• Hampton Inn Kailua-Kona Bay to Open Summer 2025 Following Major Renovation

    April 28, 2025

    Hampton Inn Kailua-Kona Bay to Open Summer 2025 Following Major Renovation

     

    The Kailua-Kona tourist district will soon welcome the Hampton Inn Kailua-Kona Bay, opening in Summer 2025. Formerly Uncle Billy’s Kona Bay Hotel, the beloved oceanfront property is undergoing a $30 million renovation led by Sandy Shapery and 12th & A Hotel Partners, with financing arranged by Summit Capital.

    Rooted in a strong commitment to service, quality, and authentic Hawaiian spirit, the revitalized hotel will offer 123 modern, spacious rooms, a fitness center, a sparkling outdoor pool, free hot breakfast, and vibrant public spaces designed to celebrate island culture.

    “We are honored to bring Hampton Inn Kailua-Kona Bay to Kailua-Kona, a destination known for its rich culture and natural beauty,” said Sandy Shapery, owner of 12th & A Hotel Partners. “The restoration of the property reflects our commitment to providing high-quality accommodations while honoring the traditions and spirit of the Hawaiian community. It’s important to me to keep as much of the original structure from a design standpoint.”

    The original four-story semi-circular structure is being preserved, with new walls, furniture, and fixtures throughout. Enhancements include a second elevator for accessibility, a refreshed wooden boardwalk using simulated composite wood, and 340 environmentally friendly LED tiki torches lining the walkways. Honolulu Builders serves as the General Contractor, with Level 3 as the interior designer and architectural design led by AM Turner Architects and Koa Design Group.

    Guests will also enjoy a large outdoor gathering area complete with a fire pit, pavilion for live local entertainment and cultural activities, and The Island Bar and Grill by Trader Vic’s, featuring island-inspired fare and the iconic Mai Tai.

    “Through our longstanding relationships in hospitality development and structured finance, we were able to bring together the key partnerships and funding solutions that made this unique Hampton Inn possible in downtown Kailua-Kona,” said John Stueber of Summit Capital. “We’re grateful to Hilton and all of our stakeholders for their trust in bringing this vision to life.”

    “With humble regards, we are so blessed to have people who are friends of Hawaii like this,” said Mayor Kimo Alameda during the ceremony. “The investment in the local community enhances the visitor experience by providing more accessible, quality accommodations. We are grateful to Sandy and his team for their dedication to preserving the essence of our community while fostering economic growth.”

    Hampton Inn Kailua-Kona Bay will be located at 75-5747 Ali‘i Drive, Kona.
    Learn more about the project and partners at: