Condo

The best spot for whale watching!

Condo in Kaanapali with kitchen and patio

Photo gallery for The best spot for whale watching!

Amazing View
Living area
Living area
Smart tv
Dining on Lanai

Reviews

9.8 out of 10
Exceptional
1 bedroom1 bathroomSleeps 269.7 sq m

Popular amenities

  • Parking available
  • Dryer
  • Hot tub
  • Washer
  • Pool
  • Air conditioning

Explore the area

View map
Lahaina, HI
  • Place, Black Rock
  • Place, Kaanapali Beach
    ‪4 min drive‬
  • Place, Whalers Village
    ‪6 min drive‬
  • Airport, Kapalua, HI (JHM-West Maui)
    ‪5 min drive‬

Rooms & beds

1 bedroom (sleeps 2)

Master bedroom

1 King Bed

1 bathroom

Bathroom

Toilet · Shower only

Spaces

Deck or patio
Porch or lanai
Kitchen
Dining area

About this property

The best spot for whale watching!

Don't worry about picking the right Instagram filter—with views like these, you can opt for #nofilter. From its perch on the 10th floor of the Maui Kai at Ka'anapali, "Gem of Maui," a 1BR/1BA penthouse condo, offers panoramic ocean vistas that will take your breath away. It was love at first sight the first time we saw the views for ourselves - and we think you'll agree!

Of all the accommodations on all of the Hawaiian islands, Maui Kai at Ka'anapali is one of the closest to the water. Any closer and you'd be sleeping in the seaweed with the whales and turtles! In fact, every year, Molokai and Lanai host momma whales ready to birth their calves. And you'll get a front-row seat to the magic from this penthouse condo.

MILES OF VIEWS - INSIDE AND OUT

While the sights are definitely share-worthy, with a setting like this, you may want to just ignore your phone for a while. Settle into the lounger on the lanai to watch the turtles and whales zip through the emerald waters. Sitting at the 4-person patio table, it's almost like you're dining with them.

Even when you leave the beach, you don't have to leave the sights, sounds, and the smell of sea air: floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors connect the living room to the lanai, letting the ocean breezes blow through and creating a true indoor/outdoor space. There's also comfy couch and chair for relaxing after your day in the sun and sand.

Fall asleep to the soothing sounds of the crashing waves in the king bed, made up with elegant linens and bedding. The master also offers a 40" flat screen TV, plenty of storage space, and updated bathroom with walk-in shower.

Whether you're an at-home chef or a takeout aficionado, the fully-equipped kitchen has everything you need to cook (or re-heat restaurant leftovers). It's outfitted with full-size appliances, plus extras like a blender and mixer. Cooking up the most important meal of the day is a cinch with a coffeemaker, egg poacher, waffle iron, and muffin tin. Enjoy your meals at the 4-person table, where you can still see the ocean as you enjoy a home-cooked meal. Or grill out in the cabana area by the pool.

FREE AMENITIES GALORE

While other resorts nickel and dime, here there's free parking and NO RESORT FEES. The penthouse condo comes with a flat screen TV, stereo with iPod docking system, and complimentary WiFi.

The checklist of other awesome amenities stretches as far as the views: air conditioning, coin-operated washer/dryer outside your door, free parking, and ice maker.

CAN'T-BE-BEAT LOCATION

Like the Zac Brown Band song says, you can have your toes in water and butt in the sand in just a few steps. The hotel sits right on the beach and we provide beach chairs, boogie boards, coolers, and towels for you to use during your stay.

Consistently rated one of the best beaches in the world, Ka'anapali Beach with three miles of soft, white sand and crystal-clear waters. Ka'anapali also is home to the open-air Whalers Village with oceanfront dining, shopping, and entertainment, including a cool whaling museum.

When you need to stock up on the essentials, Times grocery store is a just a 5-minute walk. Experience the food and culture of Hawaii at the farmers market, fish market, and local restaurants like Maui Grill Ka'anapali and Roy's, all just minutes away.

Add dates for prices

Amenities

Pool
Hot tub
Kitchen
Washing machine
Dryer
Air conditioning

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House Rules

Check in after 4:00 PM
Minimum age to rent: 25
Check out before 11:00 AM
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Children

Children allowed: ages 0–17
ALLOWED
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Events

No events allowed
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Pets

No pets allowed
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Smoking

Smoking is not permitted
A security deposit hold prior to arrival $250. and will be automatically refunded 4 days after departure unless there is damages.
Guest is Required to sign Rental Agreement.

