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: 4.74 / 5.0 (from 1682 reviews)
  • Average Price: $576/night for 2 bedroom units
  • Rentals: Makahuena Vacation Rentals
Makahuena panorama

Makahuena Average Rates


As of November 2025, the average price of a 2 bedroom unit at Makahuena is $576. The average price of a 3 bedroom unit is $644. 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.

Makahuena's Best Rentals

View All 35 Makahuena Rentals (with vacancy and search options)

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


Nice accommodations. Clean, AC in bedrooms worked great. Nice partial view of ocean. Great location just a short drive to beaches and shopping. We would stay here again. Good value for the price.
Craig H.
July 2025

The unit was super old. It smelled musty and like a smoker previously lived there. The beds are very uncomfortable and feel cheaply made. The beach chairs were both rusted and busted, the umbrella was unusable. The ACs made a loud noise every 2-3 minutes. The kitchen was sparingly stocked with cooking items. The carpets and furniture felt waxy and were stained. The pictures on VRBO do not reflect what you actually get. Those pictures make the unit seem way newer/nicer. Overall I would not recommend this unit to anyone to rent at this price.
dennis m.
July 2025

The overall property is in a great location close to everything. This particular condo has an amazing view and has everything you need to make your stay enjoyable. I would highly recommend this place!
Amber S.
July 2025

Walkable to the beach, steps to the sunset. Had a great time
Kirk M.
July 2025

This was our 50th state to vist as a family. Location was key for us since we were exploring the whole island. We really enjoyed this . Its clean quiet place with a beautiful view while walking to your condo. Manager and Host easy to reach and reapond back in a timely manner. We accidentally thought we booked for our full time here but realized we missed a day. Host and manager worked worked with us and since no one was booked we were able to book another night.
Melita P.
July 2025

Everything was as described. We would definitely stay again. The condo is beautiful and very comfortable!! Views are spectacular
Lori L.
July 2025

Having the ocean waves crashing feet away makes it an unforgettable vacation spot. We already miss walking to Poipou to see the turtles.
TJ Y.
July 2025

We loved the amenities, the location was great, and the people were very nice. The cleanliness could have been a little better, but overall, it was a lovely stay.
Talia F.
July 2025

The accommodations were clean, comfortable, and had all the amenities of home. The location was ideal. We really enjoyed our stay.
Myra B.
July 2025

Our stay started off great by using the Poipu Athletic Club facilities, as we were not able to check in as we transitioned between check out of our other unit on the island. This was a great option. The unit was well equiped, with a lovely view of the sunsets and the sounds of the ocean from the lanai, as long as you didn't mind the parking lot conveniently located in front of the unit. Crashing ocean waves could easily be heard nearby as you peeked out at the ocean. The single portable AC unit was not near enough to cool the entire unit, but with strategic placement, the front bedroom was kept cool, while the back bedroom (which we did not use) was cooled with open windows and fans. The washer/dryer was great to have in unit, as were the beach amenities for the trips out. Overall, it was a great location and well equipped unit.
Erin Jo R.
July 2025

Our time in the condo was great, there was plenty of room, great location, excellent communication, and beautiful views from the lanai. Everything was great even with some WiFi issues they got resolved the next day. The only thing that could have been improved on was the beds were not the comfortable, in both rooms.
Rebecca M.
July 2025

This gem is nestled in the perfect spot! A walking trail leads you to Shipwrecked Beach and you can easily walk along the road to Poipu Beach Park in the opposite direction. Although we drove to the beaches when we were going to set up camp but being able to walk to see a sunset is perfect! The unit was welcoming and served our family well. The kitchen had everything we needed to prepare dinners. We enjoyed eating and playing games at the dining room table. Sitting on the lanai was very relaxing in the morning. Our sons enjoyed walking to the scenic lookout and watching the crashing waves along the cliffs just steps from the unit. The pool and spa were very refreshing and nice in the evening when you wanted to unwind after a day at the beach. The air conditioning units work amazing! The beds were comfortable. We truly appreciated having the washer and dryer. This is a wonderful place to stay! Recommendations: Tunnels Beach, located in north shore, has the best snorkeling. Parking is limited so get there early (8am)! Brennecke’s Shaved Ice in Poipu was the best and Lampert’s Ice Cream in Poipu was super tasty!
Christina P.
July 2025

