Celebrating Culture & Creating Community

The Restoration of Coco Palms

Our Mission

To perpetuate Coco Palms’ legacy of sharing the Hawaiian culture.

Nestled at the base of Wai‘ale‘ale, the piko of Kaua‘i , along the shores of Wailua. Steeped in rich natural resources, ancient and revered Hawaiian oral traditions, storied places and vibrant glimpses of days not so long ago. Coco Palms has shared Wailua with the world. A place where famous voyagers such as Mo‘ikeha, La‘amaikahiki, Hi‘iakaikopoliopele came ashore upon Kaua‘i nei. Where the deep sounding bell stones and beautiful rainbows would mark the birth of gods. Past, present, future; Wailua was home to high chiefs, Queen Deborah Kapule and King Kaumualii.

Coco Palms honors the great antiquity of Wailua by re-discovering, protecting, and celebrating this historic place through educating and reconnecting the global community to the legacy and spirit of this land.

COMMITMENT TO CULTURAL PRESERVATION

At Reef Capital Partners, we recognize the immense responsibility we have in restoring the historic Coco Palms resort. Having listened to the community, we are committed to a restoration process that respects the land and balances the needs and concerns of Kauaʻi’s residents. We are truly humbled to finally fulfill the promise of restoring Coco Palms after three decades of broken commitments by previous owners. Our dedication to this project reflects our respect for the cultural heritage and our commitment to creating lasting benefits for the local community.

Minimizing Ground Disturbance

Construction will mostly focus within the footprint of existing structures and paved areas to minimize subsurface activities.

Job Creation

During renovation and demolition, approximately 300 direct local jobs are expected to be generated. Once operational, Coco Palms is expected to employ more than 400 full-time local employees

Cultural Advisory Committee

The Coco Palms team (comprised of respected Native Hawaiian leaders) has revived the Cultural Advisory Committee To help guide the restoration activities.

Economic Benefits

Over $400 million in direct investments will be made by Reef Capital in construction and restoration alone. Once operational, the resort is expected to generate millions annually within the local economy.

Protective Measures, Cultural & Archeological Monitoring

Protective measures and cultural/archeological monitoring will be implemented throughout demolition and reconstruction of Coco Palms.

Community Benefits

Reef Capital has made contributions of $50,000, respectively, to assist the County in preserving the cultural and historic significance of Wailua/ Waipouli and to help with “placemaking” efforts.

Cultural Center

A vital component of the project will be a cultural center to honor the history of Coco Palms. Developed by Reef Capital but under guidance of the Coco Palms Cultural Advisory Committee as a community benefit for locals and visitors.

Community Contributions

We’ve invested significant resources, contributing hundreds of thousands of dollars toward restoration efforts and county initiatives to benefit the community of Kauaʻi.

Traffic Improvement Efforts

In support of safer and more efficient travel, we donated land to enable the expansion of Kuhio Highway to two lanes.

Coco Palms Connects with the Community

04 CP-Canoe in Lagoon Lobby Background (1)

Coco Palms is more than a restoration—it’s about honoring the island’s history and working together with the Kauaʻi community. From preserving a cherished historic landmark to fostering local partnerships and maintaining shared spaces, we’re committed to respecting and supporting what makes Kauaʻi special.

Learn more about our collaboration with the community and the steps we’re taking to reflect your voices and values.

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The Enduring Legacy of Coco Palms Resort

Coco Palms Resort, a site steeped in Hawaiian history and resilience, has witnessed numerous transformations – from its early days celebrating and introducing the Hawaiian culture and people to the world, through its peak as a glamorous hotel frequented by celebrities, to its battle for revival after being devastated by Hurricane Iniki in 1992. Now, under new ownership, it embarks on a hopeful path toward restoration.

our history