Pono Kai Resort


Rates: $275 / night (avg.)
Bedrooms: 1
Bathrooms: 1
Bed types: K (sleeps 4)
Reviews: 4.90 (from 175 reviews)
As of April, 2023 our condo now has AC!

Enjoy the Royal Coconut Coast in a 180 degree view oceanfront penthouse!

Located on the trade wind side of the Garden Isle, you’ll relax your days away in tropical sun and gentle breezes. Soak in beautiful sunrises on the lanai while sipping coffee and enjoying breakfast. With views of the mile-long sandy beach, Ke Ala Hele Makalae walking trail and Pacific Ocean, living Aloha has never been easier.

The Space

Our remodeled 1 bed, 1 bath home is located on the top floor, so you’ll enjoy more privacy in your home-away-from-home. Being in the corner of the complex also gives us breath-taking views of the Pacific Ocean. During season, you’ll also see whales breaching from the lanai!

Our home has been completely remodeled as of 07/2020. Enjoy a modern home with Hawaiian flare as you melt the days away in paradise. The fully-equipped kitchen shines with quartz countertops and backsplash and new stainless steel appliances. Traveling with other guests? The dual-sink marble vanity in the bathroom is perfect for sharing.

Pono Kai Resort’s luscious 12-acre landscaping is picture-perfect with meticulously manicured grounds and koi pond. Do you enjoy lounging on the lanai, but would like other activities as well? The resort offers plenty of amenities including shuffleboard, tennis courts, swimming pools, BBQ grills and more! Be prepared to relax in paradise while also having access to a variety of activities right outside your door.

Pono Kai Resort is also located right on the walking/bike path, Ke Ala Hele Makalae (“The Path that Goes by the Cost”). The trail leads from Nawiliwili to Anahola. You’ll find eclectic shops and wonderful eateries along this path – within walking distance from the resort!

Highlights:
• Recently remodeled penthouse
• Breathtaking panoramic beachfront views
• Recently installed 24,000 btu AC System in the living room/Kitchen area (not shown in the pictures)
• Cal King size bed in bedroom
• Fully equipped kitchen with stainless steel appliances
• Queen sleeper sofa
• Free wifi
• Lots of resort amenities including volleyball, gym, pool, hot tub and more!

For guests who want to visit multiple islands, we also have a condo in Lahaina, Maui and Kona, Hawaii (Big Island).

Guest Access

Resort amenities include shuffleboard, volleyball, pool, Jacuzzi, gym, and more. You’ll also have access to BBQ facilities and a herb garden.

Other things to note

Our AC system is located in the living room and cools the kitchen and living areas. There isn't an AC in the bedroom, but the ceiling fan and ocean breezes keep you nice and cool while you sleep.

The previous owners of the condo also hosted guests on VRBO with over 100 five star reviews! Those reviews were uploaded to our VRBO page.
Registration Number: GE-050-371-0720-01, TA-050-371-0720-01, 450070020100

Pono Kai Resort Reviews



Jerry C.
January 2024
Our hosts have created a home away from home. We had everything we needed (except an in-unit washer & dryer). Steven & Stephanie quickly communicated each and every time we had a question. That’s a real bonus. Thank you!


Chris C.
December 2023
This was an ideal place to stay for our first visit to Kauai. Its central location allowed us to easily explore all parts of the island. The balcony view allows for lots of people and rooster/chicken watching as well as sunrise every morning. The hosts provided everything we needed and were very good at communicating. Would absolutely recommend this property!


Chris C.
December 2023
This was an ideal place to stay for our first visit to Kauai. Its central location allowed us to easily explore all parts of the island. The balcony view allows for lots of people and rooster/chicken watching as well as sunrise every morning. The hosts provided everything we needed and were very good at communicating. Would absolutely recommend this property!


