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
We loved the downstairs/garden condo, as it was perfect for the kids. The layout was great. We were fortunate to be granted early entrance, which was great, coming from a nearby hotel. The only downside is that there were only four beach towels.
July 2026
Our family of four LOVED this stay! Beautiful, relaxing and great location. We would jump at the opportunity to come back
Theodora K.
July 2026
Very lovely place with a beautiful view. We enjoyed our stay immensely, thank you
jamie l.
July 2026
Very happy with our accommodations. Condo is centrally located and well stocked. Excellent communication with host!
Cathy W.
June 2026
The property was everything we could ask for! Spacious, clean, comfortable, and it had everything we needed. The view was tremendous and the pool was steps away which was great for the kids. It was quiet in the evening and at night which was great after busy days at the beach and sightseeing all around Kauai. An overall great place to stay on our vacation!
Allan D.
June 2026
The view from the lanai was beyond beautiful! Any issues that arose with our stay were dealt with efficiently to the best of the host’s ability. We were grateful!
Erin V.
June 2026
This property was perfect for our family. Very clean, had everything that we would need for the beach and the view was awesome!!!! We used the lanai everyday. I think it was the perfect location to the beaches, shopping and other activities.
Sherrie P.
June 2026
Great location! Perfect spot in Poipu for a visit to Kauai. Communication with the host was easy. The unit was very comfortable for our family of four. The kitchen was stocked. We would definitely stay here again.
Erin C.
June 2026
Nice condo but the real selling point is that you are sitting right above the ocean— so beautiful!
Abby G.
June 2026
Property host was very attentive and helpful. Great location, quiet and comfortable.
Erin H.
June 2026
This condo is beyond words. Clean and loaded with many extras (towels, beach chairs, laundry soap etc). Great view on patio and host was easy to contact and answered any questions. One of the best places I have ever stayed. Would love to go back again!
Lynn T.
June 2026
![Makahuena Resort 2309]()
The location of this condo is A! We enjoyed walking to breakfast, seeing the ocean from the lanai, and we also enjoyed the amenities. I saw some complaints about the pool but we had a great time and we really appreciated access to a hot tub which is rare in Kauai. We also played tennis and walked to Shipwrecks! We would stay in this location again. The condo itself was fine. The air conditioning worked well. The kitchen was well stocked. I do think the carpets need a deep clean and the couch in the living room desperately needs changed out. It was impossible for our family of five to comfortably be in the living room together. So we watched a movie in one of the king beds, which was fine. But if I were traveling with people outside of my immediate family the living room would have been a big issue. The couch is not only small, it’s very uncomfortable due to it being a sleeping sofa. Overall, I think I would give it an 8.5/10. The price was great for a week, but I did sacrifice some comforts for a fabulous location and amenities.
Elizabeth R.
June 2026
The condo was very nice, with stunning views. ALOT of steps to parking lot. It was difficult getting luggage to & from. Also, it was not an easy quick walk to Poipu Beach. Up hill walking back from beach. No other issues with Condo.
Pam F.
June 2026
We loved the location!!
Connie H.
June 2026
Clean property, nice air conditioned bedrooms, comfortable living space and right next to the ocean!
June 2026
I can't talk about anything except the amazing patio. The waves crashing on the rocks and pushing mist through the blowholes in the lava rock and natural bridges and the view south that goes forever. Not to mention the stars at night. That patio was the hit of week for our extended group also. But the air conditioning is also nice when things get a little warm and muggy. This was our favorite VRBO in the last decade.
Patrick Y.
June 2026
Really terrific stay. Condo exactly as advertised. Super great location and easy interactions. Extremly pleasant patio / deck.
Patrick Y.
June 2026
This condo was very nice and we appreciated the space for our family of 5. We were so busy seeing the beautiful Kauai sights that we didn't spend much time at our condo or in the pool but the resort was in a great location and the pool looked very clean. It was very windy (as predicted) on the point but so nice to look out at the ocean from the lanai. The only things keeping us from a 5-star review were the insects that constantly appeared in the sink area (no one's fault and they were nowhere else in the condo so it wasn't much of an issue - just not something we are used to) and the humidity in the condo despite the air conditioners in each bedroom. The 3rd bedroom felt especially damp. Also, there was beach gear in a closet but we didn't find it until the very end of our stay.
Pepper M.
June 2026
We were lucky to stay here during the biggest swells of the season. The wave sets were epic just a few hundred feet from our abode. Sprays from the lava rock were 40 feet high set after set. We could hear it boom all night. Great location to shipwreck beach, brennecke'/spoipu beach 10 min walk from the property, and kiahuna. Nice lanai with views of the water, and sunrise.clean place. All amenities provide. Easy parking close to the condo. Really a gem for any local sites and food. AND A/C throughout the condo.
Steven C.
June 2026
This was an excellent property for our family of six that stayed l four nights in Kauai. I would definitely recommend and would be happy to return.
Steve E.
