and that the pool isn’t always heated and opens at 9am. Recent nearby construction and some on‑site balcony work have, at times, affected views or added weekday noise, though many still found the area quiet and relaxing.

Overall sentiment is very positive—many would “stay again in a heartbeat.” Makahuena suits travelers who want space and self‑catering in a prime south‑shore spot with big views and easy access to beaches, trails, and Koloa/Poipu dining. If you’re heat‑sensitive or traveling with older adults, choose a unit with AC, ask about stair counts and layout, and confirm current construction status and renovation level if views/finishes matter. Plan on walking or a quick drive to sandy swimming, and consider stocking up in Lihue (Costco/Target) on the way in. For wildlife watching, family convenience, and that crashing‑waves soundtrack, it’s hard to beat.

This summary is based on a comprehensive analysis of 1000 reviews

Recent Makahuena Reviews


We were lucky to stay here during the biggest swells of the season. The wave sets were epic just a few hundred feet from our abode. Sprays from the lava rock were 40 feet high set after set. We could hear it boom all night. Great location to shipwreck beach, brennecke'/spoipu beach 10 min walk from the property, and kiahuna. Nice lanai with views of the water, and sunrise.clean place. All amenities provide. Easy parking close to the condo. Really a gem for any local sites and food. AND A/C throughout the condo.
Steven C.
June 2026

This was an excellent property for our family of six that stayed l four nights in Kauai. I would definitely recommend and would be happy to return.
Steve E.
June 2026

First the negative-Property is in need of updating. Sliding glass doors were extremely difficult to close. Constant sound of wind coming through the gaps in the door. Blinds in front of sliding glass doors need to be replaced, dirty and work poorly. The interior is dimly lit and much darker than the pictures. The positiv-host was good. Extremely easy to get a hold of. Property grounds are beautiful, pool and hot tub are very nice. Grilling area was a plus. Overall it was decent but not good
Ryan K.
June 2026

We did clean the towels. Your view was great as far as being close to the water and having mostly what is needed to cook in a kitchen. It was spacious and the beds are very comfy. It is very hard to open the front door and there are a few upgrades that could be done through out the house. Overall the stay was pleasant.
Gary J.
June 2026

The condo was a great size for a family travelling with 3 teenagers. Having 3 floors gave us some separation when needed. And each bedroom has a bathroom! Though my boys thought that the third-floor bathroom was tiny, it was convenient. Everything we needed was in the kitchen (including staples like seasonings and sugar) and there were lots of beach towels/beach gear.The pictures provided of the view do not come close to doing it justice. The oceanview is spectacular. We turned off the AC in the master bedroom at night so that we could listen to the waves crashing. Location also made it an easy 15 minute walk to Poipu Beach park and some restaurants.The AC made for very comfortable living spaces, including all the bedrooms. Unfortunately, it made the lanai (balcony) almost unusable in the afternoon. Between the direct sun in the afternoon and the hot air kicked off the AC unit, the lanai becomes an oven. Swim suits dry fast, but its not a place to kick back with a glass of wine in the evening. We sat on the benches overlooking the ocean to enjoy the sunset instead.Last note - it's great to have an in-unit washer and dryer. We had to go buy some laundry scent beads though, because our first load of laundry smelled really bad and we had to rewash everything. It got much better for later loads - whether it was the scent beads or washing some mildew out of the machine. Based on a sign sitting on the washer, it sounds like mildew is a ongoing struggle.
Katrina W.
June 2026

Loved our stay here! More spacious than the pictures made it look too! Loved that it came with beach chairs, umbrellas, noodles, boogie boards, and coolers. The pool being right outside was great and the view of the waves crashing on the cliffs from the patio was stunning. Highly recommend this place. Hosts respond quickly and are helpful with extra supplies. Poipa beach is walking distance and the cliffs out back are beautiful to walk on for sunset and sunrise without having to drive anywhere. Downtown Koloa is very close with shops and food and grocery is only 7 min away. Can’t beat that! Photos were all taken on property.
Corinne H.
June 2026

Most spectacular view!
Dick B.
June 2026

Communication was excellent from the very beginning. Clear instructions for check-in. The condo is breathtakingly beautiful, and the views were to die for. Well equipped with everything we needed, and we really appreciate that there was a boogie board, chairs, and an umbrella for the beach. Also a couple of ice chests. We were very surprised when a welcome basket arrived with a sweet note about something we were celebrating. This trip was monumental for us and we couldn’t have made a better choice on to stay.Easy walk to Poipu Beach. where our grandkids had a blast and we’re very safe in the water with the lifeguards. Thank you so much for a trip. We will never forget!
Julie S.
June 2026