Gefe P.
December 2023
Our first stay in D308 was in October 2022 and this year we decided to celebrate Thanksgiving week on the island of Kauai and thought D308 would be a perfect place to stay at. The air conditioning was a nice upgrade and nice to have if one needed it. Honestly the trade winds made it very comfortable. Having said that, we can imagine the summer months might be a bit uncomfortable. The hosts were wonderful and checked in on us during our stay. If you are having second thoughts with the cost per night...it is worth every penny. The sunrise every morning from your lanai and the walking path, the walking distance to Kappa town and its central location to the North and South shore is so worth it. Our only complaint has nothing to do with the condo but more so the traffic, which the hosts cannot control. We have noticed over the years the traffic has progressively gotten worse all over this beautiful island. I suppose that is the price one must pay to visit this beautiful and magical place. Kudos to the local government for cleaning up the homeless issue along the path. We remember in 2019 when it was really bad. Thank you Stephanie and Steven for sharing your beautiful condo!


Gefe P.
December 2023
Our first stay in D308 was in October 2022 and this year we decided to celebrate Thanksgiving week on the island of Kauai and thought D308 would be a perfect place to stay at. The air conditioning was a nice upgrade and nice to have if one needed it. Honestly the trade winds made it very comfortable. Having said that, we can imagine the summer months might be a bit uncomfortable. The hosts were wonderful and checked in on us during our stay. If you are having second thoughts with the cost per night...it is worth every penny. The sunrise every morning from your lanai and the walking path, the walking distance to Kappa town and its central location to the North and South shore is so worth it. Our only complaint has nothing to do with the condo but more so the traffic, which the hosts cannot control. We have noticed over the years the traffic has progressively gotten worse all over this beautiful island. I suppose that is the price one must pay to visit this beautiful and magical place. Kudos to the local government for cleaning up the homeless issue along the path. We remember in 2019 when it was really bad. Thank you Stephanie and Steven for sharing your beautiful condo!


Karen C.
October 2023
Lovely condo, well supplied with essentials. Modern updates. But, the best part is the location. Beautiful sunrises from the lanai, and the beach just across the pathway. The pathway follows the shoreline for about 4 miles. Many bike it but we loved long walks. In the evening open the sliding glass doors and listen to the ocean waves.


Aaron R.
October 2023
Our family really enjoyed our stay at this condo and would definitely visit again. The location is fantastic. Having visited Kapaa during our honeymoon in the past, we like this location as a central hub for visiting Kauai, although on this trip our only major adventures were back to the airport for a helicopter tour and to Port Allen for a Na Pali coastline cruise. We were able to watch the sunrise each morning from the lanai, we walked and ran along the bike path, and enjoyed the beach in front of our unit most days. The unit was air-conditioned, very clean and comfortable, and had all of the kitchen and bath amenities we needed. Since it was our family of 4, we used the pull out sofa in the living room and it was sufficient for our needs. We did not require any direct communication with the owners during our stay. The check in/out process was super easy though, since there is a front desk exactly like at a hotel that handles all of those steps.


Christy M.
September 2023
This was a great place to stay with the best view ever. It was stocked with all we needed to feel at home. Clean as can be. The air conditioner worked fantastic. Very close to walking to many places and short driving distances to all of east side. No disappointment at all. Stephanie knows how to treat her visitors with style. Thanks so much Christy


sherri b.
August 2023
This is the perfect location for your Kauai vacation!! Kapaa is in the middle of everything. We could walk to shopping and restaurants!! Penthouse was exactly as described on website. Just beautiful. Can't wait to go back!!


Jon M.
August 2023
Air conditioning poor and unable to reach the lone bedroom. Hot and muggy. Couch infested with insects who bite and have us dozens of bites…every day.


