Get ready to swap your Mai Tai’s for some Bahama Mama’s because Atlantis, Bahamas pristine luxury resort, is coming to the island of Oahu.
Joining the Ko Olina neighborhood, this 26-acre property will be found alongside other five star resorts including, Aulani, A Disney Resort & Spa, Four Seasons Resort Oahu Ko Olina, and Marriott’s Ko Olina Beach Club.
The project has been in the works for more than a decade and was announced with much fanfare in 2005, but has stalled since then. While an exact opening date has yet to be announced, development on Atlantis Ko Olina is expected to begin soon.
Although details of the property are being kept under wraps, this project is expected to cost $2 Billion, making it one of the most expensive resorts ever built. Sources say there will be a mix of hotel, condo and timeshare units. The 26-acre property will feature approximately 800 guest rooms and 524 residences should you choose to live more like a local. You can anticipate Atlantis, Ko Olina to have similar attractions and attributes to their Dubai property, Atlantis, the Palm.
The Lost Chambers Aquarium, is expected to be a centerpiece of Atlantis Ko Olina, is also a key attraction at Atlantis, the Palm. The aquarium is home to over 65,000 animals, some of which guests can interact with in snorkeling pools, diving excursions, and interactive feeding shows. Some of the luxury hotel rooms will have an aquarium view, where guest will be able to experience a dolphin encounter and a shark habitat. There will also be plenty of dining options, with Atlantis offering everything from casual lounges and bars to high-end restaurants.
One thing you won’t find at the Ko Olina location is a Casino. Reportedly, that is one of the debates that has put the project on hold since the initial announcement in 2005. However, Atlantis Ko Olina does plan to give guests an authentic Hawaiian experience. The resort’s ocean-themed architecture and landscaping will incorporate elements of the island’s unique environment and culture.
“Hawaii is the perfect location for our next Atlantis destination resort,” says Serge Zaalof, Chief Operating Officer of Atlantis Resorts. “This resort is set to quickly become a new landmark in Hawaii and will introduce the fun, interactive entertainment experiences at the heart of the Atlantis philosophy,” says Zaalof.
How do you feel about his new development? Will you be avoiding the tourist trap or will you find yourself trying to sneak into the pool?
