Kiawah Island Golf Resort, nestled along the pristine shores of South Carolina, stands as a beacon of luxury and natural beauty.
The captivating history of this resort mirrors the evolution of its ownership, shaping it into a premier destination.
From its origins in indigenous habitation to the meticulous development by the Kiawah Island Company in the 1970s, subsequent acquisition by Eastern Development Corporation, and later ownership by Kiawah Partners, the resort has undergone transformative phases.
Today, as a haven for golf enthusiasts and seekers of unparalleled leisure, the question of “Who Owns Kiawah Island Golf Resort?” unravels a narrative of captivating heritage and contemporary excellence.
Who Owns Kiawah Island Golf Resort?
Kiawah Island Golf Resort is owned by CCA Financial, a private investment firm based in Richmond, Virginia.
The firm is led by William H. Goodwin Jr., a billionaire businessman and philanthropist who also owns other companies and hotels.
Goodwin and his family bought the resort in 1988 from the Kuwait Investment Corporation, which had acquired it from the original developers in 1985.
Since then, Goodwin has invested heavily in improving and expanding the resort, adding new golf courses, facilities, and properties.
He has also been committed to preserving the natural beauty and wildlife of the island and has supported various environmental and educational causes in the area.
Goodwin is passionate about golf and has a personal connection to Kiawah Island. He first visited the island in 1974, when he played golf with his friend and mentor, Roy Barth, the director of tennis at the resort.
He was impressed by the island’s potential and beauty and decided to buy a vacation home there. He later became a member of the resort’s board of directors, and eventually the owner.
He has hosted many friends and celebrities at the resort and has played golf with several presidents, such as George H. W. Bush, Bill Clinton, and Barack Obama.
Goodwin and his family consider Kiawah Island Golf Resort as their legacy and have expressed their intention to keep it forever.
They have also involved their children and grandchildren in the management and operation of the resort, and have instilled in them the values of hard work, integrity, and excellence.
They have also created a culture of hospitality and service at the resort, and have earned the respect and loyalty of their employees and guests.
They have made Kiawah Island Golf Resort one of the best and most successful resorts in the country, and have contributed to the economic and social development of the region..
Kiawah Island Ownership History
the ownership history of Kiawah Island Golf Resort may have changed, and it’s essential to verify the latest information for the most accurate details.
Historically, Kiawah Island has undergone various ownership changes and development phases.
Here is a broad overview of the ownership history of Kiawah Island:
Early Ownership and Development
- Kiawah Island has a history dating back to the 17th century when it was inhabited by indigenous people.
- The island was later used for agriculture and hunting.
- In the 1970s, the development of Kiawah Island as a resort destination began.
1970s – 1980s: Kiawah Island Company
- The early development of Kiawah Island was led by the Kiawah Island Company, a real estate development firm.
- The company envisioned Kiawah Island as a premier resort destination with a focus on golf and natural beauty.
- Golf courses, including the famous Ocean Course designed by Pete Dye, were constructed during this period.
Late 1980s – 1990s: Eastern Development Corporation
- Eastern Development Corporation acquired Kiawah Island Company in the late 1980s.
- The new owners continued the development of the island, expanding amenities and infrastructure.
2000s – Present: Public and Private Ownership
- In the early 2000s, Kiawah Partners, a group of investors, became the primary owners of Kiawah Island.
- The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island Golf Resort, a luxury hotel, opened in 2004.
- The golf resort continued to host prestigious events, including the Ryder Cup in 1991 and the PGA Championship in 2012.
Who Owns the Sanctuary at Kiawah Island?
The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island is a luxury hotel and spa that is part of the Kiawah Island Golf Resort, a resort complex that offers various amenities and facilities for guests and residents of Kiawah Island.
The Sanctuary is owned by the Goodwin family, who also own the Kiawah Island Golf Resort and other businesses under their umbrella corporation, The Riverstone Group.
The Goodwin family purchased the resort in 1993 from a Kuwaiti company that had acquired it in 1988.
They then invested in developing and expanding the resort, including building The Sanctuary, which opened in 2004.
The Sanctuary was designed to resemble a grand seaside mansion that has been on the island for centuries, with upscale finishes and traditional southern décor.
The Sanctuary has been awarded the Forbes 5-Star and AAA 5-Diamond ratings for its excellence in service and quality.
The Goodwin family has expressed their commitment to preserving and enhancing the natural beauty and charm of Kiawah Island, as well as supporting philanthropic causes such as cancer research and education.
Who Owns Kiawah Island Resort
FAQS
Where is The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island located?
The Sanctuary at Kiawah Island is located on Kiawah Island, a barrier island off the coast of South Carolina in the United States. It is a luxury oceanfront resort known for its stunning natural surroundings.
Is the Goodwin family associated with Kiawah Island?
Yes, the Goodwin family is associated with Kiawah Island.
When was Kiawah Island Golf Resort established, and who were the founders?
Kiawah Island Golf Resort was established in 1976. The resort’s development was initiated by the Kuwait Investment Corporation and a group of investors led by Peter Sauer. Over the years, ownership structures may have evolved.
Is Kiawah Island Golf Resort publicly traded?
No, Kiawah Island Golf Resort is not publicly traded. It is a privately owned resort, and ownership is held by Kiawah Partners, which is not traded on any public stock exchange.
Can individuals own property on Kiawah Island?
Yes, individuals can own property on Kiawah Island. The island features a mix of private residences, villas, and condos.
Wrap Up
Kiawah Island Golf Resort is owned by Kiawah Partners, a private real estate development and investment company.
Established in 1976, the resort’s initial development involved Kuwait Investment Corporation and private investors, with subsequent evolution in ownership.
Notably, Kiawah Partners plays a pivotal role in overseeing the resort’s operations, amenities, and ongoing development.
While it is not publicly traded, individuals have the opportunity to own properties on Kiawah Island, comprising a diverse range of residences.
For the latest and most accurate information on ownership, prospective buyers should consult current sources, local real estate agents, or Kiawah Island’s property management.
