Kimpton is taking over a historic resort in Hawaii

14.06.2024 - 15:55 / thepointsguy.com / Elvis Presley

Coco Palms Resort on the Hawaiian island of Kauai is finally getting a new life as a Kimpton resort participating in IHG One Rewards.

Since 1992, the famed resort has sat untouched and in disrepair after being significantly damaged during Hurricane Iniki. Before that, the hotel was a hot spot for celebrities back in its heyday, hosting the likes of Elvis Presley, Gene Autry and Rita Hayworth.

Now, the property will transform into Coco Palms, A Kimpton Resort, the first property in IHG's luxury and lifestyle collection in Hawaii. It is set to open in 2026.

Reef Capital Partners owns the dilapidated resort, which has remained essentially untouched for over 30 years, according to Hawaii's KHON-TV. The owners reportedly plan to spend $400 million to repair it.

Once opened, the fresh resort will feature 350 rooms in three different low-rise buildings and a redesign "guided by Native Hawaiian advisors within the local community," according to a statement from IHG. This will ensure that "guests are welcomed with an authentic, culturally rich experience."

Once restored and renovated, Coco Palms will offer three swimming pools and various restaurants and bars, including a rooftop bar and a pool bar. The original hotel's evening torch-lighting ceremony will also return after three decades.

Additionally, the resort will have an on-site cultural center and museum that celebrates the island of Kauai and its history and traditions through special exhibits, lectures, activations and other educational experiences.

"Hawaii beckons travelers seeking both relaxation and discovery," Leanne Harwood, IHG's senior vice president and managing director for luxury and lifestyle in the Americas, said in the statement. "This wholly reimagined resort will welcome not only visitors but also the local community, with unique, culturally respectful experiences all within an inspiring boutique luxury setting."

Once open, Coco Palms will serve as the "west coast resort flagship" and join a series of Kimpton-branded resorts around the world, including properties in Thailand, Spain and the Caribbean.

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