Should You Buy A Condo At Kai Malu In Wailea?

Kai Malu is a luxury oceanview development located above Wailea Fairway Estates and just to the south of the La’i Loa resort.

Built in 2006 – 2007, the design is considered Modern Tropical, with a touch of old Hawaianna. Grounds are magnificently landscaped and many units have excellent views

The 26.2 acre property is made up of 75 duplex residential buildings, each one with its own garage. There are 150 separate residences that are beautifully appointed and very well designed, with modern kitchens, appliances, and smart systems. Amenities include a infinity edge swimming pool, hot-tub, fitness center, gated property, and 24 hour security. What’s more, many units have their own small swimming pool.

Kai Malu is conveniently located 3 blocks from Keawakapu Beach, and four blocks from Ulua Beach. It’s a short drive to shopping, dining, and the Shops at Wailea. 

Kai Malu, Pluses And Minuses

The property is well-managed and the location is safe and secure for many people who like a contemporary island feel with a luxury touch. But Kai Malu is not for everyone. If you are thinking about buying here, you need to be aware of a few things before you make an offer.

First, the good..

  • Newer Complex: Because this was completed in 2007, there should be no maintenance or upgrades needed to the buildings or property for many years. The developer was Armstrong Builders, which has a great reputation, and is well respected here on Maui.
  • Excellent Floorplans: The design and layout of the units is superb, maximizing view lines, privacy, and a mixture of sun and shade. This is a condo you could live in full-time if you wanted to, and many people do. Units come in three bedroom configurations with either 2 1/2 or 3 1/2 baths and average 1,796 ft². to 1,852 ft².
  • Incredible Views: Kai Malu is built directly above Wailea Fairway Estates, giving many units ocean, Makena, Haleakala, and/or Kahoʻolawe Island views.
  • Security and Privacy: This community is gated, with 24 hour a day on-site security personnel, property cameras, and a perimeter barrier so you feel safe without being closed in.
  • Location: For many, the location is perfect. Near to the beach and world class resorts, and just a few minutes to the Shops, Wailea Village, and the island's top restaurants.
  • Excellent Weather: This area of Maui has cooler temperatures than the beach or the West side, consistently warm and sunny without being stuffy or humid.
  • Private Garage: Kai Malu is one of the few properties that comes with a secure two-car garage for each unit.

And now, the not so good…

  • Moderately Expensive: While not the most expensive condos on Maui, they certainly are not cheap, averaging over $1,600 per square foot. Recent sales were in the $2.1 Million to $3.3 Million range.
  • HOA Fees: HOA fees include building maintenance, 24 hour a day security, landscaping, pool, BBQ, Jacuzzi, Fitness center, as well as water, sewage, cable, Internet, and trash pickup. At the time of this writing, HOA fees are approximately $1,716- $1,933 per month, depending on how big your unit is.
  • No short term rentals allowed: Because the property is zoned as Apartments, short term rental rentals are not permitted, and they probably never will be. The minimum rental period is six-months, which is the same as a normal property on Maui.

Should You Buy At Kai Malu?

Kai Malu is a contemporary condo complex with amazing views in central Wailea. It was completed in 2007 so it is still fairly new.

The grounds are well maintained, and there’s a private garage for your cars, electric charging stations, and high-end appliances. If you like a newer vibe with a classic Hawaiiana feel, this may be a perfect place for you. Prices are down slightly, even for the most premium units. It is currently considered a buyer’s market.

Kai Malu Fact Sheet

Recent Sales Price Ranges: $2.1 Million to $3.13 Million

Maintenance Fees: $1,716 – $1,933 per month

  • Address: 160 Kai Malu Drive, Kihei, HI 96753
  • Zoning: D-2 (Duplex)
  • Vacation Rentals: Not Allowed
  • Gated Complex: Yes
  • Oceanfront: No
  • Nearest Beach: Keawakapu Beach, Ulua Beach
  • Amenities: Swimming pool, BBQ, Jacuzzi, fitness center, Clubhouse, Meeting Rooms
  • Construction: Wood frame, concrete, stucco
  • Year Built: 2006-2007
  • Stories: 2
  • Units: 150
  • Buildings: 75
  • Elevator: No
  • Air Conditioning: Central
  • Pets Allowed: Yes
  • Front Desk: No
  • Flood Zone: No
  • Value: A
  • Design: A
  • Location: A
  • Overall Grade: A

Kai Malu Plat Map

The Verdict...

In our opinion, Kai Malu is an excellent choice for anyone looking for a modern luxury experience. It’s near shopping, dining, activities, and a block from the beach.

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Call or Text Levi Mizel at 808-281-1928

Coldwell Banker is Hawaii’s number #1 brokerage. Levi Mizel is a long-time Maui resident with extensive knowledge of the South Maui real-estate market and a ready supply of properties.

If you are thinking of buying a property or condominium on Maui, get your free Buyers Guide with detailed listings sorted by area, complex, and price. You may be surprised what you can afford right now.

Who Is Levi Mizel?

Expert Market Knowledge

Levi has extensive knowledge of all available South Maui homes, condos, and land, including recent closings, and price reductions. Let him be your guide to buying or selling for the best price on the Island of Maui.

Long Time Maui Resident

Levi is both easy-going and professional, offering friendly, high-touch service. His connections give him access to the best deals and his association with Coldwell means the deal gets done correctly.

Experienced Investor

A property investor since 1989, Levi knows how to leverage time and resources. And his local knowledge means he knows the best complexes and locations on the island for income and vacation use.

Is Now A Good Time To Buy?

With the market changing from a Seller to a Buyer’s market, many people are asking if it’s a good time to purchase property on Maui. To help you understand your options, ask yourself these questions:
  • Do you dream about living on Maui?
  • Are you tired of paying outrageous hotel rates?
  • Would you like an income generating investment?
  • Have you ever thought of relocating to the Islands?

If you said yes to any of those questions, click the button and find out what your choices are. You may be surprised what you can afford.