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 Average Rates


As of July 2024, the average price of a 1 bedroom unit at Kona Makai is $248. The average price of a 2 bedroom unit is $427. Note that prices vary depending on the specifc unit and season (holiday rates are usally much higher), and the averages don't include Hawaii's 18% accommodation tax or cleaning and booking fees. Visit the rentals page to see specific unit rates.

Kona Makai's Best Rentals

View All 35 Kona Makai Rentals (with vacancy and search options)

What Do Guests Think? An AI Analysis of 616 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.

Guests have overwhelmingly positive experiences at the Kona Makai condo resort on the Big Island, praising its amazing views, cozy and well-equipped accommodations, and excellent location. Many reviews highlight the breathtaking sunsets visible from the decks, the well-maintained gardens, and the convenience of having everything needed for a comfortable stay, including full kitchens, washer/dryer, comfy beds, parking, and internet. The resort's amenities, such as the pool, hot tub, barbecue area, and direct access to the ocean, receive high marks. Guests appreciate the added bonuses of beach gear and other essentials provided in the units. While there are a few minor suggestions for improvements and mentions of maintenance needs, the overall sentiment is that Kona Makai is a beautiful, peaceful, and perfect spot for a Hawaiian vacation. The management's responsiveness and the sense of community among guests are also noted positively. Despite some rules around the condominium complex and occasional maintenance issues, guests express a strong desire to return and recommend Kona Makai to others. This summary is based on a comprehensive analysis of 616 guest reviews.

Recent Kona Makai Reviews


This place was was well equipped and within walking distance of town. The owners were very responsive and helpful. It was the perfect location for us and we enjoyed our stay. We also enjoyed the amazing sunsets from the beach chairs right on the water each evening! Thank you!
Taira R.
April 2024

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: This property is truely a catch with beautiful views, very close to kona restaurants, tropical landscaping, interior cleanliness, and furnished with everything we needed for our stay. Would highly recommend.
David F.
April 2024

Rating Details: The property manager was more than helpful. The vacation rental was spotless. I was somewhat unhappy with the location. I was satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental. Overall, I recommend this vacation rental. Reviewer Comments: VRBO includes a huge number of 'fees' including booking fee, a whopping $400+ 'other fees'. Knutson Associates adds to that - so that in the end, the fees nearly exceed the ACTUAL cost of the rent.The unit we rented was marketed as 'ocean front'. I wonder if anyone has actually visited the unit. The only view is of the units on the other side of the garden.It was a lovely place, I must say. Comfortable, airy, and, except for the kitchen, well equipped. There were 3 glasses (2 small and one tall) and one wine glass. The rest were poolside plastic tumblers. Plates and dishes were plentiful - if somewhat mismatched (expectedly, being a rental with short turn round renters). Cutlery was adequate but perhaps best described as 'variety pack'. Overall, though - we had a great time.
Patricia and Anthony d.
April 2024

Rating Details: The property manager was adequately helpful. The vacation rental was clean. I was very happy with the location. I was satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental. Overall, I recommend this vacation rental. Reviewer Comments: Information to be included with reservation and not by text!!! Posted within complex: " Information regarding departure guest clean-up." Now we are expected to do almost all cleaning. Wipe down glass tables etc. fridge stove etc. Remove all garbage and bottles. No definition for what is "Too Much " for housekeeper. Insulting to consumers who pay inflated cleaning fees. AS A CONSUMER- I expect furniture to be sanitized, free of debris, stains on cloth furniture and cushion covers, rugs cleaned of stains, shower curtain washed and no food behind stove, dryer vent cleaned and wall stains from insects removed. M & G of Thorsby
mariline and garry Z.
April 2024

We were teacher’s on spring break. This home gave us plenty of space. The view and the large lanai were fabulous and peaceful. We enjoyed starting and ending each day on the Lanai. It was just a wonderful spot to relax and enjoy!
Stephanie M.
April 2024

Very quiet, clean and secure. The pool and bbq areas are very well maintained. The condo unit is well equipped with unique decor. The free bus to the downtown area for dining was a great bonus.
Angela
April 2024

