Take a drive past Wailea, and you won’t find any towering hotels. No grand facades, overcrowded pools, or driveways crammed with rental cars and valets in crisp button-downs. Instead, as Wailea Alanui Drive becomes Makena Alanui Drive, grandiose resorts give way to regal condo complexes— including Makena Surf.
You might not notice this inconspicuous property as you drive past its gate. And with its ocean views and stately units out of sight, you wouldn’t guess that Makena Surf is one of the most sought-after properties on the island. But behind Makena Surf’s gate, you’ll find magical garden-like grounds, 180-degree ocean views, and lavish digs. Discover why those in the know can’t get enough of this property; here are five reasons why Makena Surf is South Maui’s best hidden gem.
1. The Grounds
Touring Makena Surf’s 10 oceanfront acres is like exploring a verdant tropical garden. Every inch of the property is meticulously landscaped to highlight Maui’s spectacular flora. Walkways meander through seas of monstera plants, red ginger, ti, and ferns, while plumerias, native hala trees, and palms wave overhead. You won’t forget for a second that you’re in paradise.
What’s more, Makena Surf is a gated complex with a fraction of the occupancy of a big resort, so you can count on security, privacy, and exclusivity at all hours of the day.
2. The Location
Makena Surf boasts one of the best locations in South Maui. The property is nestled between two golden beaches— Poolenalena Beach to the north and a small sandy cove to the south. You won’t have to go far to enjoy spectacular snorkeling, either. Makena Surf sits on a lava rock point, with dazzling snorkeling right out front. And with few other vacation condos to speak of and no resorts in sight, the beaches here are often uncrowded.
While there’s not much within walking distance, the Shops of Wailea— and all its gourmet offerings— are just two miles away. The greens at Wailea Golf Club are directly across the street.
3. The Spacious Lodgings
From comfortable two-bedroom suites to spacious four-bedroom villas, units at Makena Surf feature large layouts (roughly 1,000 to 2,600 square feet) that open toward the ocean. Floor-to-ceiling sliding glass doors accentuate ocean views— which are found in every unit— and lead to large lanais. Fully equipped kitchens and in-unit washer/dryers eliminate the usual qualms of resort living and give Makena Surf a “homey” feel.
4. The Amenities
Even though there are two gorgeous beaches out front, what would a vacation be without clocking in some hours by the pool? Makena Surf features two large pools with jacuzzis, showers, and padded lounge seating. More of a can’t-sit-still type? Enjoy the use of Makena Surf’s four tennis courts as well as their state-of-the-art workout facility.
Full kitchens in each unit are a huge plus for many Makena Surf guests. But if you’re in the mood for an al-fresco feast, make use of the property’s BBQ grill area. You can also spice up your meal with herbs from the on-site herb garden, free to use at your liking.
5. The Sunsets
There’s no better place in South Maui to watch the sunset than at Makena Surf— and you can quote me on that. The property sits on a west-facing point, and Makena Surf’s lucky residents and guests are treated to a lovely Maui light show almost every evening. Some condo lanais boast sunset views 365 days a year, but the display is always visible from Makena Surf’s grassy oceanfront lawn.
