Frequently Asked Questions

Mana Kai Maui was completed in 1973 during the early period of development along South Maui’s coastline. The project was developed by Jim Christman, a United Airlines pilot who helped bring the vision of an oceanfront condominium property to life along Keawakapu Beach.

At the time, much of Kihei was only lightly developed as compared with today. Mana Kai was designed to take advantage of its beachfront location, with the building positioned close to the shoreline so that every unit faces the ocean and has direct access to Keawakapu Beach.

Over the years, Mana Kai has remained a recognizable property along the South Maui shoreline. While many individual units have been renovated and updated by their owners, the property continues to offer the same direct beachfront setting and access to Keawakapu Beach that originally drew visitors to the area.

Interestingly, some of the original families who purchased units when the building first opened in the 1970s still own those condos today. This continuity reflects the strong connection many owners and returning guests feel toward Mana Kai and its unique beachfront setting.

Today, Mana Kai Maui continues to serve as a beachfront condominium property in Kihei for visitors who want to stay directly on one of South Maui’s most well-known beaches.

The name Mana Kai comes from the Hawaiian language. The word “kai” means ocean or sea, while “mana” is often translated as spiritual power, energy, or life force.

Together, the name can be interpreted loosely as “spirit of the sea.” The name reflects the property’s close connection to the Pacific Ocean and its location directly along the shoreline of Keawakapu Beach.

Like many Hawaiian place names, the meaning carries both a literal and cultural sense, referencing the natural presence and significance of the ocean in everyday life throughout the islands.

Mana Kai Maui Resort is located on Keawakapu Beach at 2960 S. Kihei Road in Kihei, Maui, one of the most beautiful and desirable stretches of sand on the island. The resort sits just minutes from Wailea’s world-class shopping, dining, and golf, and is conveniently near the Kihei Boat Ramp, where snorkeling and whale watch charters depart daily.

Yes! Mana Kai Maui Resort is a true oceanfront property — Full Sized Condos face the Pacific Ocean, offering breathtaking views of Kahoʻolawe, Lānaʻi, and West Maui. Guests enjoy immediate access to Keawakapu Beach, renowned for its soft golden sand and calm, swimmable waters.

Mana Kai Maui’s location is one of the most distinctive and sought-after in South Maui because it sits directly on Keawakapu Beach, one of the island’s most beautiful and swimmable beaches, while also being positioned between two of Maui’s most desirable resort areas—Kihei and Wailea.

Unlike many oceanfront buildings that sit across a road or elevated above the shoreline, Mana Kai is literally steps from the sand. Guests can walk from the building directly onto Keawakapu Beach, which stretches nearly a mile and is known for its soft golden sand, clear water, and excellent swimming conditions year-round.

Another unique aspect of Mana Kai’s location is the unobstructed ocean views. Because the building sits so close to the shoreline, many units enjoy panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean, the neighboring islands of Lanai and Kahoolawe, and Maui’s famous sunsets. During winter months, it is also common to see humpback whales breaching offshore.

A subtle but important feature of the property’s setting is that the building sits on a slight natural outcropping along the shoreline and is angled toward the southwest. This positioning creates a broader viewing corridor than many beachfront condos. Instead of looking straight out to sea, many Mana Kai units enjoy a sweeping perspective down the length of Keawakapu Beach as well as across the open channel toward the neighboring islands. The angled orientation also enhances sunset views and allows many units to capture multiple sightlines of the coastline and ocean.

The surrounding area further enhances the experience. Mana Kai sits at the southern end of Kihei and the northern edge of Wailea, providing convenient access to Wailea’s luxury resorts, golf courses, and restaurants, while still maintaining the relaxed charm and accessibility of Kihei.

The beach itself is also unusually quiet compared with many other Maui beaches. Keawakapu Beach has limited public access points and no large resort developments directly on it, which helps preserve a peaceful atmosphere even during peak seasons.

Because of these factors—direct beachfront placement, expansive ocean views, proximity to Wailea, and access to one of Maui’s best beaches—the location of Mana Kai Maui is widely considered one of the most desirable oceanfront settings on the island.

