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
Everything was great! We had a wonderful time!
Darlene S.
February 2026
Host was very responsive prior to arrival. Excellent communication regarding check in/check out expectations. Was provided lists of local grocery stores, farmers markets, beaches, etc. Very helpful. Home was perfect for us. Full kitchen including all utensils and appliances (rice cooker, air fryer, toaster, etc.) Even had beach towels, tennis rackets/balls, cooler, beach chairs, boogie boards. Great location. Excellent overall.
Carrie C.
February 2026
Check in was so easy. Everything we needed was in the kitchen. We had plenty of towels. There was even detergent for the washer. Very impressed !
Pam Y.
February 2026
This condo had everything we needed for a very comfortable stay. We loved watching the sunrise on the lanai.
Patricia W.
February 2026
Communication from property manager Sophia was excellent. The location of property is great. Views from lanai are spectacular. The unit was very clean and had everything we needed. Go for it!
Pat D.
February 2026
Black out curtains would bump up to excellent ratings
Brent C.
February 2026
I rate it a 6.5 out of 10. Great things- provided nice beach towels, beach chairs, mats, water shoes, provided cooler. Appreciated the ziplock sandwich and storage bags. Bad: mold on shower curtains and showers, downstairs bathroom had mildew smells, washer had mildew so we had to buy cleaner, carpet upstairs had black stains, kitchen stovetop lights and fan were glitching - flashing on and off, stovetop dials did not have temperature info as it was worn out - making it hard to know what was high or low, sink turned on on its own constantly, no dish rags provided, windows/patio doors need to be cleaned, remote for the fans in bedrooms were not working and hard to understand, tv in first bedroom did not appear to work, living room tv remote was missing battery cover, lanai patio doors do not lock/ fully close. POSITIVES:* All of the many things included for supplies in all rooms, beach supplies, laundry supplies, kitchen, bedding, etc* Location was awesome! Seeing ocean from Lanai. * Having 1 guaranteed spot to park was nice* Keyless lock/entry was a perk* Pool & hot tub area was clean & welcoming. No issues* Walking distance to both sunrise AND a sunset - awesome!* The condo was spacious & comfortableOTHER:* Obvious mold in showers* Bad mold/mildew smell in laundry washing machine* Lights & ceiling fans in each room do not work regularly or consistently. They all turned off or on without us doing anything. So we had no choice but to leave them off.
Elroy O.
February 2026
Location. Ocean view from Lanai.
Paul M.
February 2026
Gorgeous views, well appointed condo, staff addressed minor issues in a timely and efficient manner.
Susan K.
February 2026
Love this place!
John L.
February 2026
The host was very welcoming. The location, cleanliness and amenities were outstanding.
Angelo S.
February 2026
Great location
Marianne S.
February 2026
Had a great time. Quiet and peaceful and relaxed! Good view, saw whales from the lanai every day
Jevon C.
January 2026
We have had such a wonderful stay in Claire's Poipu condo. This kitchen is well-stocked with everything you could possibly need. The little things like plenty of toilet paper, kleenex and clothes washing detergent are also well-stocked. The view from the lanai is amazing. We have seen whales spouting and breaching right from the lanai. On our walks we have seen turtles, spinner dolphins and monk seals. The beds are comfortable and linens clean. There is a sport closet with just about everything you could possibly need to have fun in the sun. Claire is very easy to work with and she has done a great job making this condo usable and a great vacation spot. This is our 3rd stay in this particular condo and we have booked again for next year.
Janice B.
January 2026
Yes the host was welcoming. Problem; the tubs were recently painted which made them extremely slippery. There are no grab bars by the tub and there were instructions to not use rubber mats. We were fortunate to not have fallen but that situation is an accident waiting to happen. Also the tennis courts were closed for repairs. This should have been noted to us ahead of time as we brought pickle ball equipment wanting to play pickle ball.
Irene W.
January 2026
This condo has everything that you need to make your stay easy and enjoyable. It’s clean and updated. The kitchen is well stocked with dishes, utensils, and cook ware. The beds are comfortable. The views are amazing and we highly recommend this unit.
Carol S.
