New Ownership, Renovations for Kamuela Inn

Known as a Kamuela “oldie,” Kamuela Inn was recently acquired by Tim Bostock and Melanie Holt after being built and owned by Muneo “Moon” Sameshima and family since 1961.

The 30-room property was picked up by Bostock and Holt, who plan to renovate the entire inn and incorporate community features that will bring the entire area together.

Holt, who is also the owner-operator of The Real Farm, a sustainable organic farm in Waiki’i, said, “I’ve been surprised at the number of people in this town who say, ‘You know, I’ve never been up here.’”

Along with Bostock, the Artistic Director at Kahilu Theatre, Holt believes the property has great potential.

“I can imagine a farm-to-table dinner experience with visiting chefs and food from our farm,” said Holt. “Plus cooking classes, special events for eco-tourists, and all sorts of things like that.”

Brought in to help shape Kamuela Inn’s new direction is Office Manager Edlyn Carvalho and Duane Puhi, who is the new Hotel Manager, formerly employed by Hamakua Macadamia Nut Company.

Among the many changes, Holt would like to see the wooden tea house behind the main building restored to host local art. It was originally used to host art shows by the Sameshima family.

A picnic park, breakfast room renovations, painting, building repairs, and new bedding and furniture are also in the plans for the inn.

“Tim and I feel like we moved into the best community in the world. We love Waimea,” said Holt. “We hope that this will be not just a place for people to stay, but one that draws the community together for special events, a place where everyone will come.”

Located just off Kawaihae Road in Waimea, Holt and Bostock look forward to a grand opening in 2016 as a destination boutique hotel.