Absolutely. Guests can relax at the oceanfront pool, surrounded by a lush grassy lawn lined with coconut palms. Lounge chairs are available for sunbathing or enjoying the shade — all with spectacular views of the Pacific.

Guests can enjoy the pool from 9:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily.

Yes. One of the unique features of Mana Kai Maui is that every full-sized (two bedroom) condo in the building has an ocean view.

Unlike many resorts where some units face parking lots, gardens, or interior courtyards, Mana Kai was specifically designed so that all units face the ocean. Because the building sits directly along Keawakapu Beach and is oriented toward the southwest, every condo enjoys a view of the Pacific.

Most units feature panoramic views of the ocean as well as the neighboring islands of Lanai and Kahoolawe. From many lanais, guests can also see the full sweep of Keawakapu Beach stretching toward Wailea. During the winter months, it’s common to spot humpback whales offshore, while year-round sunsets over the ocean are a highlight for many visitors.

While the exact perspective varies slightly by floor and position within the building, every condo at Mana Kai Maui offers a direct ocean-facing view—one of the reasons the property is so highly valued among Maui vacation rentals.

Some condo units rent only as two-bedroom accommodations, while others can be rented as either a one-bedroom or two-bedroom configuration.

At Mana Kai, the unit or bedroom designation “A” refers to the oceanfront side of the condo, which faces the ocean and includes its own private lanai (balcony) with full ocean views.

The “B” bedroom is located on the rear side of the unit and is sometimes referred to as the “hotel room” side. It may offer partial ocean or hillside views depending on the unit, but it does not have a lanai.

When renting a one-bedroom, it is important to confirm whether you are booking the A side or the B side. Some one-bedroom rentals include the A unit (oceanfront with lanai), while others are the B unit (rear-facing without a lanai).

If a unit has a “C” designation, it indicates the rental includes both the A and B sides of the unit together, regardless of whether the condo itself has a lock-off configuration.

Yes, complimentary parking is included for guests staying at Mana Kai Maui Resort. Parking is conveniently located close to the building for easy access to your condo and the beach.

Please check in at the front desk when you arrive to receive your parking permit.

Yes! Guests are welcome to use the barbecue grills located near the oceanfront lawn. They’re perfect for preparing your own island-style meals while watching the sunset — an experience that captures the spirit of relaxed Maui living.

Barbecue grills may be reserved at the front desk.

Mana Kai Maui Resort offers several convenient on-site services, including:

• Mana Kai Paddle & Kayak – rentals for snorkel gear, paddleboards, and kayaks.
• Maui Yoga Path – yoga instruction with a view.
• 808 General Store – convenience foods, soda, juice, beer, wine and other beverages, snacks, and prepared meals.
• Hawaiian Style Activities Desk – a concierge service to help plan excursions and adventures.
• The Beach House - a brand new full-service oceanfront restaurant by Peter Merriman and Handcrafted Restaurants serving breakfast, lunch and dinner coming soon (anticipated to open in late 2026).
• Fitness Room and Business Center for guest use.
• Laundry Facilities (credit card) located on each floor.

The resort’s 6,000-square-foot restaurant and outdoor lanai space on the first level—overlooking the Pacific Ocean and Keawakapu Beach—is currently being redesigned and will re-open late 2026 as the Beach House, a restaurant by by Peter Merriman and Handcrafted Restaurants. This exciting new restaurant and bar will feature contemporary island cuisine, handcrafted cocktails, and Maui’s most stunning oceanfront dining views. 

They are. The Mana Kai Maui Resort is made up of 98 individually owned condominium units, each part of the Association of Apartment Owners (AOAO). Every unit is uniquely decorated and furnished, reflecting the personal style of its owner, while maintaining the same standards of comfort and aloha spirit.

Condo bookings are handled by individual owners or their booking agents.

Guests return year after year for the unbeatable oceanfront location, friendly atmosphere, and authentic island charm. With direct beach access, incredible sunsets, and the gentle sound of waves at night, Mana Kai Maui Resort feels more like a home by the sea than a hotel.

