Kiawah Resort is a luxurious destination located in South Carolina, USA. It encompasses a beautiful beachfront setting, world-class golf courses, and top-notch amenities.
But have you ever wondered who owns Kiawah Resort? Let’s dive into the history and ownership of this exquisite resort.
The Early Days of Kiawah Island
Kiawah Island was originally inhabited by Native Americans for thousands of years before European settlers arrived in the late 1600s. It was primarily used for farming and timber harvesting until the 1950s when a developer named C.C. Royal began to transform the island into a resort destination.
The Founding of Kiawah Island Golf Resort
In 1974, Royal sold Kiawah Island to Kuwait Investment Company, who then sold it to Kuwait Petroleum Corporation in 1976. The corporation recognized the island’s potential as a golf destination and hired Gary Player to design the first golf course on the island.
In 1979, Kiawah Island Golf Resort was founded by Kuwait Petroleum Corporation with the goal of creating a world-class golf destination. The resort opened in 1982 with one golf course, The Ocean Course, which would later host multiple PGA Championships and even a Ryder Cup.
The Changing Ownership of Kiawah Island Golf Resort
Over the years, ownership of Kiawah Island Golf Resort changed hands several times. In 1988, it was sold to an investment group led by Charles P. Darby III and William Goodwin Jr., who expanded the resort with additional courses and amenities.
In 1993, Japanese businessman Minoru Isutani purchased Kiawah Island Golf Resort for $300 million but sold it back to Darby and Goodwin just four years later for only $150 million due to financial troubles.
In 2004, Darby sold his stake in the resort to Goodwin who became the sole owner of Kiawah Island Golf Resort. Goodwin and his family have since maintained ownership of the resort and have continued to expand and improve it over the years.
The Current State of Kiawah Island Golf Resort
Today, Kiawah Island Golf Resort is a premier destination for golfers, families, and anyone looking for a luxurious getaway. It boasts five championship golf courses, including The Ocean Course which has been ranked as one of the top courses in the world.
The resort also features luxurious accommodations, including villas, private homes, and The Sanctuary Hotel which offers stunning ocean views and world-class amenities.
The Legacy of Kiawah Island Golf Resort
Kiawah Island Golf Resort has come a long way since its founding in 1979. From humble beginnings as a single golf course to a world-renowned destination with five championship courses and top-notch amenities, it’s clear that the resort has left its mark on the world of golf and luxury travel.
In conclusion, William Goodwin Jr. is the current owner of Kiawah Island Golf Resort. However, it’s important to remember the many individuals and corporations who have played a role in shaping this incredible destination over the years.