🏝️ Investing in Vacation Rentals in Mauna Lani
Thinking about investing in a vacation rental at Mauna Lani? Here’s what you need to know.
If you’ve been eyeing investing in vacation rentals in Mauna Lani Resort on the Kohala Coast—not just as a getaway, but as an income-producing asset—you’re not alone. With year-round sunshine, world-class beaches, and strong visitor demand, Mauna Lani vacation rentals offer some of the best returns on the Big Island.
Whether you’re looking for passive income, long-term appreciation, or a mix of both, this guide breaks down how to evaluate ROI, what to expect from ownership, and why Mauna Lani is a prime market for investing in a rental rental.
Why is Mauna Lani Resort a top location for vacation rental ROI?
Location matters, and Mauna Lani delivers on every level:
- Two luxury hotels (Auberge & Fairmont Orchid) anchor the resort
- Championship golf courses, white-sand beaches, and historic fishponds
- High visitor loyalty, often returning annually
- Strong demand from families, retirees, and remote workers
This means high occupancy rates and premium nightly rates, especially during holidays and winter months.
👉 View current listings in Mauna Lani Resort
What kind of returns can you expect from a Mauna Lani vacation rental?
Returns vary by property size, location, and how it’s managed—but here’s a general range based on local data:
| Property Type | Avg. Nightly Rate | Avg. Occupancy | Gross Annual Income |
| 2BR Condo (Golf View) | $350 | 70% | $95,000 |
| 3BR Townhome (Ocean View) | $600 | 70% | $153,000 |
| 4BR Detached Home (Luxury Pool) | $1,000+ | 65% | $237,000+ |
Well-managed properties can earn 3–5% cap rates, with potential for even higher returns through direct bookings, long-term guests, and smart pricing strategies.
What costs should you consider when calculating ROI?
Understanding net ROI means subtracting all ownership and operating costs:
- HOA dues (vary by neighborhood): $800–$1,800/month
- Property management: 20–30% of gross income
- Utilities & maintenance: $600–$1,200/month
- Insurance & reserves: ~$3,000–$5,000/year
Work with a local expert to model accurate income/expenses before you buy.
How does vacation rental management affect your ROI?
A good property manager is your secret weapon to investing in vacation rentals. They’ll:
- Handle bookings, guest communication, and cleaning
- Optimize pricing with dynamic rate tools
- Ensure 5-star reviews and repeat guests
- Maintain the home to protect your asset
👉 Explore our vacation rental management services
You can also self-manage for higher returns—if you’re tech-savvy and ready for a hands-on approach. But Hawaii law requires a point-of-contact person physically on the Island, making it tough for mainland owners.
Which Mauna Lani neighborhoods are best for investing in vacation rentals?
Here are some top-performing areas:
- The Fairways – Affordable 2–3BR units with golf course views
- KaMilo – Spacious duplexes and detached homes, perfect for families
- Kulalani – Upscale finishes and strong demand
- Mauna Lani Point – Luxury condos with stunning ocean views
- Pauoa Beach – Ultra-luxury homes with rare exclusivity
Each area has its pros and pricing—ask about historical income data when touring.
How do you get started?
- Talk to a local realtor who specializes in both sales and rentals
- Analyze comps and projected income
- Visit properties in person or schedule a virtual tour
- Run numbers before making an offer
🔍 Want to see ROI projections on a property?
Let’s talk. I’ll show you active listings, rental history, and help you build a smart plan.
📞 Schedule a call
🏠 Request a property tour
FAQ Summary
Q: Is investing in a vacation rental at Mauna Lani a good idea?
- Yes, due to high occupancy, premium rental rates, and year-round demand.
- Strong historical returns, particularly during peak seasons.
Q: What type of ROI can I expect?
- Condos: $95K/year gross on average
- Townhomes: $150K+
- Luxury homes: $200K+
- Cap rates: 2-5% possible with good management
Q: What costs reduce my ROI?
- HOA fees: $800–$1,800/month
- Management: 20–30%
- Utilities/maintenance: ~$1,000/month
- Hawaii property taxes: 1.1% of assessed value
Q: Should I use a property manager?
- Yes, unless you prefer to self-manage
- Managers help optimize income and guest reviews
Q: Which neighborhoods perform best?
- The Fairways, Kulalani, Ka Milo, Mauna Lani Point
Q: What are the next steps?
- Schedule a consultation
- Tour properties
- Get customized ROI projections