We found this condo to be a very enjoyable place to stay. The location was very convenient for seeing the sights around the Kona area. The best feature is the view down the grassy garden area to the ocean. The grounds are nicely landscaped and the complex is very quiet and well maintained. The kitchen is well stocked and equipped with everything you will need. We liked that the unit was on the main level for easy access to and from the parking lot. The host Jeanette was very responsive and a pleasure to deal with. Would definitely recommend this place and would stay here again.
Steve A.
April 2024

We had an amazing expirrince and time. Perfect location and amenities. Loved bbq by ocean for sunset. With gratitude Laura and family
Laura F.
April 2024

Well maintained property, good location, would stay again.
david r.
April 2024

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: Loved are stay hear clean and comfortable great location ocean side
Jason v.
April 2024

The condo was great for our group of 6. The pull out bed wasn’t very comfortable but that’s to be expected. Although the back lanai view wasn’t the greatest we still had views of all the beautiful flowers and plants. Loved that there were beach chairs, snorkel gear and even a couple coolers to take with us to the beach.
Mandie
April 2024

Great property, comfortable, beautiful location, extras were super helpful. Would stay here again for sure!
Kathryn W.
April 2024

I do wish you had not listed this property as a OCEAN FRONT property. It has a thin sliver of a view of the ocean IF you lean over the railing in the lanai and cran your neck you may be able lucky. The main view is of the condos opposite the property.
Anthony
April 2024

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 Makai 1-301. This is clearly the best unit in the complex, with the views and direct ocean front location. The condo is spacious, nicely appointed, clean, with plenty of amenities. The best part is listening to the ocean waves as we slept. The property management team responded quickly to any questions, and provided great pre-arrival communication. We would be happy to come back and stay again!
Doreen K.
April 2024

Beautiful ocean front property!
Douglas
April 2024

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 thoroughly enjoyed our visit. We were grateful to find an affordable place to stay that accommodated 6 people. We enjoyed being right on the ocean. The property is well taken care of. The unit is a little dated but clean and stocked. We traveled with three children so we prepped them regarding the complex rules and common areas. I have stayed many different places on the BI and this was one of the best! Would stay again.
Valerie P.
April 2024

We have stayed at a few different condos in Hawaii and this our favorite. The condo itself was updated, well stocked with supplies, and comfortably fit seven of us (3 of which were kids). The view from the 3rd floor lanai was something we enjoyed every night. The location was perfect too. Close to the shops and restaurants in Kona so it was a quick drive or sometimes we walked there (about a mile).
Nick M.
April 2024

I thoroughly enjoyed my stay at Kona Makai. I had a great view from the lanai, the condo was clean and well kept, and it’s a beautiful location.
Marilyn P.
March 2024

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 do not recommend this vacation rental. Reviewer Comments: Property Unit - very niceProperty Complex - very niceProperty Owners at Complex - Snooty. Make Guests of Owners feel as though are intruding on their property.
A guest from Irvine, NA
March 2024

Great condo on well maintained property with amazing sunsets. Rod was great, always responding quickly to all of our questions. Hope to be back soon!
Brad A.
March 2024

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: Nicely remodeled unit.Very nice remodeled unt.From the living room, bathroom and the bedroom, top notch. We thought it was quite spacious.. Have only one suggestion. We believe a table lamp on the east end of the couch would be a plus. We brought the lamp from the veranda in. Worked well for tv time. That is it. Thanks.
Frederick K.
March 2024

Our stay was fantastic! Definitely recommend staying here. Great views, cozy small apartment, just right for the 3 of us, 2 adults and our teen. Communicating with the owners was a breeze. I loved that we could make our own meals everyday and not eat out everyday. The view from the lanai was amazing each day we got up and opened those curtains. Very peaceful. Definitely recommended this property.
Marlene M.
March 2024

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: What a wonderful place to stay- the crashing sea below your deck, sunsets and courtyard views- excellent.
Amy T.
March 2024

Rating Details: The property manager was very helpful. The vacation rental was spotless. I was more than happy with the location. I was very satisfied with the condition of the vacation rental. Overall, I recommend this vacation rental. Reviewer Comments: Great
Ed and Celia G.
March 2024