June 2026
First the negative-Property is in need of updating. Sliding glass doors were extremely difficult to close. Constant sound of wind coming through the gaps in the door. Blinds in front of sliding glass doors need to be replaced, dirty and work poorly. The interior is dimly lit and much darker than the pictures. The positiv-host was good. Extremely easy to get a hold of. Property grounds are beautiful, pool and hot tub are very nice. Grilling area was a plus. Overall it was decent but not good
Ryan K.
June 2026
We did clean the towels. Your view was great as far as being close to the water and having mostly what is needed to cook in a kitchen. It was spacious and the beds are very comfy. It is very hard to open the front door and there are a few upgrades that could be done through out the house. Overall the stay was pleasant.
Gary J.
June 2026
![Makahuena Unit]()
The condo was a great size for a family travelling with 3 teenagers. Having 3 floors gave us some separation when needed. And each bedroom has a bathroom! Though my boys thought that the third-floor bathroom was tiny, it was convenient. Everything we needed was in the kitchen (including staples like seasonings and sugar) and there were lots of beach towels/beach gear.The pictures provided of the view do not come close to doing it justice. The oceanview is spectacular. We turned off the AC in the master bedroom at night so that we could listen to the waves crashing. Location also made it an easy 15 minute walk to Poipu Beach park and some restaurants.The AC made for very comfortable living spaces, including all the bedrooms. Unfortunately, it made the lanai (balcony) almost unusable in the afternoon. Between the direct sun in the afternoon and the hot air kicked off the AC unit, the lanai becomes an oven. Swim suits dry fast, but its not a place to kick back with a glass of wine in the evening. We sat on the benches overlooking the ocean to enjoy the sunset instead.Last note - it's great to have an in-unit washer and dryer. We had to go buy some laundry scent beads though, because our first load of laundry smelled really bad and we had to rewash everything. It got much better for later loads - whether it was the scent beads or washing some mildew out of the machine. Based on a sign sitting on the washer, it sounds like mildew is a ongoing struggle.
Katrina W.
June 2026
Loved our stay here! More spacious than the pictures made it look too! Loved that it came with beach chairs, umbrellas, noodles, boogie boards, and coolers. The pool being right outside was great and the view of the waves crashing on the cliffs from the patio was stunning. Highly recommend this place. Hosts respond quickly and are helpful with extra supplies. Poipa beach is walking distance and the cliffs out back are beautiful to walk on for sunset and sunrise without having to drive anywhere. Downtown Koloa is very close with shops and food and grocery is only 7 min away. Can’t beat that! Photos were all taken on property.
Corinne H.
June 2026
Most spectacular view!
Dick B.
June 2026
Communication was excellent from the very beginning. Clear instructions for check-in. The condo is breathtakingly beautiful, and the views were to die for. Well equipped with everything we needed, and we really appreciate that there was a boogie board, chairs, and an umbrella for the beach. Also a couple of ice chests. We were very surprised when a welcome basket arrived with a sweet note about something we were celebrating. This trip was monumental for us and we couldn’t have made a better choice on to stay.Easy walk to Poipu Beach. where our grandkids had a blast and we’re very safe in the water with the lifeguards. Thank you so much for a trip. We will never forget!
Julie S.
June 2026
Evelyn was so easy to work with, from the time of booking through the checkout process. She responded immediately with any questions we had. The condo is older but has a lot of updated features. The full-size washer and dryer were a nice bonus, as well as the half bath in the laundry room. Loved the view and spent mornings on the lanai with my coffee. Mahalo, Evelyn!
Linda G.
June 2026
Great communication and instructions. We loved the location and amenities (it was very well equipped). It was a perfect place for us to stay on our family vacation. As a first time VRBO user, I was very pleased with the whole process. Thank you for sharing your place and allowing us to make memories!
Matt S.
June 2026
Lot of room and right next to the ocean.
Ryan
June 2026
The condo was well appointed and in a great spot. It was very easy to check in. The location was super close to shipwrecks and Poipu. Getting around the south side was a breeze. I’d recommend staying here if you want a central location on the south side.
Andy L.
June 2026
Our stay was fabulous. Thank you for everything!
Tim S.
June 2026
This VRBO has it all. Great location. Check out the lava bridge right behind the property. Everything you need like a home away from home. Leaving the windows and doors open for natural ac. Easy check in. Rent this place and you wont be sorry!
Shari S.
June 2026
The view was stunning and it was the perfect set up for our immediate and extended family to be together. Quiet area and unit was always nice and cool when we needed it to be, when we were in for the night as each room has own cooling system and fans. Well thought through and easy check in check out. They had a very in depth manual about the condo with suggestions of places to eat and see, and this may have been in there, but for check out a clear understanding of the recycling process would be good. I might have recycled things they didn't accept not realizing it in time. Easily walkable to Poi Pu beach if you are able bodied but it's hilly. Lots of eats and shopping very near by too (drivable). We washed laundry there and made coffee morning.
Michael J Y.
