Luana Kai or Maui Kamaole condo complex?

Question

Hello, my husband and I and our two older teenage sons are visiting Maui for the first time in early June. We are debating between a condo at the Luana Kai complex vs. a condo at Maui Kamaole. Both condos are similar in price and looks on the inside so it comes down to grounds and location. Luana Kai has one pool and is right on the beach but it does not look to be a swimmable beach. Maui Kamaole is set back from the beach a little with Kihei Road separating it from the beach, but the beach looks swimmable there. It also has two pools. Would appreciate suggestions on one over the other. We will have a car, so will be going to other beaches too. Thanks!

Answer

Choosing between Luana Kai and Maui Kamaole depends largely on your priorities regarding beach access, pools, and overall convenience. Both complexes are well-maintained, offer spacious condos, and are in Kihei, making them convenient bases for exploring Maui by car.

Luana Kai: This complex is located directly on the beach, which is a huge plus for scenic views and immediate beach access. However, the shoreline in front of Luana Kai is not ideal for swimming due to rocky areas and limited sandy beach. It’s excellent for walking, relaxing, and taking in sunsets, but less suited for water activities like swimming, snorkeling, or boogie boarding. The complex has a single pool, which may feel more intimate but can get crowded at times.

Maui Kamaole: Maui Kamaole is set slightly back from the beach with Kihei Road in between. The beach in front of Maui Kamaole is known to be swimmable with good sand and gentle waves, making it more family-friendly for swimming and water sports. The complex also has two pools, which can be more convenient for families or if you want to split between a quieter pool and a more active one. Grounds are generally well-kept with tropical landscaping.

If your priority is a true swim-ready beach experience right outside your door, Maui Kamaole is likely the better choice.
If you prefer a quieter, beachfront setting primarily for views and sunset walks, Luana Kai is appealing.
Having a car gives you flexibility to visit other beaches, so even if you choose Maui Kamaole, you can easily drive to scenic beaches elsewhere, including snorkeling spots.

Additional considerations:

Maui Kamaole has a larger selection of nearby restaurants, cafes, and convenience stores, making it slightly more convenient for quick meals or snacks without needing to drive.
Luana Kai’s beachfront position may offer more serene evenings and picturesque views, ideal for photography or relaxing after a day out.
Both complexes have easy access to central Kihei and the main highway, so daily excursions to Lahaina, Wailea, or upcountry Maui are straightforward.

Overall, if swimming and a more active beach experience for your teenage sons is a priority, Maui Kamaole may suit your family better. If your focus is on being right on the sand for sunset walks and relaxing beach views, Luana Kai is a strong choice. Either way, both offer well-maintained grounds and comfortable condos, and having a car means you can easily explore Maui’s diverse beaches and attractions regardless of which property you choose.