Sarah W.
July 2023
Our family of 3 stayed in the wonderful D308 unit at the Pono Kai resort! It was fantastic stay! The unit was so beautifully decorated and the kitchen was stunning! The unit came well equipped with kitchen/cooking supplies, beach gear, clean towels ect. We especially enjoyed using the snorkel gear! The view from the unit is outstanding and you can catch sunrises here. The lanai is a wonderful place to relax or enjoy meals with an ocean view. With the sliding door open, you can hear the ocean waves throughout the unit. The location in Kapaa was great. It was in walking distance to shops/restaurants, nice beaches, and the Ke Ala Hele Makalae Path. We loved going on walks and a bike ride on this path! The hosts, Stephanie and Steven, were very responsive and even reached out to check in during our stay to ensure everything was satisfactory. I would recommend this unit for your stay! Thank you Stephanie and Stephen for an awesome stay in your unit! We appreciate your hospitality.


Jason F.
July 2023
We had a great time and the location was awesome. Easy process.


Martha S.
June 2023
Such a great location. We were lulled to sleep by the sound of the ocean. We needed to recharge our batteries and this was the place to do it. Loved every minute here.


Jan G.
June 2023
Condo was perfect . Great location, view was beautiful. It had all the amenities we needed. Kapaa is a cute little town with fun shops, awesome food trucks. Easy access to both ends of the island. We will definitely stay here again


Charlotte H.
June 2023
Our stay was very nice and comfortable. I love the new air conditioning. Thank you for everything.


Ruth G.
May 2023
Our stay could not have been more perfect. The accommodations are outstanding. Add to that the oceanfront, walking path and convenience to both the north and south part of the island.


Gary V.
May 2023
Stayed here before, just keeps getting better. Steven’s & Stephanie’s customer service is a big part of what keeps us coming back. Oh, and the sunrise-over-the-ocean view. Mahalo


John and Val M.
April 2023
My husband and I, both seniors, were very pleased with this 3rd floor corner unit. Sitting on our balcony was like watching a nature channel on TV, watching the walkers, cyclists, runners, and dogs being walked, all against the background of ocean waves crashing on the shore. And don’t forget the roosters. The condo itself was ideal for us. It had everything we needed, yet was uncluttered. It made us feel at home as opposed to feeling we were in somebody else’s home. Very short walk into town, and convenient to the bus system.. We did just fine without a rental car. Mahalo, Stephanie and Steven


dennis s.
March 2023
Property was as advertised on the VRBO site. Great sunrises on the lanai's oceanfront. Bike/walking path goes in both directions and for plenty of distance. Good location for going north towards the beaches, Princeville and bone as well as going south for the canyon and southern beaches. There is access to grills in the complex and the pool is accessible. Good access to two grocery stores and a couple of fine restaurants.


mary p.
February 2023
Very easy very reasonable and I would love to stay


James R.
February 2023
We just spent three weeks in the best 1BR unit, in the best condo complex, located in the best area, of the best island in the state of Hawaii. We are a retired couple who have enjoyed many visits to the islands over the past 30 plus years. After our first trip which included stays in Oahu, Hawaii, and Kauai, we have always returned to Kauai. We’ve stayed in different locations, but now only consider This complex on the east shore in Kapa’a. We have stayed in this unit many times previously, but are impressed with the results of the recent renovation that upgraded the unit. As a third floor, corner, oceanfront unit we had the most peaceful stay, broken only by the trade winds. This spacious unit has all of the latest appliances and is steps from the beach and the oceanside paved walking/biking trail that runs for several miles along the east coast. With groceries, restaurants, shops and a post office in easy walking distance there’s no need to get in your car, other than to see the rest of this beautiful island. Our host, Stephanie, responded quickly to any questions or concerns.


Kit M.
January 2023
I really don’t want to tell how great it is , cuz I’d like to keep it to ourselves!


Harley W.
January 2023
Amazing experience. Everything was so clean and welcoming. Will be coming back!!


Selvakumar S.
November 2022
Amazing home with everything a family needs on a vacation! The linen were in par with some of best hotels I stayed. The view from the lanai (deck) was the best. We enjoyed the sunrises everyday sitting at the deck. Will stay here if we go back to Kauai once again.


