The Caribbean has been hit with devastating hurricanes in recent years, but many if not all of the islands have bounced back and are ready to welcome visitors. These 5-star Caribbean resorts have rebuilt, redesigned and reopened with even more luxury than before.
Following Hurricane Irma, Le Sereno has been busy rebuilding from the ground up. A nearly brand new Caribbean resort will be greeting guests this December, including larger bungalows and rooms, and a redesigned restaurant complete with a new beach extension. Thoughtful upgrades such as eco-friendly elements and heating in the private pools have also been added, bringing Le Sereno back even better than before.
After Hurricane Irma barreled through St. Martin, Belmond La Samanna saw an opportunity for a style transformation. Working with London design firm MuzaLab, the resort unveiled a new “pastel chic” look inspired by the Caribbean Sea. The main building, restaurant and bar will all reopen this December with the playful hues complemented by the resort’s signature French style. To top it off, there will also be a new beach bar where guests can sip and watch the sunset.
While Hotel Christopher remained partially opened after Hurricane Irma, the hotel is now fully open with some new, exciting upgrades. There’s two completely rebuilt restaurants offering all-day dining indoors and on the beach, a redesigned pool and a new fitness room in the spa. In the new year, there will also be three new villas, the most luxurious yet, each with four bedrooms and a private pool.
Barbados has not seen a big hurricane for many decades. This does not stop travelers from being confused, but we assure you this island with crystal waters and some of the best Caribbean beaches is open for business. On the west coast is Cobblers Cove, a stylish retreat that can only be described as beach sophistication meets country house charm. There are only 40 suites here, each uniquely decorated and all opening to the ocean and tropical surrounds.
St. Lucia lies south of the hurricane belt, providing a haven for those seeking a vacation away from Caribbean hurricane season. The small island nation is home to some of the most romantic escapes but Marigot Bay Resort is extra special. Surrounded by palm trees and sparkling waters, it’s hidden on arguably the Caribbean’s most beautiful bay. There are also infinity pools, a rum cave and, if you so desire, an all-inclusive option.
Puerto Rico was hit hard by Hurricane Maria but this resilient country is eager to welcome visitors back. Condado Vanderbilt was one of the first to reopen. The expansive property in a fashionable oceanfront neighborhood offers a full resort experience within easy reach of Old San Juan. Cuisine by a Michelin-starred chef and your own personal pool butler are just some of the luxuries you can find here.
Zemi Beach House Hotel was the first to reopen after Hurricane Irma devastated much of Anguilla. Following months of repairs, the hotel on famous Shaol Bay Beach has been welcoming guests since February. In addition to restoring the hotel’s former splendor, the suites and beachfront villas were also refurbished and both the fine dining and casual restaurants have launched delicious new menus.
While Hurricane Irma hurtled through Barbuda, she left minimal damage to Antigua. Hermitage Bay is one such lucky resort which sustained no major damage, remaining open even in the aftermath of the storm. It continues to offer guests secluded luxury with only 30 individual suites. On the beach or perched on the hillside, each offers bay views surrounded by 140 acres of untouched land. All this, and it’s all inclusive.
Carlisle Bay is another property in Antigua that fortunately saw little damage from the hurricanes. Nestled between a white sand beach and a rainforest, this elegant, all-suite resort on the island’s southern shore offers ocean views from every room. This top Caribbean island hotel also has four distinct restaurants, an award-winning spa and a roster of land and sea activities.
Hyatt Regency Aruba Resort sustained minimal hurricane damage, yet the resort embarked on a $21-million-dollar renovation. All guest rooms have been redesigned; reminiscent of private beach homes, they feature plenty of natural light and white oak furnishings, plus larger bathrooms and tech upgrades. Then there’s the new club lounge, relocated downstairs closer to the pool, beach and casino.