Evelyn was so easy to work with, from the time of booking through the checkout process. She responded immediately with any questions we had. The condo is older but has a lot of updated features. The full-size washer and dryer were a nice bonus, as well as the half bath in the laundry room. Loved the view and spent mornings on the lanai with my coffee. Mahalo, Evelyn!
Linda G.
June 2026

Great communication and instructions. We loved the location and amenities (it was very well equipped). It was a perfect place for us to stay on our family vacation. As a first time VRBO user, I was very pleased with the whole process. Thank you for sharing your place and allowing us to make memories!
Matt S.
June 2026

Lot of room and right next to the ocean.
Ryan
June 2026

Our stay was fabulous. Thank you for everything!
Tim S.
June 2026

This VRBO has it all. Great location. Check out the lava bridge right behind the property. Everything you need like a home away from home. Leaving the windows and doors open for natural ac. Easy check in. Rent this place and you wont be sorry!
Shari S.
June 2026

The view was stunning and it was the perfect set up for our immediate and extended family to be together. Quiet area and unit was always nice and cool when we needed it to be, when we were in for the night as each room has own cooling system and fans. Well thought through and easy check in check out. They had a very in depth manual about the condo with suggestions of places to eat and see, and this may have been in there, but for check out a clear understanding of the recycling process would be good. I might have recycled things they didn't accept not realizing it in time. Easily walkable to Poi Pu beach if you are able bodied but it's hilly. Lots of eats and shopping very near by too (drivable). We washed laundry there and made coffee morning.
Michael J Y.
June 2026

The room and condo were in a GREAT location on Poipu Beach. Close to everything, walking distance to Shipwreck Beach and the rocks, which was awesome. Overall, the condo was what we were expecting, but we did encounter a few issues. The description failed to mention that the only AC was two mobile window units in the bedrooms upstairs, which meant no AC downstairs. It was not a problem for us as you can open the lanai door and the entry door and the breeze works great downstairs. The main issue we had was the appliances. The refrigerator leaked while we were there and had trouble cooling our food, but it’s an easy fix for the next guest. The condo grounds were fantastic, great spot to watch the sunset, great pool and hot tub for after the long days hiking or at the beach. We would book this condo again if we came back to Kauai for sure.
Jeremy C.
June 2026

The condo was very clean and well equipped. The location was beautiful and very close to the ocean. The landscaping was well maintained. We would definitely stay there again!
Sally H.
June 2026

The view from this condo is outstanding. Waves crashing into the rocks all day/night and you're right on top of it. Great sound to sleep to. We had Honu's (turtles) in the ocean right below us every day which was super cool. Beds are comfortable and the bathrooms and kitchen were stocked with the soap and toiletries we needed (three people) for the entire stay. Poipu Beach is within walking distance (about a block away down the hill) and as well access to the green sea turtles that come to rest on the beach every night. You must have a Puka Dog while you are there and 10:30 am is the best time to do that so you don't have to wait in the huge line. Koloa is the neighboring village with access to shopping, food trucks, local fruit, taco stands, etc. This condo is great. The only critique I would have is that it needs a slight update. No question though that we had a wonderful time and would for sure stay here again. Sophia was a wonderful hostess. Awesome communication! Mahalo!
Annette H.
June 2026

Great location! I would definitely come back and stay here.
Carter C.
June 2026

Beautiful place! Absolutely spotless as well.
Lester T.
June 2026

Owners were very accommodating with our schedules. Highly recommend this listing.
james s.
June 2026

We had a wonderful stay at Makahuena. The host checked in to see what or if we needed anything, we didn't. It provided everything one needs for a week long stay. Beach chair and towels were provided as well. We would definitely stay here again!
Lisa M.
June 2026

It resembled the photos and the place was clean.
Aaron
May 2026

The ocean view was incredible, we spent a lot of time on the balcony. The beds were comfortable, the house was clean, the kitchen had everything we needed. The proximity to Poipu Beach was excellent. B
Lita T.
May 2026