Patti C.
November 2022
My new fav


Gefe P.
October 2022
D308 is an amazing place. I love how Stephanie and Steven decorated this unit. Simple but with elegance…..absolutely love the minimalist decor. The oceanfront view is to die for….life could not get any better. Loved that Stephanie and Steven checked in on me to see how my stay was coming along. I would definitely stay in D308 again. Highly recommend this place. If you are looking to stay at D308…. you won’t be disappointed.


Hillary N.
September 2022
What we enjoyed most about this property: - The host was extremely responsive and kind. - The location was great; shops and restaurants within walking distance, right in middle of the east side of the island, so it was easy to get to other parts of island. - The condo was updated. Things we did not enjoy as much: - While the place has been recently renovated, we did experience some issues: the shower floor is very uneven so water pools in different areas, making it feel as though you’re showering in a foot pool. Additionally, ants were an issue throughout the condo, (we took the trash out regularly and did not keep food out or even open in the fridge) and because the front door has gaps, we awoke to a lizard on our bedroom wall one early morning. - The location was fantastic, but the beach right out front seemed to be a common homeless hangout spot. We did not spend any time at the beach out front because of the amount of people living/staying there. - There is currently a ton of road construction by the condo, which made commuting frustrating and made getting a ride to the airport almost impossible. Overall, my partner and I had a pretty good experience. The check in process was smooth and easy, the host was responsive, and the place was easily accessible as we explored the island. We do not know if we would stay again in the future at this exact property, but we also do not regret staying there by any means.


Brian S.
September 2022
The view and ocean sounds are incredible. Restaurants and stores are in walking distance. The place is clean, comfortable and stocked. The beach is amazing right outside your door. The dawn is exquisite, changing moment by moment from the lanai. We had the time of our lives!


Salvador S.
August 2022
We had a wonderful stay , just took a while to relax without AC . Besides that everything was perfect!!


KAREN H.
June 2022
What a beautifully updated property! The ocean views and ocean breezes were just amazing! Opening it up allowing the fresh ocean air to flow through was so refreshing and so unlike home! Perfect location to everywhere!! Absolutely great hosts!! Highly recommended!!


Mikala L.
June 2022
Loved our stay at Stephanie's condo! It was immaculant and in the perfect location. We loved the walking/bike path right out front. There is great shopping and restaurants within walking distance. Don't miss the fish sandwich, fish and chips, or the chicken sandwich at Fish Bar Deli, wings at Johnny's Wingz 'n Tingz or the fish tacos at Sleeping Giant Grill!


BJ W.
June 2022
The condo is in a great location for seeing the entire island. There are also plenty of grocery stores and restaurants nearby. We loved the thoughtfulness of the owners to provide a small ice chest. It was wonderful to be able to have cold water in the car after hiking. The sound of the surge and the feel of the ocean breeze were wonderful. We would definitely stay there again.


Jason T.
May 2022
It was quite hot and humid and I was surprised to not have an air-conditioner. Thankfully, with the windows open and fans on, it was comfortable! Great location near the beach and shops. Thank you!


Laurel S.
April 2022
We loved our time at this property. The location was convenient for exploring the island and the thoughtfulness with which this condo is maintained made us feel like we were staying with friends. Stephanie was helpful with our questions and always quick to respond. Her communication before we arrived and while we were there helped our time to be easy and enjoyable!


Jack K.
April 2022
The condo was as advertised, top floor end unit facing the sea. It rained on and off during our stay in March and the sea was too rough to swim. There’s a small pool In the complex. Also good restaurants and shopping within walking distance. An extensive bike and walking trail is right in front. It was breezy but warm with no mosquitoes.


