The 8 Best Condo Stays in West Maui (Better Than Hotels?)

For trips longer than 3 nights — and especially for families or groups — condos are often the smarter choice over hotels. You get more space (critical with kids or multiple couples), a full kitchen (which saves serious money on meals), and often better ocean views per dollar spent. Many repeat Maui visitors have switched permanently to condos, and once you experience the freedom and flexibility, you might too. Here are the eight best condo properties in West Maui, from budget-friendly to luxury.

1. Napili Kai Beach Resort — This is the gold standard of West Maui condos, and for good reason. Sitting directly on Napili Bay — one of the most beautiful small beaches in Hawaii — it offers spacious units with kitchenettes or full kitchens, a pool, putting green, BBQ areas, and a genuine "ohana" (family) atmosphere that brings guests back year after year. Some units have been recently updated while others retain a more vintage feel, so ask about renovated units when booking. The staff is legendary for their warmth and helpfulness. Nightly rates range from $300-$600 depending on unit size and season. The biggest draw: walk out your door, across a lawn, and onto a beach where green sea turtles surface every afternoon.

2. The Whaler on Ka'anapali — If you want condo independence with resort-quality location, this is your spot. Luxury condos literally steps from the center of Ka'anapali Beach, with pool, gym, and concierge service. Units range from studios to 2-bedrooms, all with full kitchens and lanais. The location can't be beat — Whalers Village shops and restaurants are next door, and the beach walk goes in both directions. Being on Ka'anapali Beach means world-class snorkeling at Black Rock is a 10-minute walk. Prices are higher than most condos ($400-$800/night) but the location and quality justify it for beach lovers who want condo flexibility.

3. Mahana at Ka'anapali — Every single unit in this building is oceanfront with floor-to-ceiling windows, which is almost unheard of at any price point. The building is older and the interiors vary by owner (some beautifully updated, others more dated), but the views are consistently jaw-dropping — you'll watch sunsets, whales (in season), and passing boats from your living room. The pool is small but adequate, and the rocky shoreline below has decent snorkeling. It's at the quieter north end of Ka'anapali, a pleasant walk from the main beach but away from the busiest stretch. Rates are surprisingly reasonable ($250-$500/night) given the location and views.

4. Papakea Resort — Spacious units with tennis courts, two pools, koi ponds, gardens, and a genuine resort feel at condo prices. Located in Honokowai between Ka'anapali and Kapalua, Papakea is set on lush grounds with a garden-courtyard atmosphere. Units range from studios to 2-bedrooms with full kitchens. The oceanfront setting includes a rocky shoreline (not a sandy beach, which is the trade-off), but Napili Bay is a 5-minute drive and Ka'anapali is 10 minutes. Great mid-range value at $200-$400/night, popular with families for the space and amenities.

5. Sands of Kahana — This is the family pick. Larger units (1-3 bedrooms) mean everyone gets space, and the property features multiple pools, BBQ areas, tennis courts, and a sandy beach. The full kitchens are well-equipped for families who want to cook. Located between Ka'anapali and Kapalua with easy access to both. The sandy beach is a nice perk that many condo properties in this stretch don't have. Rates run $250-$500/night depending on unit size and season.

6. Kahana Falls — The budget-friendly workhorse of West Maui condos. No beach access (that's the main trade-off), but you get clean, comfortable units with full kitchens, a great pool, and a convenient location near shops and restaurants. Perfect for families or groups who plan to spend their days at different beaches anyway and just need a comfortable, affordable base. Rates start as low as $150/night in shoulder season, making it one of the best deals in West Maui.

7. Napili Shores — Affordable oceanfront studios and 1-bedrooms right next to Napili Bay. The units are compact but well-maintained, with kitchenettes (studios) or full kitchens (1-bedrooms). The real draw is the location — you're literally steps from one of the best beaches in West Maui. The Gazebo Restaurant, famous for its pancakes and epic breakfast line, is on-site. Pool and BBQ facilities are basic but functional. Rates of $200-$350/night for an oceanfront condo near a world-class beach represent excellent value.

8. Kapalua Bay Villas — The luxury condo option. High-end villas near Kapalua Bay with access to Ritz-Carlton amenities (for a fee), beautiful grounds, and a prestigious setting. Units are large, beautifully furnished, and come with full kitchens and spacious lanais. The location — overlooking one of the most gorgeous bays in Hawaii — is the main selling point. Rates are premium ($500-$1,200/night) but for the quality and setting, it's actually competitive with the neighboring Ritz if you factor in the kitchen savings and extra space.

Condo Booking Tips: Book directly with the property or through a reputable Maui vacation rental agency for the best rates and service. Read recent reviews for specific unit numbers — conditions vary widely by owner. Always confirm that the unit has been recently updated before booking. Ask about parking, WiFi, and any additional fees. And bring your own beach towels — condo properties typically provide pool towels but not beach towels.