The review is based on the condo we stayed at and the resort (Wailea Elua)
The condo was nice and comfortable. Positives for the condo is that it is roomy, with all amenities (bbq on the lanai was very nice), very close to the beach and pool. Negatives is that it is a little dated and could use a bit of an update (new dishwasher), but that is not a huge thing for us as long as a place is relatively clean and comfortable, which it was. The daily cleaning was nice, but not really needed. The cleaning staff was very pleasant though.
The resort itself was nice, A few things that were negatives was that there is no lighting on the signage. We arrived at 10pm and being new to the resort, it took us forever to find our condo as the resort is huge. We had to get out of our car and walk up to the signs to see where to turn to get to our condo. A few well placed lights would make a huge difference. Another thing we found was that some of the non-Hawaiian people there were not overly friendly, especially to new people. This was our first stay in Wailea, as we typically stay in Kihei, and we found that the people in Kihei are more friendly and laid back, which fits our lifestyle better.
This entire condo needs an overhaul. The jalousie windows don't close completely, so air conditioning can't keep the moisture out of the air. All noises from outside are right in the room with you (read - lawn mowers, weed whackers, trimmers, other people.). These are normal upkeep and maintenance kinds of sounds, but when they are operating next to an open window, they are very loud. The screens don't even fit properly onto the windows if you wanted to open the windows for a breeze. Bathrooms don't have exhaust fans, adding to the moisture problem. The first thing that hits you when you walk in is the smell of mold and mildew. We figured out that it is partially coming from the kitchen cabinets. Open the drawers and doors and the smell becomes much worse. What is in the cabinets is so old and worn out that I did not want to cook with it. Every pan was old scratched teflon. The rugs on the floor in the living room and bedroom are extremely dirty and are gross. The comforter on the bed had spots of unknown origin. Everything in this unit is old and tired. We expected SO much more for our money. The best part about this place was the patio, even though that furniture is also tired. When I spoke with someone about the condition of the condo, they said they would "see what they could do to make things better." Nothing changed. I had to ask the ladies who came to change the linen to take the comforter away, which they did. The Elua Village is a lovely property. This particular condo should be avoided until the owners spend some of the money they have been collecting in rent, to provide a standard of accomodation that you would expect at this price point in Wailea.
The staff was great, the location perfect and unit#1601 was sub par. The photos on the website must be several years old. The couches in living room along with bedspread were in great need of a good cleaning. For the high per night price charged, the furniture should be replaced. The whole unit was dingy.
Elia village is an elegant and beautiful property with easy access to wailea's famous beaches. We also loved the pool, where we always could relax in the shade under an umbrella, on comfy lounges, feel the breeze and just read and relax!