Lovely unit - well cared for - obviously someone's home. Very comfortable, grateful for the beach toys and equipment made available during our stay. We appreciate the condo codes of conduct - a very peaceful, enjoyable stay - will try to book here again.
Mary Jo D.
March 2024

Property was great. 2 weeks in a very well maintained complex and our accommodations were everything we needed. Our 2 bedromm was very well stocked woth a lot of extras that made the experience memorable. We will recommend to our friends and hopefully return with them.
Jodi L V.
March 2024

No dresser space no kitchen table-only two bar stools. Limited ocean view. No way could four people stay here. Kitchen was very well stocked. Lots of pool toys,snorkel gear- but couldn’t have any pool toys or noodles in the pool. Wouldn’t stay here again- many other options at a similar price
deborah
March 2024

Location was very convenient. The condo had nice amenities. There were pool toys for our son. Beats staying at hotel and eating every meal out.
Liz H.
March 2024

This property is amazing. Views. Omg. Unbelievable. And the property amenities are nice and clean. Pool jacuzzi. . Front room ceiling is awesome!! Would definitely stay again. And again
cynthia c.
March 2024

Loved this property! Clean and quiet with fab amenities! Would definitely stay here again! Beautiful sunsets from the pool and patio area. Great location with not being right downtown but not too far away from things either!
Kaye Lynn P.
March 2024

This property worked perfectly for two of us. We have stayed in the complex previously and were very happy to find a suitable unit to stay in again and it did not disappoint. The overall location of the property in Kona Kailua is close enough to town to easily walk in to enjoy what it has to offer. The condo unit itself was very well equipped with everything we needed. All of the appliances worked very well including the countertop oven which I was very impressed with. The king bed was comfortable and there were a multitude of pillows to choose from. All of the beach necessities were there for our use which made our beach days stress free. Parking is ample on the property and the barbeques down by the water (I think there are 6) make cooking dinner a wonderful experience. We didn't use any air conditioning as the flow of air through the unit from front to back and use of fans provided a very comfortable temperature to enjoy. Overall this property was absolutely everything we look for in a short term stay and we would not hesitate to stay there again....and hope to!
Teresa M.
March 2024

Plenty of room. The condo needs some TLC. Couch and chair were crippling. So uncomfortable. Mattress was not comfortable to me . Mine was too soft and noisy. My friend said her bed was good. Shower faucet needs repair before it comes out. Toilet ran. No view except in one corner. The place did its job even with the few necessary updating/ maintenance
Jean H.
March 2024

The condo met and exceeded our every need in all respects. The location to the ocean (on both sides of the unit) with excellent viewing will provide lasting memories. Hope to enjoy it again in the future.
Brian M.
March 2024

Nice unit in a beautifully maintained complex. Grounds are lovely. Very quiet. Unit is a nice size. Kitchen has a full sized fridge, large in house washer/dryer and a full sized dishwasher. Cooking pans, knives, other utensils and appliances are of very high quality. Bathroom has a large walk-in shower which is great. Also, a standard height toilet which is a bonus! A few tweeks would make it perfect. There are many 'decorative' items that take up too much space. No real place to put personal things like books, snorkel equipment, snacks, etc. A bit of decluttering would go a long way. Front entry could use a few wall hooks - again for bags, jackets, hats, etc. Outside lanai is a good size with a side ocean view! Lanai furniture needs an update/overhaul, however, as the paint has chipped off the arms of the chairs and the cushions have lost most of their support. The fact that they are high tops is wonderful for the view but they are extremely difficult (and noisy) to move and place when you are sitting on them. If they swivelled it would be ideal.
Brenda J. D.
March 2024

My family really enjoyed the stay. The kids had a blast going to the swimming pool after long days visiting the island and seeing the beautiful sunsets
David C.
March 2024

We were impressed with this property as soon as we stepped in. The kitchen was impressive in that all appliances were very new and operated flawlessly. Pots, pans dinnerware, cutlery were all outstanding. The location is ideal. Getting anywhere was easy. All our contacts with management were cordial and extremely helpful. We truly recommend this property.

