Kaanapali Shores Condos – A Short-Term Rental Favorite

I am oftentimes asked about purchasing a condo that can rent on a short-term basis on Maui. Short-term on Maui means nightly, like a hotel. The top requests are “located on a great beach” or “an ocean view.” A simple request, right? Considering most investors and second home buyers have this request, it can be challenging.

Let’s look at one complex in particular, Kaanapali Shores in West Maui. Kaanapali Shores is located on the cusp of Napili. Not too far from Kaanapali Shores is the newly built Honua Kai, where prices soar in price for a prime resort location on the beach. Kaanapali Shores is picturesque with its beautiful grand entrance.

The resort-like environment offers a newly remodeled pool that anyone would be 100% satisfied with avoiding the sandy beaches.

What Does the Beach Look Like in Front of Kaanapali Shores?

Well, these photos were from my recent trip to the complex during a final walk-through.

Was this what you expected? Probably not, but it’s beautiful! The salty air is relaxing and awesome if you are visiting the area.

Does Ocean View Play a Large Part of Your Rental Income?

This is a common question. One pretty awesome property manager I know suggests you will not see a big difference in the income based on the additional cost to purchase. In fact, the only time you see a difference is when the rental market drops. The average vacationer is allowed to be more selective and considers the ocean view over the non ocean view unit. But, for most, the cost per night is more important. Non ocean view units offer slightly smaller rates.

Buying a Maui Condo: Beachfront vs. Oceanfront

Where are all the beaches on Maui? There are much larger beaches located in South Maui than in West Maui. Purchasing beachfront condos in South Maui are much higher in price than oceanfront options in West Maui. There are more sea walls in West Maui, therefore, less beaches, but the beaches that are highly visited in West Maui are pretty awesome!

Be prepared to pay well over $1 Million for a beachfront condo. When I say beachfront, I mean ocean view and a decent beach. Beachfront isn’t always directly on the beach, they are just considered so due to the oceanfront property.

My favorite oceanfront complexes:

• Hale Hui Kai (South Maui)
• Mana Kai (South Maui)
• Wailea Beach Villas (South Maui)
• Andaz (South Maui)
• Royal Mauian (South Maui)
• Mahana (West Maui)
• Honua Kai (West Maui)
• Montage (West Maui)
• Whaler (West Maui)
• Kaanapali Alii (West Maui)

There are great options that are not in the high end price ranges. I believe Napili Shores is highly underpriced. Where else can you purchase a condo for under $400K that’s located steps away from a crescent moon bay full of sand and turquoise water?

If you are not ready to pay the additional price for a beachfront condo with ocean view, an alternative is an oceanfront complex or a complex located across the street in South Maui for a lot less. You would have a better chance covering costs or coming close!

More Information

If you have any questions about Kaanapali Shores, or are interested in other South Maui real estate opportunities, please contact me.