Kona Makai 1-301

We had a wonderful stay at Kona Makai 1-301. This is clearly the best unit in the complex, with the views and direct ocean front location. The condo is spacious, nicely appointed, clean, with plenty of amenities. The best part is listening to the ocean waves as we slept.

The property management team responded quickly to any questions, and provided great pre-arrival communication.

We would be happy to come back and stay again!

Manager's Response

What a wonderful place to stay- the crashing sea below your deck, sunsets and courtyard views- excellent.

Manager's Response

We spent hours just sitting and watching the whales playing in the ocean. Perfect spot for sunsets. The unit is equipped with everything you need.

Manager's Response

Everything in our experience was fabulous. The apartment was very clean, well equipped, enough space for all the family. We absolutely loved the location, with the waves to the feet of the apartment.... Sleeping with the sound of the waves was just incredible. Talking of waves, it’s the only sound we hear, the complex is very quiet.

Should we come back to Big island? This apartment is definitely a place we’ll want to rent again!

Manager's Response

Kona Makai 1-301 is a wonderful Hawaii location with exceptional views and stunning sunsets. The unit includes everything you require for your stay and is accurately depicted in the listing. Will definitely stay here again

Manager's Response

The week we spent at Kona Makai 1-301 was wonderful in every way! It was perfect for two couples because of the spaciousness. Each bedroom has its own bathroom. They both have wonderful views with access to the huge lanai. The lanai is what sets this unit apart. We enjoyed breakfast every morning on the lanai & every night we had dinner while viewing amazing sunsets! The location is close to town which we liked also. We contacted the management company a couple times with questions & they responded quickly. We would highly recommend this unit & we hope to return for another wonderful stay!

Manager's Response

I highly recommend staying in this property. We stayed at an ocean front unit. It was memorable experience - you go to sleep and wake up with the sound of waves. The unit was clean and well managed. The air conditioning is enough for Hawaiian property - we actually had to turn it off in August nights as the overhead fan is enough for the temperature. Very comfortable living, and convenient to Kona shopping.

Manager's Response

Wow was the first word to describe the view we had at this condo. Everyone should treat yourself and stay here. You will want to wake up early everyday and watch the sun set daily with this view. We enjoyed dinners nighty. The rest of the condo was very comfortable, perfect for our family of 4. I would book it again and again.

Manager's Response

The location of the property and view from our balcony were great. The interior of the rental is in dire need of a refresh. I was unhappy that the unpleasant smell in the bedroom seemed to be coming from the bed- either a dirty mattress or bedspread and pillows. The dishes were old, mismatched and several were dirty. We ran a load of dishes immediately upon arrival. We did not get good value for the money spent.

Manager's Response

beautiful location, sunsets are amazing, management company responds very quickly if you have any questions, property is very well kept

Manager's Response

This unit is far and away the best condo in the complex. Beautiful views in all directions. Waves crashing directly below combined with the terrific ocean breezes provide for a tru!y restful vibe. We spent hours on the wrap around Lanai just relaxing and enjoying the views. The unit was fairly well stocked but would have appreciated more daily use items like soap, toilet paper etc being supplied for longer stays.
The entire property is meticulously maintained with flowering plants everywhere. The pool and spa are always clean. We were able to go snorkeling without even leaving the property as the rocky area just below is teeming with a large variety of tropical fish. You just need to make sure the ocean conditions are calm enough to keep from being scraped against the rocks.
We only had one occasion to contact Knutson with a problem (broken toaster) and they delivered a brand new one to the door within an hour. Excellent and responsive service.
It was a terrific experience and we'll be back.

Manager's Response

Marvelous view from wrap around porch/deck. Spent many hours mesmerized by the ocean waves. Condo in beautiful location in complex. Stairs a bit challenging with 50# suitcases. Cocktails on deck necessary for recovery. We will RETURN! Thanx for being so accommodating

Manager's Response

Totally enjoyed our week in this condo!

Manager's Response

Location is incredible... couldn't get much closer to the ocean! Very loud when waves are crashing against the rocks but that suited us just fine. Beds were comfortable and very well appointed kitchen. Linens and kitchen utensils/cookware were a little tired but there was a good supply of all. Could have been a little cleaner (second bathroom shower curtain moldy on bottom) but doable. I'm very picky and these issues were minor. Knutson addressed any minor concerns promptly and efficiently. Excellent rental agency to work with. Overall outstanding experience and I would stay again without hesitation!!

