Aqua Hotels & Resorts (a division of Aqua Hospitality) has introduced the former Kauai Sands Hotel as Kauai Shores, an Aqua Hotel. The beachfront property underwent a US$10 million renovation with Aqua, with the new Kauai Shores now offering guests a resort-like experience with convenient amenities.

Located in the heart of Kapaa, one of “America’s Prettiest Towns” according to Forbes magazine, the two-story, low-rise hotel features 200 guest rooms and two outdoor swimming pools spread across six acres of lush tropical lawns and gardens. The renovation project, done by Summa International, included guestrooms, corridors, common areas and the restaurant, as well as exterior upgrades to the building and grounds. Guestrooms now feature a sleek, retro-modern design with vibrant island colours, in lime green, aqua and orange. Designers restored the original blue entry tile and balanced it with the addition of a brightly coloured accent wall that visually infuses energy into the space. Use of lighter finishes on the furniture, which includes a fashionable platform bed with curved headboard, creates a light, spacious feel.

For the exterior, designers worked with the existing layout of the buildings, which form a courtyard around a centerpiece pool. New pool lounge with accent pillows, brightly coloured umbrellas, colourful partitions and exterior paint create an energetic, contemporary environment where guests can mingle, or just sit and enjoy the ocean breeze and lush grounds.

“With Kauai Shores, we balanced the old with the new, so that we could retain some of the original early Hawaiian character, while creating spaces that are lively, fun and styled for modern vacationing,” said Kory Wong Oglesby, designer. “The energetic, chic design will appeal to savvy travellers form all locations and demographics.”

For more information visit aquahospitality.com.