The Kauhale Makai 434 best feature is a fantastic, unimpeded view of the ocean, Maalaea Bay and Puʻu Kukui so the sunsets from the balcony are hard to beat. The complex is centrally located and it doesn't take long to get most places on the island by car. Now getting to the restaurants and shopping in Kihei will still take a car, as nothing is close enough for walking. If you've got independent teens like us, you'll tire of them asking you to take them places. Staying closer to the Kamaole beaches might be a better fit. Also the beach itself is pretty rocky with only a small strip of sand out in the ocean where you can walk without water shoes. Don't expect a sugar sand beach. On the plus side, they've got a small but nice pool, kids pool and hot tub.
The unit was fairly well outfitted. They had many beach towels, a nice umbrella and several beach chairs. The kitchen had some fairly new pans, glasses and a decent amount of silverware and knives. There was quite the collection of spices so don't bother buying until you inspect what is already there.
The kitchen needs some things though - a new large frying pan some addt'l plates or cereal bowls , and some BBQ gear (tongs, spatula). Speaking of BBQ, the complex was in the process of replacing the grills with nice, new KitchenAid units.
I'm guessing the mattresses have been replaced as we had no complaints in that department. Where they could invest in the furniture is updating the patio furniture which consists of a rusting iron bistro set and a few cheap aluminum pool chairs with plastic backing/seats. How about something nicer and more comfortable to really enjoy those million dollar sunsets!?