Kona Mansions#211

These condos are older, but they're okay for a short stay. Some units have roaches, and the ones for sale seem overpriced. Views vary from one unit to another. Air out your belongings before bringing them home, or you could bring in a pest you don't already have. If you buy here, expect to pay for pest control every month.

We stayed in A301, a very clean, well-stocked unit managed well through VRBO. The saltwater pool was a welcome surprise, with no chemicals, and we used it often. I also liked the mix of local residents and visitors, and the courtyard plants in each building. The ocean view, breeze through the unit, and sounds of birds, geckos, and the ocean made it feel like Hawaii. I appreciated the biophilic design, which newer buildings seem to lack. If you prefer air conditioning, less nature noise, and don't like exercising, a new build may suit you better. There are trade-offs to experiencing Hawaii. We'll make this our go-to place.

The room gets extremely hot and humid because the hotel seems to block all the wind. On top of that, signs inside the room warn of a $500 fine for plugging in the AC. The place feels like very little effort went into it.

The oceanfront view is awesome, and you can start and finish the day listening to the waves.