The third auction for cabins in Kōke‘e State Park, Kaua‘i, is scheduled for mid-April 2024. This park, established in 1918, houses a historic community designed to protect forest resources and provide public access. Over 100 recreation residences have been granted permits and leases since its inception.
Kōke‘e Leaseholders Association’s president, Chipper Wichman, highlighted the community’s historical significance. Many cabins are recognized as historic structures under Hawai‘i law. The DLNR Division of State Parks (DSP) has implemented design guidelines to preserve the community’s unique architecture.
Until 1985, properties were leased through negotiation and appraisal. They were then offered for public auction. In 2005, lessees in good standing could renew their leases through negotiation and appraisal. At that time, 17 cabins were returned to the state, leading to the second auction in December 2011. The annual lease rent bids ranged from $2,500 to $18,000.
The upcoming third auction will feature seven cabins returned to the state over the past decade. These properties have deteriorated over time. Winning bidders will join a community dedicated to preserving Kaua‘i’s mountains. The opening bids for these lots will range from $4,500 to $9,500 for annual lease rent.