Perfect for our family. Great communication
Rita O.
May 2026

This condo could not have been more perfect. We were concerned that it was 'ground level' but the ocean side living spaces (master, living area) were elevated above ground so the views were spectacular. We saw crashing waves, sea turtles, rainbows and beautiful scenery immediately in front of us, and the bar height seating area on the deck was perfect for morning coffee and afternoon happy hour. Very private and quiet.Sophia could not have been a more responsive and accommodating host. The few questions we had were answered immediately & clearly.The condo itself was very spacious and well appointed. It had everything expected and even many unexpected supplies--beach chairs, cooler, snorkel set, welcome snacks/drinks.We would definitely consider staying here again should we return to the Poipu area.
K. S.
May 2026

This condominium was a very nice upside surprise. Everything was beautiful and the view is unbeatable and energetic. The unit had everything and was extremely well appointed. Sophia is very communicative. We were there in May 2026 and there is a LOT of road construction going on so traffic can cause long delays so plan your days accordingly (supposedly the construction is due to be completed in July, but best to confirm).
Barbara H.
May 2026

We stayed here with our three adult children. There was plenty of room. We loved being able to walk right off the patio to the pool or to view the sunset. It was about a 15 minute walk to Poipu to see the turtles. The condo was clean and well stocked with basic spices, paper towels, toilet paper, laundry detergent, dish and dishwasher detergent, etc. The view from the edge of the cliffs was amazing! We would definitely stay here again!
Marianne A.
May 2026

Staff was attentive to a few needs. One important improvement needed is the a/c in bedroom/living room. It would make a noise every 20 minutes or so which would be a problem for sleeping. Thankfully, nice and cool with trade winds so did not need.
dasd a.
May 2026

We enjoyed our stay. The view was excellent. Some of the neighbors were really friendly. Some weren't. The sliding doors to the bedroom were unexpected and an issue at times. The kitchen was excellent. The furnishings were decent. This unit is on the second level. When we booked, it looked like it was the top floor. But there was unit above with loud walking people. Also, please get there during the day if possible. We had a lot of luggage with 3 separate set of stairs. We didn't discover the ramps for 2 of the sets until the morning. The management was very responsive. Good location overall with 2 ways to enter the property, one with speed bumps and one without. The washer and dryer in the unit was very convenient. The views of the ocean were excellent, really picturesque. Overall good grounds with the pool and hot tub. Well kept.
Trevor S.
May 2026

Condo is perfect for large family, especially with young children. First floor allows kids easy access to grass, pool and views. Hearing the water hit the rocks was a favorite.We stayed for a month with various family members arriving and departing. Location worked out great for airport and touring.Condo is well stocked with beach chairs, toys, umbrella's, boogie boards, snorkel gear and even variety sizes of coolers.The unit does need a bit of TLC, which I believe the owner was arriving 2 weeks after we left to address.
Paris d.
May 2026

Nice condo with good amount of space for our family. Beach supplies were very nice to have on hand, kitchen was nicely updated and had all the things we needed. View of the ocean was amazing, the trade winds and fans cooled the house down well each evening. Short drive to lots of beaches and shopping. We had a great stay!
Anne C.
May 2026

We have done many rentals but this one really had the extras. We were given laundry detergents, enough coffee and creamers to get us going, local snacks. We played gin rummy every day on the balcony and read books from the library. Loved having beach chairs and towels too!
Janice P.
May 2026

Very nice condo. Excellent working A/C. Condo was stocked with about everything you would need. Beach chairs, umbrellas etc. Very comfortable beds and nice view of the ocean.
John M.
May 2026

Beautiful views from balcony!
Sandy L.
May 2026

Great experience, I received email updates pre, during and after our stay. All instructions were precise and informative. I'd stay here again.
Edward F.
May 2026

We had such a great time at this condo. They had everything and fully stocked on supplies. The beds were so comfortable, bathrooms were clean and the views were spectacular. We didn’t want to leave. They were even very accommodating when I asked last minute for a late check out. We highly recommend this place and would stay here again.
Sophie R.
May 2026

This condo was well equipped and the pictures matched. Great location and the kitchen had all the necessary items to be able to cook.
Aaron M.
May 2026

This unit is in a great location with a beautiful view. It nicely accommodates a family with 3 adults and 2 young children.It is close to beaches, shopping and restaurants. The kitchen is well equipped and spacious. The air conditioning system is not working well and the one in the master bedroom was unusable. The shower in the master bathroom leaks as the shower door trim needs to be replaced. The check in/out process is easy.
Michelle L.
May 2026

