Should You Buy A Condo At Maui Kamaole Resort In South Kihei?

Maui Kamaole is a gorgeous South Kihei complex across the street from the the Kihei Boat Ramp, and less than a block from the famous Kamaole III Beach Park.

Built in 1989, the design is interesting, with a semi-Hawaiiana feel and mature landscaping that’s lush and inviting. Amenities are first rate, and because it’s up on a hill, many of the units have ocean and/or Hakeakala views.

Maui Kamaole, The Good News And The Bad News

The huge 23.36 acre property is made up of 29 two-story buildings, with 316 separate residences, making both the 2nd largest condo complex in Kihei, and yet, surprisingly low-density. Amenities include two pools, BBQs, 2 tennis courts, Jacuzzi, and outdoor recreation areas.

Maui Kamaole is conveniently located near beaches, shopping, dining, the Kihei Boat Ramp (for activities like whale watching and snorkeling trips), and just down the street from Wailea. It’s a 5 minute walk to Keawakapu beach, one of the nicest in all of Maui.

The property is well-managed and the location is perfect for many people who like the south Maui feel and weather. But Maui Kamaole has a few issues you need to know about before you make an offer or purchase a unit.

First, the good..

  • Location: For many people, the location is perfect. Across the street from the beach, with groceries, restaurants, and activities all within walking distance. Not to mention that South Kihei has what many consider the best weather on the island. Cooler than the West side, but consistently warm and sunny.
  • Low Density: Many owners and guests appreciate the amount of open space compared to other complexes, with multiple pools, tennis courts, and low-rise architecture that allows the sun to shine through. It feels more like a little community than a large complex.
  • Great Views: Because the property is elevated above the road, many units have incredible views of the ocean, Haleakala Mountain, or both.
  • 1 Bed, 2 Bath Floorplans: All 1 bedroom units have 2 bathrooms. This allows you to put a pullout sofa or Murphy bed in the living room for two extra adults, who get their own bathroom. This is a very popular layout because you can have guests stay with you, but you still get your own space.
  • Guest Loyalty: Maui Kamaole is a guest favorite, with many visitors returning year after year. Look at AirBnB reviews and note the comments about the complex. It's not uncommon for groups to rent two or three units for a month or more, year after year. Popular units are often sold with tens of thousands of dollars of pre-bookings, which become yours as the new owner.
  • 24 Hour Security: This part of Maui is relatively safe, but it's nice to know that there is an on-site security team watching over the complex.

And the bad...

  • Possible Short-Term Rental Restrictions: Originally built in an Apartment Zoned area, Maui Kamaole has been operating under what is known as the Minatoya List exemption, allowing certain complexes to rent short-term (less than 6 months). Because of the housing shortage on Maui though, the county has proposed removing the exemption. This means there is a risk that Maui Kamaole will lose it's ability to vacation rent in the future, which will decrease the income significantly. If renting your unit is important, you may want to focus your search on Hotel-zoned properties like Maui Banyan or Royal Mauian.
  • Age related Assessments: Because the complex is 36 years old, there may be assesments for maintenance , roofs, common area improvements, and infrastructure. There are no issues currently, but make sure you receive condo docs and review tham carefully. If there are known problems, make sure future work isreflected in the price, or your offer includes a stipulation that the seller pay and money is put into escrow so you don't have an unexpected bill in the future.
  • Increased HOA Fees: Costs are going up, and in addition to a recent increase in insurance, the nearly 24 acres doesn't take care of itself. Maintenance, security, landscaping, pools, BBQ, Jacuzzi, and recreation areas all need upkeep. At the time of this writing, HOA fees are approximately $829 to $1,602 per month, depending on how big your unit is.
  • Other Assessments: There were recently several assessments for roofs, paving, and other maintenance issues. Most assessments need to be paid within 30 to 60 days, which can be a real hardship for some owners. As with all condo investments, make sure you get a copy of the current board meeting minutes, association by-laws, and house rules so you know the facts and financial condition of the association.

Should You Buy A Condo Here?

Maui Kamaole is a gorgeous South Kihei complex that’s a visitor favorite. It’s up on a hill, giving you views of the ocean and in some cases, Haleakala Crater.

The grounds are well maintained, and there’s a 24 hour a day front desk along with full time security. If you are looking for a beautiful complex, and don’t need to rely on short-term rental income, this is a great option. Prices are down approximately 25% in the past year, and it is currently considered a buyer’s market.

Maui Kamaole Fact Sheet

Recent Price Ranges: $710k to $1 Million

Maintenance Fees: $967 – $1,499/month

  • Address: 2777 South Kihei Road, Kihei, HI 96753
  • Zoning: A-2 (Apartment)
  • Vacation Rentals: Currently OK (may be limited in the future)
  • Oceanfront: Across the street
  • Front Desk: Yes
  • Nearest Beach: Kamaole III Beach Park
  • Amenities: Pool, BBQ, tennis courts, Jacuzzi, recreation area
  • Construction: Concrete/Wood
  • Year Built: 1989
  • Stories: 2
  • Units: 316
  • Buildings: 29
  • Elevator: No
  • Air Conditioning Allowed: Yes
  • Pets Allowed: No
  • Flood Zone: No
  • Value: B
  • Design: B+
  • Location: A-
  • Overall Grade: B+

Maui Kamaole Plat Map

Maui Kamaole Location

The Verdict...

If you want an affordable vacation condo near shopping, dining, activities, and the beach, Maui Kamaole is an excellent choice. It’s a visitor favorite, easy to rent and even easier to love.

To see all available properties in Kihei, click the button…

REVIEW ALL AVAILABLE KIHEI PROPERTIES 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.