Makani Sands, Maui

Makani Sands is a low-rise, intimate oceanfront resort in Hawaii, featuring 30 units, many of which are occupied by owners year-round. The resort offers a range of amenities, including a swimming pool, beachside BBQs, picnic area, and complimentary parking. It is conveniently located within walking distance of shops, a farmers market, a natural market, and various restaurants. The resort also provides quick access to its beach for swimming, kayaking, and snorkeling, as well as whale watching during the winter months. Nearby attractions include world-class golf courses at Kapalua and Kaanapali, and the historic Lahaina Town, which is just 5 miles away.

    Makani Sands Quick Facts:


  • Address: 3765 Lower Honoapiilani Rd,Lahaina, HI 96761
  • Property Size: ~0.8 acres (30 units)
  • Reviews: 4.77 / 5.0 (from 288 reviews)
  • Average Price: $356/night for 1 bedroom units
  • Rentals: Makani Sands Vacation Rentals

The Top 8 Highest Rated Rentals at Makani Sands

Makani Sands Average Rates


As of March 2026, the average price of a 1 bedroom unit at Makani Sands is $356. 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 Makani Sands Rentals page to see specific unit prices for your dates.

What Do Guests Think? An Analysis of 562 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.

Travelers consistently love this small, oceanfront condo resort for its intimate, uncrowded feel and spectacular setting. Nearly every review raves about panoramic views of Molokai and Lanai, nightly sunsets, and frequent marine life sightings—guests watch whales in season and see sea turtles right from the lanai or while snorkeling out front (best at low tide). The vibe is relaxed and welcoming, with many repeat visitors noting a friendly community atmosphere and a charming sunset conch-shell tradition. Staff and on-site managers (often mentioned by name) draw high praise for warm, responsive service. Units are generally clean and well equipped, with full kitchens, beach gear, and in many cases in‑suite laundry. The heated pool, oceanfront BBQ deck with loungers, and walkable access to coffee shops, food trucks, markets, and casual dining round out the appeal. Larger multi-level condos with multiple baths work well for families and groups.

Day to day, staying here feels like easy island living: coffee on the lanai with waves below, snorkeling with turtles when the tide is right, and quiet evenings listening to the surf. Guests appreciate the low-key, family-friendly setting versus big, busy resorts, and many highlight good value for the location. Several units are recently renovated and some have air conditioning, while others rely on ceiling fans and cross-breezes; most guests found the ocean breeze comfortable. Convenience touches—like well-stocked kitchens, beach towels and chairs, and quick, clear communication—get frequent shout-outs.

A few resort-wide considerations come up repeatedly. This is an older, well-kept property where individual units vary in age and finishes; pick an updated or AC-equipped unit if that’s important to you, and know that street-facing bedrooms in some layouts can get early-morning noise. The beachfront is seasonal and often narrow or rocky, so sandy shore may be limited, and ocean entry can be easier at low tide; several reviews note periods of seawall/beach restoration that temporarily affected access and parking, though recent upgrades (new seawall and steps) are praised. As with many tropical oceanfront condos, occasional pests are reported, but management is generally responsive. Overall sentiment is strongly positive: most guests say they’d happily return.

This summary is based on a comprehensive analysis of 562 reviews

Recent Makani Sands Reviews


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 great experience and would recommend! The added touches were great. We could not have asked for a better view. Super easy check in/check out and great location.
Marissa M.
November 2025

The property was great and the neighbors were very friendly and welcoming. The host was gracious enough to allow us a late checkout since our flight was in the evening. They had a nice Playmate cooler, beach chairs, snorkeling gear, umbrella, and many other items that were very useful.
Garrett T.
November 2025

We loved staying here. The condo fit all of our needs and was very comfortable and clean. The view was AMAZING. We also loved the walk ability of this area. We can’t wait to come back!
Jamie F.
October 2025

Unit had all the items needed for our stay. The view was amazing. The location was perfectly situated to shopping, restaurants and beaches.