Manager's Response

My husband and I try to get to the Big Island every couple of years because we love how laid-back the people are and the Island is so beautiful. Originally we stayed at a number of different vacation rentals spread over the Island, but when we discovered Kona Makai 1-301, we knew we had found our Big Island home base. This unit is on the top floor, has an unobstructed panoramic view of the ocean, a beautiful vaulted ceiling with large sliding doors that make the most of the tradewinds, is well-furnished with high-end finishes, and the sound of the surf crashing on the lava below is delightful. The property management company is very professional and responsive, so kudos to them as well. Bottom line, when we want a truly relaxing vacation, we go to Kona Makai 1-301.

Manager's Response

The view was amazing! The condo could use a few updates, but overall very comfortable. We would love to stay again! The host was I responsive when we had any questions....

Manager's Response

The view was amazing! The condo could use a few updates, but overall very comfortable. We would love to stay again! The host was I responsive when we had any questions....

Manager's Response

We had a lovely time at this condo. The views are spectacular - so much coastal beauty and diverse action. All 5-star rankings! One note: depending on the length of your stay you might need to get certain items at the store, like soap or toilet paper.

Manager's Response

condo location is fabulous, beautiful views,
unit need some upgrades, lanai doors hard to open, also TV in living room with Roku is difficult to navigate if you are an older guest, bedroom TV had no cable at all, though management offered to come and look at it. Front door hard to close and screen front door slams shut, needs some maintenance

Manager's Response

We have stayed here Three different times for a total of 2 1/2 months. If you bring another couple to share then each couple pays $150 a night for fabulous accommodations! Top floor of three stories. Front unit hanging over the ocean. Lanai that spans the whole front and down the side to second bedroom. Front row seats to all the ocean activities from Kona Harbor jiust a mile away. No traffic noise, only ocean sounds. We never use the air conditioning as the trade winds keep us cool. We’ll be back!

Manager's Response

Views from the patio were great!

Manager's Response

The wrap around lanai at KM1-301 provides a spectacular viewing spot for whales, turtles, sunsets, and cruise ships. The complex itself is clean and quiet. This unit is on the 3rd level and there is no elevator so if stairs aren’t your thing then this probably isn’t the unit for you. Also, this unit is the farthest away from the parking area so be sure to utilize the courtesy wagons if you’re bringing in more than a few bags of groceries. The owner doesn’t provide beach/pool towels, so a quick trip to a thrift store remedied that situation. There were a few issues that needed to be addressed in the unit itself and the property management team handled them quickly and professionally. Would definitely put this on the “rent again” list.

Manager's Response

Having stayed in a similar third-floor unit on the opposite side of the pool at Kona Makai eight years ago, my husband and I were excited to return and try this unit. We weren't disappointed. The wraparound lanai provided lovely views of the water and sunsets, and when the midday heat and sun were too much, we could move around the corner of the deck facing the pool and barbecue. The location of this unit at the end of the building keeps it quiet and let us enjoy the sound of the waves.

The grounds of the Kona Makai complex are lush and well maintained. With this unit being at the far end of the complex, however, it may be a bit of a trek with groceries to the parking area (trust me, the views are worth it!)

The unit itself is charming, with framed retro prints and posters, and the kitchen cabinets and dark granite countertops in the kitchen are a nice upgrade. The lounge chairs on the lanai, couch in the living room, and master bed mattress are a bit worn, however, and not the most comfortable. More supportive padding would really help.

In terms of things to do, we were happy to relax and enjoy the view most of the time, but we also went into town in Kona several times, we snorkeled locally (picked up our gear at Snorkel Bob's), and spent one afternoon at Beach 69, which was our favorite.

Knutsen & Associates were most helpful and communicative; check-in was a breeze. Loved our stay here!

Manager's Response

We originally scheduled to stay in May 2020, and were finally able to in Dec 2021. The view cannot be beat. The lanai goes along the condo's entire ocean side and then along the pool/ocean area. I counted 5 or 6 doors along the lanai! The roof overhang is far enough that rain barely touched the lanai. Thankfully, for us, it rained only 1 night and a few minutes during one day. My son slept on the lanai each night. I don't know if any other units could surpass the view of 1-301, except maybe an end unit in building 6. On the last night, we saw the most beautiful sunset! If I travel to the Big Island again, I will return to this unit!

Manager's Response

We always enjoy the big island and this condo. We would have book it for next year but it was already taken.

