Kona Makai, Big Island

Kona Makai is a beautiful oceanfront complex located on famous Ali'i Drive, just over a mile south of historic Kona Village. The well-maintained resort features lush gardens with native Hawaiian plants, an oceanfront heated saltwater pool, hot tub, tennis courts, exercise rooms, ping pong, gas barbecues, and covered parking. Guests can enjoy oceanfront seating with loungers, watch spinner dolphins, whales, and monk seals, and experience stunning sunsets. The complex is gated at night for security and offers easy access to snorkeling, scuba diving, and other water activities when ocean conditions are calm. Kona Makai is conveniently located near restaurants, shopping, farmers markets, and various recreational activities, making it an ideal choice for vacationers seeking a tranquil and picturesque Hawaiian getaway.

Kona Makai Average Rates


As of March 2025, the average price of a 1 bedroom unit at Kona Makai is $241. The average price of a 2 bedroom unit is $406. 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 Kona Makai Rentals page to see specific unit prices for your dates.

Kona Makai's Best Rentals

View All 38 Kona Makai Rentals (with vacancy and search options)

What Do Guests Think? An AI Analysis of 616 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.

Guests have overwhelmingly positive experiences at the Kona Makai condo resort on the Big Island, praising its amazing views, cozy and well-equipped accommodations, and excellent location. Many reviews highlight the breathtaking sunsets visible from the decks, the well-maintained gardens, and the convenience of having everything needed for a comfortable stay, including full kitchens, washer/dryer, comfy beds, parking, and internet. The resort's amenities, such as the pool, hot tub, barbecue area, and direct access to the ocean, receive high marks. Guests appreciate the added bonuses of beach gear and other essentials provided in the units. While there are a few minor suggestions for improvements and mentions of maintenance needs, the overall sentiment is that Kona Makai is a beautiful, peaceful, and perfect spot for a Hawaiian vacation. The management's responsiveness and the sense of community among guests are also noted positively. Despite some rules around the condominium complex and occasional maintenance issues, guests express a strong desire to return and recommend Kona Makai to others. This summary is based on a comprehensive analysis of 616 guest reviews.

Recent Kona Makai Reviews


Management was excellent to work with and responded quickly to any inquiries. We thoroughly enjoyed our stay in the room, which was well-equipped. The kitchen had everything we needed, though it would have been nice to have more spices available beyond just salt and pepper.The BBQ area was a highlight, offering a fantastic spot to cook steaks while enjoying the sunset. However, the amenities fell a bit short of expectations. The gym was in poor condition, with rusted equipment and no windows, and it didn’t open until 8 a.m., which was inconvenient. Additionally, the pool closing at 9 p.m. felt a bit early; a 10 p.m. closure would have been more typical and would have allowed us to relax longer after a long day of hiking and exploring. Unfortunately, we only managed about 10 minutes in the hot tub.Despite these minor issues, it was a great place to stay in an excellent location. Mahalo!
Shawn S.
December 2024

We enjoyed our stay. The condo was clean and met all our needs. The sunset view was delightful.
Doug and Nancy L.
December 2024

We spent most of our time outdoors as this is Hawaii and there is much to do. We are very active so even though the resort is 3Km from downtown it is a very easy walk for us. The place is very clean and Jeanette and Michael are available immediately if you have any questions. The spectacular view from the lanais is nice to enjoy over breakfast or for a glass of wine at sunset. It is beautiful!
Arlet W.
December 2024

This is our favorite Kona Makai unit, conveniently located, well supplied, and comfortable. And oh those sunsets!
Paula R.
December 2024

Excellent stay
emily c.
December 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: Our family of 5 had a wonderful time in this apartment. The main bedroom had a very comfortable bed and lovely furniture. The upstairs had comfortable bunk bed that worked out great for our teens. The second bed was also great. It was sparkling clean which is super important to us. It was the cleanest place we ever stayed in Hawaii. We really enjoyed our mornings on the lanai, watching the ocean and dolphins. Most of the appliances were like new. We enjoyed our evenings in the pool/ hot tub and sitting by the ocean. The grounds were beautiful too. We will definitely stay again when visiting Kona
Weronika P.
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: This was a perfect vacation for us and this condo was a big part of it. It’s really nice with a good sized kitchen and the lanai is huge where we had coffee and relaxation as the waves crashed just below us. The pool area is nice and we took morning walks into Kona.
Darin V.
November 2024

