Nestled in the heart of Kauai, Hawaii, Coco Palms Resort stands as a testament to the island’s rich cultural heritage and natural beauty. Although it has been closed for years, this iconic resort still holds a special place in the hearts of those who have visited or dreamed of visiting. In this article, we’ll explore the history of Coco Palms Resort, its significance in Hawaiian culture, the events that led to its closure, and the ongoing efforts to restore this beloved landmark.
The Birth of Coco Palms Resort
Coco Palms Resort was established in 1953 by Grace Buscher Guslander, a visionary hotelier who saw the potential of creating a luxurious retreat on the island of Kauai. Located in Wailua, a sacred site with deep cultural significance to Native Hawaiians, the resort quickly became a popular destination for travelers seeking an authentic Hawaiian experience. The lush grounds, lined with towering coconut palms, were complemented by the resort’s unique architectural style, which blended traditional Hawaiian elements with mid-century modern design.
The resort’s centerpiece was the Royal Coconut Grove, a 31-acre grove of coconut palms planted by Hawaiian kings centuries ago. This sacred site was believed to be a place where the spirits of the Hawaiian chiefs (ali’i) resided, making it an important location for cultural ceremonies and rituals. The resort’s design was carefully crafted to honor this heritage, incorporating traditional Hawaiian motifs and structures, such as thatched-roof bungalows and tiki torches.
Coco Palms in Popular Culture
Coco Palms Resort gained international fame in the 1960s when it was featured in several Hollywood films. The most famous of these was the 1961 classic “Blue Hawaii,” starring Elvis Presley. The film’s wedding scene, set in the resort’s picturesque lagoon, became an iconic moment in cinematic history and cemented Coco Palms’ status as a symbol of Hawaiian paradise.
The resort continued to attract celebrities and high-profile guests throughout the 1960s and 1970s. It became known as a place where the rich and famous could escape the pressures of Hollywood and enjoy the serenity of the Hawaiian islands. This era marked the peak of Coco Palms’ popularity, with its luxurious accommodations and unparalleled service setting a standard for the hospitality industry.
The Decline and Closure of Coco Palms Resort
In 1992, Coco Palms Resort was severely damaged by Hurricane Iniki, the most powerful hurricane to ever hit Hawaii. The resort’s buildings, including its iconic lagoon and bungalows, were left in ruins. Despite efforts to rebuild, the resort was never able to fully recover from the devastation. The combination of the extensive damage and the high cost of restoration led to the resort’s closure in 1992.
For years, the abandoned resort became a haunting reminder of what once was. The overgrown grounds and decaying structures stood in stark contrast to the vibrant, bustling resort of the past. While the resort remained closed, it continued to capture the imagination of those who remembered its former glory. Visitors would often stop by the site to catch a glimpse of the remnants of Coco Palms, a place where history and legend intertwined.
Efforts to Restore Coco Palms Resort
Over the years, there have been numerous attempts to restore and reopen Coco Palms Resort. Various developers have proposed plans to bring the resort back to life, with the goal of preserving its historic significance while modernizing its facilities. However, these efforts have faced challenges, including legal disputes, financial difficulties, and concerns about the impact of development on the surrounding environment and cultural sites.
In recent years, there has been renewed interest in restoring Coco Palms Resort, with several projects in the works aimed at reviving this iconic destination. These restoration efforts are focused on maintaining the resort’s historical integrity, including the preservation of the Royal Coconut Grove and other culturally significant features. The goal is to create a sustainable and respectful development that honors the legacy of Coco Palms while providing a modern, luxurious experience for future guests.
One of the key challenges in restoring Coco Palms Resort is balancing the desire to preserve its historical and cultural significance with the need for modern amenities and infrastructure. Developers are working closely with local communities and cultural experts to ensure that the restoration respects the traditions and values of the Hawaiian people. This includes efforts to incorporate traditional Hawaiian practices and materials into the design and construction of the resort.
The Cultural Significance of Coco Palms Resort
Coco Palms Resort is more than just a hotel; it is a symbol of the rich cultural heritage of Kauai and the Hawaiian islands. The resort’s location in Wailua, a place of deep spiritual significance, has made it an important site for the preservation and celebration of Hawaiian culture. The Royal Coconut Grove, in particular, is a sacred space that has been used for generations for religious ceremonies and cultural practices.
The restoration of Coco Palms Resort is seen by many as an opportunity to reconnect with Hawaii’s past and to promote the preservation of its unique cultural traditions. The resort’s reopening could serve as a platform for educating visitors about the history and significance of the Wailua area, as well as the broader cultural heritage of the Hawaiian people.
In addition to its cultural importance, Coco Palms Resort has also played a significant role in the development of Hawaii’s tourism industry. The resort’s success in the 1950s and 1960s helped to establish Hawaii as a premier travel destination, attracting visitors from around the world. The legacy of Coco Palms continues to influence the hospitality industry in Hawaii, with many modern resorts drawing inspiration from its design and philosophy.
The Future of Coco Palms Resort
As of now, the future of Coco Palms Resort remains uncertain. While there is hope that the resort will one day be restored to its former glory, the challenges facing the project are significant. The cost of restoration, combined with the complexities of navigating legal and cultural issues, has made the process slow and difficult. However, there is a strong desire among many to see Coco Palms reopened, not only as a luxury resort but as a living monument to Hawaii’s cultural heritage.
If the restoration of Coco Palms Resort is successful, it could once again become a symbol of Hawaiian paradise, drawing visitors from around the world to experience its unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. The resort’s reopening would be a significant milestone in the ongoing efforts to preserve and promote Hawaii’s cultural heritage, providing a space where the past and present can come together in harmony.
