Maalaea Kai, Maui

Ma'alaea Kai is a hidden gem in Hawaii, offering a relaxing tropical experience with meticulously maintained grounds, a heated oceanfront pool, BBQ stations, and tiki torches. The resort is located near Ma'alaea Bay, a wintertime sanctuary for humpback whales, and is within walking distance to Sugar Beach, Ma'alaea Marina, and the Maui Ocean Center aquarium. The central location provides easy access to the sights and attractions of Maui, including golf courses, beaches, and mountain hikes. Guests can enjoy the convenience of on-site parking, elevators, and laundry facilities. The resort is also close to the Ma'alaea Harbor, where visitors can find shops, restaurants, and tour boats, as well as the longest sandy beach on Maui, Sugar Beach. With its beautiful seascapes, surrounding islands, and palm-lined grounds, Ma'alaea Kai offers a serene and memorable vacation experience.

Maalaea Kai Average Rates


As of October 2024, the average price of a 1 bedroom unit at Maalaea Kai is $345. The average price of a 2 bedroom unit is $487. The average takes into account 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 usally much higher). Visit the Maalaea Kai Rentals page to see specific unit prices for your dates.

Maalaea Kai's Best Rentals

View All 23 Maalaea Kai Rentals (with vacancy and search options)

What Do Guests Think? An AI Analysis of 588 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.

The Maalaea Kai condo resort on Maui receives overwhelmingly positive reviews from guests. Visitors praise its perfect location, comfortable accommodations, and stunning views. Many appreciate the well-maintained grounds, close parking, and the presence of sea turtles in the water. The condos are described as clean, cozy, and nicely decorated, with some units offering fantastic views over the complex and the Pacific Ocean. Guests enjoy the central location, making it easy to reach all parts of the island by car. The pool is well-maintained, and central barbecue facilities are available. The resort's proximity to Trilogy 3 Sailing Adventures, the harbor, aquarium, shops, and restaurants is a plus. Some minor complaints include issues with pest control, parking, and the need for upgrades in certain units. However, these do not detract significantly from the overall positive sentiment. The hosts are commended for their responsiveness and helpfulness. Overall, guests highly recommend Maalaea Kai for its serene setting, excellent amenities, and the hospitality of the hosts, making it a memorable stay for many. This summary is based on a comprehensive analysis of 588 guest reviews.

Recent Maalaea Kai Reviews


We could not recommend Maalaea Bay enough. If you’re looking for beach views and sounds, but don’t want all the sand stop looking and book now! The condo was squeaky clean, spacious, and wow that view. The breeze that flowed through the condo with the doors open was amazing. The kitchen is stocked with everything you need down to the first aid kit in one of the drawers. The owners had laminated cards with recommendations on restaurants, sites and excursions/activities. If you’re lucky enough and Mother Nature provides giant swells it makes for great surf watching! We also enjoyed watching the sea turtles swim in the shallows near the giant rocks. We were always within 15 min of whatever we found ourselves doing that day. Location, communication, and cleanliness were top notch. We would absolutely rent again.
John S.
July 2024

This was our first visit to Maui and it did not disappoint! The Condo was clean, nicely decorated, and well appointed. Everything we needed was there! But the view… it couldn’t be beat! To enjoy my morning beverage (Diet Coke) and read upon waking up was just delightful. As were the many walks along the water. We liked the location- felt it was central to so many things. We used their provided activities document quite a bit! The Road to Hana day and the crater day were our favorites! But we also really liked being able to relax right outside. Thanks to John & family for a great home away from home! And for being reachable when we had questions.
Clare S.
June 2024

We had an amazing time at John's condo! The condo was impeccably clean and had absolutely everything you could possibly need from beach chairs to shampoo! John was also remarkably responsive- we had a quick question about the pool key and he got back to us instantly. He was also super accommodating about letting us check out a little bit later since we had a much later flight. The view of the ocean from the condo and lanai is just absolutely breathtaking. We also loved the slower pace at the condo complex compared to being at one of the big resorts. You can always get a chair at the pool or one of the loungers facing the ocean. Can't recommend this condo or John as a host enough-truly a wonderful experience and wishing we were still in Maui!
Michael M.
June 2024