6 adults stayed for 8 nights. Great central Kona location to see the island, visit downtown and enjoy the beaches. Condo is good size with lots of outdoor space. A/c works well but only is needed at night. Beds are comfortable. Beach chairs and spices were included. Only downsides are the view and the small condo type kitchen. Recommend!
Glenn K.
November 2024

It was wonderful as always. Stayed in this units many times.
Joan J.
November 2024

Rating Details: The property manager was more than 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: Perfect place. Beautiful views and incredible sunsets. The Condo was perfect. Everything was clean and beautifully done. Highly recommend.
Holly T.
November 2024

Beautiful sunset/recreation area. Property management were very nice and professional. Property was in good condition and everything worked. We have stayed in 3 different properties in this area and this was the nicest. Close to exit/entrance and town and beaches are close. Would not hesitate to stay here again.
Dean
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: Condo is well furnished & very clean - kitchen has everything you need - plenty of item to use for a day @ the beach. No night time noise!
Donald S.
November 2024

We had a great stay at this property. The property manager was SUPER responsive to the one concern that we had during our stay and was able to get a small issue fixed and handled super quickly and to let us know how to fix it ourselves in the future.
Matthew P.
November 2024

Clean! Comfortable
Dan B.
November 2024

This was a well stocked, great location safe and plenty of parking it covered all our needs. Although it could use some updating in furniture and linens, it met our all our needs for a great price..We enjoyed our time and we would return here again hopefully soon..Thank you we had a great vacation.
barbara f.
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: The apartment complemented perfectly what was a holiday of a lifetime for my family. Stayed for 12 days and completed the Ironman. Apartment was ideally located with a short walk to all the activities. Would love to come back either here or with another apartment managed by Knutson & Associates.
Tim D.
November 2024

Clean! Excellent location with amazing views. This property was a good choice and would go back
Karen D.
November 2024

We enjoyed our stay at this condo. it was clean, and well stocked with kitchen items, the bed was comfortable, and we loved hearing the ocean waves at night. There is a new 65" TV in the Living Room. We enjoyed sitting on the balcony was watching the waves hitting the lava rocks and reading. There were lots of beach chairs and beach toys which was really nice. This is a second floor unit without an elevator, so that might be a problem for some. The owner is very responsive and helpful when we had questions. We will be back.
Karen G.
November 2024

Stayed there for a week, it was clean, calm, easy to access and well equipped. We loved the Kona Makai complex building, with gorgeous gardens and with the sun setting right in front of us every evening. The number of parking spot is tight but we managed to find a spot every evening. Communication with the property manager was seamless. Would definitely come again!
Rudy H.
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: Wonderful oceanfront condo. Fully stocked kitchen, very clean and comfortable. Easy check in. Property managers were very nice and great with prompt and thorough communications. We would definitely stay here again!
Tina W.
November 2024

The place is lovely and perfect for a couple. The owners were very helpful during the whole process.
Dani C.
November 2024

Enjoyed the stay! Host was great and clear with instructions. Place was in a perfect location with all the popular beaches and snorkeling areas nearby. Recommend for snorkelers and beach goers.

