Palani Condo

The Palani units come with full kitchens, pool and laundry access, and an assigned parking spot. The beach and seaside area are just 3-4 blocks away, and there’s a strip mall right next door with a coffee shop, KFC, and supermarket. That’s handy, though early morning deliveries can be a problem. I’m not going into the details of the particular unit we stayed in, since they differ. Noise is a major drawback. The apartments have old 50s-style louvered glass windows, so sound and hot air get through even when they’re shut. Kona gets hot, and our bedroom and kitchen windows didn’t close all the way, leaving the rooms noisy and never cool. Judging by the apartment style, they may date from the 50s or early 60s, and the salt air near the ocean is corrosive. Standard double-pane windows, like those in modern tropical buildings, would avoid these issues, but most units don’t seem to have been upgraded. The construction is also shoddy enough that people on the first floor can hear people, dogs, or furniture moving upstairs. If you just want a slightly cheaper place near the action, these issues may not bother you. If you want quiet and rooms you can cool down, look elsewhere.

We had a good stay. There’s a dedicated parking spot, snorkeling and beach gear for renters, and a warm pool that locals don’t use. The place isn’t perfect or upscale, but those extras and the convenience make it a very good spot in Kona. You can walk right to the beach.

A friend of mine lives here. I know it’s an older development, but the buildings are in poor shape and need extensive repairs, really a major overhaul. Many units are vacation rentals, so people are coming and going often. With kids and strangers around, the living conditions feel pretty dicey.

The Airbnb was wonderfully clean and well maintained. I’ve recommended it to lots of friends and would do so again. Trudy & Chris were very helpful, telling us about the important and historic places to visit.