The Kahana area is a hidden gem in West Maui near popular tourist destinations such as Lahaina or Ka'anapali. If you’re looking for vacation rentals with a resort feel that are a little more quiet and away from the crowds, Kahana might be for you.
While Kahana has fewer amenities than popular tourist destinations, it’s not lacking. We love it because there are still a few beaches, shops, and restaurants within walking distance in this area. You could spend your entire trip here and go home happy.
In this post, we’ll cover the best hotels, resorts, and vacation rentals in Kahana, Maui. They’re all fantastic oceanfront options with amazing views. Let’s take a look!
Sands of Kahana
Sands of Kahana is arguably one of the best places to stay in Kahana. Being one of the largest resorts in the area, it offers tons of great amenities. Beachfront access, oceanfront pool and hot tub, onsite all-day restaurant and bar, and the list goes on!
Vacation rentals range from one to three bedrooms to comfortably accommodate any size group. All condos have private lanais, fully equipped kitchens, and spacious living areas with breathtaking ocean and outer island or lush garden views.
The two and three-bedroom units also offer in-unit washers and dryers, a minimum of two bathrooms, and at least two lanais. From the prime location between Ka’anapali and Kapalua to the convenient beachfront access, Sands of Kahana is the perfect destination for a vacation in Maui.
Amenities: Restaurant and bar, beachfront access, adult and children’s swimming pools, fitness center, tennis and pickleball courts, basketball court, putting green, koi pond, lush tropical landscaping, walking distance to convenience stores and restaurants.
Learn More: Check price and availability for Sands of Kahana on VRBO
Royal Kahana Maui by Outrigger
Royal Kahana Maui by Outrigger is an oceanfront high-rise building that contains an impressive 236 condos ranging from studios to two bedrooms. It’s built in the shape of a large V, so the open-air walkways face the parking lot, and all condos face outward. This design ensures that all guests have a full or partial ocean view from each private lanai!
Another great feature of this property is its oceanfront pool deck and BBQ area. With plenty of tables and chairs and tiki torches for ambiance when the sun goes down, it’s a great place to relax, have dinner, or take in the sunset with a tasty beverage!
All condos at the Royal Kahana Maui by Outrigger boast air conditioning, which is huge if you run warm in general or sleep hot, as many condos don’t offer A/C. They also offer large living areas with full-size kitchens and in-unit washers and dryers, which is great when traveling with little ones!
Amenities: Air-conditioned units, oceanfront pool and BBQ area, fitness center, shuffleboard court, on-site activity reservation desk, large grassy area for guests to enjoy, walking distance to convenience stores and restaurants.
Learn More: Check price and availability for Royal Kahana on VRBO
Valley Isle Resort
Valley Isle Resort is another fantastic beachfront property in the heart of Kahana. Vacation rentals range from studios to two bedrooms; each has a full kitchen and a comfortable living area.
The studio units are the perfect size for couples or solo travelers who don’t necessarily need a ton of space. Many of the one and two-bedroom condos offer Murphy beds or pull-out couches in the living room, making them ideal for families or groups of friends.
All condos include private lanais, three-quarters of which offer 180-degree ocean and outer island views, while the others overlook the lush courtyard with partial ocean views. The resort also offers beautifully landscaped grounds as well as a gorgeous recently remodeled lobby.
A really cool feature of Valley Isle Resort is that it’s one of the few properties with ground-floor units allowing you to walk directly from your lanai to the beach. So when you forgot the kids sand toys, or it’s time for another drink (or time to use the restroom from those drinks!), all you need to do is dust the sand off and walk right in; no elevators or long treks needed!
Amenities: Beachfront access, ground floor units, outdoor heated pool and BBQ area, paddleboard storage, lush tropical landscaping, large grassy area for guests to enjoy, walking distance to convenience stores and restaurants.
Learn More: Check price and availability for Valley Isle Resort on VRBO
Kahana Village
Kahana Village is a lovely low-density beachfront condo complex in North Kahana. You may see the term “low-density” in reference to complexes and wonder what it means. It simply means that the complex doesn’t have a ton of units, and the structures are normally smaller – no more than 2 to 4 stories. These types of complexes offer more of a community feel, as opposed to the hotel-type sense you can get with larger highrise buildings.