November 2024

Rating Details: The property manager was very helpful. The vacation rental was very clean. 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: Home was perfect for Ironman. Easy walk to start and you can see runners as they pass complex. The complex ground are beautiful. Wi-Fi was a bit weak in the bedrooms.Loved the patio, great for relaxing. Parking was super easy too! AC worked great. Thanks for working with us with Ironman week.
Peggy w.
November 2024

The location of the home was perfect for IM. 15 min walk and we were at the start. Also a great location to watch the run. Home was very nice. Great A/C. We used the kitchen for breakfast, kitchen had the basics that we needed. Tech within home worked well in the gathering areas of the home.Thanks for sharing your home, especially during Ironman week.
Peggy w.
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: The Kona Makai 1-301 was the perfect location to stay for the Ironman World Championship. Being close enough to walk to the starting line and events but far enough away to not have crowds along Al'i Drive. The family was about to stay at the condo most of the day and saw the runners several times along the course. The ocean views were incredible. No issues during the week long stay.
ryan s.
November 2024

We loved the updated condo with gorgeous views on both sides! Great balcony for morning coffee or tea. The location was perfect as a homebase for our adventures around the island. We’ll be back for more diving and hope to stay here again!
Elena H.
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: Every aspect of renting this amazing OCEAN FRONT / TOP FLOOR / FULL 180 degree view! Best Condo in the Kona Makai! Bldg 1 Unit 301! We will definitely be returning here... Every appointment you can imagine... oh, that lanai!! Amazing... The only thing = no AC in the main areas and the units in the bedrooms are a lil dated... but they do kinda "work"... But hey, you are in Hawaii! Enjoy!
ron b.
October 2024

Lovely views. Well stocked and clean.
Tamara
October 2024

This was a wonderful place to stay! Location was great, the property was very clean, tastefully furnished and decorated and very well-stocked with everything that you ever need! The bed, linens and pillows were very nice and were comfortable. The lanai has a lovely garden and ocean view, the outside grounds are very well maintained. Pool was heated and very clean. Would definitely not hesitate to stay there again :)
Tina O.
October 2024

This trip was definitely not as long as it needed to be but this place was cute and comfortable while we were here. Pros: Place came relatively well stocked, was close to beaches we love, and we could see the ocean from our deck. Cons: Bed in room was uncomfortable and there were ants on the walls. The level of noise from the people upstairs was a little much and the traffic was bad. Overall a nice place but definitely will find something else next time.
Lilith 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 loved staying in this unit. Beautiful ocean view, excellent pool area, quiet after 10:00. It's all here. What I especially liked is usually not mentioned in a review: nothing in the unit felt as though it had come from a home where it was not longer needed. Example: All the plates matched, silverware was from the same set, good sized cups, decent glasses, great furniture, decent decor. Also, everything was very clean. People from the Knutson Office were very responsive if we had questions or concerns. I felt like I was on a great vacation in a beautiful unit instead of a great vacation in my college dorm.
Mary B.
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: We stayed here for 5 nights during a recent visit to Hawaii for a friend's wedding. The location is very conveniently located a few minutes drive from downtown Kona, and the condo area felt safe and was quiet. There is access to the ocean, which you can easily walk to. We would definitely recommend booking here!
A guest from Irvine, NA
October 2024

Had a great time! Condo has a great view of the lawn with pool and ocean beyond. Location is awesome with town just 5 min drive away. Couldn’t have asked for more for what we paid. No frills, but we didn’t spend much time in the condo anyways.
Daniel C.
October 2024

We stayed here as a family of 6- all adults. Great place. Clean, well equipped! The condos are well maintained! Would come here again,
Holly 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: This unit was a perfect fit for my family's needs. It was clean and well maintained. It came fully stocked with extra towels, bedding and dishes. The ceiling fans were a big plus so that we didn't need to use the A/C. There was a nice garden and ocean view from the lanai with beautiful sunsets. We walked into town several times to browse and shop. We would definitely stay here again.
Carrie U.
October 2024

We stayed for 9 nights. The condo is located in great location for us, clean and very quiet, except the AC is very loud in the bedroom that woke us up all night. The beach chairs and ice boxes are very convenience. There no designated parking space and it’s quite a walking distance to the unit. We enjoyed staying in this unit, nice lanai. Unfortunately, after we got home and realized that we left some sentimental clothings behind (hanging behind the bathroom’s door), and we contacted VRBO and the local team, hoping they can ship them to us in California, but they said, the housekeeper didn’t find anything left behind. Very disappointed.
Mel G.
October 2024