January 2026
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:
Wonderful lanai view! Fully stocked kitchen. Very clean rental. Great lcoation! Within walking distance to Poipu Beach and Shipwrecks Beach. Great amenities in the complex.
January 2026
Our host, John was very welcoming from the time we booked the condo through our stay. He was quick to answer any questions. The condo was well-equipped with everything we could possibly wantbor need for our stay.
Kathryn S.
January 2026
Excellent location, comfort and decor.
James C.
January 2026
Beautiful condo with gorgeous view of the ocean.
Kathleen S.
January 2026
Communication was clear and appropriate. The property was clean and very comfortable. Location was excellent! Loved the view from the lanai. Thanks for making our visit to Kauai special!
Joseph P.
January 2026
Nice sized condo. Very comfortable.
Karl C.
January 2026
We were told shortly before arrival that there might be some scaffolding and noise for a gutter project. When we arrived, the patios were completely blocked and useless. Our “oceanfront” and “huge lanai” were worthless. We reached out to the owner about a small refund since we didn’t get the experience we paid for and was advertised when we booked. The manager kept apologizing but the owner never got to us. I’ve never been so disappointed with the service and the experience and we have used VRBO many times. This location is great and the unit was fine, but we were just so disappointed.
Terri S.
January 2026
Location, good communication with the host, comfortable accommodations
January 2026
Great end unit with excellent view from balcony. A/C worked well but did not adequately reach the main bedroom. Unit was clean and everything else worked well. Location is excellent especially since it was our first time in Kauai. Sunset benches were nice to sit while watching the sun set. Needed more cleaning rags in the kitchen (dish rag). Washer and dryer were great. Availability of beach equipment was great but one umbrella was broken. Overall great place
David P.
January 2026
Our hosts were very helpful both before our arrival as well as during our stay. The 3 bed/2 bath unit was clean, neat and the kitchen was well stocked with appliances, dishes, and everything our family needed for our 8 day stay. They had a beach wagon and coolers plus beach chairs for all 5 of us which was greatly appreciated. Having a full size washer and dryer in the unit was super helpful. Excellent value!
Julie M.
January 2026
Owner was responsive and worked with me when I needed to add another day. Would stay here again. Great for our family of 7. Location is great for kids who didn’t have their own car. Great multiple close beaches. Walk to Hyatt bar is easy for adults. Lots of beach stuff. Thank you!
Karen R.
January 2026
The Condo was amazing. It had such a great feel and the neighbours were so welcoming. I will definitely stay here again. The location was fantastic. We saw beautiful sunsets/sunrises from the front lawn and whales! Pool was amazing and the kids had the best time. Definitely one of my favourite places to stay.
lyndallneill1 N.
January 2026
The property was clean, spacious and conveniently located. Enjoy ocean view from the balcony. Highly recommended.
Kumiko S.
January 2026
The condo was super clean. Kitchen has all the needs. And the shared living space was comfortable and spacious. I loved the sliding doors opened wide, being able to see the ocean from the deck, and listening to the waves at night.
January 2026
Awesome place with an incredible view, nice clean rooms and comfy furnishings. Great location to explore the whole island. Well appointed kitchen.
Andrew D.
January 2026
Well appointed, clean and roomy space. Everything needed for a comfortable stay. Great location, with many beaches and trails within walking distance. Quite complex with pride of ownership. Management very responsive and present
Tim A.
January 2026
Close to everything.
Kaitlin E.
January 2026
We absolutely loved the view of the ocean right from the balcony and bedrooms! The breeze cools the place off so well and it was so great to be walkable to multiple beaches! Our family of six was very comfortable here. We would definitely recommend and return.
Dan R.
January 2026
Beautiful accomodations and view. Loved the welcome basket and the recreational equipment that was available for use.
Ruthanne O.
January 2026
Clean accessible responsive hosts. No complains
Kelly F.
January 2026
The Makahuena never disappoints! Peaceful environment, super clean and accommodating rooms, and absolutely beautiful views! I stayed here for 10 days in 2019 and had the best time ever. When my friends and I decided to plan our next trip to Kauai in 2025, I suggested we come back to the Makahuena and I'm so glad we did. Can't wait to come back!
Nicole S.
January 2026
We absolutely loved our stay and look forward to returning soon!