Here are some of the reasons offered by guests to explain why the Mana Kai is so special.

7 Things Guests Love About Mana Kai Maui:

The beachfront location.  Mana Kai sits directly on Keawakapu Beach, allowing guests to walk from the building straight onto one of Maui’s most beautiful stretches of sand.

The panoramic ocean views.  Sweeping views of the Pacific, Molokini, and the neighboring islands, with sunsets and seasonal whale watching visible right from the lanai.

Direct beach access.  Guests can go from the elevator to the beach in moments without crossing any streets or parking lots.

Excellent snorkeling and marine life.  The reef in front of the property is known for clear water and frequent sightings of Hawaiian green sea turtles.

Convenient on-site amenities.  The 808 General Store, Paddle & Kayak rentals, oceanfront barbecue grills, and other resort amenities make it easy to enjoy meals and relaxation without leaving the property.

The spirit of aloha.  Visitors often notice the welcoming atmosphere and friendly spirit that reflect the traditions of Hawaiian hospitality and community.

Walkable coastline.  Guests can enjoy long beach walks connecting Kihei and Wailea, with miles of coastline accessible directly from Mana Kai.

Keawakapu Beach is often considered one of Maui’s best beaches. Stretching nearly a mile long, it offers soft sand, calm waters, and spectacular views of the Pacific and neighboring islands. It’s perfect for swimming, morning walks, and sunset strolls — truly a slice of paradise.

Even on calm days, Maui’s ocean conditions can change quickly, so enter the water carefully, watch for waves, and always stay aware of your surroundings.

Yes, right in front of the resort! A vibrant coral reef extends just offshore, teeming with tropical fish and sea turtles. The clear, calm waters make this one of the best snorkeling spots on Maui, and it’s accessible directly from the beach.

Always check ocean conditions before entering the water, snorkel with a buddy, and respect the ocean by staying within your abilities and keeping a safe distance from marine life.

Here Are Some Marine Life You May See While Snorkeling at Mana Kai: 

The clear waters along Keawakapu Beach in front of Mana Kai Maui offer excellent opportunities to observe Hawaii’s vibrant marine life. The reef areas and sandy shoreline provide habitat for many colorful fish and other ocean creatures. While every snorkeling outing is different, guests often encounter the following species.

Hawaiian Green Sea Turtle (Honu)
One of the most memorable sights for snorkelers, honu are frequently seen feeding along the reef or gliding calmly through the water near shore.  Maintain at least 10 feet (3 meters) distance from sea turtles.

Yellow Tang
Bright yellow reef fish that often travel in small schools around coral and rock formations.

Parrotfish (Uhu)
Colorful fish that graze on algae growing on rocks and coral, sometimes making a faint scraping sound as they feed.

Butterflyfish
Beautifully patterned fish commonly seen swimming in pairs near coral heads.

Triggerfish (Humuhumunukunukuāpuaʻa)
Hawaii’s state fish, recognizable by its unique shape and bold markings.

Surgeonfish
A group of reef fish often seen along Maui’s reefs, including brown and white-spotted varieties.

Goatfish (Weke)
Often spotted over sandy areas, these fish use whisker-like barbels to search for food.

Wrasses and Damselfish
Small, colorful reef fish that dart quickly around coral and rocky reef areas.

Moorish Idol
An elegant black, white, and yellow fish with a long trailing dorsal fin, often seen near reef structures.

Octopus (Heʻe)
Occasionally spotted camouflaged among rocks or coral.

Moray Eel (Puhi)
Usually seen peeking from crevices in the reef.

Sea Urchins (Wana)
Common along rocky reef areas and easily visible among coral formations.

Sea Cucumbers
Slow-moving creatures often found resting along sandy or rocky bottoms.

Jellyfish
Occasional jellyfish may appear, particularly box jellyfish, which typically arrive about eight to ten days after a full moon. These events are temporary and usually well known locally.

In addition to reef life, snorkelers sometimes see larger marine animals passing through Maui’s coastal waters.

Manta Rays
Rare but occasionally seen cruising offshore in deeper water.