October 2025

This was a great condo. It had great access to the beach and the condo itself was well maintained. We stayed on three different islands during our trip and this was our best accommodation. There was always enough parking. It wasn't too loud but the bedroom window is right next to the elevator so you could hear other guests. It wasn't that disruptive and didn't change our minds about how nice the condo was. The shower was nice.
Brittney B.
August 2025

We had a lovely stay at Makani Sands! There was plenty of space for 4 adults and 2 teens. It was a great base for exploring the island and we loved the Lanai and swimming out front! Tammy is a great host and we wouldn't hesitate to stay here again!
Ayla C.
August 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: Let me start with how beautiful the view of the ocean is. I loved how clean and homey the condo was. Very clean. I will definitely be staying here again.
Natalie T.
August 2025

Truly the Most Incredible Stay We've Ever Had! This was hands-down the most incredible place we’ve ever stayed. The view was absolutely breathtaking — waking up to that every morning felt like a dream. But what truly made our experience unforgettable was Tammy. Her customer service is unmatched. From the moment we booked to the moment we left, she went above and beyond to make sure everything was perfect. You can tell she genuinely cares, and that made our trip so much more enjoyable. If you're thinking about booking this place — do it. You won’t regret it!
Patrick M.
August 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: This is the 4th time we have stayed at Makani Sands and the first time in this unit. My fav unit so far. It was nicely appointed and the sofa bed was comfortable--which is saying a lot for a sofa bed. It is a beautiful location.
A guest from Fair Oaks, California
July 2025

Good location. 1st level, direct waterfront access was a game changer!! Unit was clean and well stocked. We had spectacular mornings sitting on the patio listening to the gentle waves and stunning evenings watching the sunsets! Sofa pullout bed was less than ideal from a comfort standpoint. Unfortunately, we had folks above and beside that had zero awareness of others next store or below. with constant slamming doors and what sounded like rearranging furniture and running races from front of condo to back, we were never able to get a single good night's sleep.
Steve G.
July 2025

Its a nice, not crowded place to stay. Snorkled with sea turtles every day. Use a tide chart to know when to go. Pool was nice to have access to. Beds were comfy. Kitchen was well equipped. Washer and dryer worked well.
Russell C.
July 2025

This was the most enjoyable place of our stay. We enjoyed the home and Location.The Building was well maintained and the communication was good with the manager. This place had everything we needed. We look forward to staying again!Mahalo!
Maurice S.
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: We LOVED our stay here. Ocean front views, turtles, and a beautiful sunset every night. We also loved joining in blowing the conch shells to honor the Hawaiian gods at sunset. The accommodations were exactly as pictured and very comfortable. A short walk to Bad *** Coffee and our fave sushi place Miso Phat. Everyone on the property was very kind and welcoming.
Corrie 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: Great location with oceanfront views and direct access to the ocean and the grills, lounge chairs, etc from your patio. Saw sea turtles every day during our late May visit. Just a few minutes walk to the beach and to Bad *** Coffee. Just a few minutes drive to Miso Phat Sushi and Kaanapali beach. Condo was clean, people were friendly.
Corrie W.
June 2025

Beautiful well stocked and clean. Everything you need they have. We will definately rebook. So many turtles daily. Loved the two balconies!Thank you …much love from the Conrardy Family!
JACKIE C.
April 2025

We had an amazing time here. Everything you could ask for from amenities. Amazing views also
Jake M.
April 2025

We had the most beautiful view from our lanai. We were able to see and swim with the sea turtles right in front of our condo. The sea turtles are in front of our condo morning, noon and night. Incredibly neat! We watched whales jump from the water in the distance. We were within walking distance to small shops and beaches. Pictures do not do justice to how beautiful this place is. Our condo was updated and very clean. We will definitely visit Makani Sands again.
George W.
April 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: Everything was so easy and painless. It was so clean and ready for us! Any questions we had they were so quick to respond and so friendly. All on site staff going around was super friendly. We absolutely loved our stay and any time moving forward that we are in Maui, this is where we will be staying!
Courtney J.
April 2025

Positives: Location was amazing, quiet neighborhood and building, wonderfully renovated unit, nice pool, great variety of containers/kitchen utensils/cooking items, nice beach towels, washer/dryer, walking distance to a few bakeries/shops and a public park/beach, good WiFi, comfy balcony furniture and wonderful views from living room and master bedroom balconies (a must if you like to read on the balcony like I do!) Areas for improvement: Despite keeping everything cleaned there were small gnats/bugs on the kitchen counters that got into any food that wasn’t wrapped tightly (need to keep all food in fridge or in containers), no ziploc bags/aluminum foil/clips/twist ties to use, first floor twin bedroom had no natural light unless you opened the tinted glass window blinds (which was not an option if you had the ac on and it also allowed everyone walking by to see inside), queen bedroom on 2nd floor has small balcony with a nice view but the ac unit sits on that balcony and blows hot air making it uncomfortable to sit out there, king bed was quite firm and could use a thin pad cushion or something similar.
Keri P.
April 2025

The place was perfect for my husband and I! It had everything we needed to make it seem like home. The view of the ocean from our lanai was breathtaking. If we ever visit Maui again, this is where we will be staying :)
Debbie G.
April 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: We had a wonderful experience. The location could not have been better. Very well maintained daily. Local grocery store and coffee nearby. The kids enjoyed our front row view of turtles and whales. Welcomed with a box of chocolates, a special touch. Mahalo! We made many special memories. 🌺
Pearla T.
April 2025

