Global upper-midscale hotel brand Hampton by Hilton is set to make its debut with a property in Kailua-Kona, an oceanfront tourist district in Hawaii, in mid-2025.

The former Uncle Billy's Kona Bay hotel was acquired by 12th & A Hotel Partners and is undergoing a $30m renovation and rebranding programme.

Following the completion of the transformation, the Hampton Inn Kailua-Kona Bay hotel will reopen under PEG Hospitality Group’s management.

Through his entity 12th & A, real estate developer Sandy Shapery has invested in the programme with financing secured by partner Summit Capital.

Summit Capital president John Stueber said: "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.

"Working alongside Sandy on this project since 2020, we've helped create something that both honours this historic location and elevates the guest experience. We're grateful to Hilton and all of our stakeholders for their trust in bringing this vision to life."

Hampton Inn Kailua-Kona Bay stated that Shapery aimed to retain the property's authenticity, accessibility, and affordability while preserving its 1960s Hawai‘i charm.

To realise this vision, he partnered with Hampton by Hilton for hotel operations and Trader Vic's to manage the bar and restaurant.

Shapery said: "The restoration of the property reflects our commitment to providing high-quality accommodations while honouring the traditions and spirit of the Hawaiian community. It is important to me to keep as much of the original structure from a design standpoint."

The upgrade project will see the four-storey semi-circular structure retain its original floor plan but will see updates to its walls, furniture, and fixtures.

The hotel will offer 123 rooms and amenities such as a fitness centre, free hot breakfast, a pool, and an outdoor common area with a fire pit and bar.

Honolulu Builders is the general contractor for the project, with Level 3 as the interior designer, and architectural design is a collaboration between AM Turner Architects and Koa Design.