If you're considering investing in real estate on Maui, understanding the difference between short-term and long-term rental properties is essential. Zoning laws, permitting, and market demand all play a role in how you can use your property, and how much income you can generate from it.
This guide breaks down what you need to know before buying a rental property in Maui.
A short-term rental (STR) in Maui is typically defined as any rental of less than 180 days. These include:
Vacation rentals (VRBO, Airbnb, etc.)
Condotel units and hotel-zoned properties
Legally permitted Short-Term Rental Homes (STRHs)
To operate a short-term rental legally, your property must:
Be in a hotel/resort or apartment-zoned area that allows STR use
Have the appropriate STR permit (if required for non-zoned properties)
Be registered with Maui County and the State of Hawaii for GET/TAT tax compliance
Violating these rules can lead to steep fines or shutdowns.
Explore short-term rental-approved condos on Maui
A long-term rental typically involves leasing a property for 180 days or longer. These properties:
Require no special STR permits
Are eligible for Maui County's Long-Term Rental Exemption, which reduces your property tax rate
Are a great option for consistent, year-round income
This option works well for properties in residential zones, especially if you're not interested in managing bookings or dealing with tourism seasonality.
See our relocation guide for those moving full-time to Maui
The answer depends on your goals:
| Goal | Best Option |
|---|---|
| Maximize income potential | Short-term rental (STR) |
| Minimize hassle | Long-term rental (LTR) |
| Zoning restrictions | Likely LTR |
| Second home w/ some rental | STR (zoned or permitted) |
If you’re unsure what zoning applies to a property or want help identifying the best areas, our team can guide you.
Learn about Maui zoning and property classifications
Some residential homes in Maui are grandfathered in with STR permits. Others may be eligible but will require:
A public application process
Notification to nearby neighbors
Strict compliance with County rules
If you plan to buy a home and rent it short-term, it’s essential to verify STR eligibility during escrow.
Read our full guide to STR permitting in Maui
Buying a property in Maui—whether to live in or rent—requires local knowledge and zoning awareness. We help clients identify legal STR condos, long-term rental homes, and hidden opportunities throughout the island.
Call us at 808-217-8832
Or contact us here to schedule your consultation
Let’s make your Maui real estate investment stress-free and successful.
Every Maui investment property is different. Rental income potential, zoning, operating costs, financing, and ownership goals all play a role in determining whether a short-term or long-term rental strategy makes the most sense. The Maui Property Team can help you evaluate your options and identify properties that align with your investment objectives.
Talk With a Maui Investment Property ExpertExperience the beauty of West Maui at Royal Kahana, where oceanfront living meets relaxed island comfort. Ideally positioned along the Pacific shoreline, the resort offer...
Listing courtesy of Living Maui Real Estate LLC.
Experience the best of West Maui at Hololani B201, a spacious oceanfront condominium in Kahana offering expansive Pacific Ocean views, colorful sunsets, seasonal whale wa...
Listing courtesy of Living Maui Real Estate LLC.
PALMS AT WAILEA open-concept 2B|2B fully furnished condo features a private second-floor setting with an expansive double lanai surrounded by lush tropical foliage with a...
Listing courtesy of Compass-W.
Welcome to Grand Champions Unit 151, a beautifully renovated ground-floor one bedroom two bath condominium overlooking the first fairway of the Wailea Blue Golf Course. E...
Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Island Prop(S).
WTIO 620V - Sixth floor Location with terrific ocean views towards the island of Molokai. This 1 bedroom, 1 bath Whaler Time Interval unit is located on the North side of...
Listing courtesy of Keller Williams Realty Maui-L.
Discover the opportunity to build your own Maui retreat in Puamana, a gated 30-acre oceanfront community known for its lush tropical grounds and relaxed island lifestyle....
Listing courtesy of Mark A Marchello Inc.
Oceanfront Oasis: A boutique complex offering a tranquil island lifestyle situated adjacent to Waipuilani County Beach Park. Sold FULLY FURNISHED, TURN-KEY. Fully remodel...
Listing courtesy of Sharissa YL Chun.