The complex offers spacious (1,200 & 1,700 sq ft!!) two- and three-bedroom condos, perfect for large families or groups traveling together. The grounds include an oceanfront heated pool, jacuzzi, BBQ area, and an outdoor oceanfront pavilion with tables and chairs if you prefer to be a bit closer to the water while you dine or relax.
All condos are equipped with full kitchens, in-unit washers and dryers, full or partial ocean views, and provide some beach gear – think beach chairs, boogie boards, etc. Most condos have air conditioning, but beware, some don’t! So if this is something important to you, be sure to check the details of the unit before booking.
A fun and really awesome feature of this complex is the weekly lei-making class, as well as the FREE Mai Tai party every Wednesday evening for guests! The family-friendly party includes homemade Mai Tais – yum! (for those 21 and over, of course), live Hawaiian music, hula dancers, light snacks, and juice/soft drinks. What a great way to meet your neighbors and really get that aloha spirit!
Amenities: Large condos, beach access, oceanfront pool, jacuzzi, and BBQ area, beach gear provided, free weekly lei-making class and Mai Tai party
Learn More: Check price and availability for Kahana Village on VRBO
Kahana Outrigger
Kahana Outrigger is an intimate low-density oceanfront complex consisting of only 16 condos. Each of the four buildings on the property contains four three-bedroom condos. The only variation in the size of the condos is that some have two bathrooms while others have three. As with other similar properties, the large square footage of these condos (approximately 1,500 sq ft) makes them great for larger families or groups to stay together but not feel like they’re on top of each other.
The two front buildings offer great oceanfront views, while the two back buildings overlook the central pool with peek-a-boo ocean views. The condos all have full kitchens, in-unit washers and dryers, and some offer air conditioning. There is also a small beach just in front of the complex that guests have access to.
Though the Kahana Outrigger doesn’t offer much in the way of amenities, it’s an ideal choice if you’re looking for a small quiet complex to relax and recharge in paradise with family or friends.
Amenities: Large condos, oceanfront pool, BBQ area, beach access, large grassy area
Learn More: Check price and availability for Kahana Outrigger on VRBO
Hololani
Hololani is an oceanfront condominium complex featuring 64 two-bedroom condos. The complex is made up of 2 buildings – the A building and the B building. Condos in the A building have a much better view (in my opinion) with sight lines to the outer islands along with spectacular sunset views. The B building offers views of Molokai and the ocean to the north. Since all of the lanais of both buildings face in toward the pool, I have heard this can make for a bit of a noisy stay at times.
All condos offer full kitchens and in-unit washers and dryers. A plus of this property is that the parking is underground, so you don’t have to worry about a deathly hot car or skin-scorching seat when you decide to venture out. Hololani is also one of the few buildings that are pet friendly, and in turn, some of the short-term rentals allow pets! Not all do, but if you’re planning to travel with your fur baby, this is definitely a complex to check out.
Amenities: Oceanfront swimming pool and BBQ area, underground parking, some pet-friendly units, walking distance to convenience stores and restaurants.
Learn More: Check price and availability for Hololani on VRBO
Kahana Reef
Kahana Reef is a charming oceanfront low-density condominium complex in north Kahana. The resort offers a mix of studio and one-bedroom units. I would definitely consider this a no-frills complex; no units offer A/C or in-unit washers and dryers, though there is an onsite coin-op laundry room. What you will find are gorgeous views from any lanai, cozy condos, and a peaceful, laid-back atmosphere. The resort does have an oceanfront pool and BBQ area, which is always a plus!
Kahana Reef is an ideal destination for couples, solo travelers, or small families looking for a relaxing no-frills vacation on Maui. With easy access to nearby restaurants and shops, this resort offers a great balance of comfort and convenience.
Amenities: Oceanfront swimming pool and BBQ area, large grassy area for guests to enjoy, walking distance to convenience stores and restaurants.
Learn More: Check price and availability for Kahana Reef on VRBO
Kahana Sunset
Kahana Sunset is a beautiful oceanfront condominium complex set on 4 acres encircling gorgeous Keoni Nu’i Bay. The resort is surrounded by a residential neighborhood making for a very quiet and tranquil experience. The resort offers access to the sandy beach of Keoni Nu’i Bay, manicured grounds, a swimming pool, 2 BBQ areas (one being oceanfront), and an outdoor covered pavilion with tables and chairs overlooking the sparkling waters of the bay to dine or relax.
