Princeville Resort was once a luxurious destination for travelers seeking an unforgettable vacation in Hawaii. However, the resort abruptly closed its doors in 2020, leaving many people wondering why such a popular tourist spot would shut down. In this article, we will explore the reasons behind the closure of Princeville Resort.
History of Princeville Resort
The Princeville Resort was originally built in 1985 and quickly became a favorite among tourists thanks to its stunning location on Kauai’s north shore. The resort featured breathtaking views of Hanalei Bay and the Makana Mountain Ridge and offered guests a wide range of amenities, including golf courses, swimming pools, and spa services.
Over the years, the resort underwent several changes in ownership and underwent extensive renovations to keep up with the competition. Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide acquired the property in 2016 and rebranded it as The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas.
Reasons for Closure
Despite its popularity among tourists, The Westin Princeville Ocean Resort Villas struggled financially. The resort faced several challenges that ultimately led to its closure.
1. Natural Disasters
Kauai is known for its natural beauty but is also prone to natural disasters like hurricanes and floods. In 2018, heavy rainfall caused severe flooding on Kauai’s north shore, including Hanalei Bay where Princeville Resort was located. The flood damage was extensive and forced many businesses to close temporarily while undergoing repairs.
Related Article: How Natural Disasters Affect Hawaii’s Tourism Industry
2. Competition
Hawaii is home to some of the world’s most luxurious resorts, making it challenging for smaller properties like Princeville to compete. The resort faced stiff competition from nearby properties like St. Regis Princeville Resort and Grand Hyatt Kauai Resort & Spa, which offered similar amenities but had more extensive marketing budgets.
3. COVID-19 Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic hit the tourism industry hard, and Princeville Resort was no exception. The resort closed temporarily in March 2020 due to government-mandated shutdowns aimed at slowing the spread of the virus. However, the prolonged closure caused significant financial losses, making it difficult for the property to recover.
What’s Next for Princeville Resort?
As of now, it is unclear what will happen to Princeville Resort. The property’s owners have not announced any plans for reopening or selling the property. However, there is speculation that a new owner may purchase the property and renovate it.
Regardless of what happens next, one thing is sure – Princeville Resort will always hold a special place in the hearts of those who experienced its beauty and luxury before its closure.
- Did you ever stay at Princeville Resort? Share your experience with us in the comments below!
- Do you think another owner can revive the resort and bring back its glory? Let us know your thoughts.
Conclusion
Princeville Resort was once a beloved destination for travelers seeking a luxurious Hawaiian vacation. However, a combination of natural disasters, competition from larger resorts, and financial losses due to COVID-19 led to its closure in 2020. While it is uncertain what will happen to the property moving forward, many people hope that Princeville Resort will once again welcome guests looking for an unforgettable Hawaiian experience.