Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants is partnering with Kauai’s landmark Coco Palms Resort, establishing the first location in Hawaii for IHG Hotels & Resorts’ fast-growing luxury and lifestyle portfolio.
Following a historically sensitive restoration of the iconic property, Coco Palms, A Kimpton Resort, will once again welcome travelers. The transformed resort is expected to open in 2026.
Located in the valley of Wailua along Kauai’s shoreline, Coco Palms is owned by Reef Capital Partners and will be operated by Highgate. 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.
In 1992, Hurricane ‘Iniki struck Kaua‘i and caused significant damage to the famed property, which has remained untouched and in a state of neglect, until now. Beyond preserving the historical and cultural integrity of the land, Coco Palms will also feature an onsite cultural center and museum honoring 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.
The meticulous restoration of Coco Palms is being guided by Native Hawaiian advisors within the local community. The restored landmark will offer 350 thoughtfully designed accommodations spread across three low-rise hotel structures as well as cottages.
Other amenities, experiences and perks at Coco Palms will include:
- access to the resort’s 15-acre coconut grove;
- an onsite spa;
- three outdoor swimming pools;
- the continuation of a celebrated Coco Palms tradition – the evening torch-lighting ceremony;
- 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.
“We are incredibly excited to establish our luxury and lifestyle presence in Hawaii with Coco Palms, A Kimpton Resort. Hawaii beckons travelers 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,” said Leanne Harwood, senior vice-president, managing director for Luxury & Lifestyle Americas at IHG Hotels & Resorts.
Jon Day, chief financial officer at Reef Capital Partners, expanded: “It’s a true privilege to bring the first Kimpton resort to Hawai‘i. IHG shares our belief that the history and culture of this site, especially the pre-contact history, is what distinguishes Coco Palms from other properties and makes it such a magical place. They’re just as committed as we are to preserving its legacy and sharing it with the world. I can think of no better brand to fulfill this vision.”
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 offering globally, which includes properties such as Kimpton Seafire Resort + Spa in Grand Cayman, Kimpton Grand Roatan Resort & Spa in Honduras’ Bay Islands, Kimpton Mas Olas Resort & Spa and Kimpton Aluna Tulum in Mexico, Kimpton Aysla Mallorca in Spain as well as Kimpton Kitalay Samui in Thailand, amongst others.