For years, I’ve driven past the Coco Palms Resort in Wailua and thought, “why don’t they just put it out of its misery?” What formerly catered to the Hollywood elite (e.g. Frank Sinatra and Elvis Presley), was left an eyesore by 1992’s Hurricane Iniki; the following 24 years of inaction only adding to its dilapidated state. Until now. Finally, this tropical paradise is getting the death – and rebirth it deserves.
Like the Phoenix rising from its ashes, the Coco Palms is undergoing a “selective demolition” and construction process to emerge the new Coco Palms Resort by Hyatt. Certain wooden structures have already been demoed. However, the Queen’s Audience Hall, the parking garage, and select buildings will be salvaged and retrofitted.
Slated to open in 2017, the Coco Palms Resort by Hyatt will be a 350-room resort boasting 12,000 sqft. of retail space, three restaurants, and a cultural center. The final price tag for the restoration of the the Coco Palms Resort by Hyatt is anticipated to be $175M.
The Seashell Restaurant in its current state
The efforts of the Coco Palms Hui LLC, the developer, extend across the highway to the former Seashell Restaurant site, attached to the Wailua Bay View condo complex. Grounds are being cleared in anticipation of its relaunch. Celebrated Hawaii chef Jean-Marie Josselin is rumored to run the Coco Palms Seashell Restaurant once open. (Haven’t been to Josselin’s restaurant, JO2, in Kapaa? Please go there immediately. You’ll thank me.)
Kapaa Resort Area of Wailua Continues to Improve
Improvements to the area are sure to have a positive impact along the nearby Wailua real estate condo market, which is within walking distance of the Coco Palms Resort.
Wailua Bay View #113 (MLS# 289124)
Of the current offerings for sale, the most primed is Wailua Bay View #113, the only condo available in its complex. Oceanfront with coastline views of Wailua Bay and beach access, this 1BD/1BA condo offers its Buyer and future vacation rental guests the advantage of prime location adjacent to the Seashell Restaurant and new Coco Palms Resort by Hyatt, one of Kauai’s newest and luxurious resorts.
Kapaa Bike Path
From the opening of the new Coco Palms Resort by Hyatt and to the on-going expansion of the Kapaa Bike Path (pictured above) to the opening of the boutique Kauai Shores Hotel (also saved from its run-down/former self, the Kauai Sands Hotel) and new oceanside Lava Lava Beach Club restaurant, the Kapaa resort area of Wailua continues to improve.
Leave your opinion here. Please be nice. Your Email address will be kept private, this form is secure and we never spam you.