Dana W.
February 2022
This place was AMAZING! Everything perfect for a paradise vacation! Place was beautiful, view...breathtaking and ocean waves right outside your lanai! A heaven on earth! 😊


Paul R.
February 2022
We stayed 3 weeks. We loved the sunrises, the lanai, the bike trail, the beach, the pool, the grills, the kitchen. We loved the place. That's the main message here. What's not to love? These are quibbles. The condo has one of two big property lights on the building, placed right over this unit's lanai. It comes on at dark and is unnecessarily glaring, and on still nights it attracts bugs. I wonder if the owners could work with the managers to move that light a little bit. Maybe not. It isn't all that bad, trust me. The blinds in the bedroom are vertical, and they blow in the wind, and make noise, and sometimes, because they blow sideways, aren't entirely private. I wonder if horizontal blinds might be better. Using the television requires the patience of Job and, it seemed to me, a little luck. Lots of buttons to push, two remotes. I'm not terribly young, I know, but a "how to" manual might be nice. I did call the owner and he was great about walking me through it. When I lost the magic touch about a week in I was too embarrassed to call again, but we were watching Netflix, which we had figured out, so it was all good. If the tv is your biggest problem on Kauai, you have bigger problems. Loved it. Thanks!


Wesley R.
January 2022
Corner unit, third floor, building has elevator. Quiet neighborhood. Faces east, were able to see the sunrise each day. Between the unit and the beach is a walking path that is parallel to the water, and it is only about 100 feet to the beach. Parking was close, and had sufficient spaces. Ideal location on Kauai to visit beaches on both the north and east sides as well as the south and southwest. Convenient location for airport, grocery shopping, and restaurants. Great internet speed, and many TV channels as well. Communication with owners was excellent. We are seniors and it was a very relaxing stay for us.


Jeremy P.
January 2022
Super clean, corner unit so very quiet, lanai overlooks ocean, easy checkin, walking distance to great restaurants and coffee, comfortable bed, updated kitchen and bath. We didn’t want to leave!


Melissa H.
January 2022
We enjoyed our stay here. We loved the ocean view and being centrally located on the island in Kapaa. We also loved being within walking distance to so many restaurants, shops and the walk along the ocean. We'd love to come back.


Mary W.
December 2021
This is a lovely unit. Beautiful view and wonderful location. Easy beach access and lots of fun activities at the resort. We hope to return soon.


Tom B.
November 2021
Stephanie was fantastic! She ordered at blender for our stay when we asked about its availability and answered all of our questions promptly. Access to the condo was via a punch code that made it easy. The unit was well equipped and had a wonderful view. The trade winds and fans were perfect to keep us cool. Loved the bathroom with double sinks. Would stay there again in a heartbeat.


Bob H.
November 2021
Loved the beach and the view. Easy walk to great restaurants and shops. The condo was clean, up-to-date and a pleasure to stay in. We’d definitely stay again when we return to Kauai.


larry r.
October 2021
The condo was centrally located to all of the sightseeing on the island. Short day trips to the south and north were easily handled, even with all the road construction. We walked to most restaurants and shops, enjoying the local culture.


Gary V.
October 2021
Great views facing East overlooking the water for the beautiful sunrise. Breezy, so no need for AC. Close to town area, so no need to drive. Condo had everything we needed. We also recommend Kauai Boil. It’s a food truck in the shopping lot across from Sams Ocean View Restaurant. Mahalo ,


Debra C.
September 2021
Great corner unit with beautiful view. Constant ocean breeze blowing through- very nice. Great beach right out front to sunbathe or swim. Nice long path for walking.


Janet J.
September 2021
The condo was fantastic! We loved watching the sun rise each morning-just beautiful! We walked to different restaurants each evening- our favorites were Fish Bar Deli (don’t miss happy hour 4-6:00 40% off everything!) and Chicken in a Barrel! It was great to have beach towels, chairs and umbrellas for our use at the condo. 3rd floor corner location was quiet. We had everything we needed for a great vacation! Steve and Stephanie were quick to respond to any of questions and checked in with us on day 2 to make sure everything was going well Thank you!!