February 2024

We were very happy with the Condo at the Kona Maki. It was cozy and the views were spectacular!!!The complex grounds were very nice, awesome views of the ocean, Whales Breaching, Dolphins swimming by, which makes the stay even better. Jeanette and Michael were very informative with any questions we had and were very prompt with some minor issues that were dealt with promptly. We had a very nice stay!!!

February 2024

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: Nicely located unit in a complex with beautifully maintained gardens. Quiet, peaceful and comfortable. . Management company is very responsive to any enquiries. Jackie Rey’s is a 5 minute drive.
Brenda J. D.
February 2024

Nice
Carma J.
February 2024

Was as expected. Great location. Dinners and happy hour with every sun set. Whale watch from your deck.
Jason S.
February 2024

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 found everything needed to be comfortable in this unit. We did gave an issue with the tub draining and someone was there and fixed it promptly! Loved the ocean view. We were able to see the whales from our lanai.
Michelle & Art B.
February 2024

The Kona Makai is a fantastic complex. The pool, hot tub, and oceanside BBQ are such a great part of the stay. The apartment is lovely. Well furnished with comfortable furniture and beds. The upstairs loft was perfect for our teen son. Parking at the condo is easy. The management company is easy to work with, prompt in their responses, and friendly. The unit has beach equipment, like chairs and boogie boards which makes that part of the stay easy. As far as location goes, it was perfect. Close to town, with easy access to restaurants, groceries and the beaches. The apartment is on the top floor of three floors with no elevator, but that was not a problem for us. As far as the rules go, they didn't bother us. They seemed like common sense courtesies that make staying in the buildings more enjoyable for everyone. The whole stay was relaxing and fun. We look forward to staying here again!
Craig M.
February 2024

we had a wonderful stay - listing was as described and the view from the balcony was really nice; we could see the whales from there. overall a nice place to stay.
Debbi G.
February 2024

As always, we very much enjoyed our visit to Kona. The Kona Makai unit we rented was very nice and furnished with everything we needed.
Stan G.
February 2024

Very good location for all that we wanted to do. This unit was a bit further from the ocean and the pool than we expected but not a far walk. Pool and patio area we wonderful for relaxing at the end of the day and watching whales.
Lori
February 2024

Lovely 2 bedroom condo. Clean and quiet, well located within the complex. Had a wonderful time at the property. Had to contact the property manager for one small issue and it was immediately taken care of. Such a marvellous condo. Will definitely rent again
Charyl C.
February 2024

The location is close enough to town without being in town, the grounds are great to walk and enjoy. We ended a long trip with a few nights of downtime and it couldn't be better for Relaxing in Kona than this.
Rich H.
February 2024

Wonderful views, quite complex, fantastic location. We spent a wonderful 5 days at this beautiful condo. Stocked with everything you need and more. Can’t wait to go back
Charyl C.
February 2024

We enjoyed our stay, and with a few exceptions, the unit is furnished with everything you’ll need for a comfortable stay. The unit is a bit dated and could benefit with some updates. For example, the television is about the size of a computer desk monitor and there’s only a couch in the living room with no comfortable chair. The bathroom towels and the beach towels were somewhat worn. Neither of the ceiling fans worked properly. Note that this is one of the rental units that supplies little more than salt and pepper in the way of kitchen supplies. That said, our friends liked the unit so much that they are renting it next year.
Edward B.
February 2024

This is my third stay at Kona Makai. I like the location of this complex however it has become crowded making it difficult to find parking. We stayed in building 5 this time and found it very close to the other lanai's. Very strict rules about where you can use your phone. This condo had a nice kitchen but the rest of the condo is dated. The bed was ok but the out door furniture was very uncomfortable and the one lounge chair was falling apart. The towels are very small and old. With some inexpensive updates (towels, shower curtains, and lounge chair), it would be nicer. Don't count on the weight room and exercise room as everything is rusted and feels like you're in a old dungeon. The BBQ area and pool are on the smaller size for the number of people who live there. Will definitely be looking for a different complex to stay in next time.
Karoline B.
February 2024


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