Lodge, Retreat or Multigenerational Legacy Properties in Hawaiʻi

This weekʻs Fresh on Forbes — editorial content from Forbes Global Properties, of which Hawaiʻi Life is a founding member — was on the topic of The Modern Family Compound, multigenerational living redefined as “one of real estateʻs more strategic plays.” Whether as an investment strategy or a values-driven legacy purchase, a family compound is not an easy thing to create from scratch under the land use and permitting framework in Hawaiʻi.

Which got me thinking about some listings (some Hawaiʻi Life, some not) where family could gather, not only for multiple generations and extended family (born or chosen) to use today, but also for passing that heritage across generations.

With recent Kona low storms bringing flooding to low lying areas across Hawaiʻi, and state and county planning for mitigating effects of anticipated sea level rise, for some legacy buyers, thinking across generations might also mean thinking beyond beachfront properties. These three listings offer that peace of mind.

Hawaiʻi Island Retreat – North Kohala Oceanfront

Hawaiʻi Island Retreat is an oceanfront property which has significant value in the use permits allowing it to operated as a boutique eco-lodge, for groups or individual travelers seeking a sustainable, culturally sensitive, wellness-oriented hospitality experience.

On the other hand, could it instead become the year-round Hawaiʻi version of a private family summer camp? Why not? You have the main lodge bedrooms, under one roof with the commercial kitchen, open air dining room, media room, spa treatment room, and dance/yoga studio. Three individual oceanfront bungalows a short walk away. Separate pool and spa compound with another exercise/yoga studio and locker room. A yurt village for those who prefer glamping. All surrounded by tropical landscaping and farm-to-table gardens.

While this is an oceanfront property, with shoreline coastal pedestrian access stretching for miles in both directions, dramatic cliffs front Hawaiʻi Island Retreat. There is also expansion potential – the owner received approval from the planning authorities to expand up to a total of 36 rooms. Continue to operate as a retreat center or lodge, or make it into your private escape – the choice is yours!

Puakea Ranch – Historic Guest Ranch in North Kohala, Big Island

A second property in North Kohala also has rare permits to operate as a guest ranch and event facility – Puakea Ranch. This owner carefully reimagined an update of four original cottages on an historic ranch. The property includes 32 acres with ocean, sunset and Maui views. As a family compound, you would share two swimming pools, and have acreage for horses, chickens, and gardens.

Since the property has permits in place to offer overnight farm stay accommodations as well as to host events like weddings and community gatherings, there would be an opportunity to continue to generate income when your compound was not in use by the family. And you would be a part of preserving heritage in a storied community.

This listing is not in the MLS. Seller is represented by Colliers Honolulu; feel free to reach out if you are interested in buyer representation for this unique property.

Hana Ranch – Maui

Hana Ranch is a legacy opportunity for the buyer seeking a working ranch with possibility to build multiple dwellings for family members to become a part of the Hana Ranch story across the generations. A two-bedroom ranch house offers a starting point; 26 separate parcels allow for flexibility of future use.

One of the most significant agricultural land offerings in Hawaiʻi, Hana Ranch would be suitable for conservation easements to protect and restore forest and watershed, and expand its agricultural potential.

Like Kohala on the Big Island, Hana is a special, tight knit community on Maui. Buying a legacy property is an opportunity – and also brings a responsibility – to contribute to the wellbeing of these communities for future generations. If creating that kind of legacy is also on your mind, letʻs talk about how to be a part of the vibrant future of Hawaiʻi nei.