The Complete Mana Kai Resort Buyers Guide

The Mana Kai Resort is a stunning mid-century building on what many people believe is the most beautiful beach on Maui, known as Keawakapu.

Built in 1973 by a consortium of United Airlines pilots and investors, the design of the building is elegant, with direct beachfront access and a cool design vibe inside. This complex is known for it’s views because every unit faces the ocean.

The Mana Kai, Pluses And Minuses

The Mana Kai is conveniently located on the beach, a block from the Kihei Boat Ramp and minutes from dining and shopping. The 2 acre property is made up of a single eight-story building that faces south (see plat map below). There are a total of 98 separate units. Amenities include elevators, an oceanfront swimming pool, outdoor grassy area, on-site equipment rental, activities-desk, and a deli (Merriman’s restaurant is slated to open in 2026/27).

The property is well-managed and there is an actual front desk and if you choose to participate, a property management program. The location is perfect for people who love the beach and like to wake up and fall asleep to the sound of the ocean. But the Mana Kai has a few issues you need to be aware of before you make an offer or buy a unit.

First, the good..

  • Direct Beachfront Location: Imagine waking up and walking less than 100 feet to jump in the ocean? This is one of only three beachfront complexes in South Kihei.
  • Amazing Views: Because of how it was designed, every single unit in the Mana Kai has a south-facing ocean view. Of course some are better than others based on which floor you are on, but even the second floor unit in the very back has a good view.
  • Hotel Zoned: Because it was originally built in a Hotel zone, the Mana Kai has been, and will continue to be, a legal vacation rental. If Maui county does crack down on short-term occupancy, this property could actually benefit since there will be fewer legal options for visitors, and they will need to stay somewhere with Hotel zoning or in an actual hotel.
  • Guest Loyalty: The Mana Kai is a guest favorite, with many visitors returning year after year. Look at AirBnB reviews and note the comments about the complex. Popular units often come with tens of thousands of dollars of pre-bookings, which become yours when you buy.
  • On-site Amenities: With equipment rental on-site, you'll be able to jump into a kayak or on a stand up paddleboard and be in the ocean in less than a minute. And afterwards, grab a snack at the deli or book a whale watch at the activities desk.

Now, for the not so good..

  • Building Repair: The Mana Kai was built with steelbeam framing tied together with cable inside a concrete shell, a modern construction method at the time. In 2019, it was revealed that some of the cables were not correctly in place, which led to a large-scale engineering project that started during Covid and continues through today. That project is expected to end in mid-2026. Though most of the work has been done, there may be construction noise and less parking due to the contractors who are on site.
  • High HOA Fees: Because of the repairs, the restaurant could not open and the HOA could not collect rent. That along with increased maintenance due to it's oceanfront location means that the Mana Kai has fairly high maintenance fees, approximately $3,150 per month for 2025. Fees include building maintenance, security, landscaping, pool, as well as water, sewage, cable, Internet, and trash pickup.
  • Compact Units: All units in the Mana Kai are identical, a 1 bedroom one bath with kitchen facing the ocean, and a one bath studio lock-off that faces north and can be rented separately. Total square footage is 767 sq ft.

Should You Buy At The Mana Kai?

The Mana Kai is a great complex and only one of three on Keawakapu Beach. It’s a visitor favorite. It’s hotel zoned and units are generally easy to rent, meaning it can generate income.

The grounds are well maintained, and there’s a front desk along with full time security and dedicated parking. If you are looking for a a beachfront condo you will be able to legally short-term rent, both today and tomorrow, this is a great option. Prices are down approximately 10% in the past year, but seem to be holding steady for the time being.

The Mana Kai Fact Sheet

Recent Price Ranges: $1.7MM to $1.9MM

Maintenance Fees: $3,150/month

  • Address: 2960 South Kihei Road, Kihei, HI 96753
  • Zoning: Hotel
  • Vacation Rentals: Yes
  • Oceanfront: Yes
  • Nearest Beach: Keawakapu
  • Amenities: Pool, BBQ, roof-deck, recreation area
  • Front Desk: Yes
  • Construction: Concrete and Hollow Tile With Steel Frame
  • Year Built: 1973
  • Stories: 8
  • Units: 98
  • Buildings: 1
  • Elevator: Yes
  • Air Conditioning Allowed: Yes
  • Pets Allowed: No
  • Flood Zone: Yes
  • Value: B+
  • Design: A-
  • Location: A-
  • Overall Grade: A-

Mana Kai Plat Map

The Verdict...

The Mana Kai is not cheap, but we think it’s oceanfront location and amazing views are worth it. If you want a gorgeous vacation condo right on Keawakapu Beach, the Mana Kai is an excellent choice.

REVIEW ALL AVAILABLE MANA KAI UNITS HERE

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.

Call or Text Levi Mizel at 808-281-1928

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.

23 Year 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.

Long Time 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.