Kimpton Hotels & Restaurants announced its partnership with Kauai’s landmark Coco Palms Resort.
This collaboration establishes the first location in Hawaii for IHG Hotels & Resorts’ fast-growing luxury and lifestyle portfolio. Following a historically sensitive restoration, Coco Palms, A Kimpton Resort, will become an inspiring tropical retreat for travelers and the Kauai community. The transformed resort is anticipated to open in 2026.
Located amidst breathtaking natural surroundings in the verdant valley of Wailua, Coco Palms is owned by Reef Capital Partners and will be operated by Highgate. The resort was a premier destination during the golden era of Hollywood, hosting renowned guests like Elvis Presley, Rita Hayworth, and Gene Autry.
Its meticulous restoration is being guided by Native Hawaiian advisors to ensure guests experience an authentic, culturally rich stay. The restored landmark will feature 350 thoughtfully designed accommodations across three low-rise hotel structures and cottages.
The resort will offer an array of amenities for relaxation and exploration. Guests can enjoy the resort’s 15-acre coconut grove, perfect for meditation, movie nights, wedding ceremonies, and more. Those seeking calm can visit the onsite spa or swim in one of the three outdoor pools. Unique restaurant and bar concepts include a rooftop bar, a pool bar, and a restored shoreline restaurant.
Guests can also enjoy the traditional evening torch-lighting ceremony. Additional perks include Kimpton Kickstart morning coffee and tea service, Kimpton Social every evening, the “Forgot It? We’ve Got It!” program, in-room yoga mats, and pet-friendly policies.
In 1992, Hurricane ‘Iniki caused significant damage to the famed property, which remained untouched until now. Beyond preserving the historical and cultural integrity of the land, Coco Palms will feature an onsite cultural center and museum honoring Kauai. This center will host exhibits, lectures, and activities of cultural significance, educating visitors and residents about the area’s native culture, rich history, and artistic community.
With its expansive rainforests and deep valleys, Kaua‘i is often referred to as the “Garden Isle” and travelers to the island can discover its natural beauty in countless ways. The 20-mile-long Wailua River, adjacent to Coco Palms, flows past lush tropical forests and cascading waterfalls, making it a paradise for kayakers. Guests can journey by boat to the serene Fern Grotto, a famed geological wonder formed millions of years ago that features a natural lava rock cavern. Visitors can also enjoy the nearby beaches, hiking trails, waterfalls as well as helicopter sightseeing, scuba lessons, snorkeling, boating and fishing excursions, and more. Additionally, guests to the resort will appreciate its close proximity to Lihue Airport, just five miles away.
When it opens, Coco Palms will represent the west coast resort flagship for Kimpton in the Americas.
