Maui Condo Review: Hono Kai on Ma'alaea Bay

Hono Kai is a beachside condominium situated on Maui's southwestern coast along Ma'alaea Bay. This condo is centrally located, having easy access to both the western and eastern sides of the island. It is a smaller building, tucked alongside a string of larger facilities on Hau'oli Street about 15 minutes from the Kahului airport.

Hono Kai Condo Pros and Amenities
Renting a condo instead of a hotel room can save you quite a bit of money if you do not mind forgoing some amenities. Hono Kai is an older facility and is starting to show its age, but contains all the basics needed for a Maui vacation. This complex is not luxurious so if you are looking for a facility with a spa, restaurants, or a fancy pool, then it is not for you. However, if you are looking for reasonably priced accommodations where you can rest your head and then head out during the day to check out the island, then read on!

You can choose from 1, 2 or 3 bedroom units, each containing a kitchen and bathroom. Oceanfront view rooms look over the small, crescent-shaped swimming pool and out towards Molokini. Garden view rooms may look towards the parking lot or towards the lush landscaping.

The kitchen comes with a complement of basic dishes, glasses, serving ware, and pots and pans. You will need to purchase your own food and disposable supplies such as napkins. Similarly, the bedroom and bathroom are also stocked with linens and towels; however, you will need to purchase your own toilet paper if you are staying for more than a night or two.

Wireless internet is available in some rooms. If your specific unit does not have wireless, you can still access the internet using another condo's connection. Ask the office for the password.

If you're in the mood for a delicious steak but do not want to pay the steep restaurant prices, you can grill your own. There are 2 ocean front barbecues available to Hono Kai guests. Be warned: groceries are still quite expensive!

Hono Kai does not provide daily maid service unless you specifically request it. There are coin-op laundry facilities on each floor. Just toss in your laundry, make a mai tai in your kitchen, and sit on your lanai while your clothes get cleaned.

A nice sandy beach is just steps from the condo and stretches for about 3 miles. You can take an evening stroll and watch the sunset or sunbathe and listen to the gently lapping waves.

Hono Kai Cons
Staying at a condo can have some drawbacks. The social scene is pretty much non-existent so you'll need to head over to Lahaina or Kihei for good restaurants and nightlife activities.

Although the property management does not allow smoking in the individual units, they do tend to allow smoking on the grounds. Since the facility is pretty small and people tend to congregate on the grassy areas near the pool, the cigarette smoke may drift into your space. If you have an oceanfront unit, you may even smell it on your lanai. You may not notice any smoking smells at all, depending on when you go and if smoking guests are renting units.

Since Hono Kai is an older condominium complex, some of the amenities have not been upgraded. You most likely will not find flat panel televisions or gaming systems. Some of the units have older, worn furnishings while some have been updated. Call the office before booking to get details on a particular unit.

Hono Kai Pricing
The most current condo rental pricing as well as unit photos and virtual tours can be found on the Ma'alaea Bay rental website.

In general, the condos range from $155 to $195 per night for a 1 bedroom oceanfront unit. The same condo with a garden view will drop the price range from $125 to $150. Call the office and ask if they are offering any discounts or specials. The specials are not always advertised on the website, and it is definitely worth inquiring.

Is Hono Kai a Good Place to Stay?
Yes, depending on your expectations. If you are used to high-end resorts, then you will most likely be disappointed with this older building. However, if you want a clean and comfortable place to stay (and away from the hustle and bustle of some of the more popular tourist areas), then Hono Kai may be a great accommodation for you and your family.