Starwood Takes Over Management of Hawaiian Resort

WHITE PLAINS-Hotelier Starwood Hotels & Resorts Worldwide, Inc., has 14 resort properties on the six Hawaiian islands in its inventory now that it will be taking over management of the Molokai Lodge & Beach Village in Maunaloa and Kaupoa.

As part of the agreement with Molokai Ranch, Ltd., the 62-unit property will be re-named the Sheraton Molokai Lodge & Beach Village by February 2002.

“We are very excited to add Sheraton Molokai Lodge & Beach Village to our collection of Sheraton, Westin, Luxury Collection and W properties in Hawaii,” says Keith Vieira, senior vice president of operations for Starwood Hotels & Resorts-Hawaii & French Polynesia. “It was a strategic move on our part to not only be able to have resort inventory on six Hawaiian Islands but also to accommodate the growing numbers of active/soft adventure travelers to the state.”

The Sheraton Molokai Lodge and Beach Village will be comprised of the 22-room lodge in Maunaloa Town and the 40-unit Beach Village at Kaupoa on the island’s southwest coast, Starwood officials note.

Sheraton will also assume management of the Molokai Ranch’s recreational activities, including ocean kayaking, mountain biking, clay shooting, archery, cultural hikes, horseback adventures and children’s program.

Kenny Ching, a former Sheraton executive at the Princess Kaiulani, will continue as general manager of the property under the Sheraton brand. “Molokai Ranch is known for excellence in service, and we look forward to working with the existing team as we transition to Sheraton management and service standards,” Starwood’s Vieira adds.

The Molokai Lodge is fashioned after a ranch owner’s private home. The facility features 22 guest rooms, a Great Room, dining room, lounge and wrap-around verandahs offering ocean and pasture views. The Lodge also offers a day spa, fitness center and swimming pool.

The Beach Village offers a beachfront location where guests stay in “tentalow” accommodations, featuring two bungalow-like tents mounted on wooden platforms. Each unit offers an arrangement of queen, single or bunk beds, private bathroom with hot water shower, solar-powered lights, and spacious lanai that offer “breathtaking views,” Starwood officials relate.