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
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
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
Excellent view.
Venkata Siva S K.
January 2026
The view from our balcony was wonderful. Only two things stood out to me, the lack of a door between bathroom and kitchen. When you have more than two people staying in condo, there is a definite loss of privacy when going from shower into bathroom. This is minor but the stains on appliances like refrigerator and stove sort of gave me a yuck factor. I personally keep my appliances at home very clean.
Barb C.
January 2026
What an ideal place for our family to spend the holidays, starting with coffee on the lanai watching surfers, grabbing the beach gear for a day out and returning to make dinner thanks to the fully equipped kitchen. This place had everything we needed. Thank you!
Wendy U.
January 2026
The view is outstanding, great location close to Kona Beaches. Would stay again in a heart beat.
Ben S.
December 2025
If you like ocean waves this is the place for you.
David K.
December 2025
Condo has the best view ever...the lanai is near perfect. Unit had so many useful additions...plenty seating, bedding, towels etc. Host is super responsive...when washer broke, it was fixed by the time we got home. Never tried TVs....no comments. Kitchen had more than enough stuff, and we did cook. Perfect vacation, perfect condo.
Rani M.
December 2025
Amazing view and condo with view of surfers every morning I sipped my coffee. Moonlight views even more amazing. The Big Island offers so much, enjoyed the diverse environments especially with tips from our hosts. Thanks.Highly recommend!
Randy H.
December 2025
We’ve stayed in many beautiful oceanfront condos in the islands. This was an extraordinarily memorable place! The ocean view was mesmerizing. We enjoyed cooking in the well equipped kitchen and had restful sleep in comfy beds. Perfect location for exploring Kona and beaches north and south. Hope you’re lucky enough to stay in Banyan Tree 300!
Carol G.
November 2025
This Condo is the best we have stayed in. The unit is well stocked with dish soap, laundry soap and what not. The unit is very clean and extremely comfortable. Nothing beats the view and watching the surfers. It is also a great location. Communication with the host was extremely quick and responsive.
Russ C.
November 2025
great place to stay.will definitely be returning.
November 2025
This ocean front location was perfect. Bed was very comfortable and the unit had everything we needed. Very quiet complex.
Jennifer L.
November 2025
Great condo and very clean!
Buron M.
November 2025
Bed comfy, kitchen good, showers need safety bars installed; view was the best!
karen g.
October 2025
We loved everything about the condo. The beach view was amazing. Watching surfers all day was fun! Oh, and the waves at Magic Sands were the biggest and strongest waves we had ever swam in. We would highly recommend this place.
Judy R.
October 2025
Location Location Location! There is no better 'oceanfront' condo location in Kona. It’s located on Alli Drive 1/2 way between Kailua-Kona & Keahou, so it's very quiet which makes sleeping very peaceful. There’s a designated parking spot right across from the elevator for your rental car. The a/c is powerful & quiet, also perfect for sleeping. The pool temp is perfect for lap swimming. The large lanai is an added bonus. There is a 55" Smart TV with basic cable in the living room with all the news channels if you enjoy keeping up with current world events. I especially want to thank the owner for the use of his 2 boogie boards that we made good use of at Hapuna Beach.
suzanne f.
October 2025
Host was excellent, you have the surf in front of you.You can hear the waves for sure.It is outdated in areas but worth the stay.Thank you for the stay and customer service.
christy E.
October 2025
Beautiful view of the ocean watching the surfers, sunsets.
Pascale L.
October 2025
Everything was great. The condo is next to a busy road but that makes it highly accessible to shops and restaurants.
Geeta R.
October 2025
Great rooms, location and views. Enjoyed watching the surfers. My only complaint was that the access information didn't get there until we arrived. A bit of stress.Thanks so much.
David L.
October 2025
all was good
vicky s.
October 2025
Loved the location and the condo is just beautiful
Heidi B.
September 2025
Location was good. View was 10 stars, outstanding. We saw tropical fish, a sea turtle, and many surfers from our lanai. This is just a condo, not a resort, so the outside area is ok, but not as pretty as a resort, but we knew what we were renting, so it didn’t matter to us. Condo was clean, kitchen was well equipped, bath and walk-in shower was very nice. Beds and sleeping area were comfortable. Our only complaint was that the furniture in the dining area and den was very worn, dated and uncomfortable. If this furniture was updated, I could give this a 5 star rating. If the furniture was replaced, I would consider staying here on future visits.
Norman S.
September 2025
This is the ideal spot! Close to everything! Out of hustle and bustle! Fabulous view of surfers every morning! Beautiful sunsets great pool! Only place to stay on the big island!
Lynne S.
September 2025
![Banyan Tree 303]()
The interior of the condo was as described in the listing, there were no surprises. The ocean is literally right outside your livingroom windows (which are floor to ceiling). Even before getting up the surfers are catching waves and are so entertaining to watch. The air-conditioning was always appreciated especially after a warm day at the beach. The kitchen cupboards are well stocked and there's a large selection of spices and condiments left in the fridge, ie: catchup, mustard, mayo. Hairdryer, curling iron, clothes iron are also available and the stackable washer and dryer are a dream to use.There is snorkel equipment, floaties for the little ones, cooler on wheels and a beach wagon to put all your chairs and umbrellas in (much easier than carrying).The pool area is lovely with tables and chairs plus the lounge chairs for sunning. The only suggestion I might have for the owner is to have a couple of more comfortable bar stools for the lanai, which is very narrow but great for your morning coffee or your late night drink. There is a very small patch of sand next to the condo where the surfers enter the water but is very rocky, no swimming there. The nearest beach was Magic Sands Beach which is nice for snorkeling, boogie boarding and bopping in the ocean. Our stay was absolutely delightful and the use of a car was a real bonus. I already miss the sound of the crashing waves.
Yvonne F.
September 2025
Great location, excellent air conditioning. There is road noise do the proximity of Alli road. Noisy for the second bedroom. The owner was very accommodating.
Christopher I.
September 2025