In this week’s Beyond the Castle, we take a look at an exciting new Beaches Resort — Beaches Exuma — coming to The Bahamas later this year. Get ready for an exciting new destination perfect for your next family getaway! Beaches Resorts is expanding to The Bahamas, and here’s your first look at what to expect.
In the world of luxury family travel, few names carry as much weight as Beaches Resorts. Known for creating unforgettable all-inclusive experiences for families of all sizes, Beaches has long been a favorite for those seeking the perfect blend of relaxation for parents and excitement for kids.
Now, the beloved brand is expanding with its fourth resort and first-ever location in The Bahamas. Let’s explore everything we know so far about Beaches Exuma, set to become the Caribbean’s newest family paradise.
The Transformation: From Sandals to Beaches
Beaches Exuma isn’t being built from scratch – instead, it’s being transformed from the existing Sandals Emerald Bay, an adults-only luxury resort that has been a staple in Great Exuma for years. Sandals Emerald Bay closed its doors on August 15, 2024, to begin its transformation into a family-friendly Beaches resort.
This conversion is part of Sandals Resorts International’s strategic growth plan across the Caribbean. While some longtime fans of Sandals Emerald Bay might feel nostalgic about the change, the conversion makes perfect sense given the property’s original design and the natural family appeal of Exuma.
Location, Location, Location
Great Exuma is often called one of The Bahamas’ best-kept secrets. Located in the Out Islands, it offers a more secluded and authentic Bahamian experience compared to more touristy Nassau or Grand Bahama. The island is known for its stunning natural beauty, including the famous swimming pigs of nearby Exuma Cays, pristine beaches, and crystal-clear waters.
The resort itself sits on over 500 acres of prime oceanfront property with more than 6,000 feet of shoreline, providing ample space for families to spread out and explore. Its location makes it perfect for snorkeling, water sports, and other family adventures.
Accommodations for Every Family
One of the biggest changes coming to the property is the reconfiguration of accommodations to better suit families. The new Beaches Exuma will feature:
- Multi-bedroom villas perfect for larger families
- Suites with connecting rooms to give parents and kids their own space
- Updated and modernized room categories with family-friendly amenities
The former Sandals property already had many one and two-bedroom suites, making it well-suited for this transformation. The renovation will enhance these spaces with family needs in mind.
Dining Options Galore
Beaches Exuma will undergo upgrades to its 12 restaurants and culinary offerings. While specific restaurant concepts haven’t been announced yet, we can expect:
- Family-friendly dining venues with kid-approved menus
- Upscale options for parents to enjoy
- Casual beachside eateries
- Ice cream parlors and other sweet treats
If other Beaches resorts are any indication, there will be something to satisfy every palate, from the pickiest of eaters to the most sophisticated foodie.
Activities for All Ages
Perhaps the most exciting part of the transformation will be the addition of family-focused amenities and activities. These will include:
- An all-new Kids Camp with age-appropriate activities
- A splash deck and water features for younger children
- A redesigned pool area with options for family fun and adult relaxation
- Teen-focused spaces and activities
The resort will also retain some of its most beloved amenities, including:
- The world-class Red Lane Spa
- The stunning Greg Norman-designed 18-hole Emerald Bay golf course
- Water sports and beach activities
When Can You Visit?
While an exact opening date has not been announced, renovation work is began in Fall 2024. This is a big project, but currently Beaches Exuma is expected to open late this year.
This timeline aligns with Beaches Resorts’ recently announced expansion plans, which include nearly $1 billion in investments across several properties, including Beaches Exuma, Beaches Barbados (breaking ground in late 2025), and an expansion of the popular Beaches Turks & Caicos.
What Makes Beaches Resorts Special
For those who haven’t experienced a Beaches resort before, it’s worth noting what sets these properties apart from other family all-inclusive options:
- Partnership with Sesame Street®, featuring character experiences, parades, and activities
- Certified nannies and Kids Camp staff
- Age-appropriate programming for babies, toddlers, kids, and teens
- Inclusive amenities like water parks, Xbox Play Lounges, and teen nightclubs
- All-inclusive water sports and activities
- Autism-friendly programming and staff training
Beaches Resorts has consistently been recognized as one of the world’s leading family vacation brands, earning accolades from Parents magazine and other family travel authorities.
Why Choose Beaches Exuma
With Beaches already operating successful resorts in Jamaica (Negril and Ocho Rios) and Turks & Caicos, why should families be excited about Beaches Exuma?
- Unique Setting: The natural beauty and seclusion of Exuma offer a different experience from the other Beaches locations.
- Newer Facilities: As the latest addition to the portfolio, Beaches Exuma will feature the most up-to-date amenities and designs.
- Proximity to the US: For American travelers, The Bahamas offers a quick escape that feels worlds away.
- Natural Attractions: The Exuma Cays offer some of the most extraordinary natural experiences in the Caribbean, from the swimming pigs to Thunderball Grotto, featured in James Bond films.
Planning Your Future Stay
While bookings aren’t available yet, there are several ways to prepare for the opening of Beaches Exuma:
- Sign Up for Updates: Join the Beaches mailing list for official announcements about opening dates and special offers.
- Consider Travel Timing: The Bahamas enjoys beautiful weather year-round, but peak season runs from December to April.
- Start Budgeting: Beaches Resorts are premium all-inclusive experiences, so starting your vacation fund now gives you more time to save.
- Contact a Travel Advisor: Working with a travel advisor who specializes in Beaches Resorts can help you secure the best possible rates and room categories when bookings open.
The Bottom Line
The transformation of Sandals Emerald Bay into Beaches Exuma represents an exciting new chapter for family travel in The Bahamas. By combining the natural beauty of Great Exuma with the family-friendly expertise of Beaches Resorts, this property is poised to become one of the Caribbean’s most sought-after destinations for families.
Whether you’re planning a multi-generational vacation, a family reunion, or simply creating memories with your children, Beaches Exuma should definitely be on your radar for future travel plans.
Interested in learning more about Beaches Resorts or want help planning your family’s Caribbean getaway? Contact us for personalized recommendations and assistance with booking your perfect vacation.
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