Unit was clean views of Maalaea Bay were beautiful Kitchen was very nicely redone. Only one bathroom in unit it could use some work. The tub does not drain. You stand in 3 inches of water every time you shower there’s a note that says hair will clog the drain, but that’s not the issue I have no hair. View of the bay from Lanai is beautiful, but the outdated old metal furniture set you right at railing Height and blocks your view, they could have updated lanai furniture that lifted you above the railing or maybe a lounging chair The description says washer and dryer, but no washer and dryer in the unit. You must go down the hall and pay if you need to use the washer and dryer. We’ve been coming to Maalaea Bay for 30 years fishing, it was nice, but the bathroom could be updated putting a closet washer dryer and would be no big deal and updating the patio furniture would be fantastic. I give it three stars.
James B.
June 2024

I have been to Maui multiple times, but this time a hit a home run when I chose Maalea Kai. Breath taking views, comfortable, well stocked, easy parking, accessible lawn chairs and pool perfectly sized. Will definitely return. Located between all the major areas with short drives to see it all.
Gayla Mahealani S.
June 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: Christina, Christian and Rosemary are all wonderful! I have been using this agency since 2013! I will not use anyone else and Maalaea is an amazing area
Shelley P.
June 2024

Great time in Maui! Loved the view from the condo!
Rochelle S.
June 2024

Great proprety that was accurately described & met our needs. Beautiful view of bay from lanai! 15 -20 minutes from restuarant choices on bay and in Kahului plus a few within walking distance. Danny very helpful, including restaurant suggestions!
Joel M.
June 2024

This was the perfect spot for our island adventures. Everything was exactly as described and there were notable extras like portable chairs, beach umbrellas, Maui guide books, sunscreen, and extra toiletries. The pool was perfect. Not over chlorinated and well maintained. Breakfast on the lanai as i watched the sun come up each morning... amazing. I highly recommend this property.
Corinna B.
June 2024

My husband and I traveled with our three kids, ages 11, 10 & 4. This condo is truly a hidden gem. The private pool kept the kiddos busy and the ocean view was spectacular, right outside the condo. The turtles were so fun to watch every day! The island cats were amazing also. The aquarium, restaurants, and shops were just up the road, a short walk. We could easily walk to two beaches as well. The condo itself is really what made our trip so relaxing. Our kids loved the bunk beds! The kitchen was amazing, the hosts have thought of everything! The condo itself was beautiful, just like in the pictures. Updated, clean, and great decorating! Lots of little touches from start to finish. It was so nice to have a washer and dryer inside the unit. Well done John! I will also say, everyone in the condo complex was very nice, we really enjoyed our conversations with everyone! Thanks for a great time! We will be back someday! -The Street Family
Carrie S.
May 2024

This home has everything you could want or need. Great location close to harbor, airport, beach, but quiet and relaxing. We will definitely go back!
Lita V.
May 2024

It was a beautiful condo right next to the beach that gave soothing sounds when the waves crashed against the beach wall. The condo itself spewed color with art and made it feel like I was sleeping in an art museum.
Claudiyo M.
May 2024

This was my third visit and I am already planning another stay in February. Obviously, I really like this place! The owner is incredible--patient and helpful almost beyond belief. The unit has everything to make life easy -- well equipped kitchen, beach towels and snorkelling gear for ocean visits, good mattresses and pillows which almost guarantee a good night's sleep. No complaints! I can't wait to go back.
Victoria B.
May 2024

Rating Details: The property manager was very helpful. The vacation rental was somewhat dirty. I was very happy with the location. I was somewhat dissatisfied with the condition of the vacation rental. Overall, I recommend this vacation rental. Reviewer Comments: We have stayed in the Hawaiian islands for over 40 years we have a pretty good idea of what accommodations should look like and what a cleaned unit should look like. The Bedding in one bedroom had to be changed and the kitchen cubards required some extra cleaning due to food residue etc.The drawers in the bathroom had hair in them. Also the main bathroom bath tub requires a rubber mat in it the slipping hazard is extreme. Other than that things are.fine.
Ron M.
May 2024