Condo was amazing . Great location and amenities ! Would stay again!
Kelly V.
July 2025

This was a very convenient place to stay in Poipu! Easy access to everything. The home was very clean and had nice newer finishes. We had everything we needed for our week. Balcony views were very nice and the overall property was quiet from 9pm to 9am. My wife and 2 teenage daughters loved it. We would definitely stay here again!
Jay R.
July 2025

We had a lovely stay at this quiet but very convenient condo. We don’t have a single complaint. We loved it and truly were able to relax during our stay.
Heather C.
July 2025

We had a fantastic stay! Our family of five (2 adults and 3 older teens) found this condo to be absolutely perfect. There was plenty of space for everyone to spread out and relax, and we really appreciated having two bathrooms, a full kitchen, and a washer/dryer—it made our stay so comfortable and convenient. The condo was thoughtfully stocked with beach essentials like chairs, an umbrella, a boogie board, and a cooler, which made our beach outings even more enjoyable. We also enjoyed relaxing at the condo pool—it was a great option for downtime between beach trips. The location couldn’t have been better—close to all the beautiful south side beaches and great restaurants. The property manager was also wonderful—very responsive and helpful when we had a couple of questions about the parking pass and door key. We’d definitely stay here again and highly recommend it to others looking for a comfortable and well-located place to stay!
Megan M R.
July 2025

The unit was clean and everything worked. The pool and spa were nice but the spa was a little hot. We could not get the internet to work - we tried resetting the router but it still did not work.
Dan H.
July 2025

It was a very beautiful place. It fit our family well. We enjoyed it a lot
Julie F.
July 2025

Places was great. More than enough room for my family of 6. Ground floor made it convenient going to the pool. Great views of the ocean, very close to Poipu Beach
Robert H.
July 2025

I had an excellent stay at this location. Everything was described as it was. The team renting the unit reached out multiple times during our stay to make sure our accommodations were being met. Would recommendMahalo
nick b.
July 2025

We have stayed in other units in the same complex, and decided to splurge this time by getting one at the ocean's edge. The wildlife viewing from the lanai was outstanding, there is a small blow-hole in the cliffs that is fun to watch, and the sunsets were memorable. We had plenty of space, comfortable beds, and the unit was well stocked with kitchenware and bath needs. The owner/manager responded quickly to any questions I had. Would love to stay again!
Linda B.
July 2025

The condo had a good amount of space, making it comfortable for a large family. However, the queen room had a strong urine smell that was hard to ignore. We ended up purchasing air fresheners in order improve its small. The main bathroom also had that small. The kitchen was very basic. The water pressure was poor and hot water in the showers were inconsistent. We were also disappointed with the limited pool hours, the fact that we were allowed access at 9am which seems late.
Jaclyn H.
July 2025

This beautiful condo has a beautiful easterly view of the Pacific. It was wonderful to sit on the balcony with a cocktail and watch the ocean. The complex has a wonderful view and a popular place with benches to watch the sunset. It is conveniently located to all activities on the southern shore and about an hours drive to Waimea Canyon. Breathtaking!
Paul A.
June 2025

This condo is neat and clean, nice upgraded kitchen. Bed was comfortable and the walking path was so nice with beautiful ocean views. The only concern was the 2nd bedroom smelled very musty, and for us there was a concern since our daughter has bad allergies to mold so we weren’t able to use that room.
Lindsay W.
June 2025

Property was right on the ocean in a medium sized condo complex. This property is on the end of the building with views in 3 directions including the ocean from the lanai and master bedrm. Quiet and pretty area near koloa.Kitchen and downstairs renovated, upstairs not. Portable AC upstairs only. Fans in all rooms. Downstairs got hot but opening the front door let in a cross breeze.Pool, pickleball court, hot tub. Lots of stairs to go up and down. Walkingndistance to poipu beach, and the lava arch. Nice cliff walk too all the way to the hyatt grand. Beach gear provided was good.Management company communicated well with all the instructions needed.Easy parking out front.Overall a good badic cozy apartment on the water.
Jim V.
June 2025

