As owners at the Marriott Maui Ocean Club in Kaanapali, we always stay there a week and then come down to Kihei for a more kick-back week. We've stayed at several places in town and evaluated dozens more this time before selecting this place. WOW! Were we glad we did. All agreed this is the nicest place we have stayed for several reasons.

1) It is literally on the beach. Sitting on the lanai you can watch the amazing Honu cavorting right off the beach. Sunset views are breathtaking. You have a 180° view from Molokini to Lanai. It's a short walk to either Kamaole #1 or Kamaole #2 for soft beach sand or starting point to snorkel back up to swim among the Honu and the myriad of colorful fish and coral that live right off the shore. Fall asleep to surf.

2) We don't spend much time inside but it is very comfortable and beautifully appointed - very island feeling. Everything is there including all kitchen utensils, a variety of pots, pans, dishes, glasses, towels and more. They also have boogie boards, beach chairs and coolers for your convenience. Washer and dryer included.

3) It was unusually hot and humid when we were there so the fact that this unit has air conditioning is a real plus. You may not use it all the time because leaving windows open front and back provides great flow-thru air and the ceiling fans really help, there were times when we blessed the owner for installing A/C.

4) Location. Aside from being right on the beach between two of Kihei's best beaches, it is centrally located making it easy to get anywhere. It's an easy trek to Wailea, Makena Beach, O'o Farm, Ocean Vodka, Kihei Friday Night, Hana, up country and the airport. It's also right across the street from a couple of our favorite eating spots - Cafe O'Lei and Maui Thai, there's a Whalers market across the street, a couple places to rent snorkels and Keiko at Maui Custom who has tons of well priced hand-made swim suits and will make a special one for you within a day.

5) The rooftop BBQ is awesome. Of course it's always fun to BBQ on the island but the 360° views from here are amazing. Not only do you have the entire ocean view to the west but right up the hill inland is Haleakala. While usually cloud shrouded, we had two evenings where the air was clear and we had a full view of the mountain.

6) Parking is convenient right in front of the building, the rest of the facility is nice including the pool & beach chairs on the lawn.

This place won't disappoint.