Manager's Response

This was a wonderful place to stay for our Big Island vacation. The ocean view and sounds from the wrap-around lanai are really spectacular. We ate nearly every meal out there, enjoyed our coffee and reading out there and watched the sunset each night from the lanai. Some things that weren't clear to me from other reviews and the pictures, which would have been helpful to know: the only access to the unit is through the main door, which is three flights up (no elevator) and a good distance from the parking lot, so use the wagons provided for groceries and luggage as much as possible! I had thought from the pictures that the second bedroom overlooked an external/public corridor, but that's just the wraparound part of the lanai! Also, I like to walk and explore my surroundings as much as I can on vacations, but couldn't tell if this was available from the description. While the pedestrian path is on the narrow shoulder of the busy street/highway, there are several businesses and beaches that are within a mile or so walk. This was fine for our family (two teens, two parents), but I would have been nervous walking with young kids that close to traffic.

Manager's Response

Unbelievably large lanai with unobstructed water views on 3 sides, including a great view of the BBQ/pool area. Several seating options to be as close to, or away from, family/friends. You won't find a better place on the island to watch the spectacular sunsets. The entrance is secluded so you don't hear any other people coming and going. The walkway to the unit is lined with beautiful tropical plants. There is no elevator, so be prepared to walk 2 flights of stairs. They do provide wagons for the luggage haul to/from the car. It's nice that the bedrooms are on opposite sides of the condo with their own full bathrooms. We didn't feel the need to use the AC unit in the master due to the ocean breeze and ceiling fan. The sound of the waves on the rocks was very soothing and relaxing. The kitchen is very well stocked, and has laundry in the unit. The owners don't supply beach towels/chairs, however, previous guests did leave some things behind for use. Was very nice to have. There is an awesome Coffee shop, The Green Flash, about a 5 minute walk from the property. Fabulous breakfast sandwiches! Always a line, but worth the wait. It's about a 20 minute walk to town with shopping and restaurants. The snorkeling directly in front of the unit is amazing, although a bit challenging to get in/out. Mornings seemed to be the best time. There is also a beach with snorkeling about a 10 minute walk away. If you're looking for a fun adventure, the manta ray swim is a must do! We've never done anything like it, and this is the only area in the world that you can do it. The property management team was amazing to work with. We were supposed to be there August 2020, however due to COVID, our trip was cancelled. They offered to refund our money, or, hold it until 2021 with the offer of an additional night free. We were so grateful for the options! We postponed the trip and took the extra night. So glad we did! Was a tough place to leave. If you're looking for serenity, this is it!

Manager's Response

The condo was awesome with an amazing view that can't be beat. Also, everything was provided that was needed during our stay. One thing to be aware is that this is on the 3rd floor, with no elevator, so you will need to carry up your bags (so pack lightly).

Manager's Response

Kona Makai 1-301 is a perfect view and location and we stayed for 2 weeks. The lanai is large, the view is great, and plenty of room to relax. We had a few issues and Knutson was professional and timely. I would love to give this property all 5 stars, but the overall condition of the unit just holds it back a bit.

Generally, the unit was clean and fully met our needs, but it's a bit dated and well used. The bedrooms both have AC which was very nice and the 2nd bedroom has an updated AC unit. The Master Bed AC however is not sized properly, hard to keep up, and the worst part is it blows directly on your head when laying in bed and that means a morning sinus headache for me. I ended up taking some cardboard and making my own deflector the helped, but other units we had rented in the same complex with the same setup had wooden deflectors installed. The AC unit really needs to be replaced with a properly sized unit similar to the 2nd bedroom and you wouldn't have any of those issues.

We also had a water alarm go off at dinner and what an extremely loud noise and not sure it was working properly, but that was annoying. We had a screen door come off it's track which was fixed rapidly the next day, the front screen door won't close very well because it's missing a screw, and we only had one key for four people the first 2 days.

Overall, the location and view is 5 stars and that's what you are there for! With the unit likely empty during most of COVID, I would have thought the owner would have taken that opportunity to do some upgrades, maintenance, and painting - but overall it's really not that bad - I still give the unit 4 stars - but it is a bit dated and well used and the view and Lanai make up for a lot of that because that's where you spend most of your time anyway! All said - I give it 4.5 Stars!

Manager's Response

The view from this unit was amazing, one of the best I have had in Kona. It was clean and spacious. It wasn't stocked as well as other condo's I have rented but the view was worth it! The grounds were beautifully landscaped, on site bbq's looked brand new.