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
On-site parties or group events are strictly prohibited
Host has indicated that there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property
Host has indicated that there is a smoke detector on the property
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit and a deadlock
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios and terraces, which may not be suitable for children; if you have any concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm that they can accommodate you in a suitable room
Property Registration Number GE-009-819-9552-01, TA-009-819-9552-01, 4440011000076

We should mention

A car is recommended for transport to and from this property

About the area

Kaanapali

Located in Kaanapali, this condo is in a rural area. Shoppers can check out Whalers Village, while everyone can enjoy the natural beauty of Kaanapali Beach and Napili Bay.
Map
Lahaina, HI

What's nearby

  • Kahekili Beach - 12 min walk - 1.0 km
  • Kaanapali Beach - 4 min drive - 4.2 km
  • Kaanapali Kai Course at Kaanapali Golf Resort - 5 min drive - 4.9 km
  • Whalers Village - 6 min drive - 5.3 km
  • Napili Bay - 7 min drive - 7.2 km

Getting around

  • Kapalua, HI (JHM-West Maui) - 6 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Honoapiilani Food Truck Park - ‬6 min walk
  • ‪Duke's Beach House Maui - ‬16 min walk
  • ‪Pizza Paradiso - ‬7 min walk
  • ‪Auntie's Kitchen - ‬4 min drive
  • ‪Pūlehu - ‬5 min drive

Frequently asked questions

Does The best spot for whale watching! have a pool?

Yes, this property has a pool. Pool types include heated pools.

Is The best spot for whale watching! pet-friendly?

No, pets are not allowed at this property.

What time is check-in at The best spot for whale watching!?

Check-in begins at 4:00 PM.

What time is check-out at The best spot for whale watching!?

Checkout is at 11:00 AM.

Where is The best spot for whale watching! located?

Situated in a rural location, this condo building is steps from Keka'a Beach and within 3 mi (5 km) of Kaanapali Beach and Whalers Village. Honokowai Beach Park and Kahana Beach are also within 2 miles (3 km).

Reviews

9.8

Exceptional

9.8/10

Cleanliness

10/10

Check-in

10/10

Communication

10/10

Location

9.8/10

Listing accuracy
Rating 10 - Excellent. 128 out of 143 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 13 out of 143 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 1 out of 143 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 143 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 143 reviews

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

JD Y.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Last minute vacation saver!

When we had a horrible experience with our condo at a different complex that "stretched the truth" about their amenities, we needed to find another place to stay on very short notice. We felt lucky to find the Gem of Maui available!Cathy was extremely accommodating with our predicament. She even let us in a bit early so we could transfer our refrigerated and frozen items, saving us hundreds of dollars! The unit is exactly as described. I'd even say they undersell the balcony/lanai - the privacy and view of the sunset are spectacular!Looking forward to returning.
Stayed 9 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Keith B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great place to enjoy Lahaina

Really enjoyed staying here. You can hear the waves!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

Lisa S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Spring R&R

Great place to relax and enjoy the view!
Stayed 6 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Brian B.

Fantastic!

Amazing view with all the necessary amenities. Location is perfect. Would definitely stay there again.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2018
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

James M.

Wonderful stay

We had a great time during our stay! Everything there and fully equipped! The mattress was very comfortable and the views were amazing! Just wish I was there during whale season!!
Stayed 5 nights in Nov 2017

10/10 Excellent

Megan O.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Great view

We had a great 9 day stay at the end of March. The whale watching and relaxing on the lanai was such a highlight of our visit. The unit was well appointed and close to amenities. We would stay here again!
Stayed 9 nights in Mar 2022

10/10 Excellent

Jake B.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Amazing views

We had an amazing trip. Condo is as advertised you’ll have phenomenal views everyday we saw turtles whales and a monk seal all from the lanai. We will definitely be coming back.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2023

10/10 Excellent

Christine S.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Loved the view!

Couldn’t believe the view! Beautiful condo with everything that I needed for relaxing trip! Thank you!
Stayed 4 nights in Nov 2019
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Briana L.

Loved the amazing views!

The condo was perfect for our honeymoon and we spent hours on the lanai watching whales, turtles, dolphins, boats, sunsets and sunrises. We can't wait to come back. The entire building was great. The grounds are kept spotless with beautiful flowers and the staff is very helpful. Thanks for a great trip.
Stayed 8 nights in Feb 2016

10/10 Excellent

Beth V.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Loved, Loved Loved ♥️♥️♥️

We had an amazing time celebrating our 33rd wedding anniversary in this beautiful condo with its amazing views.
Stayed 10 nights in Oct 2019

10/10 Excellent

Samuel W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Would stay here again in a heartbeat!

This was a fantastic location with a great view. Big bedroom and big living room area. Good amenities in the building. Free and always available parking. I couldn’t get enough of the view and the sounds of the ocean right outside. Amazing host and amazing unit.
Stayed 5 nights in Apr 2022

10/10 Excellent

Peter M.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

relaxing getaway

we could unfortunately only stay for 4 nights, but we thoroughly enjoyed it. watched MANY many whales play right in front of us on our last morning. we did not want to leave. many little things (binos, cooler...) helped us enjoy our stay to the fullest. great place: well appointed and clean.
Stayed 4 nights in Jan 2023

10/10 Excellent

Caitlin L.

