IHG ventures into Hawai’i with Kimpton

Image © IHG Hotels & Resorts
Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants is partnering with Kauai’s landmark Coco Palms Resort to establish IHG’s first location in Hawai’i.

Coco Palms, A Kimpton Resort, is anticipated to open in 2026, following a historically sensitive restoration of the original iconic property,

Located in the valley of Wailua, Coco Palms is owned by Reef Capital Partners and will be operated by Highgate

Coco Palms is located close to a variety of natural sights, including Fern Grotto, nearby beaches, hiking trails, and waterfalls as well as helicopter sightseeing, scuba lessons, snorkelling, boating and fishing excursions, and more. 

The resort is also close to Lihue Airport, just five miles away.

Building on history

The resort was known as a premier destination during the golden era of Hollywood, with renowned guests such as Elvis Presley, Rita Hayworth and Gene Autry. Its restoration is being guided by Native Hawaiian advisors within the local community to ensure an authentic, culturally rich experience. 

The restored landmark will be comprised of 350 accommodations spread across three low-rise hotel structures as well as cottages.

The resort will be set on a 15-acre coconut grove, complemented by an onsite spa and three outdoor swimming pools. 

Restaurant and bar concepts will include a rooftop bar, a pool bar as well as a restored shoreline restaurant. 

As with all Kimptons, the resort will also feature perks such as Kimpton Kickstart morning coffee and tea service, Kimpton Social every evening, a “Forgot It? We’ve Got It!” program, in-room yoga mats and pet-friendly policies.

A cultural flagship

Leanne Harwood, SVP, Managing Director for Luxury & Lifestyle Americas at IHG Hotels & Resorts, said: “We are incredibly excited to establish our luxury and lifestyle presence in Hawaii with Coco Palms, A Kimpton Resort.”

“Hawaii beckons travellers seeking both relaxation and discovery, and 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. We’re pleased to partner with Reef Capital Partners, who is committed to being responsible stewards of this historic landmark,” she added. 

Coco Palms will also feature an onsite cultural centre and museum honouring Kaua‘i. As host to exhibits, lectures and activities of cultural significance, it will serve to educate both visitors and residents alike of the surrounding area’s native culture, rich history and flourishing artistic community.

When it opens, Coco Palms will represent the West Coast resort flagship for Kimpton in the Americas. It will join the brand’s growing resort pipeline offering globally, which includes boutique oases such as Kimpton Riyadh in Saudi Arabia, Kimpton FOUR Frankfurt in Germany, Kimpton Teneriffe Brisbane in Australia, Kimpton Raleigh in the United States, as well as Kimpton Rotterdam in The Netherlands, amongst others.

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