Mauna Kea Beach Resort is a luxurious hotel located on the Kohala Coast of the Big Island of Hawaii. The resort is known for its stunning views of the Pacific Ocean, world-class golf courses, and impeccable service. However, many people are curious about who owns this iconic resort.
The History of Mauna Kea Beach Resort
Mauna Kea Beach Resort was originally built in 1965 by Laurance S. Rockefeller, a member of one of America’s wealthiest families. Rockefeller was an avid conservationist and believed that Hawaii’s natural beauty should be preserved for future generations.
He purchased land on the Kohala Coast and hired renowned architect Charles W. Watson to design a hotel that would blend into the landscape. The result was Mauna Kea Beach Hotel, which quickly became one of Hawaii’s most popular destinations.
In 1994, the hotel was sold to Tokyo-based Kokusai Kogyo Co., Ltd., but it continued to operate under the Mauna Kea Beach Hotel name. In 2007, the hotel underwent a $150 million renovation and reopened as Mauna Kea Beach Resort.
The Current Owners of Mauna Kea Beach Resort
Today, Mauna Kea Beach Resort is owned by Prince Resorts Hawaii, a division of Prince Hotels & Resorts based in Japan. Prince Resorts Hawaii also owns two other luxury hotels on Oahu: Hawaii Prince Hotel Waikiki and Golf Club and Hapuna Beach Prince Hotel.
Prince Hotels & Resorts was founded in 1956 by His Majesty Prince Takamatsu, who was passionate about promoting tourism in Japan. Today, the company operates more than 45 hotels around the world.
The Future of Mauna Kea Beach Resort
Mauna Kea Beach Resort has been closed since March 2020 due to the COVID-19 pandemic but plans to reopen soon with new safety measures in place. The resort has also announced plans for a $100 million renovation that will include updates to guest rooms, restaurants, and public spaces.
The renovation will be led by Hawaii-based architecture and design firm WCIT Architecture, which also oversaw the 2007 renovation. The goal is to preserve the resort’s iconic mid-century modern architecture while updating it for modern travelers.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Mauna Kea Beach Resort is owned by Prince Resorts Hawaii, a division of Prince Hotels & Resorts based in Japan. The resort has a rich history dating back to its construction by Laurance S. Rockefeller in 1965 and has undergone several renovations over the years. With plans for a new renovation underway, the resort is poised to remain one of Hawaii’s premier luxury destinations for years to come.