Manager's Response

I booked this unit for the lanai and was not disappointed. The view every day was phenomenal - especially the sunsets. The sound of waves crashing - incredible. The corner unit was large enough for my family of four with lots of closet space and chests for clothing. Kitchen cabinet space for food not as good. Hot water tank very small. Living room furniture not so comfortable. AC in the primary bedroom not as good as in the other room. But, none of this would keep me from renting this unit again. The property too - so clean and beautiful and convenient to Kona. It is not a luxury unit but it was a great stay.

Manager's Response

We loved it!

Manager's Response

We had a wonderful Dec/Jan stay in this condo literally on the rocks above the water. Condo was very clean and well stocked with kitchen supplies, plenty of towels, and beach accessories. View of mesmerizing waves, beautiful pool, and big gas grills to use. The complex's small room of gym equipment was conveniently used several times. Communication was excellent from Knutson & Assocs. Can walk to downtown. Waves are pretty loud. We used the A/C units in both bedrooms at night, but always a lovely breeze from ocean. Units on the top (3rd) floor like this one have vaulted ceilings and ceiling fans. Plenty of parking.

Manager's Response

We cannot wait to rent this unit again!

Manager's Response

while in Hawaii we were able to stay in 2 different end units at this complex so we were able to compare which was nice (plus my parents stayed in a 3rd) This unit is very beautiful, has a lot of seating for hosting a big family (like mine). The Master bed and pillows were super comfortable. The downside though was many of the doors were broken, one slider we didn't ever even open because it was so hard to do so (when my mom visited she though we were keeping it locked). The screen overlooking the complex, I also noticed the next group that stayed there didn't ever open it either. The dutch door does not stay together when open and is very difficult to lock together when closed. The mirrored doors in the guest room are also very hard to move, I though it just the way that it was but when i saw the other two units and how there doors slide smooth I knew it was a fixable thing. Also, the key in the door was hard to get in sometimes (at night due to lighting). Also the Master furniture was very bulky and made the room feel small (especially since we had to set up our baby's bed in the room too which was hard to do with the dressers, it rendered our door unusable).

Great location for Ironman competition! Beautiful views looking west. Very adequate condo with good amenities.

Manager's Response

We had a ost enjoyable stay at Kona Makai 1-301. The grounds are very well maintained including the pool. The condo was well-equipped with pots, pans and utensils and basically everything you need to eat in. I loved that it had tupperware and a cooler so you could pack a lunch to eat beachside. It was very clean and beds were comfortable. It got pretty hot in the late afternoons/ early evenings so when it was time for bed, the air conditioning in the bedrooms was perfect for a good night's sleep. My favorite part was a the huge lanai. It was absolutely wonderful and we enjoyed it morning and night just staring off into the ocean and enjoying sunset after beautiful sunset! The location was perfect! Close to downtown (about 1 mile away). Close to grocery and liquor stores.. and beaches!

Manager's Response

5 Star. The unit was everything expected. Even though Wifi was not working, the management team thoughfully reimbursed one night stay for all the effort my wife put into getting the wifi back up and running in the unit

Manager's Response

Just about perfect. Beautiful weather, beautiful location and the unit overlooking the ocean is wonderful. Fell asleep to the sound of the waves every night. It was a relaxing and quiet stay. The unit's location is premier and the entire complex is beautifully maintained and quiet.

Manager's Response

Fantastic view. The unit was private and quiet. We had everything we needed to cook meals which we then enjoyed on the lanai. So nice to get up and enjoy a cup of coffee and listen to the sound of the ocean. The air conditioners in the bedrooms made it comfortable for sleeping. Really enjoyed our stay and would definitely come back.

Manager's Response

Wonderful place-easy checkin

Manager's Response

This is our third stay in this unit at Kona Makai. We've been staying at this complex since the 90's but this is definitely our favorite condo. We spend most of our time on the lanai - you can't beat the views in all directions! We cooked at the barbecue area almost every night, played ping-pong almost every day and used the pool and hot tub daily. The grounds are beautiful and the resident manager and his team are great people and very responsive. The unit is fully equipped (thank you for the Brita filter pitcher!) and clean. We are looking forward to coming back again!

Manager's Response

Great location at Kona Makai! Best views & sounds of crashing waves!

This is a fabulous property. Great lanai. Saw dolphins several times right out in front. The grounds were very well maintained. The road is busy to pull out onto, but we walked to the harbor several times and shopped and had lunch. The location is great. Would have loved to get an early check in, but no one returned my call about it. Other than that, it was a prefect vacation.