What an amazing place to stay! With the ocean steps away from our patio, we saw turtles and whales spouting from far away. The sunsets were absolutely fantastic - so many pictures. The condo was perfect with all it's amenities making it feel like home. Waking up each morning and making coffee and sitting outside with the view was the highlight of the trip :)
Debbie G.
March 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: Beautiful property and exactly as it was described. Relaxing and close to everything.
sherry alicia t.
March 2025

Great view, great location
Charles B.
February 2025

The condo was in a great location and in great condition. We had a wonderful vacation...
matthew s.
February 2025

We have been going to Makani Sands for years and we just loved this unit. Right in front of the ocean, well equipped (they even had beach chairs and umbrella!) Very prompt help when there were wifi issues. Overall excellent experience.
Robert B.
February 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: Super clean condo, every amenity you need, whale watching from balcony, clean pool, very accomidating service too!
Lisa S.
February 2025

An older property that has been updated. The open windows allow you to listen to the waves at night. Close to everything.
cvdavis
February 2025

Well equipped kitchen. Ample living supplies (TP, paper towels, laundry detergent, etc.) - enough for 2 weeks. Good visibility for whale watching. Includes everything you need for your trip to the beach. Master bath is on the small side.
Rich H.
February 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: Relaxing vacation unfortunately just a week. Period. Enjoyed revisiting, longtime friends.. and the location is just perfect facilities are very nice.So restful and enjoyable. The staff is great always willing to help out..
Ted S.
February 2025

We wanted a place right on the ocean so we could hear it and see it. This oceanfront did NOT disappoint. Nope, no beach, but it's winter in Maui and this time of year the ocean is strong and takes the sand with it. It didn't matter that there wasn't a beach here, we were still able to travel just down the road and there was beach for us to layout on and play in the water at. The condo gives way to an amazing view of two other islands and we saw many humpback whales (bring binoculars) and sea turtles from the lanai. Everyone was compliant with the quiet hours, so no noise complaints. The condo is located close to shopping, dining and the beach. Great sunsets. Matt was prompt in responding to any questions I had. Would highly recommend and stay here again.
Sandy C.
February 2025

Great location with waterfront views! Loved watching for whales and turtles.
Sierra G.
February 2025

Debbie & Tammy were amazing! The apartment is excellent and equipped with a washer and dryer (very helpful when island hopping on holiday). The sliding doors open onto the common area which faces the sea. We regularly saw green turtles swim right in front and got some amazing shots. You could also see whale breaches in the distance directly in front of this apartment. Our stay was great and Tammy gave us a few Christmas ornaments as a memento of our trip that will go up on our 2025 Christmas tree.I ended up having 2 slipped discs, mistaken as sciatic pain, and they were empathetic, provided me with a cold water bottle to rub to ease the pain. My gratitude to Tammy & Debbie for their hospitality and kindness.The apartment and location are excellent and the turtles and whales were icing on the cake that made our stay memorable. We also saw the reflection of the moon on the sea early in the morning. It was amazing! I would highly recommend staying here and will stay again when I visit next. Mahalo!
Clint D.
February 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: It was a vacation experience that created a lot of good visual life long memories.The Management Staff Tammy and Ricky were helpful in assisting me with my needs. They both have excellent Customer Service Skills. During my stay I often talked to Guest who also appreciated the service and advice that they provided
Ernie M.
February 2025

Wonderful place with great views! My kids went out in the water behind the place every day after visiting other beaches each morning. The pool was a nice addition for when they didn't want to swim in the ocean. The place itself was clean, the air conditioning was amazing, and the kitchen well-stocked. They provided everything we could need for our stay, from t.p. to beach chairs. I do wish there was a rug or two in hallways and bathrooms, as it felt a little slippery with wet swimsuits, but we just used towels on the floors to keep them dry. We still loved the place!
jen o.
January 2025

This was our 2nd year staying at this Makani Sands ocean front condo. We absolutely loved it. The unit checks everything and the view is spectacular.
Fazi A.
January 2025

Place was clean, parking was tight. The area gets busy.
Hulali K.
January 2025

The property was nice, and affordable for the location and time of year we stayed. The kitchen is very well outfitted and having laundry in the unit is great. There is no air conditioning but that's not a big deal, just opening the windows and patio door lets the ocean breeze in and everythings good. This is a first floor unit and the ocean waves are thirty feet from the patio, the constant sound of the ocean might not be for everyone but I loved it
Michael
January 2025

