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
Beautiful location. Nearby to all activities we enjoyed.
Michelle C.
October 2025
Wonderful stay. Worth every penny for the views, ease, comfort.
Eryn K.
October 2025
The first night we got there were issues with the AC in one room and I guess a random termite swarm. The owner sent the cleaners the next morning and the AC guy to fix it. There was mold in the shower and giant layer of dust in the fan. We are glad they were able to address these issues. The rest of the stay went great. The condo is just like it looks in the pictures and the view from the balcony is great. (Side note: there isn't an elevator which I think is pretty common here but we didn't realize this and it was hard to carry our bags up and down but wasn't a issue other than the first and last day)
Anusheh M.
October 2025
The living room had a nice view of the ocean. We really enjoyed our stay here.
Ken A.
October 2025
This property was lovely... super clean and well supplied. Host was very responsive. Views incredible!
Marcy L.
October 2025
The location was absolutely perfect and beautiful! The AC units in the bedrooms made sleeping very comfortable. We enjoyed the ocean view and walks on the rocks .
Cathy M.
October 2025
Very clean and a great location! The host was very responsive and accomodating! And all the items we needed for our indoor and outdoor activities were provided so that made for an easy Hawaii vacation!!.
Deborah H.
October 2025
My stay was amazing! Claire was extremely kind, always available, and very quick to answer my questions. The location of the apartment is excellent and has incredible views. The space is beautiful, well decorated, comfortable and impeccably clean. Claire also provided everything we needed for a Hawaii vacation. In addition, the building is very safe, which gave me a lot of tranquility during our stay. I would definitely stay here again and recommend it to everyone!
Natalie H.
October 2025
The pictures that are posted on their listing doesn't capture the absolute beauty of this property. We were on the first floor and still had such a beautiful pool. The 3 bedroom condo was so spacious. The furniture was super comfortable and didn't have that "worn out" look like some place do. My only complaint was the coffee table. It has a clear glass top which makes if tricky to get around if you're not paying attention. One corner is chipped pretty badly and my 89 year old mom cut her leg on it. We ended up setting items on the corners so we'd remember the glass top was there. Other than that it was AMAZING!! We'd happily rent again.
October 2025
The air condition in the bed rooms was great. The lower floor has a really nice cross breeze making the main living area very comfortable. We comfortably walked to shipwreck beach and Poipu beach several times. The location driving to all things was very convenient.I loved sitting on the patio to enjoy the sunrise each day watching the ocean.
Brian C.
October 2025
The views were beautiful from the condo. It rained every day, so an umbrella would've been helpful. The patio was very small and hot because of a fan for the AC but that was a small issue compared to the rest. It was a wonderful place to stay!!
Donna K.
September 2025
The kitchen set up was great and the condo was roomy. The master bedroom had one of the most comfortable beds I've slept on. We loved the location.
Christie M.
September 2025
Great place to stay in kauai. We were able to enjoy sunrise from the bedroom every morning. Very clean and equipped all appliances to cook meals. Would definitely recommend it.
Hardik S.
September 2025
Very clean and well equipped for vacationing, beds are comfortable. Would be nice to have towel bars in the bathrooms for washcloths and hand towels. 2 steep flights of stairs to the front door, plus another to bedroom level will make staying difficult for anyone with knee, back, or mobility issues, but the ocean view from the balcony was lovely.
John P.
September 2025
Great place! The pictures online didn't do it justice.
Shawn P.
