It looks like Aulani, a Disney Resort and Spa at Ko Olina Resort is about to get a brand new neighbour. News broke yesterday that the first Atlantis Resort in the United States will be opening near the Disney property in Ko Olina, Hawaii.

The announcement, made jointly between Beijing-based China Oceanwide (and its subsidiary, “Oceanwide Resort Paradise HI LLC”) and subsidiaries of Kerzner International Holdings Limited (“Kerzner”), an international resort and luxury hotel developer, detailed the 642-acre, beachside development on the island of O’ahu, where the new resort will be located.

“Atlantis resorts are iconic entertainment destinations that significantly contribute to the surrounding community, and Hawaii will be no exception,” said 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.” 

Similar to other Atlantis properties around the world, the Hawaii location will seek inspiration from its oceanfront location. There will be an extensive water park, Aquaventure Waterpark; fresh and salt-water pools and lagoons; marine exhibits, including an open-air marine habitat.

The resort is expected to have some 800 guest rooms and suites and more than 500 residences. Also on tap are “the ultimate Beach Club,” private gardens and private pools, a variety of restaurants, retail options and a luxury spa.

“Hawaii is the perfect location for our next Atlantis destination resort,” said Serge Zaalof, Chief Operating Officer, Atlantis Resorts. “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. 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.”

Atlantis Resorts, known for its flagship Atlantis, The Palm in Dubai as well as the Atlantis Paradise Island in Nassau, The  Bahamas, has several other new resorts in progress, including its first China resort, Atlantis, Sanya Hainan, which will open in 2017, as well as The Royal Atlantis Resort & Residences in Dubai.  . 

“Oceanwide is honoured 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,” said Steven Wang, senior vice president, Oceanwide Resort Paradise HI LLC. “We believe strongly that Atlantis will bolster the already strong tourism market, increasing visitor spending and adding much-needed hotel rooms to the island. 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.”

Ko Olina, or “Place of Joy,” which spans 642 acres on the island of O’ahu, was once a retreat for Hawaiian royalty. Lately, it has become a magnet for leading luxury hotel brands. Earlier this year, Four Seasons Hotels & Resorts opened its fifth Hawaii property in Ko Olina. The development is home to the state’s largest private deep-draft marina, world-class golf and sports facilities, and shopping and retail centres. It is also the top creator of jobs for the Waianae, Kapolei, Makakilo, and Ewa regions.

“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.”

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