A really nice condo directly on the ocean with the most amazing huge lanai! Well
Maintained complex with nice pool & hot tub. Very quiet community. The unit itself is nicely appointed with a well stocked kitchen with items you dont always find in a vacation rental. Also the owners had beach towels and chairs you could use. Internet works well and the air conditioning in the bedrooms is a must. Visiting in June it was pretty hot & being able to cool the bedrooms was a plus. Really though the lanai alone made our stay. It is huge and we would see dolphins most mornings as well as turtles. We snorkeled right in front of the condo every morning. You have to get in & out via lava rock. IBut the snorkeling was great! Beds were comfy and plenty of towels. Washer & dryer was also nice to have for laundry. Would recommend & definitely stay here again. Management company did a good job coordinating when we arrived but did not have entry information.

Another relaxed and recharging stay at Kona Makai oceanfront 301 unit. If you want more than 180 degrees of oceanfront, breaking waves, dolphin and even occasional turtle-viewing with your morning coffee, sunset dinners and waves lulling you to sleep each night - this is the unit for you. The pictures don't really do the actual view justice. I've stayed at 3 different units in Kona Makai - this one is by far the best unit. Great location on Ali'i Drive, nice property overall, direct access to snorkeling or swimming at your doorstep, cooking grills are oceanfront. Plenty of room for your family in the unit and balcony.

The condo was great. The layout was fantastic for two couples. Each had a bedroom with a view and their own private bathroom. Both had access to the balcony through a slider. The kitchen was well stocked for cooking. The views are amazing. The complex has a nice pool and exercise facilities. Would I stay there again? Yes.

This was our second stay at Kona Makai 1-301--our favorite unit at the complex. We love the location and the unobstructed water view, and already have plans for a return trip. While there were several minor issues upon our arrival, maintenance was dispatched and the problems were resolved within 48 hours. No complaints here!

Love the huge lanai with the fantastic view! Property management delivered a new beach chair after letting them know one was brokenvery nice.

Manager's Response

Such a great place. Was nice to have a home base in Kona. Condo accommodation were solid and the view was superb. Will be back for sure.

Manager's Response

The location is perfect, overlooking the ocean. Great patio. nice living area and kitchen. It was just right for our family of four.Close to town and restaurants. Quiet in the evening. Will stay here again.

Manager's Response

Overall it was a great unit and a great location. I fell asleep to the sound of the waves every night. We were right on the water. Beautiful, relaxing time. The whole complex was well maintained, quiet and in a great location. The unit itself was a little lacking in the quality of linens, pillows, beach chairs and water toys.

Manager's Response

This was our second time in this condo, and our fifth stay at Kona Makai. The wraparound balcony is the star, and we spent the majority of our time out there. The interior is beautiful, too, and very well-equipped. Having the ping-pong table down in the common area was a bonus, and we used the pool and hot tub every day, as well. The complex is in a great location and we easily walked the mile-and-a-half into town and also did a nice four-mile run the other direction to Magic Sands Beach and back. We are looking forward to our next visit and will definitely book this unit!

Manager's Response

Outstanding views from wrap around lanai and ate many of our meals from there. Saw dolphins almost every morning. Can't say enough good things about the lanai! Also, very clean grounds and condo. Comfortable beds and good privacy between rooms. Would love to go back.

Manager's Response

A very pretty setting with a huge lanai to enjoy the view. There is no sand beach here, but many within a short drive. It's just an easy mile walk to the shops and restaurants.

Manager's Response

A perfect setting. The complex is remarkably quiet with mostly long term visitors and almost no children. The sound of the ocean and waves is soothing and drowns out everything. Even the hot tub was warm enough and the pool cool enough. Despite being less than a mile from Kona, there is no sense of the touristy craziness.

The condo itself is spotlessly clean with great outdoor space, a good kitchen, comfortable furniture and very, very comfortable beds. While the decor may be a bit dated, it was exactly what we wanted for our short break.

The only criticism we have is that the internet was absolutely useless. The complex has its own wireless but it cut in and out and even when working (which was usually only in the early morning) was impossibly slow. More often than not we had to resort to cellular coverage. If you need to stay in touch and/or get some work done, this wouldn't be the place. They either need to install their own wireless network (preferred) or a get booster for the complex's one. If you want to disconnect entirely, it would be fine.

Manager's Response

Beautiful 2 bedroom condo with sweeping ocean views from the the ginormous wraparound lanai. Privacy abounds there with unobstructed views.
Kitchen was beautiful with black granite countertops. Multiple dining areas makes entertaining a pleasure. Comfortable beds and furniture. Worth every dollar, we will definitely return!

Manager's Response