The Hawaiian Islands have long been home to grand hotels that disappeared as
tourism patterns shifted and economic challenges mounted. These forgotten gems
are experiencing remarkable transformations, breathing new life into historic
properties and creating fresh opportunities for modern travelers.
These restorations preserve architectural heritage and create sustainable economic
opportunities for local communities while honoring Hawaiian cultural traditions.
Coco Palms Renewal
The legendary Coco Palms Resort on Kauai, famous for Elvis Presley’s ‘Blue
Hawaii,’ has remained shuttered since Hurricane Iniki struck in 1992. The iconic
property’s ongoing $250 million renovation project promises to restore its former
glory while honoring its rich cultural heritage.
The reimagined resort will showcase traditional Hawaiian architecture and sustainable practices. Local cultural practitioners have been instrumental in guiding the preservation of sacred spaces within the property.
Maui Surf Hotel Revival
Once a vibrant hub of 1960s surf culture, the Maui Surf Hotel sat abandoned for
nearly two decades on Kahului Bay. Local developers have transformed the
weathered structure into a modern boutique hotel that pays homage to its surfing
roots.
The restoration maintains the original mid-century modern design while incorporating contemporary amenities. The hotel’s museum corner now displays vintage surfboards and photographs documenting the golden era of Hawaiian surfing.
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Royal Palm Renaissance
The Royal Palm Hotel in Hilo witnessed the gradual decline of the city’s once-
bustling tourist district. This historic property now undergoes an ambitious renovation
that preserves its plantation-style architecture while adding modern luxury touches.
The project represents a significant investment in Hilo’s hospitality renaissance. The
restored gardens feature rare native Hawaiian plants propagated from original
specimens found on the property.
Kona Coast Resurrection
The sprawling Kona Coast Resort complex has been dormant since 2010, but it has
begun an extensive rejuvenation process. The property’s rebirth includes preserving
its distinctive lava rock walls and native gardens while adding sustainable
technologies.
This restoration marks a turning point for the area’s tourism infrastructure. The project has uncovered and preserved ancient Hawaiian petroglyphs discovered during renovation.
Waikiki Pioneer Plaza
The Pioneer Plaza Hotel, once a cornerstone of early Waikiki development, emerges
from decades of neglect. The careful restoration maintains the building’s Art Deco
features while introducing contemporary design elements.
This project demonstrates the potential for blending historic preservation with modern hospitality. Original architectural blueprints from 1928 guided the meticulous restoration of the facade’s ornate details.
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North Shore Legacy
The former Kawela Bay Hotel, abandoned in the 1990s, has been transformed into
an eco-conscious retreat. Its renovation emphasizes sustainable practices and
cultural preservation while providing luxury accommodations.
The property’s rebirth signals a new era for North Shore hospitality. Traditional Hawaiian land management practices now guide the property’s landscaping and coastal conservation efforts.
Molokai Hotel Metamorphosis
The historic Molokai Ranch Hotel returns to life through a community-centered
development approach. Local artisans and cultural practitioners guide the restoration
process, ensuring authentic representation.
The project creates economic opportunities while preserving the island’s unique character. Ancient taro patches discovered on the grounds are being restored as part of the hotel’s cultural education program.
Lanai Coast Rebirth
A forgotten 1970s resort on Lanai’s rugged coastline undergoes an innovative
transformation. The renovation incorporates traditional Hawaiian building methods
and sustainable technologies.
This project represents a balanced approach to development and preservation. The restored property now houses the island’s largest traditional Hawaiian maritime artifacts collection.
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Hamakua Heritage Hotel
The plantation-era Hamakua Coast Hotel rises from decades of deterioration through
careful restoration. Local investors preserve the property’s historic features while
adding modern amenities and sustainable systems.
The project helps revitalize the region’s tourism economy. Former sugar plantation workers have shared their stories to create an immersive historical experience within the hotel.
Maui Upcountry Revival
An abandoned lodge in Maui’s Upcountry region is being renovated into a boutique
mountain retreat. The renovation maintains the property’s rustic charm while
introducing luxury elements and sustainable practices.
This project demonstrates the potential for adaptive reuse in unique locations. The property’s original ranch buildings now house a working farm-to-table restaurant program.
Kohala Gold Coast Return
The once-forgotten Kohala Surf Hotel has transformed into a luxury wellness resort.
The renovation preserves the property’s modernist architecture while incorporating
state-of-the-art sustainability features.
This project establishes new standards for responsible development. The resort’s innovative water conservation system has become a model for sustainable hospitality practices throughout Hawaii.
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Windward Coast Wonder
A neglected 1960s hotel on Oahu’s Windward Coast undergoes an innovative
restoration. The project emphasizes cultural preservation and environmental
stewardship while creating world-class accommodations.
Local communities actively participate in the property’s renaissance. Traditional fishpond restoration has become a centerpiece of the hotel’s cultural preservation efforts.
Volcano Village Vision
The historic Volcano House Hotel emerges from years of uncertainty through careful
restoration. The renovation respects the property’s unique location and cultural
significance while upgrading guest facilities.
This project strengthens Hawaii Volcanoes National Park’s visitor experience. The hotel’s new volcanic activity monitoring station provides guests with real-time geological insights.
Puna Coast Project
An abandoned resort in Puna is rising from decades of tropical growth through
innovative design solutions. The restoration balances modern luxury with
environmental consciousness and cultural sensitivity.
This development creates new opportunities in an often overlooked region. The property’s geothermal features have been integrated into a unique spa experience.
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Waimea Plains Hotel
The Forgotten Waimea Plains Hotel transforms into a distinctive upcountry retreat.
The renovation preserves the building’s plantation architecture while adding
contemporary comforts and sustainable systems.
This project contributes to the region’s growing hospitality sector. The hotel’s restored astronomical observatory continues the area’s long tradition of stargazing.
Legacy of Renewal and Cultural Preservation
These remarkable transformations demonstrate Hawaii’s commitment to preserving
its architectural heritage while meeting modern travelers’ expectations. As these
properties return to their former glory, they create new chapters in Hawaii’s rich
hospitality history while supporting sustainable tourism development.
These projects collectively represent a new model for responsible tourism
development that balances preservation with progress. They ensure that Hawaii’s
hospitality legacy continues to evolve while remaining rooted in its cultural
foundations.
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