We were very comfortable and enjoyed all the amenities. Really appreciate the pool toys. Beautiful view from the lanai .Not a fan of the glass tops on the tables, very sharp edges. One of the glass tops was chipped with scotch tape on it. My husband sustained a small cut from it. It would be nice to have plastic cups for the pool.
Susan B.
June 2025

This truly is a "Stunning Ocean Front Condo"! The view was absolutely amazing—waking up to the ocean each day was peaceful and unforgettable. It was the perfect place to relax, unwind, and take in the beauty of Kauai. Thank you for such a memorable stay!
Monica F.
June 2025

Amazing community of condos. This one had ample air conditioning. Itvis on 3 levels. The lani has beautiful ocean views an pool views. The property around the cindo is amazing with views and its owe blow hole. The pool was great. Parking on site was close to the unit but not too close. Having laundry on site was perfect. Three andcahalf baths for family groups was great. Kitchen was well stocked. We stayed 7 days at this location amd loved every minute!!!
Jill B.
June 2025

The condo was in a great location! They're was pleanty of space in the home. They're were minimal supplies in the home. We didn't have air conditioning for the first 24 hours. I did have to call multiple times and had 2 different maintenance people visit before it was fixed. When the windows were left open, due to no a/c, we did have cockrachs in the kitchen, otherwise it was clean.
Jessica W.
June 2025

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: rental had everything we needed for our family of 6 including stuff for us to snorkel and enjoy the beach. The sunsets from the place were amazing!! Our family enjoyed it and the kids took many photo shoots! We all had our own space, kitchen was great to cook in and I enjoyed sitting outside each morning looking at the ocean view. They even left us a thoughtful welcome gift! We enjoyed our time and it was close to everything we needed. The “sand” beaches were a very quick drive!
Danielle H.
June 2025

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: Condo was very roomy and as described. There was AC in all bedrooms, which made sleeping comfortable. Location is fantastic, close to beaches and Poipu. Pool is right below the condo, which made access easy. 10/10 would recommend.
Jordan W.
June 2025

Nice stay.
Jeremy h.
June 2025

We loved our stay and the unit was great! Spacious, clean, a great ocean view with only a 10 min walk to the beach! It came with all of the amentities we needed and more! The property manager was great and the only thing we contacted him/her about was the TV and they fixed it right away! Would definitely stay here again and recommend it!
Kerri S.
June 2025

Overall, the condo is nice. The specific development is old and showing its age. This condo has a lot of pre furnished kitchen, bath, and laundry items- so you don’t need to hustle to the store first day/night. Plenty of beach supplies. Enough cooking pots, pans, utensils to cook. This unit uses traditional door keys. Located top (2nd) floor, so at least 2-4 sets of stairs to navigate. We felt safe the whole time. Host was communicating well and ensured we had a good trip. Nice welcome snacks provided! View is great. Breeze will keep you cool but it does stay warm in the unit. Portable A/C in bedrooms upstairs. WiFi is ok but one bedroom it’s less powerful. Condo is right next to the lava arch. Two very nice gas grills at complex but ensure the tanks are filled. Pool is right out from the condo and is nice. Plenty of space for our family of 4 in the unit. This area puts you about 20ish minutes from most towns on the south part of the island. Costco/target/walmart are 20 min away. View is great. Would recommend. Suggest to bring own laundry detergent/softner for better cleaning.
Nick C.
June 2025

Great condo close to Poipu Beach! We were able to see turtles on the beach each evening/morning. Complex has a nice path along the coastal cliff to watch the waves crash and turtles swim by. Would happily stay here again. Thx for sharing the unit with us!