The view was stunning, location centrally located to all activities. I would highly recommend this property
JIM C.
May 2024

Fantastic host. Well appointed home with so many extras. Comfortable, quiet, a great place to relax and unwind.
Patricia T.
April 2024

Beautiful beach view from condo. Secure. Great location. Decor could use an upgrade. Clean kitchen. Enjoyed our stay.
James P.
April 2024

Originally went for a bucket list excursion to Haleakala for the sunrise. More of a couples thing I suppose but “whos gonna stop me” the couples thats who lol. Tickets sold out since I booked this trip one month before rather than 2 months like they suggest for Haleakala. Despite that disappointment, my stay was amazing. Right on the coast (starbucks) around the corner if you’re into that, beach literally just a stroll down the road. Went for the sunrise on top a mountain and stayed for the sun rise and set just outside my door/window. Will look to book again maybe next year. Thx Danny
Lance W.
April 2024

We had a really nice stay. It's really nice to stay away from the busy areas.
Anna D.
April 2024

Perfect accommodations in Paradise. Super clean, comfortable, with all the necessities and lots of extras. Being on the ground floor with the ocean in your backyard is amazing. It was so nice to have breakfast out on the lanai or just pop out to look at the turtles and breathe in the fresh Island air. The condos location was great for exploring the island and John provided us with an excellent list of restaurants, beaches and adventures. The only negative thing was having to leave when our vacation was over. This is definitely a place I’d recommend to any of my friends visiting Maui in the future.
Heather W.
April 2024

A nice quieter area to stay on Maui that is still close to everything. Condo and grounds are well kept. Wonderful, would come back again in a heartbeat. :)
Bryan H.
April 2024

Gwen and her assistant was great to deal with, good communication. For us, it was the perfect location! Again, Thank you, Gwen!
Melissa R.
April 2024

The condo was absolutely wonderful. The description of the condo is accurate. Beds wre very comfortable, lots of dishes, glasses, pots and pans. Very clean! Also all kinds of outdoor equipment in the condo for use. Beautiful oceanfront view right on Maalaea harbor. Gives you lots of opportunities to watch for whales. Nice swimming pool allows you to meet other visitors and residences. Thank you for making our trip even more spectacular!
Michele C.
April 2024

Everything exactly as expected. Fully supplied condo. Beautiful view! The owner checked with us making sure nothing was lacking. This is our 3rd stay at this location. We hope to stay again if available!!
Bobby H.
April 2024

We had an amazing stay. The condo was in the perfect central location in Maui. It had everything we needed and the beds were extremely comfortable. We appreciated the snorkel gear, towels, etc being available for our use. Waking up to that view everyday was everything. We hoped to see whales and our dreams came true! John was wonderful and his list of things to do was very helpful - it was spot on. We will definitely be back. Thank you John and family!
Annie E.
April 2024

My wife and son and I traveled to Maui to participate in our daughter’s engagement. We found John to be an exceptional host - checking in with us periodically to make sure everything was going well. In particular, as we experienced significant delays inbound (8+ hrs) he was kind enough to drop off some food and wine for us due to our arrival at 1 am. The property was exactly as described - a waterfront unit with a short walk to the beach. Turtle viewing and whale watching were a daily activity! We largely ate out but the kitchen was well stocked and cooking would have been a pleasure. The marina and aquarium are just a few minute walk and we found the location convenient as a launching point for activities all around the island. The condo was everything we hoped for in a VRBO. We highly recommended it to anyone planning a trip! Thanks John for being such a gracious host. It was a trip we will always remember!
Harold T.
March 2024

This is a wonderful vacation retreat. The condo was clean, comfortable and well stocked with the essentials. The size was good for our group of four.The views were beautiful. We watched the whales, the sunrise over Haleakala and the green sea turtles. The outdoor grilling area is great. The ocean is right there! Maalaea Bay is a prefect spot to stay. It is quite and right at the harbor. In our opinion it is a hidden gem. Yes, you do get some trade winds but this condo is centrally located. You are in the middle of things, you can take a trip to Wailea or Kaanapali or just enjoy the pool and condo. We truly enjoyed this lovely spot and would highly recommend it. Aloha
Dee P.
March 2024