Spinner Dolphins (Naiʻa)
Pods sometimes travel along the South Maui coastline and may be seen from the beach or while snorkeling, though they typically remain farther offshore.

Hawaiian Monk Seals (ʻIlio-holo-i-ka-uaua, or "dog that runs in water")
An endangered marine mammal native to the Hawaiian Islands, known for its gray coat, rounded head, and large dark eyes. They often rest on beaches or nearshore waters and are protected under U.S. law, so observing them quietly from a safe distance helps ensure their safety and yours.a

Humpback Whales
During the winter months (December through April), humpback whales migrate to Maui’s waters. While usually seen from shore or a lanai, their songs can sometimes be heard underwater while snorkeling.

Snorkeling conditions are usually best in the morning when the ocean is calm and visibility is clear, especially along the reef areas of Keawakapu Beach.

Part of the beauty of visiting Maui is experiencing the language, culture, and spirit of Hawaiʻi. Here are 20 Hawaiian words and phrases guests may hear during their stay at Mana Kai Maui.

Mana Kai
Often understood as “power of the sea,” or "spirit of the sea", this name reflects the ocean’s energy, beauty, and life-giving presence.

Mana
Mana refers to spiritual power, strength, or life force that can be felt in people, places, and nature.

Aloha
More than a greeting, aloha expresses love, kindness, welcome, and a deep sense of connection.

Mahalo
Mahalo means thank you and is one of the most commonly heard expressions of gratitude in Hawaiʻi.

ʻOhana
ʻOhana means family, including not only relatives but also close friends and community.

Lānai
A lānai is a porch or balcony, often the perfect place to relax and enjoy ocean views.

Kai
Kai means ocean or sea.

Moana
Moana refers to the deep ocean or open sea.

Honu
Honu is the Hawaiian green sea turtle, often seen in the waters near Mana Kai Maui.

Keiki
Keiki means children.

Kamaʻāina
Kamaʻāina refers to a local resident of Hawaiʻi.

Mālama
Mālama means to care for, protect, and preserve.

Pono
Pono means living in balance and doing what is right.

Pau
Pau means finished, done, or complete.

Wahine
Wahine means woman or women.

Kāne
Kāne means man or men.

Lei
A lei is a garland of flowers, leaves, or shells, often given as a symbol of welcome and affection.

ʻĀina
ʻĀina means land, earth, or homeland.

Hale
Hale means house, home, or building.

Makai
Makai means toward the ocean.

Mana Kai is a condominium property with 98 individually owned oceanfront condominiums, so more than one organization maintains websites related to the property.

The Mana Kai-Maui Association of Apartment Owners (AOAO) operates the Mana Kai under the trade name “Mana Kai Maui Resort” and maintains two official websites:

• manakaimauiresort.com – the official guest resource website with the complete catalog of Mana Kai Maui condominiums, where visitors can find out about the resort-style amenities at Mana Kai, learn about the history and story of Mana Kai Maui, discover nearby restaurants, explore local activities and experiences in South Maui and along Keawakapu Beach, and browse a comprehensive directory of all condos available for rental at Mana Kai Maui.
• manakai.org – the AOAO’s resource website for condominium owners, providing association information, governance documents, and owner communications.

The new official Mana Kai website, manakaimauiresort.com, was launched as a benefit to all 98 units and to help avoid confusion for visitors and guests.

Some Mana Kai units participate in the vacation rental program operated by Resort Hotel Associates (RHA), a rental agent. RHA operates its own rental and marketing websites for the condominiums they manage using the trade name “Mana Kai Maui.” Their websites include "manakaimaui.com" and "manakaimaui.net".

These RHA websites feature rental information solely regarding the condominium units that participate in the RHA rental program.  Currently, 33 of the 98 Mana Kai condominiums are managed by RHA. All other Mana Kai condominiums are managed either directly by their individual owners or by other professional vacation rental agencies.

RHA is a rental agency that maintains offices and operates within the Mana Kai building. As of January 1, 2026, however, RHA no longer operates from or leases space at the front desk. RHA offices are located on the mezzanine level upstairs, while the AOAO operates the main lobby and front desk for the entire property.

