We also checked into the Pono Kai on Jan. 17th. Our first night was an add-on for $185/night incl all taxes. The only unit available was what they call a mini-suite. It was actually a small one bedroom with full appliances in a smaller version. Limited kitchen counter space but it was better than we had expected. The unit was fully renovated and was in the K building (K107), right next to housekeeping. It was very noisy with loud staff congregating at 7 a.m. so I wouldn’t recommend this unit for that reason but I’m not an early riser.
On the 18th we moved to a 2 bedroom that was a last-minute rental through HTSE. We were assigned to a renovated ocean front unit in Building B on the top floor. We didn’t request anything so I have no idea how they assign their units but we are very happy with our unit and the resort in general.