WAIMEA, Hawaii -- Waimea Plantation Cottages on Kauai is in the
midst of alterations, plans and possibilities that could
significantly increase the size of the resort while providing an
economic boost to the island.
Aston Hotels & Resorts Hawaii, a subsidiary of ResortQuest
International, manages the property, which comprises 58 cottages
scattered over a 27-acre coconut grove.
The resort and the 600-acre parcel on which it sits are owned by
the Hawaii-based Faye family. Recently, zoning was approved to
allow a total of 250 units as well as the development of a golf
course and a marina.
The resort also will be allowed to expand a spa completed a year
ago.
Kelvin Bloom, president and chief operating officer of Aston
Hotels & Resorts Hawaii, said the project is still "conceptual
and quite fluid."
Though he could not quantify the expense, he said "it could
range anywhere from eight digits to nine digits. ... It represents
a very significant development and very significant introduction of
capital."
But no matter what is done or when it is completed, those
involved insist they will maintain the integrity of the "old
Hawaiian plantation atmosphere."
"It's really important to keep the same ambience," said Paul
Schow, general manager of Waimea Plantation Cottages.
"Nothing will be higher than two stories. And it has to fit the
property that we already have. It will kind of melt into the
[current] property."
Indeed, the resort maintains its authenticity through the Faye
family's efforts. When a run-down plantation house is ready to be
torn down -- anywhere on Kauai -- they purchase it and carry it
away on a flatbed truck, then place it in their coconut grove and
begin the restoration process.
Schow estimated that a minimum of $150,000 is put into each one.
To this day, many cottages display the nameplate of the last family
that resided there.
This is the ambience the Fayes and Aston do not want to change.
But they do want to keep up with the growing demand for spa
amenities and Kauai's emphasis on health and wellness.
Last year, one cottage was converted into the spa, and a
whirlpool was added. A sauna appears to be next on the list, said
Schow.
One of the development ideas is a public and private marina that
would be developed in Kikiaola Harbor.
Currently, two companies have permits to operate out of the
harbor, according to Schow, so a limited number of excursions might
be possible.
Other plans include refurbishing two more multibedroom units
like the Kruse house.
Completed in September, the five-bedroom cottage has a common
kitchen and living room suitable for corporate meetings or family
reunions. But the units also can operate individually,
bed-and-breakfast style.
As an incentive to agents, Waimea Plantation Cottages is in line
with all Aston Hawaii properties in offering 10% commission across
the board, in addition to 50% off the rack rate for travel
professionals who visit.
For additional information, call (808) 338-1625 or visit www.waimea-plantation.com.