This condo was perfect for what we wanted on our getaway. The location is fantastic (walk to multiple places and quick ride to downtown Lahaina, Kapalua, etc.). I couldn't stop taking pictures of the view either! No, the balcony does not face the ocean directly, but you easily get ocean views (from the balcony and the bedroom windows); I have no complaints. There are lounge chairs and a deck that you can use by the seawall. There isn't much of a sandy beach directly in front because the tide is usually up to the seawall, but you can walk down to the left or the right easily for a sandy place to lay. You can definitely snorkel right out front because of the two reef breaks. The condo it'self was updated and cozy, definitely not luxury and a little quirky, but we were happy with everything. Check-in is super easy. We ended up sleeping in the living room because the back bedroom was quite warm and muggy even with the amazing breezy that blows through. I did email Wade and never received a response so I wouldn't expect a lot of communication from the host. Our neighbors were lovely and the woman at the bottom-front unit was an angel. Oh- finding this place was a pain... but maybe it was just us. TIP: there are two entrances to Maui Sands, enter the one closest to Paki- go all the way to the end and the walkway will be on your right, walk all the way until you reach the last set of stairs.