Enjoy the expansive ocean view over the tropical landscaping from the living area, large covered lanai and the primary suite of this spacious 1 BD/2BA ground floor unit. ...
Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Island Prop(S).
Hotel-Zoned Opportunity at Kihei Holiday! Discover the potential of this updated, furnished 2-bedroom, 1-bath condo in Kihei. With hotel zoning, this property offers an a...
Listing courtesy of Compass.
Maui Kamaole A-109 stands out for two reasons: a stunning remodel with custom woodworking details and an ocean view from the kitchen, living room, and lanai that very few...
Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Island Prop-Ku.
DIRECT OCEANFRONT LIVING AT HOLOLANI A204! Enjoy spectacular Pacific Ocean and Molokai views, sunsets, and seasonal whale watching from this remodeled 2-bedroom, 2-bath K...
Listing courtesy of Maui Paradise Properties LLC.
Open the door and you are immediately saying "Wow!" This adorable studio has been updated beautifully this year. Ocean view from both inside and out, across from one of...
Listing courtesy of La Costa Realty Hawai'i LLC.
Enjoy the relaxed island lifestyle at Wailea Ekolu #1403, an updated, fully furnished one-bedroom, two-bathroom condo offering ocean views and convenient ground-level liv...
Listing courtesy of Hawaii Life (W).
Beachfront and fully renovated on Sugar Beach, this Hotel zoned 1 bed, 2 bath condo, Unit 308 at Nani Kai Hale, is not affected by Bill 9, offering real peace of mind for...
Listing courtesy of eXp Realty.
Palms at Wailea #1207 offers a rare chance to own a beautifully remodeled, fee simple 2 bedroom, 2 bath residence in one of Wailea’s most coveted communities, at a price ...
Listing courtesy of eXp Realty.
Welcome to Maui Sunset, a highly desirable oceanfront condominium community in the heart of South Maui! This fully furnished 1-bedroom, 2-bathroom condominium offers a lo...
Listing courtesy of Keller Williams Realty Maui-Ki.
Sugar Beach Resort #406 is a pet friendly beachfront oceanview short-term hotel-zoned property located in the middle of the building on the fourth floor. #406 is sold ful...
Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Island Prop(S).
If all YOU crave is spending YOUR days & evenings enjoying sunset, ocean and island views from YOUR slice of Paradise, wait now more! Kuleana 713 is a spacious, 1-bedroom...
Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Island Prop-KP.
The family that has owned 103 since the building opened bought it for its light, and long-time guests still ask for it by name. This ground floor, direct oceanfront 1 bed...
Listing courtesy of Compass-W.
Step off your lanai onto the lawn, past the oceanfront pool, to the water's edge. Unit 102 is a ground floor, direct oceanfront 1 bedroom, 1 bath at Kulakane, a small, lo...
Listing courtesy of Compass-W.
Exceptional Value Alert! Super cute and well kept second floor 1 Bed / 2 Bath unit across the street from Kamaole Beach Park III. Step inside to enjoy the incredible priv...
Listing courtesy of Hawaii Life (W).
Ocean views, refined finishes, and a premier location come together in Whaler at Ka'anapali Beach 757. One back from oceanfront, this seventh-floor, one-bedroom, two-bath...
Listing courtesy of Keller Williams Realty Maui-L.
You will feel right at home in this beautifully updated 1 bed/1 bath, Hotel-zoned, vacation rental with a Maui beach vibe and an amazing Aegean Blue & White decor. There ...
Listing courtesy of Hawaii Life (W).
Whaler Time Interval 461 U is a studio suite with 1 bathroom located on the south side of Tower II. Enjoy the view of Lanai and the majestic Pacific Ocean. The condo is t...
Listing courtesy of Keller Williams Realty Maui-L.
Papakea is iconic 'old Hawaii.' Known for the many amenities that are available to owners and visitors including two separate spacious pool areas with BBQs, two covered c...
Listing courtesy of Keller Williams Realty Maui-L.