September 2025
![Makahuena Condo Rental]()
Enas was very responsive & helpful! We took advantage of the rental car which was great! I was contacted by the shuttle guy who tracked our flight (we were delayed) and were picked up from the airport to get the car. We loved the key-less entry & the close proximity to the pool & parking. There were plenty of parking spaces available.The living space was clean and cool upon arrival. Each bdrm & living room had an AC mini split & fan w/remotes. We liked the option to have the AC at our own preferred temp.The combo AC and ceiling fans made it cool down fast and kept it comfortable. There were beach towels, chairs, pool noodles & a cooler available. The freezer had ice trays filled and there were coffee filters with coffee for us to start our first morning. We had the best view for sunsets. We walked a short distance to experience the sunrise too. The pool was clean and not crowded. I spent each morning (at 4am being from CA) on the lanai with my coffee, book and booklight.The condo was close to so many things! We shopped at Old Koala town (don't miss JavaKai & Kauai Chickens), the Poipu Shopping center. We enjoyed the rental car and it was spacious with heavy duty car mats to catch any sand and were easy to clean. It was great on gas too. We had an amazing time and I really enjoyed my first visit to Kauai. I hope to stay again!
Kelli M.
September 2025
Perfect location. Beautiful views, Comfortable beds.
Carolyn W.
September 2025
Loved being so close to the ocean, the view, beaches close by. Everything was awesome from location to cleanliness. Very comfortable for our group of seven.
Debra
September 2025
This is our 3rd visit to this specific unit. Beautiful property. Everything you need is right here. Well appointed kitchen, beach chairs and gear. The owner and managing company are wonderful. Hope to be back again next year.
SANDRA B.
September 2025
Wonderful! Very clean condo with a great ocean view. We will come back!
John Y.
September 2025
Beautiful condo. Loved the welcome basket full of goodies and such a lovely touch Fabulous views of the ocean. Very clean. This condo is so well equipped with everything you need. Great to have A/C. Beds very comfortable.so much wardrobe space and so many clothes hangers. Kitchen well equipped and easy to cook meals. My husband cooked some great meals. Comfortable living room. Owner was helpful and responded quickly to any messages. Sheila was also exceedingly helpful. Overall a great vacation in a fabulous condo,
Janine M.
September 2025
What a great place to stay. Lots of room for six adults; but roll out couch wasn't as comfy for our 7th person. Loved being so close to the ocean!
Debra V.
September 2025
Beautiful property. Host was super communicative. Condo located downstairs and very close to the water. Condo was well equipped and comfortable. Thank you we had a great stay.
Nan P.
September 2025
Great place with a ocean view and close to several beaches.
Tracy Z.
September 2025
Wonderful stay. Perfect location.
Tami D.
September 2025
Great location for access to local beaches and activities. The condo is as advertised, and the complex has a pool/hot tub and a pickleball court. Everything we needed in one place for a fantastic vacation!
Christie D.
September 2025
The stay was good.The only thing that needs attention is the shower curtains they were moldy and some improvement in cleaning under the couch and beds .Otherwise it was a good place to stay.
Susan K.
September 2025
Wonderful quiet spot to relax. The pool was relaxing. Would stay here again.
Naomi K.
September 2025
Overall a great experience. No elevator and stairs required make this not a great option for the mobility impaired. But, a great location to use as a home base for exploring the island. No A/C in the living area but cross breeze makes it pleasant, just open the front door.
Tim T.
September 2025
The property was comfortable and well equipped.
Our vacation was amazing.
Thank you!! 😊
Cecilia
September 2025
We had a wonderful stay at this beautiful oceanfront condo! The view was incredible, and the condo had everything we needed for a comfortable trip. The pool was amazing—our kids loved spending time there. We also enjoyed cooking dinner in the fully equipped kitchen and relaxing out on the patio in the evenings. A perfect spot for a family getaway!
Mary G.
September 2025
A beautiful condo in an excellent location on the south side of the island. We had plenty room for our Ohana and we appreciated the well equipped kitchen and laundry. The property managers were responsive and their help was much appreciated especially during the tsunami warning. We would highly recommend this condo for your stay.
Christina C.