Kahana Sunset offers one and two-bedroom condos, all of which have full kitchens, in-unit washers and dryers, and private lanais. Two-bedroom condos have two lanais, one on the main floor and a private lanai off the master bedroom, which is really cool! Some units do have A/C, so be sure to check the listing if that is something you would prefer to have.
One thing to note about the two-bedroom condos is that they are all two stories, with both bedrooms being upstairs. This could be something to consider if you have someone in your group that doesn’t do well with stairs.
Amenities: Sandy beach on-site, heated swimming pool, two BBQ areas, large grassy area for guests to enjoy, outdoor oceanfront pavilion for dining or relaxing
Learn More: Check price and availability for Kahana Sunset on VRBO
More About Kahana, Maui
The Kahana area is located on the west coast of Maui, Hawaii, between Ka'anapali Beach and Napili Bay. It is about a 15-minute drive north of Front Street in Lahaina and roughly a 5-minute drive south of Kapalua. Kahana is a popular destination for visitors looking for a quieter, more laid-back atmosphere while still being close to popular attractions and activities on the Westside.
Stores in Kahana, Maui
Although there are no grocery stores within walking distance of Kahana, there are a few nearby stores where you can purchase small food items, drinks, and pantry staples. Here are some of the stores in the area:
- Whalers General Store – This store is conveniently located and always stocked. It has a service deli that makes it ideal for picking up snacks, beverages, and souvenirs.
- Tradewinds Kahana Grocery – This small neighborhood convenience store is another great choice for purchasing beverages, snacks, and necessary items.
- Boss Frogs – This is the ultimate destination to fulfill all your beach gear necessities, such as snorkeling gear, surfboards, paddleboards, chairs, and umbrellas.
Restaurants and Bars in Kahana, Maui
Kahana has a great selection of restaurants and bars that may even be within walking distance, depending on where you’re staying. We love that these establishments are so close when we’re in town and don’t feel like venturing further out.
- Maui Brewing Company – Situated in the back left corner of Kahana Gateway Plaza, this exciting brewpub is renowned for its delectable cuisine and extensive selection of over 22 types of locally brewed beers on tap. Don’t forget to pick up some awesome Maui Brewing Company merch when you stop in!
- Dollie’s Pub & Cafe – A local pizza stronghold since 1983, Dollies is the perfect place to watch the game (literally almost any game, they have 15 TVs!), sample delicious pizza or a specialty sandwich, and partake in happy hour with their full bar. Dine-in, takeout, and delivery options are all available for your convenience.
- Miso Phat Sushi – Nestled in the Kahana Manor Shops, this small BYOB (bring your own booze!) eatery is renowned for its great selection of tasty specialty rolls, sushi rolls, and sashimi, which are considered to be some of the best on Maui. Miso Phat has its own private fishing boat (Shiso Phat) that departs from Lahaina Harbor every morning to catch fish for their two Maui restaurants.
- Beach House Bar and Grill – Located at the Sands of Kahana, this poolside casual dining option has an extensive menu of familiar favorites with a diverse selection. A full bar with happy hour specials is also available to complement any entree or be enjoyed on its own.
Best Beaches Near Kahana, Maui
Maui is renowned for its stunning beaches, and Kahana is no exception. With crystal-clear waters, soft sands, and picturesque scenery, the beaches in and near Kahana offer the perfect destination for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.
- Kahana Beach – Kahana Beach (located in front of the Sands of Kahana and adjacent to Valley Isle Resort) is a fairly large sandy beach offering crystal-clear waters and outer island views.
- Napili Bay – Napili Bay is a crescent-shaped beach known for its crystal-clear waters, excellent snorkeling opportunities, and picturesque scenery.
- Pohaku Park (S-Turns) – Pohaku Park (also known as S-Turns) is a small sandy beach with a dedicated parking lot, shower/foot wash, and picnic area, which makes it a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.
Meet the Authors
Aloha! We’re Justin and Katie, the owners of Maui Hideaway. We’ve been visiting Hawaii together with our family for 20 years and would love to share the experience of the islands with you. Whether you’re looking for a place to stay or just some vacation advice, we’re here to help!
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