Ocean views, glowing West Maui sunsets, and relaxed island living await at Kahana Sunset D7. This remodeled, fully furnished two-bedroom, two-bath townhouse-style condo o...
Listing courtesy of Sullivan Properties Inc.
Opportunity knocks! Here is your chance to have your very own Maui getaway or investment in one of Maui's most popular locations at a great price! This large 818SF- 1BR,2...
Listing courtesy of Romvari Realty Ltd.
Multi-generational enjoyment of this exceptional location, purchased specifically from the developer in 1970. The recent upgrades made in July 2026, include 3 new Split...
Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Island Prop-KP.
Beautifully updated with a generous ocean view. This one bed, 2 bath condo sits in the middle of Maui Kamaole near the lower pool. It was renovated in 2016 with new cabin...
Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Island Prop(S).
This is also listed as Condominium MLS #411087. Alaeloa - A Rare Slice of Old Hawaii Some properties are about the house. Alaeloa is about the lifestyle. Tucked withi...
Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Island Prop(Ka).
Nicely updated 1 bedroom 1 bathroom near the back of the complex within close proximity to the upper pool and BBQ area. Hale Kamaole offers a tennis/pickleball court, 2 p...
Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Island Prop(S).
RARE OPPORTUNITY–LARGEST ONE BEDROOM IN COMPLEX: Prized corner unit with 43 SQUARE FEET MORE than the standard one bedroom at Sugar Beach. Located 3 floors above the poo...
Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Island Prop(S).
Experience effortless indoor-outdoor living at Konea 113, an exceptional ground-floor residence featuring one of Honua Kai’s premier two-bedroom floor plans. With 1,325 s...
Listing courtesy of Living Maui Real Estate LLC.
Experience the beauty of indoor-outdoor Maui living at Konea 222, a second-floor one-bedroom residence distinguished by the largest private lanai in its class and expansi...
Listing courtesy of Living Maui Real Estate LLC.
Welcome to Napili Shores B208, a beautifully situated condominium in one of West Maui’s most desirable resort communities. Enjoy the relaxed Maui lifestyle at Napili Shor...
Listing courtesy of Maui Luxury Realty LLC.
Enjoy stunning ocean views from this beautifully remodeled, hotel-zoned 2-bedroom, 2-bath condominium at Menehune Shores. Unit 421 features tile flooring, updated cabinet...
Listing courtesy of Hawaii Life (W).
Welcome to your Maui getaway at Kamaole Sands, Building 10! This 1 bedroom, 2 bathroom condo has been completely upgraded and designed with comfort and style in mind. One...
Listing courtesy of Hawaii Life (W).
Rarely available and ideally positioned, Maui Hill Unit 36 sits in one of the most coveted spots in the complex, closer to the ocean than any other building on the 12 acr...
Listing courtesy of eXp Realty.
Desirable top-floor unit in Grand Champions, ideally located in Wailea. Featuring high ceilings and an inviting floor plan, this unit offers a bright and comfortable livi...
Listing courtesy of Hawaii 5-0 Properties, Inc..
Kaanapali Shores 738 offers an ocean view from this popular resort. Sandy beach front, zoned Hotel and allows short term vacation rentals. Enjoy the first class amenities...
Listing courtesy of Keller Williams Realty Maui-L.
The Spirit of Hawaii . . . . A timeless work of art blending retro charm with contemporary luxury. This extraordinary Villa brings character to a modern Island setting. T...
Listing courtesy of Compass-W.
Offering tropical resort & golf course (6th fairway of the world renowned Kaanapali Royal (North) Golf Course) views from Paradise, Maui Eldordo H205 is a phenomenally sp...
Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Island Prop-KP.
Aloha and Welcome to Wailea Elua, one of Wailea's top world class premier properties comfortably situated on twenty-five acres with direct beach and ocean access, which i...
Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Island Prop(S).
Rarely available, this direct oceanfront 3-bedroom, 2-bath condominium at Menehune Shores offers an exceptional opportunity to own a piece of paradise on Maui. Enjoy incr...
Listing courtesy of Kumulani Vacations&Realty.