The Mana Kai Maui Resort front desk staff, including Winston Chinn, are led by Mana Kai property manager, Doug Ray. The front desk handles all aspects of check-in and guest services for the property. The front desk can be reached by email at frontdesk@manakaimauiresort.com or by telephone at 808-879-0052.

Regardless of how you book your stay—through Resort Hotel Associates, another rental agency, or directly with a condominium owner—all guests are welcomed at the Mana Kai Maui Resort front desk for check-in and may rely on our staff for guest services and support throughout their stay.

To see a directory of all the oceanfront condominiums available for rent at Mana Kai, visit manakaimauiresort.com, the official website of Mana Kai Maui Resort.

Yes. The restaurant space at Mana Kai is currently undergoing renovation to create a new dining concept, The Beach House. Construction began in late 2025 and is expected to continue into late 2026. 

Work is primarily limited to the former restaurant area on the main level, and while some daytime construction activity may occur, efforts are made to minimize disruption for guests. Once completed, the new restaurant is expected to bring an updated oceanfront dining experience to the property.

The beach, pool, condos, and other resort amenities remain open and fully accessible during this period.

The new oceanfront restaurant, The Beach House, is currently under construction. While timelines can change, the restaurant is presently expected to open sometime in late 2026 once renovations are complete.

In the meantime, guests can still find snacks, sandwiches, coffee, and grab-and-go items at the on-site 808 General Store, located on the ground floor of the resort. The shop offers freshly prepared deli sandwiches, salads, drinks, and other beach-day essentials.

There are also many excellent restaurants within a short walk or drive throughout Kihei.

Yes. Like most websites, this site may automatically collect limited technical information such as your IP address, browser type, and pages visited. This helps us understand how visitors use the site and improve its performance.

The website may also use cookies or similar technologies to support normal website functionality and basic analytics.

If you choose to contact us through a form or email link, we may collect the information you provide in order to respond to your inquiry.

We do not sell personal information to third parties.

For more details, please see our Privacy Policy, below.

Privacy Policy

Effective Date: March 12, 2026

The Mana Kai Maui Resort website is provided for informational purposes related to the Mana Kai Maui Resort property in Maui, Hawaii. We respect the privacy of visitors and limit the collection of personal information.

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When you visit this website, limited technical information may be collected automatically, such as your IP address, browser type, pages visited, and the date and time of your visit. This information helps us understand website usage and improve site performance.

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Information collected through this website is used only to operate and improve the website and to respond to communications. We do not sell personal information.

Changes to This Policy

This Privacy Policy may be updated periodically. Updates will be posted on this page with a revised effective date.

We strive to make this website accessible and usable for all visitors, including individuals with disabilities. If you experience difficulty accessing any part of the site or need assistance obtaining information, please contact us using the contact information provided on the website and we will make reasonable efforts to help.

No.  While a few individual condominiums experienced a small amount of water intrusion during the heavy rains, the Mana Kai resort itself did not sustain any damage. Keawakapu Beach did experience some high surf and rainwater runoff during the storm. However, debris that washed ashore was promptly cleaned by dedicated volunteers from Mana Kai over a four-day period, and the beach is now fully open and in good condition for guests to enjoy.

The beach filled back in after the Kona low dissipated, and normal tidal activity has resumed. Overall, Keawakapu Beach fared well and experienced far less damage than from storms that have occurred in previous years.

No. Mana Kai Maui is not affected by the recent Maui County government action related to short-term rentals or properties identified on the “Minatoya List.” Mana Kai Maui has always been located within a hotel-zoned district and has long operated as a hotel-zoned property.

Because of this designation, all units at Mana Kai Maui are legally permitted to be rented to short-term guests, in full compliance with Maui County zoning regulations. The recent government action is focused on properties that are not properly zoned for hotel or resort use, and therefore does not impact Mana Kai Maui.

Guests and owners can continue to book short-term stays at Mana Kai Maui with confidence, as the property remains fully compliant and unaffected by the short-term rental ban affecting certain other properties elsewhere on Maui.