We absolutely loved our stay at Maalaea Kai. The condo was even better than the pictures - and we saw turtles in the bay every day ! The check in process could not have been easier- the room was was great. And the view from the lanai- wow, just WOW!
Carmen J.
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: This property was a great location to see whales and was quiet. The actual condo had great upgrades and comfortable beds. We had a great stay. We have stayed in this complex before in a different unit and this one was nice. Our only complaint is how tight the parking spaces are.
Rebecca S.
March 2024

Oceanfront view! Comfy condo with everything needed in the kitchen. Good wifi and lots of towels and soaps provided. The lawn is immaculate and lounging on it is great. We watched the whales and turtles from the lawn. Nice clean and warm swimming pool, too.
Carl G.
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: had a great time. whale watching was very good and location afforded great access to the different venues. accommodations were clean and appears the owner looks after the place and addresses items immediately
A guest from edmonton alberta, canda
March 2024

The property has a beautiful view. We were able to see whales splashing about. Sandy beaches are very close. We were escaping the rain from the rain forest we live in and the sunshine was awesome. The condo was clean and equipped with what we needed for an enjoyable stay.
Adam B.
March 2024

Beautiful property in a quiet location. Loved watching the whales play in the bay from our balcony.
Karen H.
March 2024

Not sure what I can say that other reviewers haven't. This place is absolutely amazing. The interior of the unit is immaculate as described. Fully stocked kitchen with everything you need. Beach towels, chairs, snorkel gear all provided as well. The ground floor unit made it so easy to walk out and see the Sea Turtles in the sanctuary and watch for whales (which we saw every day from right outside the unit). Loungers and pool are just steps away, with a full panoramic view of the bay. John provided a long list of restaurant, beaches and tour recommendations which was a big help. We toured the entire island and really felt like this was most convenient location for our "home base". John was great every step of the way. Can't imagine staying anywhere else when we come back!
Eric M.
March 2024

This was our first time not staying on the west side of Maui. What we loved about this location was how close to the airport and Costco we were. The grounds of this condo building are absolutely beautiful. They are so well taken care of. There are ample sun loungers on the grounds as well as in the pool area. The condo itself was perfect for our family of three. The kitchen had everything we could possibly need and we loved that the freezer had an automatic icemaker. We made most of our own dinners and the BBQ area was perfect for that. The large lanai made for excellent whale watching. It was also a huge bonus that the condo supplied beach chairs, boogie boards , and a cooler bag. While the condo itself could use some updating, we know from other reviews that Gwen is planning that at some point. By no means did that take away from our vacation. Gwen was also very responsive to any questions we had. We would definitely recommend this condo.
Tania J.
March 2024

Lovely property. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay. Our only real complaint is that the kitchen could have been better appointed such as higher quality pans and more utensils.
Debbie L.
March 2024

We came to get away from winter and work. This location quiet, wind is constant but that keeps the heat easier to sit outside. The condo is well kept, the hosts have been very easy to communicate with. Thank you for providing us with a home away from home.
Laura M.
March 2024

Complex and Location are top notch. the unit itself is not exactly luxurious, needed to call for a couple maintenance/repairs, but generally adequate for our needs. It was well-equipped except for cleaning supplies which we could have really used with our month-long stay. note that unit has no parking place and laundry is communal coin-op - but the laundry room was close
Deborah P.
March 2024

Wonderful condo. Very comfortable. Breeze is amazing. One small hiccup resolved immediately. Have already booked next year. Thx Danny.
scott l.
March 2024

This is a 5-star property in every way - location, cleanliness, amenities, furnishings. We loved the location in the center of the island, making it convenient to get to everywhere. And we were so happy to not be in the middle of a huge resort area. The harbor area is a short walk away and has shops, restaurants and the best whale watching tours (we can highly recommend PacWhale). We spent every evening on the condo's lanai watching for whales, or walking along the waterfront looking for turtles. The highlight of our whole trip happened one evening when we noticed a splashing disturbance out in the water, which turned out to be two adult humpback whales practicing their pectoral fin slapping! John leaves a great set of binoculars for his guests to use, which gave us a close-up look at these whales having a great time. The humpbacks spend the winter in Maui, December - April, mating one year and giving birth the next. In February-early March, the new calves are fun to observe from a whale-watching tour.
Virginia B.
March 2024

