Kaanapali Plantation

We had a very disappointing stay in unit #16, and we won't return. Before the refund period ended, I emailed to ask if there was parking for our two cars and two motorcycles. I was told there was room for all of them, so we rented the motorcycles, only to find signs saying they weren't allowed on the property. I couldn't reach anyone for help, but board member Terry came out to speak with us. He said the office usually isn't staffed. For the first four days, there were ants across the kitchen counter and lots of cockroaches. After I complained, they arranged another exterminator visit. The property manager said this place has worse bug problems than others he manages. Some people in our group are allergic to cockroaches and another thing, and had rashes throughout the stay. Those cleared up the day after we left. I can't say for sure if it was detergent, the bugs, or the spray. The unit is dated and needs contractor work. The Vrbo listing showed two pools, but we found one. A resident said it had been closed with no reopening date. The neighbors weren't pleasant either. One woman yelled at us when we briefly parked by the stairs to run in for keys we'd forgotten; the husbands stayed with the vehicles. There are some positives: the buildings look good from outside, the place has good bones, and it's near shops and a good snorkeling beach.

We were close to Lahaina, Kaanapali, and public beach access, which made the location really convenient. The pool was on the small side, but it wasn't crowded and worked well for us. Our unit had a lovely view and a lanai grill, and parking was nearby. It was quiet since we were far enough from the main road. The AC was especially welcome during one of the hottest times of the year. The unit was also well stocked.

There’s so much open space and green lawn here, with no high-rises. Unlike The Hyatt and The Marriott, this property hasn’t been packed with extra buildings. It feels like stepping back to Hawaii in The 1960's, which is a unique experience these days. This is one of my favorite resorts in Maui, maybe my number one. I highly recommend staying in one of these condos.

As a resident, I wouldn't recommend living here. The complex has a long list of outdated rules that make day-to-day life difficult: no bicycles, mopeds, or motorcycles, and no backing into parking stalls. If you're brown skinned, I'd especially think twice about renting here. The neighbors aren't very friendly, and they quickly involve themselves in your everyday business to make sure everyone follows the rules. They even get to dictate the color of blinds you can put in your window. It's a shame, because the location is beautiful and convenient, but the place doesn't feel welcoming. The sprinkler system's hard water can also ruin your car if you don't cover it.