Kristin L.
August 2021
We enjoyed our stay at Stephanie’s place. The view is incredible and the location couldn’t be better. We were able to walk to all the shops and restaurants, most of them within 5 minutes. The only downside is there is no air conditioning and it can get pretty toasty in the back of the condo where the bedroom is. There are ceiling fans/ a big fan found in the closet and since it is oceanfront you get the breeze, but it still can get very warm and uncomfortable at times. The host is quick to respond and the condo has everything you may need in the kitchen so we would still stay here again!


Alesia S.
August 2021
This condo is in pristine condition, beautiful views and beach access. The Kitchen is well stocked. The resort is well kept with great amenities.


Gail K.
May 2018
My husband and I have been going to Gary and Barbara's home in paradise for many years. We find the condo always clean and well equipped . If any problems arise, Gary always responds quickly. It is so peaceful and relaxing with the beach a few steps away and the view from the condo is spectacular .. We also enjoy walks along the ocean on the walkway that is in front of the condo. The Pona Kai grounds are also very well kept and the people are very friendly. We feel Kauai is our favorite island and never hesitate to return to Gary and Barbara's condo with their wonderful hospitality. They really make you feel at home . Aloha Gail K.


Jackie C.
May 2018
Property is nice and clean. A few minor complaints, tv and dishwasher not working but not a major inconvenience. View was incredible. Property close to most shopping and dining. We would return.


william m.
January 2018
It was nice. Just out dated. Very good for the price


Richard L.
December 2017
The condo was very nice a bit dated. Location was perfect convenient to everything. Our stay was cut short due to illness and rainy conditions.



November 2017
The owner is more than helpful, and surely the best at Pono Kai. The unit reflects the owner attitude, and here it is truly excellent. Thank you Gary and Barbara.


P M.
October 2017
We stayed at Pono kai D308 for 10 days and had a marvellous time. Firstly a thanks to Gary & Barbara for allowing us to stay there, and for there excellent help with info about the condo and area. The Condo was very homely, it was extremely comfortable, clean and well stocked, making our stay very pleasant. The condo is set in an excellent position for watching the day and its people go by on the walkway, watching the sunrise and mild surf, and excellent location for travelling anywhere during the day as to being located midway on the island. The local area has all the needed amenities from shopping, meals, fuel, groceries etc all within a few minutes. Amongst a lot of things we did, we attended the welcome breakfast and won a 2 for 1 deal on the Koloa Zipline, great fun!! Also we flew in the Yellow Bi-Plane with Kevin the pilot around the island, Fantastic views and very helpful info and great staff Thank you Val. We thoroughly recommend both Pono-Kai D308 and Kauai the Beautiful island. MAHALO


LISA L.
August 2017
Beautiful balcony views. No need for a.c. there was a constant cooling breeze day and night. My mom and I went for girl time and my birthday. Loved it and will return again.


Sandy B.
August 2017
This condo was the best equipped I have ever stayed in. From beach chairs to Tupperware and the Ninja blender-this place has everything you need! Lovely view from the lanai of this corner unit. The resort was great for all ages. We enjoyed the pool as well as shuffleboard and croquet. Staff at the front desk were very helpful with everything even though this was a private rental. Resort has a hospitality room with a shower and storage area which came in handy after check out time. Look forward to returning to unit D308 at the Pono zzz Kai in the years to come.


Lee J.
July 2017
This was our third time staying in the wonderful, corner, top floor condo. The location is perfect for us as the walking, biking trail is right out front, and the town of Kapaa just a short walk away. The condo has everything you need and the owners are so helpful in giving recommendations and advice. Gary always calls the first night just to make sure all is well. We have stayed in other condos at the Pono Kai, but this is by far our favorite. You can't go wrong should you decide to stay in Kapaa. Aloha.


marvin w.
June 2017
Ideal location in Kapaa. Unit was clean, well equipped and had a nice view of ocean. The elevator was very useful for taking luggage to and from unit and when using the laundry facilities on the ground level. The shops, restaurants, and coffee shops were within easy walking distance. A long shoreline walking/biking trail is just out the door.

Note: Vacancy calendar is approximate. Visit the owner/manager's reservation site to verify your dates.