Wailea Elua beachfront estate on the famed Ulua Beach with endless ocean vistas. Spacious, quiet and private - this upgraded Wailea Elua gem is located at the top of this...
Listing courtesy of Century 21 Island Homes.
Enjoy ocean and Molokai views and inviting indoor-outdoor living at Alaeloa 42, a two-bedroom, two-bath duplex in Napili, West Maui. Situated on the uppermost row of this...
Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Island Prop-KP.
Hotel-Zoned Short Term Vacation Rentals Allowed. 2 Bedroom/2 Bathroom located across from Kamaole II Beach Park. This is a top floor unit with garden/mountain views and t...
Listing courtesy of Hawaii Life (W).
Welcome to your dream retreat in Maui, where your senses are filled with the sights and sounds of azure waves caressing the golden sands, and gentle breezes whispering th...
Listing courtesy of Real Broker.
Spectacular, direct ocean front location with a resort style pool and BBQ area. Nicely updated with granite counter tops in the kitchen & guest bath, quartz counter top i...
Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Island Prop(S).
If you love STUNNING ocean views, this is the one you've been waiting for! Currently the only listing in the highly sought-after Ma'alaea Kai is now being offered turnkey...
Listing courtesy of Hawaiian Style Realty LLC.
DOUBLE your outdoor lanai ocean view enjoyment! This is one of the few DOUBLE-LANAI condos in the complex. LOCATION MATTERS! B212 is nestled beside Building A, which bloc...
Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Island Prop(S).
Discover this beautifully remodeled studio unit J-211 at Maui Eldorado, offering stunning views of the golf course. This is a leasehold property in the desirable J buildi...
Listing courtesy of Keller Williams Realty Maui-L.
Discover the art of effortless island living at this beautifully remodeled 1-bedroom, 2-bath end-unit villa at The Ridge at Kapalua, where meticulously maintained tropica...
Listing courtesy of Ridge Realty Rentals LLC.
Prime inner courtyard location with stunning views! Whaler Time Interval 1070 J is a 1 bedroom, 2 bathroom suite with views of Molokai and the tip of Black Rock from the ...
Listing courtesy of Keller Williams Realty Maui-L.
Napili Shores C122 offers an inviting opportunity to own at one of West Maui's most beloved oceanfront destinations-world-renowned Napili Bay. This ground-floor studio en...
Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Island Prop(S).
Experience the very best of Maui’s North Shore in Kuau, where sea turtles and Hawaiian monk seals rest along nearby sandy beaches and every day is shaped by surf, sunshin...
Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Island Prop(S).
Welcome to Kaanapali Shores, West Maui's premier resort on North Kaanapali Beach. Zoned Hotel-Resort, this property has been popular with visitors and residents alike si...
Listing courtesy of Island Sotheby's International Realty(M).
Beautifully remodeled and filled with the relaxed spirit of Wailea, this ground-floor, walk-out residence at Wailea Ekolu offers ocean and sunset views from an elevated s...
Listing courtesy of (W)here Maui Takes You.
Whaler 1165- Hotel Zone!! Magnificent 11th-floor studio with exceptional ocean views with the island of Lanai in the back ground. This unit is classified as a premium uni...
Listing courtesy of Keller Williams Realty Maui-L.
Grand Champions #40 is situated in the highly sought-after Wailea Golf Resort & near the Shops at Wailea & 5 luxury oceanfront Wailea Resorts. This is one of the nicest 2...
Listing courtesy of eXp Realty.
At Polo Beach Club 109, the best part of a Maui day is how easily it unfolds. Open the doors to a generous ground-floor lanai, enjoy your morning coffee among the palms, ...
Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Island Prop(S).
A truly exceptional offering at the world-class Kaanapali Alii, Unit 1-502 is a rare, one-of-a-kind residence. This stunning 1-bedroom plus den, 2-bath condo underwent a ...
Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Island Prop-KP.
This superior unit is located directly across from Charley Young Beach near Kihei's top trending dining and shopping options. Beautifully extensively remodeled and fully...
Listing courtesy of Keller Williams Realty Maui-Ka.