September 2025
The condo was dirty and poorly furnished. There was a cockroach in the bathroom. Beds were not proper beds, but rather steel cots with dilapidated mattresses. Thick mattress tops were on them to conceal their sorry state and linens were dirty. The view of the ocean would have been fantastic had it not been for the windows being so dirty. The beach umbrella was broken. The owner and property manager were nice enough, but it just didn’t compensate for the highly disappointing aspects of the condo. The property manager replaced the umbrella with two the next day and also came to place roach traps. The condo needs a very deep cleaning and proper furniture. The photos were very misleading. I would not recommend staying here, especially at the cost. See photos below.
Susan K.
September 2025
Great location! You can walk to the point and watch the sunrise in the morning (my favorite part). The condo had beach gear available to use that is perfect for spending the days on at the beach and enjoying the sun and ocean. The condo is all one level which was helpful for our family. The air conditioning worked really well. For those that air conditioning is important, this condo will be perfect for you! The ocean view from the lanai was great. A perfect place to have your morning coffee. The close proximity tot he pool and hot tub was also very nice. The kitchen had items we needed to make many of our meals there at the condo. Overall a wonderful place to stay!
Jeannine C.
August 2025
We had a wonderful time. The property was gorgeous.
Eileen W.
August 2025
The space was very clean and well appointed and the ocean views were beautiful.
Eric E.
August 2025
The location was beautiful and it had everything we needed!The property manager responded quickly to our questions. We loved this property!
L D.
August 2025
Beautiful view of the ocean.
Kristen J.
August 2025
This condo is comfortable and in a great location with beautiful views.
Jacqueline R.
August 2025
Absolutely perfect— location, comfort, attention to detail, convenience. This was such a special experience for my mom’s first visit to Hawaii and the condo was one of her favorite things! Mahalo!
Nicole R.
August 2025
It was wonderful!!
Joel H.
August 2025
Lovely stay, GREAT location, very comfortable and as advertised!
Monica V.
August 2025
Excellent location. Great condo - It was roomy for a group of 6 and had everything we needed. Appreciated the beach chairs, umbrellas, and boogie boards. An unexpected bonus of this location was the soul soothing effect of listening to and watching the waves crash onto the rocks. We would definitely stay here again.
Karen W.
August 2025
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We arrived to a very well kept property. The condo was very clean. Loved having a welcome package with al the Hawaiian fare. Linens were very nice! Towels were very soft & fluffy. Beds were very comfortable including the hideaway couch. We were so amazed by having everything there for our family for snorkelling, body boarding, and the beach, including coolers for lunches. The fridge ice maker works fast which was wonderful. The AC at night in the rooms was very nice since our week there in August was very humid. By opening the front door and the Lanai’s doors though you could get a very nice breeze through the living room. The staff were so quick to respond with any questions. We were also so grateful to get a late checkout the day we left. The view of the ocean was Beautiful. There is some construction going on right out front of the property but we were mostly gone during the days so it was fine. Check in was so easy with the key codes and our family really enjoyed the very clean refreshing pool. Our two teenage boys enjoyed the pickle ball/tennis courts too. Thank you for an amazing 8 days.
Tami B.
August 2025
The location is unmatched. Directly on the water. So peaceful watching the waves crashing in and hearing it all night long. Pure bliss. The home is well stocked. Beach gear, extra towels, soaps, many kitchen essentials. It seems this host is trying to make sure everything you might need is available to you and not locked away in the owners closet. So nice.Walk along the path to the east to shipwreck beach. Also pure bliss. Minor points: to sit on the balcony and enjoy the water you are sitting up straight at a high top we were wanting more comfortable seating. it’s hard to keep the floors clean with the sand that comes up on the balcony. We tried but kept tracking it in. These are minor points this place was a PRIME place to stay we will recommend to friends and would come back again.
Teresa P.
August 2025
Amazing home in a great location! Went above our expectations!
Steph N.
August 2025
Beautiful property. Enjoyed the view everyday!!
Martha B.
August 2025
Everything was great
Hayes W.
August 2025
Wonderful condo with beautiful views
Rebecca M.
August 2025
It was a good space! Worked great for us.
Megan K.
August 2025