This condo is definitely kept up well. The items in the kitchen make it very easy to do a quick breakfast every morning. The bed is extremely comfortable – – firm mattress with just the right amount of firmness. Kona Makai is in a very good location in Kailua Kona. This is our fourth visit to this area. There are ample towels in the unit. Watching the sunset from the pool area is like looking at a postcard—simply BEAUTIFUL!!! Knutson & Associates is quick to respond to any minor concerns that arise.
Pamela W.
October 2024

Amazing view, easy check in and out, clean, stocked - all in all great experience at a great price!
Erica K.
October 2024

Lovely condo. We enjoyed the many extras it had to offer (cooler, beach chairs, umbrella, etc.) Would stay here again.
Jill A.
October 2024

Everything about this unit was absolutely wonderful. The property was lovely, the location was great, the management was easy to work with. And the unit itself was exceptionally clean and functional, not to mention the incredible view. We would highly recemmend this unit to anyone considering a visit to Kona.
Ricky E.
October 2024

Great location, great ocean front property, Kona is a lovely place to stay. We explored the whole island and would stay here again. Near good food, some beaches, and shopping. Grocery nearby. The house is well-stocked and was so nice that they offered equipment to use (boogie boards, chairs, etc). Bed was comfortable. Very much enjoyed. Would stay again.
Malissa C.
October 2024

Rating Details: The property manager was adequately helpful. The vacation rental was very clean. 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: Great view, nice size
Angela H.
October 2024

It was a wonderful stay at the Kona Makai. The place is as described with the wonderful ocean view. My only comment was that it was hard to open the door with the keys and Vrbo didn’t give me a gate code on the arrival instructions. I found that out on the property rules and guidelines once inside the property.
katherine c.
October 2024

If I had an issue and I mean if, it would be shower setup. I let too much water leak out and set off the water alarm. Scared the crap out of me My daughter and me figured it out and no other trouble happened. Toilet seat was partially broken but was not a deal breaker. Great property, great value, great location, great view.
Roger S.
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: The unit was the perfect size for the 5 of us, had everything we needed and was clean. We have family that live literally 5-10 minutes away so not only was it close to them, it's also conveniently located close to shops/restaurants/beaches so we could play tourists. We had a great experience with the property manager who responded quickly to a leaky faucet. They sent someone out right away and our vacation time/plans were not interrupted at all. We look forward to our future stays here!
Traci C.
October 2024

The property manager waited till the very last minute (2 hours before check-in) to provide instructions despite asking numerous times. I was honestly looking for another place to stay after already paying the full amount in advance . When you are flying into a location for vacation folks want all the information completed in a timely manner. The beds were very uncomfortable and they expected us to do laundry and clean despite paying a cleaning fee. Also so many rules about what you can do on the property it was unreasonable not to mention on the 3rd floor with no elevator. I suggest you look elsewhere.
leannah p.
September 2024

The property had everything as advertised. Nice grounds close to town. Excellent get away.
Robert E.
September 2024

We had a wonderful stay in this beautiful complex! This unit truly is the best. The view is stunning and we spent the majority of the time on the lanai. The complex is very conveniently located and secure/safe. There were plenty of beach items available for use including beach towels.
Melinda H.
September 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: We love this condo! It’s so cozy and great to return to after a day in the sun. This is the second time we have stayed in this condo and 4th time we have stayed at Kona Makai! We love it and will definitely be back! This place has everything you could need to make a dinner in and have a cozy night or is very close to a lot of great restaurants! We love just being able to stay in the condo and make food and relax after a fun day. HighlyRecommend.
Katie K.
September 2024

The grounds are well maintained. The pool is very nice. It would be helpful to have a "users guide" to help navigate the property. The pool requires a key, we were unaware of that. The touchpad for entering the unit is very hard to see in the evening, not enough light. What are the areas of interest, recommended restaurants. We would have been lost if not for our son living and working in the Kona area. The ocean facing lanai is wonderful and we spent most of our time out there.
Diana W.
September 2024


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