China Oceanwide has entered into a management agreement today (Dec 16) with subsidiaries of Kerzner International Holdings Limited to open a new Atlantis resort in Ko Olina on O’ahu in Hawaii.
The development, which will span 642 acres on the white sand beaches of the west coast of O’ahu, will feature approximately 800 luxurious guest rooms and suites, as well as approximately 524 residences.
This will be the first Atlantis resort in the United States and Kerzner says it has plans to continue to grow and develop the Atlantis brand globally.
“Atlantis resorts are iconic entertainment destinations that significantly contribute to the surrounding community, and Hawaii will be no exception,” commented Jean-Gabriel Pérès, President and Chief Executive Officer, Kerzner International.
“Ko Olina is an incredible project with exceptional partners in global leaders China Oceanwide and The Resort Group.
“Atlantis will astonish and amaze, as well as celebrate the history and culture of Hawaii. An unsurpassed location will provide endless wonders, with its magnificent sense of discovery, whilst also pioneering previously unseen experiences. I am proud we are bringing Atlantis, a must-see resort, to O’ahu.”
Overlooking both the stunning Honu and Kohola Lagoons, Atlantis will offer a sense of awe-inspiring discovery, encompassing over 26 acres of unparalleled excitement and larger than life experiences, revolutionary water play in Aquaventure Waterpark, The Ambassador Lagoon and The Lost Chambers Aquarium and incredible dining experiences.
“Oceanwide is honored to partner with The Resort Group and Kerzner in bringing one of the world’s most prestigious and quality resorts – Atlantis – to the state of Hawai‘i. We believe strongly that Atlantis will bolster the already strong tourism market, increasing visitor spending and adding much-needed hotel rooms to the island,” said Steven Wang, senior vice president, Oceanwide Resort Paradise HI LLC.
“As the first of several major projects Oceanwide is introducing to Hawai‘i, we are committed to collaborating with our partners and becoming an active, long-term contributor to the local community through our developments.”
Kerzner says guests and residents will be able to enjoy a variety of unique amenities, from private gardens and private pools to a variety of cutting-edge experiences to the ultimate Beach Club. Luxury retail boutiques will be curated to offer a wide and interesting selection for shopping pleasure in Ko Olina.
The resort will also house an indulgent Spa, introducing traditional and holistic practices fused with modern spa therapies, as well as a state-of-the-art fitness centre. Younger guests will experience their own adventures, from discovering exotic marine life, to culinary lessons, to the latest innovations in technology. In addition, event space will be available for both large and small gatherings, whether for business or for pleasure.
“Hawaii is the perfect location for our next Atlantis destination resort. This resort is set to quickly become a new landmark in Hawaii and will introduce the fun, interactive entertainment experiences at the heart of the Atlantis philosophy,” said Serge Zaalof, Chief Operating Officer, Atlantis Resorts.
“I am thrilled that we are able to continue to innovate on the Atlantis adventure and we are committed to offering unprecedented experiences to resorts guests, residents and visitors alike.”
The addition of Atlantis will further position Ko Olina as a premier mixed-use destination offering a sophisticated collection of upscale hotels, luxury resort residences, fine dining, alongside four crescent beach lagoons. Ko Olina, or “Place of Joy,” spans 642 acres on the island of O’ahu that was once a retreat for Hawaiian royalty and features a unique ocean coastline with white-sand beaches, walking trails and classic Hawaiian ambience. The development also offers the state’s largest private deep-draft marina, world-class golf and sports facilities, and shopping and retail centres.
“China Oceanwide and Kerzner bring extensive global development experience to Ko Olina,” said Jeffrey R. Stone, The Resort Group’s founder and master developer of Ko Olina.
“This project is extremely exciting for the State of Hawaii and will undoubtedly enhance the entire destination experience at Ko Olina. A project of this scope and quality will heighten O’ahu’s recognition as a luxury destination for years to come and broaden Hawaii’s appeal to affluent travellers from around the world, including the discerning millennial market.”
At full build-out, Ko Olina will generate an estimated $6.3 billion in economic impact annually for the city and state, and be West O’ahu’s largest employer supporting approximately 30,000 permanent jobs. Ko Olina is already the economic engine and key creator of jobs for the Waianae, Kapolei, Makakilo, and Ewa regions.