Ground-Floor Oceanfront at Kulakane -- Furnished, Front Desk Managed -- Mornings start with whales and evenings end with sunset over Lanai and Molokai. Unit 112 is a grou...
Listing courtesy of Compass.
Enjoy island living from this top-floor studio at the highly desirable Kihei Bay Surf in North Kihei! Offering a bird’s-eye view and a peekaboo ocean view, this convenien...
Listing courtesy of REMAX Hawaii Maui.
Own a piece of West Maui beachfront at Ka'anapali Shores, where resort living, vacation rental potential, and unforgettable sunsets come together. This move-in-ready one-...
Listing courtesy of Berkshire Hathaway Maui Prop-L.
Opportunity calling at Maui Vista 3-315, a beautifully updated condo offering a refined island retreat with breathtaking views of the majestic West Maui Mountains. This o...
Listing courtesy of Maui Luxury Real Estate LLC.
Welcome to Unit #408 at Lahaina Roads, a rare oceanfront retreat nestled along the shoreline just minutes from the historic heart of Lahaina Town. This fee-simple 1-bedro...
Listing courtesy of Hawaii Life (W).
Maui Sands 6C is a LEASEHOLD, ground floor, 2 bedroom and 1 bathroom condominium located in Honokowai. This ocean front complex offers an in-ground swimming pool, BBQ are...
Listing courtesy of Hawaii Life (L).
Welcome to Maalaea Banyans #408, a charming top-floor retreat at 190 Hauoli Street—your ideal Maui getaway and a flexible vacation-rental investment opportunity. Enjoy th...
Listing courtesy of Compass-W.
Welcome to Papakea Resort C205, a beautifully remodeled one bedroom, one bath oceanfront resort condo where Maui living begins at the front door. A family of green sea tu...
Listing courtesy of Keller Williams Realty Maui-Ki.
Own Your Piece of Paradise at Papakea H103 - Ground Floor, Renovated, and Ready for You! Dreaming of owning a slice of paradise on Maui? Papakea H103 offers the perfect b...
Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Island Prop-KP.
Maui Sunset is a well-maintained complex on the ocean side of South Maui. Easy drive to and from the airport, close to beautiful Maui beaches and everything you need for ...
Listing courtesy of Keller Williams Realty Maui-Ka.
Wake up to sweeping ocean views at Royal Kahana #515, with the Pacific stretching out from the living room, private lanai, and bedroom window. This spacious residence fea...
Listing courtesy of eXp Realty.
Intentionally designed with the comfort and character of a private residence, The Resort at Kapalua Bay is one of Maui’s premier beachfront destinations. Located in one o...
Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Island Prop-KP.
Welcome to Hale Mahina B304, a beautifully remodeled, fully furnished, turnkey oceanfront leasehold condo with direct Pacific Ocean views from the private lanai. Enjoy sp...
Listing courtesy of Keller Williams Realty Maui-Ki.
OCEAN VIEW HOTEL ZONED 2 bedroom updated vacation rental priced to sell, ideally located directly across the street from one of Kihei’s longest beaches. Located on the s...
Listing courtesy of Kokua Realty LLC.
WTIO 719F - Welcome to your dream coastal retreat! This seventh floor, one-bedroom, one-bath unit offers an unparalleled living experience with breathtaking ocean views a...
Listing courtesy of Keller Williams Realty Maui-L.
Welcome to Kamaole Sands 7-304, a 1-bedroom, 2-bathroom condo ideally positioned in the heart of the resort with a serene garden view overlooking the lush, beautifully ma...
Listing courtesy of eXp Realty.
Life is Better with Sandy Toes. Truer words were never spoken. Welcome to Hale Hui Kai unit 104. About 50 paces to the sand and Keawakapu Beach, this popular hotel-zoned ...
Listing courtesy of Hawaii Life (W).
Beautifully updated condo in Maui Kamaole's newest building completed in 2000. Granite counter tops, updated cabinets, porcelain tile and quality carpets are just a few ...
Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Island Prop(S).
