Two Big Island Resorts Remain Closed Following Tsunami Damage

(Dive Travel Business News -  March 18, 2011) -- Two resorts on Hawaii’s Big Island -- the Four Seasons Resort Hualalai and the Kona Village Resort  -- remain closed in order to undertake repairs and clean-up caused by the  tsunami in Japan on March 11, 2011, which reached the shores of Hawaii. Both properties are located on the Big Island’s Kona Coast.

The Four Seasons Resort Hualalai is closed until April 30 due to damage from the recent earthquake-generated tsunami. The Resort sustained damage from the storm surge, which brought water, sand and debris onto the grounds. Clean-up and repair efforts have already begun. All guests with reservations prior to April 30 are being contacted by the hotel reservations team to make alternate arrangements.

The 45-year-old Kona Village Resort, one of the iconic vacation destinations and resorts of Hawaii, will be closed for an extended period of time due to the significant structural and property damage it sustained.  More than 20 Hale, the resort’s bungalow-style, thatched roof accommodations, were damaged, with some completely removed from their foundations from the force of the water.  Other damaged buildings or attractions at the 82-acre resort include the Hale Moana and Hale Samoa restaurants, Hale Ho’omau, the Shipwreck and Talk Story bars, reception and main office as well as the Ocean Activity Center on property. All guests with current reservations on hold are being contacted by Kona Village’s reservations teams, and will receive a full refund of any deposits made.

Despite reports that the Kailua Pier was “condemned” by the U.S. Coast Guard (which does not have the authority to condemn the pier), most boat charters are operating.   There were no deaths or serious injuries reported in Hawaii as a result the tsunami. All airports are open, flights are on time, and nearly all roads, including Ali’i Drive in Kailua Village, are now open.

Elsewhere in the islands, reports from across the state confirm there was very little damage, particularly related to visitor industry infrastructure, according to the Hawaii Tourism Authority. On Oahu, the 300-slip Keehi Lagoon harbor was the worst hit and sustained an estimated $3.08 million in damage. On Maui, Kahului Harbor is open, and tours are up and running from Lahaina and Maalaea Harbors. 

Meanwhile, the Hawaii Tourism Authority is adjusting its projected tourism numbers downward due to an expected decrease in visitors from Japan,. For more information, call the Hawaii Tourism Authority at 800-464-2924 .

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