June 2026
The room and condo were in a GREAT location on Poipu Beach. Close to everything, walking distance to Shipwreck Beach and the rocks, which was awesome. Overall, the condo was what we were expecting, but we did encounter a few issues. The description failed to mention that the only AC was two mobile window units in the bedrooms upstairs, which meant no AC downstairs. It was not a problem for us as you can open the lanai door and the entry door and the breeze works great downstairs. The main issue we had was the appliances. The refrigerator leaked while we were there and had trouble cooling our food, but it’s an easy fix for the next guest. The condo grounds were fantastic, great spot to watch the sunset, great pool and hot tub for after the long days hiking or at the beach. We would book this condo again if we came back to Kauai for sure.
Jeremy C.
June 2026
The condo was very clean and well equipped. The location was beautiful and very close to the ocean. The landscaping was well maintained. We would definitely stay there again!
Sally H.
June 2026
![Makahuena 3102]()
The view from this condo is outstanding. Waves crashing into the rocks all day/night and you're right on top of it. Great sound to sleep to. We had Honu's (turtles) in the ocean right below us every day which was super cool. Beds are comfortable and the bathrooms and kitchen were stocked with the soap and toiletries we needed (three people) for the entire stay. Poipu Beach is within walking distance (about a block away down the hill) and as well access to the green sea turtles that come to rest on the beach every night. You must have a Puka Dog while you are there and 10:30 am is the best time to do that so you don't have to wait in the huge line. Koloa is the neighboring village with access to shopping, food trucks, local fruit, taco stands, etc. This condo is great. The only critique I would have is that it needs a slight update. No question though that we had a wonderful time and would for sure stay here again. Sophia was a wonderful hostess. Awesome communication! Mahalo!
Annette H.
June 2026
Great location! I would definitely come back and stay here.
Carter C.
June 2026
It was a perfect location for everything we wanted to do. Was equipped with beech chairs and other stuff that made it all enjoyable. Relaxing lawn chairs. Quiet. View was amazing and close to great beaches. Kitchen was well equipped. Will love to come back.
Kathy K.
June 2026
Beautiful place! Absolutely spotless as well.
Lester T.
June 2026
Owners were very accommodating with our schedules. Highly recommend this listing.
james s.
June 2026
We had a wonderful stay at Makahuena. The host checked in to see what or if we needed anything, we didn't. It provided everything one needs for a week long stay. Beach chair and towels were provided as well. We would definitely stay here again!
Lisa M.
June 2026
It resembled the photos and the place was clean.
Aaron
May 2026
The ocean view was incredible, we spent a lot of time on the balcony. The beds were comfortable, the house was clean, the kitchen had everything we needed. The proximity to Poipu Beach was excellent. B
Lita T.
May 2026
Perfect for our family. Great communication
Rita O.
May 2026
This condo could not have been more perfect. We were concerned that it was 'ground level' but the ocean side living spaces (master, living area) were elevated above ground so the views were spectacular. We saw crashing waves, sea turtles, rainbows and beautiful scenery immediately in front of us, and the bar height seating area on the deck was perfect for morning coffee and afternoon happy hour. Very private and quiet.Sophia could not have been a more responsive and accommodating host. The few questions we had were answered immediately & clearly.The condo itself was very spacious and well appointed. It had everything expected and even many unexpected supplies--beach chairs, cooler, snorkel set, welcome snacks/drinks.We would definitely consider staying here again should we return to the Poipu area.
K. S.
May 2026
This condominium was a very nice upside surprise. Everything was beautiful and the view is unbeatable and energetic. The unit had everything and was extremely well appointed. Sophia is very communicative. We were there in May 2026 and there is a LOT of road construction going on so traffic can cause long delays so plan your days accordingly (supposedly the construction is due to be completed in July, but best to confirm).
Barbara H.
May 2026
We stayed here with our three adult children. There was plenty of room. We loved being able to walk right off the patio to the pool or to view the sunset. It was about a 15 minute walk to Poipu to see the turtles. The condo was clean and well stocked with basic spices, paper towels, toilet paper, laundry detergent, dish and dishwasher detergent, etc. The view from the edge of the cliffs was amazing! We would definitely stay here again!
Marianne A.
May 2026
Kauai is a beautiful island. We enjoyed the property very much. Loved the view, pool, jacuzzi, and pickleball courts! There were 6 of us and the condo was perfect. The 3rd floor bedroom could use its own bathroom however we made it work. For the price we definitely got a deal! Aloha!!!
Vincent C.
May 2026
Staff was attentive to a few needs. One important improvement needed is the a/c in bedroom/living room. It would make a noise every 20 minutes or so which would be a problem for sleeping. Thankfully, nice and cool with trade winds so did not need.
dasd a.
May 2026
We enjoyed our stay. The view was excellent. Some of the neighbors were really friendly. Some weren't. The sliding doors to the bedroom were unexpected and an issue at times. The kitchen was excellent. The furnishings were decent. This unit is on the second level. When we booked, it looked like it was the top floor. But there was unit above with loud walking people. Also, please get there during the day if possible. We had a lot of luggage with 3 separate set of stairs. We didn't discover the ramps for 2 of the sets until the morning. The management was very responsive. Good location overall with 2 ways to enter the property, one with speed bumps and one without. The washer and dryer in the unit was very convenient. The views of the ocean were excellent, really picturesque. Overall good grounds with the pool and hot tub. Well kept.
Trevor S.
May 2026