What Happened to Coco Palms Resort?

By Michael Ferguson

In the 1950s, Coco Palms Resort was a paradise on Earth. Nestled in the heart of Kauai, Hawaii, the resort had everything one could ask for – white sandy beaches, crystal clear water, lush greenery, and a rich cultural history.

It was a favorite among Hollywood celebrities and even hosted Elvis Presley’s famous wedding scene in the movie ‘Blue Hawaii’. However, today it stands in ruins. So what happened to Coco Palms Resort?

History of Coco Palms Resort

Coco Palms Resort was built on an ancient Hawaiian site that once belonged to Kauai’s last reigning queen, Queen Deborah Kapule Kekaihaakulou. The land became a coconut plantation in the early 1900s and was later transformed into the Coco Palms Resort by Lyle Guslander in 1953. The resort had 24 bungalows and 48 rooms with thatched roofs made from coconut fronds.

The Golden Era of Coco Palms Resort

The resort quickly became popular among Hollywood celebrities like Frank Sinatra and Bing Crosby who were lured by its exotic charm. The iconic ‘Blue Hawaii’ starring Elvis Presley was filmed here in 1961 which gave the resort worldwide recognition.

In addition to being a tourist attraction, Coco Palms also played an important role in preserving Hawaiian culture. The resort employed native Hawaiians who performed traditional dances and songs for guests.

The Demise of Coco Palms Resort

Coco Palms Resort suffered several setbacks over the years including damage caused by Hurricane Iniki in 1992. However, it wasn’t until Hurricane Iwa hit Hawaii in 1982 that caused severe damage to the property.

Despite efforts to restore the resort after Hurricane Iniki, it never reopened its doors due to disputes between different parties over ownership rights.

The once-beautiful resort now stands in ruins, with the only signs of life being the occasional tour group that comes to visit and take pictures.

The Future of Coco Palms Resort

The future of Coco Palms Resort is uncertain. For years, there have been talks of redevelopment and restoration, but nothing has come to fruition. In 2018, there were plans to rebuild the resort as a Hyatt hotel but construction has yet to begin due to legal issues.

Regardless of what happens, Coco Palms Resort will always hold a special place in the hearts of those who remember its golden era. Its legacy will continue to live on through movies and photos, reminding us of its once-beautiful existence.

  • Conclusion:

Coco Palms Resort was a symbol of Hawaiian culture and natural beauty. Its demise was a loss not just for Kauai but for the world. While its future remains uncertain, we can only hope that one day it will be restored to its former glory and continue to inspire generations to come.