World Class Views

We stayed here for 5 nights during our honeymoon - what a treat! We spent every sunrise and sunset watching the whales from the lanai. The location is also unbeatable - just a short walk to the beautiful beaches of Kaanapali and a short drive to Lahaina. The place had a fully equipped kitchen and was very spacious.
Stayed 5 nights in Feb 2019

10/10 Excellent

Domenique A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Absolutely Perfect!

We stayed at this condo during whale season and, as the description says, it is the best spot for whale watching! The entire place is beautiful and clean with a spectacular view and access to the beach. The pool area is great too! There are 2 clean grills and a full kitchen. I highly recommend it!
Stayed 4 nights in Feb 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kim Z.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Beautiful lanai and condo!

We thoroughly enjoyed our stayed in Cathys unit at the Maui Kai. It was nicely decorated and very comfortable. The Lanai was great to watch the sunset and enjoy our mornings and evenings to watch the sunset. The location is perfect rignt on Kaanapali Beach since we love to take walks on the beach! Thank you for sharing your unit with us on our vacation!
Stayed 6 nights in Dec 2019

10/10 Excellent

Tonja H.

Amazing experience and location

First of all the condo is immaculate. Comfortable and great location. When wanting the ultimate beach experience exit the beach side of the building. Walk along the beach to the left until you find your ideal spot. The snorkeling was full of a variety of beautiful tropical fish. I hope to return soon!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2018
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Kevin D.

Whale watching spot

The location was a perfect fit for our getaway trip to Maui. Whether we were listening to the waves, admiring the sunset, or watching the whales playfully swim, by the views were priceless. The room was equipped with island music, guides, and other misc items that were helpful to settling into the Maui mindset. The location of the building was close to many wonderful beaches and restaurants. We would definitely stay here once more on our next vacation to this beautiful island.

10/10 Excellent

Stan P.

A great Place to unwind

We loved the unit but having stayed in Maui several times we have finetuned our own personal criteria. The location at the end of the running path in Kaanapali was great as was the proximity to grocery stores. The Lanai has an amazing front row view of the ocean but is shady so make sure thats OK. Loved the tall table on the Lanai for whale and dolphin watching. For beach need to go to adjoining hotels or a short walk to Kaanapali which we did. Would stay again as it is superior to most in this area and pricepoint.
Stayed 7 nights in Dec 2017
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Donna B.

25th Anniversary

Our stay at the Maui Kai was perfect! The sunset view from the patio is amazing - no need for the sunset cruise! Watching the sea turtles from the balcony was very cool - binoculars allowed such an amazing view. Loved the beach, pool was great and nearby happy hours at Dukes were all favorites. Loved the welcome basket provided by Cathy and Kelly - thanks for helping us celebrate our 25th wedding anniversary - couldn't have been any better. Kathy's maid service was very helpful as well. Can't wait to come again.
This review was submitted before 2018 and has not been verified.

10/10 Excellent

Highly Recommend

This was my first time in Maui and I would definitely recommend for anyone going to stay at the Maui Kia. The room had an amazing ocean front view, the bed was very comfortable and the kitchen was fully stocked with every kitchen gadget you would ever need. We spent many hours on the balcony enjoying the beautiful sunsets and sea turtles swimming directly below. Near by there is a grocery store and a great little pub called “Java Jazz” with live music and great food and drinks (highly recommend trying it out). We had a great time in Maui and will be back!

8/10 Good

Vishok A.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

Views for miles!

View. View. View... A penthouse with Panasonic views for miles. Great little spot. Location is great too with whalers village is a short a 10-15 min walk down the shoreline. Host was very communicative and everything is just as listed. Apartment kitchen is very minimally stocked (effectively only salt n pepper) so come prepared.
Stayed 3 nights in Nov 2020

10/10 Excellent

Rob W.

Liked: Cleanliness, check-in, communication, location, listing accuracy

40th Anniversary

The property is as advertised. The condo is very nice, convenient amenities. Access to local beach within short walk. Million dollar view from the lanai. Cathy the owner was very responsive to small problem and very easy to work with. She give very clear instructions and offers advice on things to do and where to eat. Thank you Cathy, we would love to return next year.
Stayed 5 nights in Jul 2022

About the host

Your host

Host profile image
Hi my name is Cathy Scott my husband Kelly and I own The Gem Of Maui. We have four kids and four granddaughters. We have 4 vacation rentals 2 on Maui and 2 in the Mountains in western Canada. Our family loves the ocean and they love the mountains.

Why they chose this property

1004 is on the top floor of the Maui Kai and the view is amazing. Waking in the morning listening the the sound of the ocean and eating breakfast out on the Lanai (patio). Watching the sea turtle swimming, whale watching, and amazing Sunsets

What makes this property unique

Not Managed by a rental company. Talk to the owner any time. On Island contact person just minutes away. Cleaning can be arranged or just change all the wet towels with just a days notice

Premier Host

They consistently provide great experiences for their guests