We arrived to find the property looking even better than the pictures! Spotless, comfortable and beautifully appointed. Communications with the owners were fabulous - check-in was a breeze, and they even provided a comprehensive list of things to do, restaurant recommendations; they thought of everything! Couldn't have been happier! The property is truly paradise - peaceful, calm, inviting and luxurious. ENJOY!
Terri F.
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: Great location and best views of the ocean. Quiet and clean and will be back.
A guest from Calgary, Alberta
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: The rental process was quick and efficient. The condo was amazing. You are right on the water watching whales and the ocean and the islands in all their glory. Hawaii is a special place with very wonderful and kind people who live there.
Donald D.
March 2024

We loved it there. We stayed a week. the kitchen was nice, and the the bathroom had wonderful tile showers. Narcy was the person who cleaned the condo prior to our arrival and it was spotless. Everything was as represented and we would stay there again in a heartbeat. Whales were breaching about 150 yards out on the first day and the rest of vacation were about 1/2 way across the bay. Loved this property. (:
Cheri R.
March 2024

Wow!! Barbara’s condo well exceeded my expectations! This condo is the perfect location to get around Maui and is literally a quick walk to Maui Ocean Center (aquarium) and the harbor. We honestly never wanted to leave the condo though! Being on the ground level was perfect. You watch whales playing in the bay right from the patio! And the pool and grills were just off the patio too making it really easy to jump in or start dinner. Any questions we had Barbara was quick to respond. Excellent! We are already dreaming of coming back. Thank you so much for sharing your paradise!
Nicole D.
March 2024

Picking the right location to stay in Maui can be daunting, finding the perfect place, much more so. For us, Maalaea Bay was the idyllic spot, and this first-floor condo was as close to perfect as we could find. The neighborhood was quiet and walkable, adjacent to the aquarium, marina and a general store with great sandwiches, coffee, and snacks. It’s central location, made the island’s points of interest easily accessible. From the moment we walked in the front door of the unit, we felt at ease. Being a first-floor unit, it was serene and tranquil. The lanai offered breathtaking views of the bay and our morning coffees were paired with theatrical displays of breaching whales. The kitchen was generously supplied with just the right amount of cooking utensils and the beach bags, chairs, coolers, and beach towels were a welcomed bonus. Our host, John, was responsive and accessible and went above and beyond to ensure our stay was pleasant. We can’t thank him enough for the great suggestions of things to do and places to go and for hosting us in his beautiful home. It made for a relaxing and carefree vacation.
Mary M.
March 2024

Very nice condo. Although I think VRBO charges too much !
Scott T.
March 2024

We found another great location in Maui in Ma’alea bay. Easy drive to many things. I loved our ability to watch so much whale activity. The condo was dated but very clean. The residents in the condominium were very friendly. I will say the tone of the owner was off-putting before we arrived but they were responsive once we arrived. Also, the listed rent on the VRBO website changed to a higher rate once I requested the dates.
Patrice P.
February 2024

We enjoyed a wonderful 10 day stay with our two university-aged children in February. Highlights: -Ma'alaea is centrally located for exploring Maui. A much quieter and more relaxing area than many tourist zones. -Unit is perfectly situated with stunning views and direct ground floor access out onto the lawn and waterfront - absolutely ideal. -We enjoyed great views of whales and sea turtles right out front every day. -Very tastefully decorated with some lovely original Maui art. -Unit is well equipped with complete kitchen, beach-going supplies, snorkelling kits, boogie boards, etc... -Excellent communications with host from start to finish. -We highly recommend this VRBO.
Neil P.
February 2024

We loved our stay at this condo. The view is stunning and we enjoyed watching the whales from the lanai. The grounds at the condo are kept up very nicely and was a great place to sit outside along the water at the end of the day. The condo was very quiet and peaceful and was a great place for us to stay . We had great communication from Danny and the local onsite property manager. The AC in the bedroom was an added plus. We would definitely stay here again !
Wesley W.
February 2024


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