Kauai, Hawaii — Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants, the luxury lifestyle brand under IHG Hotels & Resorts, has announced its first property in Hawaii with the redevelopment of the iconic Coco Palms Resort on Kauai. The news was shared on Wednesday, marking a significant milestone for the company.
"We are incredibly excited to establish our luxury and lifestyle presence in Hawaii with Coco Palms, A Kimpton Resort," stated Leanne Harwood, IHG’s Senior Vice President and Managing Director for Luxury and Lifestyle in the Americas. She emphasized the resort’s blend of relaxation and discovery, aiming to offer unique, culturally respectful experiences for both visitors and the local community in a boutique luxury setting. Harwood also expressed enthusiasm for the partnership with Reef Capital Partners, praising their commitment to preserving the historic landmark.
The original Coco Palms Resort, a famed destination during Hollywood’s golden era with guests like Elvis Presley, Rita Hayworth, and Gene Autry, ceased operations in 1992 after being devastated by Hurricane Iniki. Reef Capital Partners acquired the property in 2022 and plans to invest over $400 million into its redevelopment, targeting a grand opening in 2026. Highgate will manage the new resort.
Situated in the lush Wailua Valley along Kauai's coastline, the redeveloped Coco Palms will feature 350 accommodations, including hotel rooms and cottages, distributed across three low-rise structures. Renderings of the new design promise a revitalized yet respectful homage to the original resort’s legacy.
As with other Kimpton properties, the Coco Palms Resort will offer signature amenities such as the Kimpton Kickstart morning coffee and tea service, Kimpton Social evening events, the "Forgot It? We've Got It!" program, in-room yoga mats, and pet-friendly policies.
The addition of Coco Palms expands Kimpton's global portfolio of resorts, which includes properties in Grand Cayman, Honduras, Mexico, Spain, and Thailand. This new venture signifies Kimpton’s commitment to bringing its distinctive luxury and lifestyle brand to Hawaii, promising a rejuvenated and culturally rich experience for all who visit.