June 2025

We stayed here with my parents (77, 74), teenagers (16, 19), my husband and myself for a family vacation. The unit was well stocked with everything we needed and the view of the ocean truly was spectacular and made our stay extra special. Beds were comfortable and supply of everything from shampoo to toilet paper was appreciated. However, the description of the unit definitely lacks any mention of the amount and steepness of the stairs to get to the unit and in the unit. With aging parents, this was very difficult and I would not have rented it had I known this. They managed, but it was very challenging for them the whole stay. Additionally, the air conditioning was spotty and while we were glad to have it, it never quite worked entirely, especially in the loft. All things considered, the management was responsive and the stay was very nice, we just wished the pictures and descriptions had been more accurate.
Laurel K.
June 2025

This was our third time staying in the Poipu area. This unit was the best of all. We previously stayed in another unit in the same complex, but this unit puts that one to shame! The unit was clean, quiet, spacious, and nicely decorated. It had all the amenities we needed, including a coffee grinder (mahalo!), A/C, and strong wifi. The lanai is perched directly overlooking the ocean which is maybe 30 yards away. The pictures in the listing do not do it justice. It is so close to the ocean! There is a blow hole where the waves come crashing through. The dramatic surf was pounding and turtles were constantly popping up to the surface through the crashing waves. At night while we were stargazing from the lanai, several white owls were flying in front of us over the water. Shipwreck Beach is a short walk down the pathway accessed through a gate in the parking lot via key provided. Poipu Beach is a 10 minute walk down the hill on the other side of the complex. The unit exceeded our expectations.
DAVID C.
June 2025

Our family had a great time in Kauai and the condo fit our needs well. The condo was very clean and is well stocked with everything we needed during our stay. This is a great location and within walking distance of popular beaches and beach walks with great views.
Josh K.
June 2025

We had a great time at this property. The place was clean and we had laundry and a kitchen to use as we needed for our family. It is close enough to the beach to walk as needed but also an easy drive to other places on the island.
Thavaro T.
June 2025

We loved staying here for the second half of our honeymoon. We appreciated how everything you needed was there, easy to find, and offered more space. Even more incredible is the proximity to the coast to watch the waves crash in. We would definitely return here if we find ourselves back in Kauai!
Layne A.
June 2025

This property was perge t for a family of 5 stay woth multiple generations, 2 bedrooms with their own bathrooms and a pullout couch with a half bath downstairs for our teenager. Easy location between all kinds of activities, and a beautiful property! Well stocked kitchen appliances and diner-ware.
Diana B.
June 2025

It was great! Arrived to a very nice collection of goodies, even a pineapple! The place has everything you need, lots of kitchen utensils, outdoor chairs and boogies boards. Place was very clean! Property manager reached out to make sure everything was to our liking. Would def stay here again.
Debbi R.
June 2025

This was a great rental close to beach, eating and great view. The apartment was fully stocked and all you need to enjoy the area's snorkeling, beach and fun! I wish I could have stayed longer. We will return. Host was friendly and easy to talk communicate with. Area was safe and wonderful!
Christie W.
June 2025

Property is well maintained and clean. This unit is also well-maintained and clean. The east facing ocean view is wonderful for viewing the sunrise! Fabulous sunrises!!This end unit was very quiet and peaceful.We will return.
Dave M.
June 2025

Great place to stay. Highly recommend
Robert P.
June 2025

We enjoyed the location and amenities of this rental. Overall we gave it 4/5 given the condition of rental from a cleanliness standpoint wasn't the best. It certainly wasn't a dealbreaker or worth raising concerns over. The pocket and sliding doors could use some good maintenance. Would definitely stay here again.
Blinn T.
June 2025

Just as listed
Tyler S.
June 2025

Lovely spacious condo with wonderful views of the ocean. Very comfortable beds and A/C and fans on all 3 floors.We thoroughly enjoyed our time here, and would recommend this property.There are stairs to the condo, and a fairly steep walk to the parking lot to be aware of if you have mobility issues.
Deborah M.
June 2025

nice place, smallish, but for the price, was very happy. Be aware, if you didn't notice, that the master bedroom is separated from living area by sliding white glass doors, so not as quiet as might be hoped. Great walking distance to Shipwreck and Poipu beaches! Would definitely stay again
Jeanne E.
June 2025

This place came loaded with a lot more things than the description listed, which was a pleasant surprise, since we traveled as a family. Having a coffee with the ocean view was amazing as was the direct access to the pool downstairs. We also loved the access to the Poipu Athletic Club, which had an incredible pool and delicious lunch menu. The access to everything was very convenient and most things we wanted to see or visit were only a short 20-30 minute drive away. Enas was incredibly responsive to all of our questions, as well. Definitely would say here again!
Michael K.
June 2025


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