Located on the border of Wailea, plunked down next to the luxurious Fairmont Kea Lani, adjacent to the Wailea Resort's shops, dining and hotel facilities (the comparably priced Four Seasons is three doors down), this condominium complex is one of the most prestigious and expensive addresses in Hawaii.
Built before setback laws were written into the books, this property hovers directly above one of Maui's best beaches: a golden strand flanked by excellent snorkeling. From December through March, humpback whales breach and flounder just offshore.
Designed as an exclusive residential enclave, this eight-story rectangular complex has approximately 75 units, of which 35 are in the rental pool. This property is similar to the larger, busier Kaanapali Ali'i, but thanks to the off-site rental office, guests here feel more like residents, although maintenance and security are only a phone call away.
Arrivals retrieve their keys at the office of Destination Resorts Hawaii, located at the east end of Wailea's tiny outdoor mall, The Shops at Wailea. The complex is an easy three-minute drive from the rental office, and magnetic key cards activate the guarded security gate. Each unit is provided with a free parking space in the underground garage. Elevators rise to all floors.
Activities here are geared to self-sufficient types, with the focus being a fenced pool and whirlpool offering glimpses of the beach. The beach itself is a superb stretch of sand that provides opportunities for snorkeling, sunbathing and body-surfing. A barbecue area gives guests the option of cooking outdoors.
Staff provides daily maid service and will also pick up and deliver groceries. The in-house manager is at the complex to handle on-site emergencies. The property has a strict no-smoking policy, and pets are not permitted.
The individually owned and decorated two-bedroom condominiums vary in style and condition, with the majority of the units a little on the dated side. As a rule, living and dining areas abut fully equipped kitchens—some small, some large; the most newly renovated units have well-designed, modern kitchens.
Bedrooms boast a second, and sometimes a third, TV. VCRs are in the living rooms, and king, queen and double beds predominate. Two baths are standard, with showers and hair dryers in both. Many showcase koa wood cabinetry, marble accents and some of the island's best ocean views. All are air-conditioned and provide fax machines, CD players and high-speed Internet access. Full-sized washers and dryers are in each, and the resort provides the laundry detergent.
Units in the -04, -05 and -06 blocks have the best ocean vistas. Both 505 and 605 have awesome water vistas, but their decor and dated kitchens create questionable value. 408 has a stylish stainless steel kitchen, 
and though it is set back from the front row, its height gives it excellent exposure. Avoid units in the -02, -01 and -09 series, as these lack engaging views.
Wheelchair-accessible rooms are missing, but all rooms are smoke-free. Room service is nonexistent since this is a condominium property. Housekeeping, though, comes by daily. One-bedroom prices are only offered in the low season, and three-night minimums are enforced throughout the year.
This exceptional condo-resort draws well-heeled couples and families who know how to entertain themselves. The location next to the Fairmont Kea Lani gives guests three excellent dining options within easy walking distance. Spago awaits at Four Seasons Maui, 100 yards farther down the beach.