Excellent stay , great communication, very well equipped, amazing views !
Jolene G.
May 2026

Condo was ideal for two couples, just as advertised. Loved the balcony view best of all, great place to start the morning with coffee and happy hour as well. Communication with the host was excellent, check in easy and good instructions for check out. I highly recommend this unit, we look forward to returning.
David B.
May 2026

This stay was incredible! I can't say enough about the views, the condo was perfectly clean, plenty of towels and the kitchen was very well stocked. I would stay here again in a heartbeat. Responsiveness to an A/C issue was very quick, also the A/C issue was user error, no actual problems with the system.
Heather H.
May 2026

This Condo Complex had many beautiful overlook areas where you could view the rocky cliffs, sunset and ocean directly. While there is construction next door, it was never noisy but because this condo is along the side of the building, you have more of a side angle to view the cliffs and ocean. There is a nice trail that is easily accessible that is along the cliffs that goes for several miles which we enjoyed walking. The condo complex is very convenient to shopping, restuarants and beaches. The pool/hot tub were very well maintained, as were the outside grills. The unit was well stocked with sunblock, soap, detergent, shampoo, kitchen necessities, as well as all beach items you might need, including a wagon. I read that some folks pulled the wagon to the beach, I guess you could but carrying that much stuff and walking on the road did not appeal to us. Plus the beach nearby is quite crowded, and we found a locals only beach that was a 15 minute drive that was perfect. This condo has 2 rather steep levels of metal stairs to the front door, and then inside it had the two beds and two baths upstairs. This might be important to those with mobility issues. When you walk from the parking lot to the unit, you will encounter multi levels of steps with lovely landscaping, so you can't fully roll your suitcase. There was a half bath located in the laundry near the front door which was great. The TVs were nice and Wifi worked well. The beds were comfortable. We had an enjoyable stay.
Sue G.
May 2026

This condo came with everything you would need and more! Was an amazing stay!
Brooke B.
May 2026

Kitchen had everything we needed. We did not stop at the store first and I’m glad we didn’t! Some of the things we would have bought were already there like paper towels, hand soap, dish soap. We left coffee filters and tide pods for the next family as well. The view is very peaceful and exactly what the picture show. We enjoyed our time here in Kauai and this location was perfect to exploring the entire island! Mahalo!
Kim C.
May 2026

The condo was excellent. The location was perfect for accessing activities on the south side of the island and there's a lot going on there. There was great information about local facilities, markets, beaches and attractions. The communication with the management was professional and very helpful. I would make note that there is no A/C but it was not an issue for our stay. There are fans and plenty of windows and doors to allow for fresh air to cool the property.
Jill F.
May 2026

Rug needs cleaning in living room. Biggest disappointment was the amount of stairs. We had no warning and trecking up the stairs several times a day got old very quickly since we are in our mid 70’s.
Linda W.
May 2026

Trying to find just the right place for a family of seven to stay for a week in Hawaii was daunting. The Makahuena condo popped up in a search and after researching the amenities, location, price, etc it seemed ideal…and it definitely was! It had everything we needed, and then some! The property grounds are beautiful, the location is convenient, all of the beds were comfortable, the place was clean and tidy, and the price was very affordable, which is a huge plus. The property owner/manager was very communicative and check in and check out was smooth and seamless. I would definitely recommend this place to others who have larger groups or families. Mahalo for helping to make our family’s Hawaiian vacation comfortable and wonderful.
Christopher J.
May 2026

we enjoyed staying at this unit. It was clean and it have everything we needed all the communication with the host was great and fast reply . The view was amazing . We thought there maybe a problem with the construction but it was not an issue . Would it be better if there was not construction yes but it is not a reason not to stay here. Location is very good to all the beaches You can walk to all the beaches . The unit is quiet we could not hear any noise from other units . The door is tricky to open once You learn that it is just heavy and You need to push on it to open it there is no problem . Ac in the unit worked great. The price point for the view and the location is very good compared to other units in the area I would not hesitate to stay hear again.
Mark D.
May 2026

Great property and perfect location! Beds were very comfortable and the house had all the amenities we could ask for and then some. The beach items were very convenient! The host was also very responsive and accommodating. Would absolutely stay again!
toni s.
April 2026

Wonderful location and views. Easy walk to multiple beaches.
Marcia I.
April 2026


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