Parker Ranch is partnering with developers to revitalize former Jacaranda Inn in Waimea

Parker Ranch announced Thursday it is entering a new partnership with a group of Hawai‘i-based investors, including developer Stanford Carr, to revitalize the former Jacaranda Inn property in Waimea.

Longtime hotelier Jerry Gibson will contribute his hospitality expertise to the partnership, which also includes local experience in real estate, hospitality and property stewardship.

Parker Ranch will continue its longstanding connection to the site and help guide its next chapter, the company said in a press release.

The partners envision a boutique, Parker Ranch-branded hospitality experience grounded in the ranch’s authentic heritage. The project presents opportunities to bring new investment, local jobs, and business opportunities to Waimea while maintaining a strong connection to the community, the press release said.

The partners also say they plan to protect and preserve Manaua, the sacred rain rock located on the property. Manaua will remain under the ownership of Parker Ranch Foundation Trust, with continued access for the community.

Since Parker Ranch Foundation Trust reacquired the property’s leasehold interest in 2021, it has explored opportunities to maintain and revitalize the property while honoring its history and deep connection to the Waimea community. 

The Jacaranda Inn properity originally was built in the late 1800s and served as the residence of Alfred Wellington (A.W.) Carter, who became manager and trustee of Parker Ranch in 1899 and played a pivotal role in shaping the ranch’s growth.

The property later became a private retreat for philanthropist Laurance Rockefeller before being transformed into a restaurant and, eventually, the Jacaranda Inn. For more than a century, the historic estate has remained a familiar landmark in Waimea, reflecting the community’s rich ranching heritage and evolving history. 

“Parker Ranch has been part of Waimea for nearly 180 years, and we recognize the kuleana (responsibility) that comes with that history,” said Micah Kāne, president and CEO of Parker Ranch, Inc. “This is an opportunity to tell our story and create ambassadors for our legacy. This partnership allows us to remain connected to a place that means so much to our community while bringing together the expertise and resources to shape its future.” 

Carr is a longtime Hawaiʻi developer with extensive experience in real estate and community development. Gibson, who has called Hawaiʻi home for nearly 50 years, brings decades of hospitality leadership and experience to the project. 

“We are grateful to see the Jacaranda Inn enter its next chapter with a group that understands Waimea’s unique character and appreciates the property’s history and significance to the community,” Gibson said in the press release. “We look forward to seeing its legacy preserved for future generations.”

Parker Ranch, founded in 1847 by John Palmer Parker and Kipikane, great-granddaughter of Kamehameha I, has been shaped by generations of employees, retirees and their families who have cared for the land. Those contributions continue to guide the partnership: care for the land, respect for one another, and responsibility for Waimea’s future. 

As the project moves forward, preserving the character of Waimea and creating opportunities that benefit the community will remain guiding priorities, the press release said.

The project is still in its early planning stages, and no development activity is expected for at least 12 months. In the meantime, the partners will continue assessing feasibility and exploring the best path forward. As plans take shape, the partnership said it will keep the community informed and share updates as significant milestones are reached. 

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