Sara
January 2026
Check in was easy, communication was great, problems were resolved quickly, location was convenient, view was beautiful, nice walking along the lava rock close to the property, short drive to beautiful beaches, pool just steps from condo, accommodates family of 7 comfortably, kitchen was useful and overall a great stay!!
Ruthann S.
January 2026
Excellent communication from the host and rental agency representative, very clean and well-appointed space, and amazing view and location! Quick walks to Shipwreck and Poipu Beaches and easy access to other local restaurants and shops. Highly recommend!
Christine G.
December 2025
The condo was exactly as pictured. Perfect view, super clean, great location.
Rachel H.
December 2025
Great location with view of ocean. Unit was perfect for our group of 5 adults. The 3rd floor bedroom is very small and more suited for children, but our adult son managed fine. Washer & Dryer in unit was a big plus as with beach chairs and coolers. Well stocked kitchen allowed us to prepare meals and save on eating out everyday.Communucation with Liz was easy. She and sophia both checked on us to see if all was well om arrival. Our family highly recommends this unit when staying in Poipu area.
Cheryl C.
December 2025
Easy check in. Well stocked with beach/ocean equipment. Kitchen was very nice and well equipped. View of the ocean was spectacular. Great walking paths and recreational opportunities.
Dave H.
December 2025
We had a wonderful time staying here as a family of four. There was plenty of space which you will not get at a hotel or resort. We were so close to restaurants and only 15-20 minutes from most of our excursions. The beach gear was an awesome added bonus! We would 100% stay here again!
Heidi B.
December 2025
Responsive host, clean, well equipped
Malea N.
December 2025
We had a great stay here. The location is perfect—right between two amazing beaches that are both walking distance. The ocean view is beautiful, especially at sunrise. Waking up to that view never got old.The house was comfortable and well set up, and we loved having AC units in the upstairs bedrooms. It had everything we needed, including beach equipment, which was a huge bonus and saved us from having to rent our own. The host was very responsive and helpful. We’d definitely stay here again!
Donna G.
December 2025
![Makahuena Condo 1-303]()
This was perfect for our party of 8. Two bedrooms, one had a king bed and the other had a queen, and a loft with a full bed and a day bed with a trundle. Note: this condo is on a second story with no elevator. The 2 bedrooms are up another flight of stairs, and the loft is up a 3rd set of stairs; so you get your exercise. There are two full bathrooms and a half bath with a washer and dryer. The fully stocked kitchen is nice to prepare food and relax in the living/ dining area.They even have beach towels (8) and beach chairs (I think 7 or 8) and sand toys and some snorkel sets (but only 1 pair of flippers). There was only one boogie board and it was about to fall apart.The condo is next to the ocean, but has lava rock and is too dangerous to swim. It's a few minute drive to Poipu beach where you can swim and snorkel, and if you go in the evenings you can usually see sea turtles!This is on the south side of Kauai, so if you want to do things on the north side you have to drive about an hour or more, depending on where you're going. We had a very fun stay and would highly recommend this unit. Thank you!
Michelle A.
December 2025
The condo was lovely and had everything up to date for our two-couple getaway. Breakfast on the lanai each morning made our vacation! The beds were very comfortable and we slept well, and the condo had all the beach things that we needed. We would absolutely return and encourage you to experience Kauai with this condo as your base! Danna was very responsive, both to questions beforehand and when we had a slight air-conditioning issue at the condo, which was resolved quickly.
Mary U.
December 2025
The host was helpful. And the condo was well stocked with necessary items. The condo was about a "C" rating - it is beginning to show its age and the whole unit needs to be refreshed - especially the woodwork. The shower curtain on the half-bath/laundry room in lieu of a broken pocket door was a non-starter for me. The sheets, while clean and serviceable are getting pretty thin.
Iral R.
December 2025
Looks small in the pictures but it is a very spacious ground floor condo. Walk right out of your slider and down to the pool. It fit our family of 6 so great. Everything was so clean and so nice. Well stocked kitchen gadgets and plates. Everything you need to stay. We got in real late and we were able to have our Instacart order delivered and put in the fridge before we arrived. Walk down to the ocean and you can watch the sun rise in the morning and set in the evening. Highly reccomend this place!
Shane D.
December 2025