Ma’alaea is right at a yacht basin, with several restaurants and a small general store. Much quieter than the resort-crammed town of Kihei that is 4 miles away. On the other hand, Kihei has bigger stores, shops and a post office. To each his own, I guess. We found Ma’alaea to be nicely central to the places we wanted to visit.
Robert’s condo is completely furnished with all the details that make a stay away from home easy. Think Tupperware and Saran Wrap. There is also snorkel gear, beach chairs, beach towels, and body boards - enough for the whole family. This is why Airbnb is more fun than a hotel. Robert’s unit is at the end of the building. What you give up slightly in the view from the lanai is more than made up by the lack of people walking by your front door. Close the screen and open the door for a delightful breeze through the living room.
There is a building/grounds manager on site 7 days a week, and Robert has a Maui-based contact if there is a problem with the unit. In addition, Robert is very responsive by text/email.
We had a very good experience.
PS: Don’t overlook Haycraft Park at the end of the street. The park is tiny, but it’s the beginning of a miles-long beach.