The Fee for this unit may be available! Welcome to Kealia 607! This top floor beachfront unit is located on beautiful Sugar Beach where you can stroll for miles on the wh...
Listing courtesy of Hawaii Life (W).
Introducing Ritz Residential Suites 1221-23, a luxurious, generously sized two bedroom/two bath located on the north side of the resort looking towards Honolua Bay and th...
Listing courtesy of Compass-W.
Beautifully renovated and truly turnkey, Maui Vista 2320 is an immaculate 1-bedroom vacation rental in highly desirable, quiet Building 2 - directly across from Charley Y...
Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Island Prop(S).
Exceptional Value! Look no further for an affordable oceanfront condominium. Tastefully remodeled in 2019, this first floor corner unit has a cozy patio and private garde...
Listing courtesy of Island Sotheby's International Realty(L).
Your Dream Home awaits you in the Majestic Kapalua Resort Area at Kapalua Golf Villas. Unit 25T3 is a rare 3 bedroom unit at the Golf Villas.This unit recently received a...
Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Island Prop-KP.
LOCATION, VIEWS & TURNKEY! Spacious one-bedroom, one-bath residence at Hale Kamaole, ideally located directly across the street from beautiful Kamaole Beach III. Enjoy oc...
Listing courtesy of Hawaii Life (W).
STOP SCROLLING — $399,000 AT ROYAL KAHANA. Priced aggressively to sell now, Royal Kahana 1003 is a 10th-floor studio with magnificent views and a compelling opportunity t...
Listing courtesy of Epic Realty LLC.
Unit #203 at Sugar Beach Resort offers a rare opportunity to own a beautifully remodeled unit with a highly desirable location in this popular HOTEL-ZONED beachfront cond...
Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Island Prop(S).
Located in a Hotel/Resort zoned building that allows continued short term rental use, Royal Kahana #314 offers exceptional flexibility along with true oceanfront island l...
Listing courtesy of eXp Realty.
Exceptional rating from guests for this beloved Kihei condo across the street from the ocean! Opportunities like this don’t come around often! Step into the ultimate Kih...
Listing courtesy of Keller Williams Realty Maui-Ka.
Nestled in the heart of Kaanapali, Maui Kai 402 offers breathtaking ocean and outer island views, making it the ultimate Maui retreat for vacationers and investors alike....
Listing courtesy of Maui Real Estate Advisors LLC.
Welcome to this thoughtfully updated and beautifully redesigned 2-bedroom, 1-bath ground floor condo in Kihei Garden Estates! Renovated with stylish finishes and tasteful...
Listing courtesy of Whalers Investment Group LLC.
Ma‘alaea Surf captures the spirit of old Hawai‘i: a low-density oceanfront community of just 59 residences set across more than five beautifully landscaped acres. Its low...
Listing courtesy of Compass-W.
Back On Market! Experience the perfect blend of luxury, comfort, and investment potential at Hokulani 836, a premier 2-bedroom, 2-bath, 1,240 sq. ft. corner unit in the ...
Listing courtesy of Maui Westside Properties.
AT THE TOP! 26T 5-6 is at the top of the golf villas with an extra-large lanai where you can sit and see wonderful sunset views, along with views of the ocean and Molokai...
Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Island Prop-KP.
Completely remodeled and fully furnished 1BR/1BA turnkey condo at Ka’anapali Shores! This immaculate unit has been thoughtfully refreshed from top to bottom with new LVP ...
Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Island Prop-KP.
Opportunity knocks at Grand Champions 122, offering an exceptional opportunity to own in the heart of Wailea at an unbeatable price point. Enjoy beautiful outer-island vi...
Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Island Prop(S).
Experience captivating ocean views from Island Sands 303, where the ever-changing Pacific provides a spectacular backdrop to island living. Watch surfers take on Freight ...
Listing courtesy of Coldwell Banker Island Prop-KP.
Perched on the penthouse floor, Kaanapali Shores #919 offers the perfect blend of breathtaking scenery, island comfort, and the freedom of Fee Simple ownership. This beau...
Listing courtesy of Hawaii Life (L).