What Happened to Makena Beach Resort?

By Alice Nichols

Makena Beach Resort was an iconic hotel in Maui, Hawaii, that closed its doors in 2016. The resort was situated on one of the most beautiful beaches on the island and had been a popular vacation spot for families and couples for decades.

History of Makena Beach Resort

The Makena Beach Resort opened in 1986 as the Maui Prince Hotel and was owned by the Japanese conglomerate, Seibu Corporation. The hotel underwent a name change in 1999 when it was acquired by Prince Resorts Hawaii. The new owners invested millions of dollars in renovations to upgrade the property and restore its glory.

The Downfall of Makena Beach Resort

Despite its prime location and luxurious amenities, Makena Beach Resort struggled to maintain profitability in the highly competitive hospitality industry. In 2010, the hotel filed for bankruptcy due to mounting debts owed to its creditors. After years of legal battles and attempts at restructuring, the property was sold to ATC Makena Holdings LLC in 2014.

The Closure of Makena Beach Resort

Two years later, ATC Makena Holdings LLC announced that they would be closing down Makena Beach Resort permanently. This decision came as a shock to many loyal guests who had enjoyed their vacations at the hotel over the years.

  • The closure was attributed to several factors including:
    • Competition from newer hotels with more modern amenities.
    • A decline in tourism due to global economic factors.
    • The high cost of maintaining an aging property.

The Future of Makena Beach Resort

There have been various rumors regarding potential buyers interested in purchasing the property and reopening it as a new resort. However, as of 2021, no concrete plans have been announced.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Makena Beach Resort was a beloved hotel that played a significant role in Maui’s tourism industry for many years. Its closure was a sad moment for the local community and travelers who had made memories there. Despite its downfall, the legacy of Makena Beach Resort lives on through the memories of those who were fortunate enough to experience its beauty and hospitality.