We loved staying at Matt's place. It has amazing views. We saw whales and turtles swimming by. The neighbors are amazing. Matt is a great host and was always in touch throughout our stay. Would def. recommend his place. As other reviews mention, it might be little noisy if you are a light sleeper, but closing down all the windows reduces the outside noise a lot and would not bother you!
Vaibhav P.
December 2024

My husband and I were supposed to visit Maui and stay at this VRBO in September 2023, but when the Lahaina fire happened, we had to reschedule for 2024. We were so happy to be back on the island. The condo was wonderful, and we loved the location. Unfortunately we had to end our vacation early due to a family emergency back home, but we hope to be back again soon.
Abbey B.
December 2024

Had a great stay here. Great views and good location. I usually stay down this way when I come here. Could use some better beach chairs but we used all the towels instead. Enjoyed seeing whales and turtles this time too.
Sallie A.
December 2024

My husband and I stayed at Makani Sands for our honeymoon and it did NOT disappoint! Everyone was so friendly from staff, to the other residents/visitors. The pool area was well maintained, clean, and heated. Plenty of lounge chairs to sit or lay in the sun or shade. Nice shower area to remove sand from the beaches. Bed was comfy and the whole unit was clean and comfortable. The view from the lanai was wonderful and quiet. Turtles come up to feed each day, and the wall against the waves has tons of other sea life. Grilling area was a super nice touch. Lots of things to do in walking distance as well. Only complaint was not having AC, but luckily the breeze through the windows was enough to cool down at night. The toughest part with that was having the bedroom window next to the stairway open, lots of noise. We will be back to enjoy again!
Ashley B.
December 2024

This is a great rental. Clean, comfortable and had all the amenities you would need. The view was spectacular. Most of the pictures we have of the sunset are taken from the lenai. The bed was comfortable. We loved the AC! It was so convenient that they had beach chairs, a boogie board and a snorkel to borrow, that was over and above. We would definitely rent this place again. And the property manager was great to work with.
HEATHER V.
November 2024

We loved this vacation spot. From coffee on the lanai each morning, margaritas in the afternoon, turtles by the sea wall, and a short walk to “the best cinnamon buns on Maui”, we had a great time. The condo was in a perfect location as we didn’t drive. A 20 minute walk got us to restaurants, grocery stores, and souvenir shopping. The condo had everything we needed.
Arlene Z.
November 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: I can’t say enough about how much my husband and I love Makani Sands. We have stayed here 5 times now and will continue to stay here. The condo was very clean, the views were incredible and the staff are ALL friendly and welcoming.
Danielle P.
October 2024

This property was in a nice location and easy to get around. Our unit had a perfect view of the ocean and the waves spashing on the sun deck were awesome to watch. We would love to stay here again.
Michelle C.
October 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: Fabulous!!!
Cliff P.
October 2024

We had six adults in our group. The unit was clean, well kept and comfortable for us. The staff was great especially Linda who booked us. The unit was close to everything we did and easy to get to from the airport. Would highly recommend.
Troy R.
October 2024

Rating Details: The property manager was more than helpful. The vacation rental was somewhat dirty. 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: Amazing location, quiet and peaceful for the most part. Our specific unit, 101, was quite dirty and cluttered with stuff. The closests were full of random things for maintenance. There is also NO air conditioner which was unclear at booking. The grounds are nice- great ocean access for snorkeling, BBQs with a sunset view and the pool was fun for the kids. The view from your unit will be amazing and you are likely to see turtles swimming by. The emoloyees were all pleasant and helpful and they keep the grounds clean. Fellow guests can make or break your stay as this is a small complex. Great neighbors at the beginning of our stay followed by a nightmare group including some staying directly above us in 201 and 301 the last nights of our stay. Yelling outside our unit to one another during quiet hours and smoking at the non smoking property. Overall I would recommend staying here and note that all the units are unique so pick one that has what you are looking for.
Elizabeth H.
October 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: I absolutely loved my stay here. I wanted to be close to the water and indeed I was. I had a lovely view and I found it quite peaceful and relaxing. the property was clean and well maintained every day. All the staff were friendly and pleasant.
Jeanne A.
September 2024


Or feel free to contact us if you need help finding a place to stay. We are Hawaii's vacation rental experts.

Oceanfront Rentals

hawaii condo resort
Discover Maui's best oceanfront rentals, all with beautiful ocean views.
Oceanfront Rentals

Rental Search

hawaii condo
Use the rental search page to find the best rentals for your preferences.
Rental Search

Condo Guide

hawaii vacation rental
Research the options with the world's most comprehensive Maui condo guides.
Maui Condos